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When shooting a recurve bow, I noticed nocking points to be very useful with keeping the consistency of the position and force.
So, what is a nocking point on a bow? The nocking point on a bow is a piece of plastic or metal that keeps the arrow in place on the string. The nocking point provides a consistent position as well as force when the arrow is released.
Knowing every piece of your bow is very important even when it comes to the smallest of details. A nocking point seems small and most people wouldn’t put too much thought into it.
But not you amazing archers!
We know that every piece of equipment is important and nothing can be more important than a nocking point.
What is so important about a nocking point?
As I said, most people wouldn’t think it’s important. Usually, when you purchase a bow (like a compound bow) the nocking point is already placed on there. It is either metal or plastic, and it helps hold the arrow up and in place.
This provides stability and consistency when the arrow is shot and makes it possible for you to shoot accurately time after time.
You can either purchase a set like this one available from Amazon or you can make your own!
A little DIY Action!
This is a great option because it makes the nocking points simple to install and change. They are more sturdy and easy to maintain as well.
How do you make your own nocking point?
Watch this great video as you follow the steps below!
What you will need:
- Thread
- Bracing height gauge (aka Bow Square)
- Scissors
- LIghter
- Hot glue applicator with glue sticks(optional)
First:
Take the thread that you are going to use for the nocking point and run it through some melted glue from the hot glue applicator.
This is easy.
Just simply heat up the hot glue applicator and squeeze a small bit to the tip of the applicator and run the thread through it.
Now, this is optional but it will help hold the thread to your bowstring later on.
Second:
Now you need to clip your bracing height gauge on to your string.
Third:
You are going to mark above the bottom line of the gauge This is going to be the top of the nocking point.
Take your time with this because this is where your arrow is going to rest.
Fourth:
Go ahead and loop the thread around the string and create a knot.
Now, go ahead and tie a second knot under your first one.
And tie another knot right above your first knot as well. So you will have three knots lined up. (You’re using your first knot which will end up in the middle of the three as your starting point.)
Cut off the loose ends leaving about 5-6mm.
Fifth:
You are going to take the lighter and heat the ends of the thread being careful not to burn the string.
The string will melt down slowly and once the excess thread burns away, press the molten ends down onto the nocking point. This will seal it.
(If you did the first step, the hot glue being heated by the lighter will help the bond be stronger and more firm with the nocking point.)
Sixth: (Last but not least)
Place an arrow on the string about your new nocking point and repeat the whole process above the end of the arrow.
You don’t need to be super tight with this nocking point. You want to be careful and leave enough room so the arrow can move just a bit.
Because if you do it too tight, you will create a nocking pinch.
This will pinch the arrow when you go to release and the arrow may not release as you want.
Where is the Nocking point on a bowstring?
Bob Lee, “How to find the correct placement for your arrow nocking point on your bowstring, and how to make any necessary setting adjustments to help ensure optimal arrow flight and performance for your Bob Lee recurve or longbow.”
One thing that will be super useful is a bow square, like this one available from Amazon.
A bow square (also known as a T-shape bow square) is a device used to attach to the string right across from your bow rest. This will be used to measure brace height and also the nocking point.
You will place the bow square onto your bowstring making it level with your bow rest.
If you go to the bottom line of the square, you will take your notch and go up half an inch. This will be the starting point for your notch.
Now, go shoot an arrow and see how it flies!
Was it straight or was your arrow a bit wobbly?
If it was straight, you are good to go! But if the arrow flew up and down most likely you need to move your notch.
The best thing to do is to move it slightly up your string. And shoot again.
Keep doing this until you get your arrow flying straight and stable.
How do you remove a nocking point?
All you need is a pair of pliers and a screwdriver for this procedure.
Place the nock tightly in the pliers and hold it there. While you are doing this you will take the screwdriver and twist into the nock until it is loose enough for you to safely remove.
Are Nocking points necessary?
This depends….if you are an experienced archer that knows how to use a recurve bow and can naturally find the spot for your arrow to be placed on the string…
Then NO, you don’t need a nock point, but if you are a newer archer or can’t find the natural position for your arrow, then YES.
Honestly, nock points are cheap and are a great reference to where your arrow sits. It won’t hurt if anything it will be very helpful in the future.
Conclusion
Nowadays, nocking points automatically come on bows whether it be compound, or recurve.
It is a little piece of plastic that is a great reference for your arrow’s position. It offers stability, consistency with positioning, and consistent force.
It is easy to put one on yourself or have an expert at an archer pro shop do it for you to as little or no cost.
They are budget-friendly and are not a huge piece of equipment that you need to worry about having in your way.
Having thread notch points offers more sturdiness and low maintenance. And most likely, when you go to restring your bow, the expert will place a notch on for you.
So let’s wrap this up! To me, its seems that a nocking point is convenient and is an easy must-have for any bow for anybody.
Related Questions
You should only carry arrows in a nocked position when you are approaching or slowly aiming at game. Never nock an arrow when you have someone in front of you or even to just carry your bow around. You need to be careful because a flying arrow has enough force to penetrate a human bone.
Yes, arrows should level on the rest. A good starting point is to keep the arrow level with the nocking point and the arrow rest.
You should carry your backpack up your stand with everything safely tucked away. You should never carry your arrows or bow up the tree stand. You will need to use a haul line with a heavy cord to attach your bow and arrows to lower or raise them up and down the stand.
I enjoy giving knowledge to any bowhunter from beginner to experienced. My family has grown up as avid bowhunters here in Virginia and we mainly target shoot with compound bows and crossbows. I can’t wait to add to the Archers Hub community!