Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Burnsie on November 12, 2025, 12:02:55 am

Title: Top Nocks
Post by: Burnsie on November 12, 2025, 12:02:55 am
Any of you guys like just cutting in top nocks on your tips and skip the side grooves? I've noticed some that have been done this way and gave it try.
I like it, it definitely simplifies the process and I think it looks nice. Only negative is the side if your bow tip can get gunked up with string wax that rubs off.
Title: Re: Top Nocks
Post by: Hamish on November 12, 2025, 03:21:45 am
The only thing I could think of is side grooves or at least on one side could be deepened  to adjust the position of the braced string. Not necessary if you already have good string alignment over the handle though. I rarely use overlays, but I can't see your method having any downsides in function or appearance.
Title: Re: Top Nocks
Post by: Pappy on November 12, 2025, 09:14:48 am
I do it sometimes if I want really skinny tips, works fine, I usually cut side nocks but just depends on the build. Those look very nice.  :)
 Pappy
Title: Re: Top Nocks
Post by: mmattockx on November 12, 2025, 12:29:01 pm
I like this method because it allows for narrower limb tips to keep the speed up as much as possible.

A couple of mine. You can't tell in the pics, but both of these are about 5/16" wide:

(https://i.imgur.com/sOslwD5.jpeg)

(https://i.imgur.com/SjhoQBx.jpeg)


Mark
Title: Re: Top Nocks
Post by: Tuomo on November 24, 2025, 03:01:03 am
I make side grooves every time. I think they look better aesthetically, but the more important reason is durability. With only a top groove, the nock overlay can split—and that has happened to me too many times. So a long, shallow nock overlay with side grooves is my choice.

Of course, for flight bows—where speed matters—I use only a top nock or other mass optimized solution.