side nocked arrows

Jim Welch · Post by **Jim Welch** » Mon Jun 19, 2006 3:19 am

I saw this recently on youtube.com

http://youtube.com/watch?v=xa4XwS2q-oA&search=sidenock

What culture is this from and when does it date back? Or is it a new invention?

Jim

Diana · Post by **Diana** » Mon Jun 19, 2006 2:57 pm

I have never seen or read of that before Jim.
It is an interesting way to make better use of the Pinch Grip type draw but dang you would have to had to a VERY strong grip to use anything like a serious draw weight bow...

Bede · Post by **Bede** » Mon Jun 19, 2006 10:45 pm

Arrows with only one cusp on the nock are known from the states in the southern foothills of the Himalayas. They look like an ordinary nock with long cusks, but with one broken off.

I do not think they were used with a primary release (pinch grip). Certainly, they were not used in the manner shown in the video. Like a normal arrow, the thrust from the bowstring is centred on the axis of the arrow.

I think the reason was for faster nocking.

Stephen Selby · Post by **Stephen Selby** » Tue Jun 20, 2006 2:14 am

I couldn't really see what was going on in the video. Did the archer release the whole thing off with the arrow, or did the arrow separate from the device at the release?

Romain · Post by **Romain** » Tue Jun 20, 2006 2:16 pm

The whole arrow left in one piece.

I would not try that, I had twice a regular nock break at release and I would not tempt the devil more than I should

Jim Welch · Post by **Jim Welch** » Wed Jun 21, 2006 3:59 pm

Thanks guys.

I can see it working for lightweight bows but it doesn't seem worth trying for historical purposes.

Stephen, the arrows in the video have two nocks. The big flared one at the back that he is not using and a nock on just one side that hooks the string when he pulls it back. It's quick nocking but he sure doesn't seem to be getting back to full draw or worrying about where the arrows hit.

Jim