The Ultimate Solution for Target Panic and Buck Fever
The Nock On Back Strap is a breakthrough in wrist release technology, designed to eliminate target panic and deliver perfect surprise breaks in the field and on the range. This tension-activated wrist release forces you to execute proper shot technique by requiring a dynamic, continuous pull against your bow’s back wall.
Born from years of coaching archers at all levels, this release changes how you execute your shot, whether you’re training for tournament success or waiting for that trophy buck to step into range.
Core Benefits
- Dual-Mode Versatility: Functions as both a tension-activated release for perfect surprise breaks and a standard index trigger release for maximum versatility
- Precision Engineering: Nine- to 40-pound tension adjustment using a single spring system with micro-adjustability
- BOA® Comfort System: Quick, repeatable fit adjustments without velcro, perfect for all wrist sizes and glove compatibility
- Compact Open-Hook Design: Silent operation and quick loading in hunting situations
Feature Breakdown
Tension-Activation Technology
The Back Strap’s primary function is its tension-activation system, which changes your shooting process.
Unlike traditional index releases that can lead to punching or freezing under the target, the Back Strap requires you to draw back, anchor, squeeze the trigger to disengage the safety, then continue pulling against the back wall until the release fires with a surprise break. This system forces proper back tension and eliminates anticipation, the root cause of target panic and buck fever.
The tension system uses a single spring that provides adjustment from approximately nine to 40 pounds, requiring no spring changes like previous models. One full turn of the adjustment screw changes the activation weight by approximately 10 pounds, allowing for precise customization to match your bow’s holding weight. For optimal performance, set the tension four to six pounds over your bow’s holding weight.
BOA® Wrist Strap System
The Back Strap features a licensed BOA® adjustment system that changes wrist release comfort and fit. Instead of imprecise velcro or fixed strap lengths, the BOA system allows micro-adjustments for perfect fit regardless of what you’re wearing: from bare skin to heavy hunting gloves. To tighten, simply push down on the BOA dial and rotate until comfortable. To release, pull up on the dial for instant loosening.
This system provides unmatched repeatability between sessions and is extremely durable, using the same technology found in high-performance snowboarding boots and cycling shoes. The strap accommodates wrists as small as 5.75 inches in diameter, making it suitable for youth archers, women, and all adult hand sizes.
Compact Open-Hook Design
The Back Strap features a compact, open-hook jaw system for fast and silent loading onto your D-loop. This low-profile design minimizes bulk at full draw and maintains durability for real hunting conditions. The open-hook configuration allows for quick attachment in high-pressure hunting situations, where speed and silence are critical.
Reloading the release after firing is simple: just squeeze the trigger and close the hook. In some cases, depending on how hard you’re pulling through your shot, the release may automatically reload itself, similar to how handheld tension releases function.
Safety System and Center Pivot Design
The Back Strap incorporates a center pivot safety system that prevents accidental firing. To disengage the safety, squeeze the trigger at full draw. If you need to let down without firing, simply release the trigger to re-engage the safety. This design guarantees complete control and safety throughout your shot sequence.
The center pivot design creates a consistent activation feel across your entire pull, regardless of finger position on the trigger.
Adjustable Release Length
The Back Strap features fully adjustable cord length to accommodate different hand sizes and anchor preferences. By loosening the two screws on the base plate, you can easily lengthen or shorten the cord for the perfect fit.
The recommended finger position places the trigger at the middle section of your index finger rather than the fingertip, providing better sensitivity control and reducing unwanted trigger anticipation.
Technical Specifications
- Tension Range: Nine to 40 pounds (approximately 10 pounds per full turn of adjustment)
- Wrist Compatibility: S/M fits wrists 4″–6.5″ in diameter; L/XL fits wrists 6″–9″ in diameter
- Adjustment Mechanism: Internal set screw with single spring system
- Strap System: BOA® micro-adjustment technology
- Dexterity: Convertible for right or left-handed use
- Release Type: Dual-mode (tension-activated or standard index)
- Safety: Center pivot safety system
Proper Anchor and Shooting Technique
For optimal performance with the Back Strap, position your index knuckle at the base of your earlobe with your trigger finger just under your lip. This positioning places your peep height and anchor point nearly identical to shooting with a handheld release, keeping your arrow in the “safe zone” between your lip and chin for maximum consistency.
