Selfnocking

Selfnocking refers to a characteristic or mechanism within certain projectile systems, most notably in archery, where the nock of an arrow or bolt is designed to automatically secure itself onto the bowstring. This eliminates the need for the archer to manually place the nock onto the string before each shot. In traditional archery, archers typically "nock" the arrow by hand, fitting the grooved end of the arrow (the nock) onto the bowstring.

Selfnocking technology aims to simplify this process, allowing for faster shooting or offering an advantage to archers with physical limitations that might make manual nocking difficult. Various designs have been explored and patented over the years, often involving a specially shaped nock that grips the string through tension or a spring-loaded mechanism. Some concepts involve a nock that automatically slides or snaps into place as the arrow is drawn back. While the concept offers potential benefits in speed and accessibility, it has not become widespread in mainstream archery, with many traditionalists preferring the tactile feedback and control offered by manual nocking. The effectiveness and reliability of selfnocking systems can vary depending on the specific design and the type of bow and string used.