If you are new to archery and are about to set up your very first bow, it’s normal to have dilemmas about its different aspects. And, one of them is choosing the right option between 1 or 2 nocking points. Hence, this article shares all the essential information regarding 1 Vs. 2 nocking points to help you choose the best one for you.
Most of the times, it is actually a better idea to shoot with 2 nocking points. It is because 2 nocking points are intuitive and enable you to precisely place your fingers over the string. Additionally, if you find lower nocking points problematic, you can eradicate them as they are not that important.
Although, the above statement clears out some aspects of the confusion. But we also have several archers that prefer 1 nocking point. So, to find out which one is perfect for you, let us explore the differences between them.
Contents
A Quick Overview: 1 Vs. 2 Nocking Points
The presence of a nocking point keeps the arrow from sliding up to the string. Basically, it keeps the arrow attached at one place throughout your shot cycle. Hence it is needless to say that every archer should have nocking points on their string.
But before applying any nocking point on the string, you must be aware of all the details and differences of these two nocking points. But before we get into a detailed comparison, here is a quick overview of their dissimilarities.
| 1 Nocking Point | 2 Nocking Points |
| It is more suitable for experienced archers. | Good for beginners in the archery space. |
| Not compatible with Mediterranean shooting style. | Compatible with Mediterranean shooting style. |
| Fewer chances of arrow pinching. | High chances of arrow pinching. |
| Negligible chances of string interference. | String interference is quite common. |
1 Vs. 2 Nocking Points: A Detailed One-On-One List Of Comparison
Ease Of Use
Most Archers choose 2 nocking points due to their ease of use. Furthermore, having two nocking points increases your intuitiveness to find the right place to attach the arrow. This is why most beginner-level bows have two nocking points, as it makes it very simple for beginners to know where they have to place the arrow.
One nocking point is a better option for experienced archers. Here, they can directly place the arrow under the nocking point without making any mistakes. However, it totally depends on you if you want to upgrade to 1 nocking point or stay with 2 nocking points even after the optimum experience.
Compatibility With The Mediterranean Shooting Style
In Mediterranean shoring style, an archer places their index finger above the position of the arrow and their ring and middle finger just below it. With this shooting style, your index finger touches the nocking point. Here 2 nocking points are more compatible than 1 nocking point as it allows the archer to have similar access to the nocking point with their middle finger. Further archers can easily ensure that they consistently place their hand over the string correctly.
So if you are planning to learn the Mediterranean shooting style, then consider using two nocking points.
Arrow Pinching
A common problem that both new and experienced archers face is Arrow pinching. It occurs when you mistakenly touch the arrow that results in interference. Because of this, most high-end bows contain a finger spacer, allowing you to spread your fingers comfortably.
Further, if you keep a steep string angle, your finger might automatically slip towards the arrow and result in arrow pinching. In this scenario, 2 nocking points are incredibly helpful. They will catch your finger on time if it is slipping towards the arrow. Hence you can avoid the issue of arrow pinching with two nocking points. On the other hand, it is not possible with a single nocking point.
Guidance For Finger Placement
In the sport of archery, anchor points and anchoring are important aspects that you need to consider. These points help stay consistent because they help your fingers to reach a specific spot after each shot cycle.
However, consistency in archery comes with consistent finger placement. In fact, you will notice a variation in tension between shots if your fingers are not placed consistently on the specific spot.
Here nocking points are important as they train your finger to maintain a consistent placement. Keeping your fingers way too distant from the arrow will not let you feel the nocking points. On the other hand, totally covering the nocking point will put your fingers very close to the arrow, which is risky.
Going for the 2 nocking points is a suitable option, as these are intuitive and better than 1 nocking point in finger placement.
Smoother String
Many experienced archers like to shoot by placing 3 fingers under the arrow. In this scenario, moving the lower nocking point will be helpful to achieve an interference-free string. Furthermore, the absence of a pressure point over your index finger makes it easier to shoot heavy drop weight bows. To attain this, 1 nocking point is the perfect option, and it distributes uniform pressure and delivers a pleasant shooting experience.
As in 2 nocking points, you cannot remove the lower nocking point; the same result will not be applicable.
Key Takeaways
In comparing 1 Vs. 2 nocking points, we discovered that both of these have their advantages and disadvantages as per the situation. But if you are new to archery, 2 nocking points will be a better fit as it will train you in everything about finger placement and consistency from scratch. However, if you want to save yourself from arrow pinching, then one-point nocking should be your choice. Regardless of your chosen nocking points, make sure to get the training from a professional archer only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should your nocking point be positioned?
The most suitable position for a nocking point is around half an inch above the shelf. You can find the exact positioning in the majority of traditional bows. To begin with, place the nocking point approximately half an inch higher on the shelf. It implies that the rear of the brass nock will be half-inch above the arrow self.
What are the different nock sizes available?
This standard Arrow nock is available in size as S, or G.T. H-Axis is available in H or H.E. sizes. Next, X-Axis is available in X or A sizes, and at last, Mirco is available in G or F nock sizes.
Where do you place the arrow below or above the nock?
In case you have 1 nocking point attached in your recurve bow, then put the nock of the arrow below the single nock point. The reason for this is the positioning of the arrow nock above the recurve bow’s grip. Furthermore, when you keep the bow at the level of your shoulder, the hand of the bow is usually below the shoulder height.
And due to the same height of your shoulder joint and bow hand thumb’s top, a greater value of recurve bow’s grip generates below the shoulder height.
Thus, when the arrow is at dead level, the mouth anchor corner has the arrow nock above the deep portion of the grip’s curve. Hence, to stop the arrow nock from moving towards the bowstring, you have to place the arrow nock below the point of the nock.
What do you mean by a nocking point on the bow, and what are the elements you need to tie a nocking point?
The nocking point is that part of the recurve bow that keeps the arrow fixed on the bowstring. Further, its main purpose is to provide a consistent force by enabling the arrow to propel from a single spot. A few components that you will need to tie a nocking point in the bow include a thread, lighter, bracing height gauge, scissors, and hot-melt glue.
What are the materials used in the production of nocking points?
You can get nocking points made of plastic material or metals in the market. However, many archers make their own nocking points by simply tying the knots using a suitable thread on the bow’s string. Although the market-made nocking points are more durable, self-prepared nocking points offer the advantages of being easy to install, maintain, change, etc.
Bottom Line
After going through all the information and dissimilarities between 1 and 2 nocking points, we can conclude that the choice will depend on your personal preference.
However, having expertise in both will enable you to change the setting as per the circumstances. For example, if you are going to shoot a heavy draw weight bow, then having 2 nocking points will be better.
But if you mostly perform with recurve archery and shoot with sight, then having 1 nocking point is more than enough. Basically, you should select the one that satisfies your shooting style.