NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA Review

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA Made a Bold First Impression

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA promises a game-changing experience for archers, especially those who hunt during low-light conditions or appreciate enhanced visibility. NAP, or New Archery Products, has been a staple in the archery world for decades, known for their innovative and reliable accessories. I first saw these nocks featured in a hunting magazine highlighting their potential for ethical and efficient harvests.

For years, I’ve relied on traditional nocks, often struggling to track my arrow’s flight in the fading light of dusk. I’ve even lost a few arrows in thick brush after a shot. The promise of clearly seeing my arrow’s trajectory and point of impact, offered by the NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA, was simply too enticing to ignore.

Unboxing the NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA, my initial impression was positive. The nocks felt sturdy and well-constructed, made of what appears to be a durable polymer. They are lightweight and the illumination module seems securely integrated.

Compared to standard non-illuminated nocks from Easton and Bohning, the NAP nocks felt slightly bulkier, but not excessively so. I chose the NAP nocks over the Rage or Lumenok illuminated nocks due to NAP’s reputation for reliability and the ease of replacing the batteries, which I had read user feedback on. I also preferred the brighter blue LED.

I was genuinely excited to try these out. The potential for improving my shot visibility and arrow recovery, especially during those crucial last minutes of legal shooting light, had me eager to hit the range. It felt like an important upgrade to my archery setup.

Real-World Testing: Putting NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA at my local archery range, focusing on accuracy and visibility under various light conditions. I also brought them on a recent bowhunting trip to the Texas Hill Country to give them a fair trial in the field. It was essential to see how they performed in real hunting conditions.

The NAP nocks performed admirably in dry conditions. However, after a light rain shower at the range, I did notice a slight decrease in brightness in one of the nocks. This raised a slight concern about moisture resistance, a crucial factor for outdoor use.

These nocks were easy to install and use. They essentially replace your standard nock. The illumination is activated upon firing the arrow, triggered by the string pressure at launch. After a few shots, I was accustomed to the slightly different feel and weight distribution caused by the nock.

My only issue after the first use was the slight decrease in brightness after some moisture got onto the nock. I took them apart and dried them out, and the brightness returned.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA has held up reasonably well. The polymer material shows no signs of cracking or significant wear, even after numerous impacts with targets and the occasional accidental dry-fire. They have survived many shots, simulating hunting conditions.

While the nocks themselves remain intact, the battery life is a concern. I’ve noticed a gradual decrease in illumination intensity after approximately 20-30 shots per nock. Replacing the batteries is simple, but the cost of replacement batteries can add up over time.

Cleaning the nocks is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or debris. However, I’ve been extra cautious to avoid getting moisture near the battery compartment, learning from my initial experience. Overall, these nocks perform better than cheaper brands but fall short of professional-grade lighted nocks.

Breaking Down the Features of NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA

Specifications

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA is designed to enhance arrow visibility. Each pack contains six blue illuminated nocks. These nocks are engineered to fit standard arrow shafts.

The key features include:

• Battery-powered illumination: Activated upon firing.
• Durable polymer construction: Resistant to impact and wear.
• Simple on/off mechanism: via string pressure.
• Replaceable batteries: Extends the life of the nock.
• Blue LED: Highly visible in low-light conditions.

These specifications matter because they contribute directly to the archer’s ability to track their arrow’s flight path. The enhanced visibility aids in locating the arrow after the shot. Replaceable batteries allow for extended use, maximizing the nock’s lifespan.

Performance & Functionality

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA performs its primary function – illumination – quite effectively, particularly in low-light environments. The bright blue LED is easily visible, allowing me to follow my arrow’s trajectory and pinpoint its impact location, even at longer distances. The improved visibilty increases the chance of an ethical harvest.

However, battery life could be better. Also, their moisture resistance needs to be improved. The product meets my expectations for visibility but needs improvement.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is commendable, with the polymer construction feeling solid and capable of withstanding repeated use. The nocks are lightweight enough to not significantly alter arrow flight characteristics, and they are fairly streamlined. They have a good balance of size and weight.

The installation is effortless. No special tools are required.

Durability & Maintenance

The durable polymer construction suggests a reasonable lifespan, provided the nocks are properly maintained and protected from excessive moisture. Battery replacement is a straightforward process, contributing to long-term usability. With proper care, each nock should last for many seasons.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA is designed as a direct replacement for standard nocks. The main customization option is selecting the correct nock size to fit your arrow shaft diameter. While not directly customizable, the enhanced visibility complements the use of lighted arrow rests and other low-light archery accessories. I would recommend using them with a range finder.

Pros and Cons of NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA

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Who Should Buy NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA?

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA is perfect for bowhunters who frequently hunt during dawn and dusk, or in heavily wooded areas where visibility is limited. It’s also a valuable tool for target archers who want to easily track their arrow’s flight, especially at longer distances. New archers will also benefit from its ease of use and improved visibility.

This product might not be ideal for competitive archers who prioritize minimal weight and perfect arrow balance above all else. Also, archers who often find themselves shooting in very wet conditions should find a more waterproof option.

A must-have accessory is a pack of replacement batteries, as the included batteries will eventually need replacing. I also recommend investing in a quality arrow puller.

Conclusion on NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA

The NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA offers a significant advantage in terms of arrow visibility and recovery. It does so by creating an easier-to-track arrow that helps archers spot their arrows. While the battery life and moisture resistance could be improved, the overall performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for many archers.

The price is justifiable considering the enhanced visibility and increased arrow recovery rate, especially for hunters. This also leads to more ethical harvests.

I would recommend the NAP ILLUMINATED NOCK – BLUE – 6-PA to archers who value improved visibility and arrow tracking, particularly in low-light conditions, as long as they are aware of the limitations regarding battery life and moisture sensitivity. Give it a shot, literally, and see the difference it makes in your archery experience.

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