When nocking an arrow with the bow parallel to the ground, which direction should the cock feather face?

When nocking an arrow with the bow parallel to the ground, the cock feather—the different colored feather on the arrow—should face straight up. This positioning is crucial for ensuring the arrow flies correctly when released. The cock feather is designed to be in a position that allows it to clear the bowstring effectively during the shot, reducing the risk of the feather interfering with the arrow's flight path.

By orienting the cock feather upwards, you also facilitate better arrow stability as it leaves the bow. This arrangement helps prevent the feathers from contacting the bow or string, which could lead to erratic flight behavior. In archery, proper nocking is fundamental for accuracy and consistency, making the correct orientation of the cock feather an important aspect of effective shooting technique.