Answer: In general, you should carry arrows in the nocked position only when you are actively approaching or about to shoot at game and it is safe to do so. Do not keep a nocked arrow while moving where others are present or where an accidental release could injure someone. The typical safety guidance is to nock and draw only when you have a clear, safe line to your target and no one is in front of you or along your shooting path; otherwise, keep the arrow un- nocked and the bow lowered. Key safety points to follow
- Only nock an arrow when it is safe to shoot and you know what lies beyond your target. Do not nock while walking with others nearby or while another person is ahead of your line of fire.
- When slowly approaching game, some hunters choose to have an arrow nocked so readiness is improved, but this is done with strict safety discipline: never nock or draw if anyone could be in front of or near your shooting line.
- Use a haul line or other safe handling practices to raise or lower arrows when gear needs to be moved, keeping the bow pointed in a safe direction at all times.
If you want, I can tailor these guidelines to a specific activity (hunting vs. range practice) or to a particular safety course you’re taking.
