Basic Bow Set-up Bracing Height and Nocking Point

 

Bracing Height

The bracing height of a bow is the distance between the string and the pivot point of the bow (the furthest pont forward in the handle).For initial set-up you should set the bracing height in the middle of the manufacturers recommended range by twisting or un-twisting the bow string. The ideal bracing height is where the bow is quietest and smoothest, this will only come through some trial and error. If you do not know the manufacturers recommended bracing height range the table below can be used as a guide.

 

Bow length
Beginning Brace
Height Range
Maximum Brace
Height Range
64"
81/4 - 81/2"
73/4 - 9 "
66"
83/8 - 85/8"
8 - 91/4"
68"
81/2 - 83/4"
81/4 - 91/2"
70"
85/8 - 87/8"
81/2 - 93/4"

 

Basic Nocking Point Set-up

Once the bows tiller has been set and the limb alignment is complete, the bracing height and nocking point can be set.

To set the initial nocking point use a bow square and set the bottom of the nock to around 6 - 8mm (1/2 - 3/8"). This is the initial nocking point.

The nocking point will undoubtedly be adjusted later on in the tuning process so temporary markers such as masking tape wrapped around the string are sufficient at this stage. Remember, as always, make a note of the bracing height for future reference.

 

Further reading and references

 

Stages of Tuning

 

 

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