The elbow position is critical when using a tension-activated release. With a proper anchor, your elbow should be positioned slightly high, allowing you to pull back against the wall rather than down. Think about pulling the tip of your elbow straight back toward something behind you until the release activates.
When beginning with the Back Strap, start with a large target at close range, focusing on the process rather than tight groups. Use a shot trainer to practice the sequence: draw, anchor, deactivate safety, and pull through until surprise break.
Performance Summary
The Back Strap combines the familiar feel of a wrist release with the performance benefits of tension activation. Whether you’re hunting in unpredictable conditions or training to overcome target panic, this release delivers consistent, surprise breaks that maximize accuracy.
The adjustable tension system works with your natural shot process, teaching proper technique and building shooting confidence. The result is a wrist release that performs like no other, delivering the perfect surprise every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Back Strap help with target panic and buck fever?
The Back Strap forces you to execute shots through continuous movement rather than static holding. When you’re locked up under the pin with target panic, your brain is trying to control the exact moment of release. That’s what creates the freeze or the punch.
With tension activation, you’re pulling through the shot with no ability to control when it fires. This removes the anticipation completely. You can’t punch what you can’t control.
In hunting situations where buck fever kicks in, the Back Strap prevents you from short-circuiting your shot process. You physically cannot rush the shot. You have to pull through it properly or it won’t fire. You need this enforced discipline when adrenaline is pumping.
Can I safely let down after disengaging the safety?
Absolutely. Once you’ve squeezed the trigger to disengage the safety at full draw, you can still let down safely by simply releasing trigger pressure. The safety immediately re-engages when you release the trigger, preventing the release from firing. This is critical for hunting situations where you need to abort a shot.
The process is simple: draw, anchor, squeeze trigger to disengage safety, then if you need to let down, just release the trigger and ease off the string. The center pivot design ensures this works reliably every time.
Practice this sequence at home with a shot trainer until it becomes second nature.
When should I use tension mode versus index trigger mode?
Use tension mode for all your practice and training. This builds proper form and eliminates bad habits. The surprise break teaches you to pull through shots correctly.
Many archers also hunt successfully in tension mode once they’ve mastered it, especially for tree stand situations where they have time to execute properly. Switch to index trigger mode (by adjusting tension below holding weight) if you’re in a spot-and-stalk situation where quick shots might be necessary, or if you’re not confident with tension activation yet.
Some bowhunters run tension all summer for training, then switch to index for hunting season. Others commit fully to tension mode year-round. Find what works for your hunting style.
Will my point of impact change when switching to the Back Strap?
Expect your arrows to hit slightly left (for right-handed shooters) compared to a handheld release. This is normal and consistent. The different hand position and release angle creates this shift.
Mark your sight tape or count clicks when you sight in with the Back Strap so you can quickly adjust when switching between releases. The shift is usually two to four inches at 20 yards, proportionally more at distance.
Once sighted in, the Back Strap maintains consistent POI. If you’re committed to using it for hunting, sight in with it and leave your pins set. If you’re switching between releases for different situations, keep notes on the adjustments needed.
What’s the typical learning curve for the Back Strap?
Give yourself at least two weeks of daily practice. The first few sessions will feel awkward. That’s normal. You’re retraining years of muscle memory.
Start at five yards with a large target, focusing only on the process: draw, anchor, safety off, pull through. Don’t worry about groups initially. Most archers see dramatic improvement around session four or five when they stop fighting the release and trust the process.
By week two, you’ll have consistent activation and tighter groups than before. The shooters who struggle are those who try to control the surprise. You have to commit to pulling through without anticipation.
How do I find the right tension setting for my bow?
Start by setting the Back Strap tension four to six pounds over your bow’s holding weight. If you’re shooting 70 pounds at 80% let-off (14 pounds holding weight), begin around 18–20 pounds on the release.
One full turn of the adjustment screw equals approximately 10 pounds of tension change. Fine-tune from there based on feel. If it’s firing too easily without proper back tension, add tension. If you’re struggling to get it to fire even with good form, reduce tension slightly.
The sweet spot is where you need deliberate, continuous pulling to activate it, but it doesn’t require straining. When set correctly, activation should take two to four seconds of steady pulling from when you disengage the safety.
