Tuning and setup

Set your arrow rest and nocking point

A new string needs a new nocking point, and every bow needs a sensible rest and plunger starting point. Use Oneida's starting numbers, then fine-tune with 'Tune your arrow flight'.

  • Difficulty Easy
  • Time 20–40 minutes
  • For All Oneida lever bows

Rest and plunger numbers are for the 1980s–90s pylon bows with a threaded plunger hole. The nocking-point and clearance steps work on any Oneida; the Kestrel manual gives no height, so these are the only Oneida numbers for newer bows.

All how-to guides

We're still double-checking this guide against how we do it in the shop. If anything doesn't match your bow, stop and text us or call 270-318-2020.

Before you start

  • Set draw weight, tiller and brace height first, with the timing screw or hub tight.
  • Use arrows of at least 6 grains per pound of draw weight; Oneida voided its warranty below 5.
  • Wear safety glasses. Never dry-fire.

Steps

  1. Pick a rest: Oneida suggested a flipper-type rest with a cushion plunger for finger shooters; release shooters can use any rest with good clearance.
  2. Mount the rest so the arrow sits centered over the 5/16-24 threaded plunger hole.
  3. Set the plunger spring to about 6–8 oz.
  4. Thread the plunger in until its tip sticks out on the sight-window side about 1/4 in (Tomcat II and older Eagles), 3/8 in (Phantom II) or 9/16 in (Strike Eagle, Aero-Force).
  5. Check center shot: line the string up with the riser by eye and slide the rest until the arrow tip lines up with the string.
  6. Clip a bow square on the string with an arrow on the rest to find square (90°).
  7. Set the nock height: finger shooters put the bottom of the arrow nock 3/16–1/4 in above square; release shooters start at square.
  8. Clamp the nock set snug but still able to screw up or down the serving. Over-tight nock sets can break strings early.
  9. Dust the rest and sight window with powder, shoot, and look for fletching marks. Turn the nock slightly on the arrow or adjust the rest to clear them.
  10. Fine-tune with 'Tune your arrow flight: bare-shaft and paper tuning', then clamp the nocking point tight.

Tips

  • Left-handed shooters move the nocking point the same way; only side-to-side fixes reverse. (Dealer Instructions p.12)
  • An overdraw rest doesn't change draw length; it only lets you shoot a shorter arrow. (Black Eagle Manual p.2)