Archery term
Nock
What does Nock mean?
A nock is the small, usually plastic, fitting at the rear of an arrow with a slot that snaps onto the bowstring. It holds the arrow on the string at the nocking point until release and is fitted to match the string's serving diameter.
Primary source for this term: World Archery Press Sheet 11: The Archery Glossary (2016)
Why it matters
The nock locates the arrow on the string the same way every shot and releases it cleanly, so its fit and condition directly affect consistency and arrow flight. A nock that is too tight, too loose, damaged, or rotated inconsistently can cause erratic shots, which is why nock fit and orientation are checked during tuning.
What to check
- Match throat shape and fit to the exact shaft and string serving.
- Confirm the nock type for the bow or crossbow model; crossbow nocks are platform-specific.
- Inspect for cracks and replace damaged nocks before shooting.
Useful next steps
