String/Nock Matching

Your string and nocks must work together or grouping problems will result. For starters, push a nock onto your string and check how tight it fits. Can you slide it up and down the string fairly easily or does it fit so tight that you can’t move it? Proper fit can also be tested by pulling the arrow off of the string with just your index finger and thumb. A slight tug should "pop" the nock off the string. If you hold the bow so the string is horizontal and the arrow falls off by its own weight, then the nock fit is too loose. Check the tabs or "ears" of the nock to see if they stay spread apart after the nock is snapped onto the string. If so, the fit is too tight. “When nocks are properly fit on a string, the nock should look much like it does off a string. If the string is too large or the nock too small, you may see the “ears” of the nock spread when on the string.” If nocks are too tight, you may get a horizontal spread in your group.

If your nocks fit too loosely, they may slide down the string as the string is released. You will usually get erratic high arrows or groups spread out vertically with loose nocks. You can easily overlook this little problem because a high nocking point and a weak launcher can also cause vertical grouping. Check all of these items to be sure.

In either case, one of two remedies must be employed. If your nocks fit too tightly you must either reduce the diameter of the bowstring or increase the throat size of your nocks.

Always match a new string to your nocks before you buy it. Then check the nock fit after it’s installed. If the fit is not correct, make it right or you’ll spend some frustrating hours trying to shoot groups and failing. Do the same when you switch brands or styles of nocks. Remember that the throat size must always match the string size if you want good groups with less tuning.

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