Has anyone been successful doing self nocks in 5/16" shafts?
I do them all the time. Typically with a horn insert. I haven't heard of any issues from anyone using them.
Guy
Thanks Guy,
I don't use inserts and wrap the nocks. Sounds like it is doable. Will give it a whirl.
Dave
If you aren't doing an insert then wrapping the nock is a good idea. I always do one or the other.
One thing I have found to be really important is to not make the nock fit too tight on the string. If the string isn't fully seated in the nock then it will slam down to the bottom when the arrow is released. I've seen reinforced nocks split that way.
Guy
How do you install the horn insert? Is it footed in? A pic would be very appreciated.
Mike, pm sent.
Guy
This isn't a 5/16" shaft, but it's the same principle. Just cut another slit in the arrow perpendicular to the nock cut, and glue in a piece of horn, wood, or what have you to reinforce the nock. You have to be careful doing this, as you don't have too much wood to work with, but it can be done. I usually just wrap the nock end on smaller shafts.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v103/scattershot/IMGP0181.jpg)
These are both 11/32 shafts but they look the same as the 5/16 shafts I do...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/GreyTaylor/Jan18010a.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/GreyTaylor/sa5.jpg)
Guy
I have used self knocks reinforced with a thread wrap on 5/16" Ramin shafts with great success. My only gripe is that when you hit a nock with another arrow, it can easily bust and that arrow is toast. Grey Talor's advice about making sure the nock is not too tight on the string echoes my own experience. To date, I have built about 4 dozen self nocked arrows and have yet to see one fail at the nock--unless it was hit by another arrow. (Just don't go for "Robin Hoods" and you'll do fine, I'll bet. Good luck.