First Impressions of Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock aims to solve a common problem for archers: easily tracking arrow flight in low light conditions and quickly locating downed game. Nockturnal, a brand synonymous with reliable lighted nocks, promises to take the user experience to the next level with its innovative external on/off switch.
For years, I struggled with traditional lighted nocks that required a small tool or significant force to deactivate, often leading to frustration and wasted battery life. I was looking for a lighted nock that was easy to use, durable, and, most importantly, reliable in the field.
Upon unboxing the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock, the first thing I noticed was the robust polycarbonate construction and the smoothly integrated on/off switch. The nocks felt solid and well-made, certainly inspiring confidence for handling the repeated stress of arrow launch and impact.
Compared to other lighted nocks I’ve used from brands like Lumenok and Clean-Shot, the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock stood out due to its apparent simplicity and ease of use; the others felt either too fragile or too complicated to operate in the heat of the moment. I chose the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock because of the promise of a foolproof on/off switch, a feature that addressed a major pain point in my archery experience.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; if the external switch worked as advertised, the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock could be a game-changer. I was excited to test them and see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock at my local archery range during a late evening practice session. The goal was to evaluate the brightness of the LED, ease of activation, and the effectiveness of the on/off switch in real-time.
The nocks performed admirably, even in slightly damp conditions; the waterproof design held up without issue. Activating the nock was as simple as shooting the arrow, and the on/off switch was remarkably easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
Initially, I experienced a minor issue with one nock not consistently activating upon string release, but a slight adjustment to the nock’s position on the string solved the problem. This quick fix instilled confidence in the product’s overall design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple trips to the range and a weekend hunting trip, the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock proved to be remarkably durable. The polycarbonate construction has withstood numerous impacts without showing signs of cracking or damage.
Aside from the initial activation issue, all the nocks have performed flawlessly, maintaining consistent brightness and reliable activation throughout. Cleaning has been straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with other lighted nocks, the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock has been a significant improvement, especially regarding ease of use and overall reliability. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my archery setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock
Specifications
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock is constructed from ultra-strong, impact-resistant polycarbonate, ensuring durability in harsh conditions. Each nock weighs approximately 25 grains, which is a standard weight for lighted nocks and doesn’t significantly alter arrow flight.
The nock utilizes a stand-alone lithium battery, providing a battery life of over 20 hours. It features a patented, string-activated, piston-driven contact linear switch for immediate illumination upon string release and an external on/off switch for easy deactivation.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the nock’s durability, visibility, and ease of use; the robust construction ensures longevity, the bright LED enhances visibility in low light, and the user-friendly switch simplifies operation. The compatibility with different arrow types, through various bushing options, is a significant advantage.
Performance & Functionality
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock excels in its primary function: illuminating arrow flight and aiding in game recovery. The super-bright LED is easily visible, even in fading light, allowing for quick and accurate assessment of arrow trajectory.
The external on/off switch is a standout feature, eliminating the need for tools or complicated procedures to deactivate the nock. The main strength is its consistent performance, but one potential weakness could be the reliance on a small, replaceable battery, which may require periodic replacement.
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock meets and even exceeds expectations by providing reliable performance and simplifying the user experience, making it a valuable tool for any archer.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock features a streamlined design, made with very durable materials and weighs 25 grains per nock. The nock is comfortable to handle and doesn’t feel bulky or unwieldy when attached to an arrow.
The intuitive on/off switch is a testament to the user-friendly design, requiring minimal effort to operate. The learning curve is virtually non-existent; anyone familiar with archery equipment will find the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The polycarbonate construction and robust design suggest that the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock will last for several seasons with proper care. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance.
Replacement batteries are readily available, making it easy to extend the lifespan of the nock. The durable build and simple maintenance requirements ensure long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock comes with a 2-pack of nocks, and includes various bushings to ensure compatibility with different arrow types (X, H, S, and GT arrows).
The nocks themselves are not highly customizable beyond choosing the correct bushing for your arrow shaft. However, being a standard nock size, it seamlessly integrates with almost any archery setup.
Pros and Cons of Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock
Pros
- Easy-to-use on/off switch: Simplifies deactivation and conserves battery life.
- Super-bright LED: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
- Durable polycarbonate construction: Withstands impacts and ensures longevity.
- Waterproof and shockproof: Performs reliably in various weather conditions.
- Multiple bushing options: Compatible with a wide range of arrow types.
Cons
- Battery replacement required: Adds a small recurring cost.
- Initial activation sometimes inconsistent: May require slight adjustment.
Who Should Buy Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock?
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock is perfect for hunters who often find themselves tracking game in low-light conditions, or for archers who want a reliable and easy-to-use lighted nock for target practice. This product is also beneficial to beginner archers as it increases visual feedback regarding arrow flight and accuracy.
Archers who are extremely weight-sensitive or prefer ultra-lightweight setups might want to explore alternative options, although the 25-grain weight is unlikely to be a major concern for most. For best results, consider purchasing extra batteries when you purchase the nocks.
Conclusion on Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock
The Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock is a well-designed and reliable product that delivers on its promises. The external on/off switch is a game-changer, simplifying the user experience and conserving battery life.
At $21.99 for a 2-pack, the price is justified by the product’s durability, performance, and ease of use. I would highly recommend the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock to any archer looking for a dependable and user-friendly lighted nock.
Upgrade your archery experience today with the Nockturnal Shift Lighted Nock and never lose sight of your arrow again!