Are you frustrated by the fact that your shots always land off target? If this has been happening for a while, perhaps your archery skills aren’t at fault.
Chances are that your bowstring needs some tweaking so it can deliver better accuracy and consistency. To perform this fine-tuning though, you’ll need to use a tool known as a bow square.
This is simply a small device that ensures that the core measurements - such as brace height and nocking point - aren’t altered. Here, we provide a detailed guide to the best bow squares available and how to choose the right one.
What is a Bow Square?
When you’re configuring your bow for the very first time, one step you ought to take is to set up the nocking point. Thus marking enables you to determine where to nock your arrow so that you can land accurate shots each time.
Thanks to advancements in archery equipment - specifically, the invention of a bow square - finding the right nocking point is much easier than you think.
There are two main types of bow squares. They’re named based on the shapes they take, that is, L- and T-shaped squares. Other than the design aspect, there’s not much difference in terms of how these tools work.
How to Use a Bow Square
So just how do you use a bow square?
We’ll start with the basics. A bow square is a metallic measuring gadget that has one long horizontal arm and a shorter arm that sits vertically. The shorter arm contains a pair of clips attached to its top and bottom.
If you’ve been window-shopping for a bow square, you may have noticed that it usually has a set of measurements calibrated along each arm.
The measurements on the vertical section are in small intervals of about ¼”. However, it’s the markings on the longer arm that help you find the ideal brace height and draw length.
And now to the fun part! To use this device, start by aligning the horizontal arm on your bow rest. Put simply, rest this horizontal section on the bow rest.
Next, use the two clips on the square to firmly attach it to your bowstring. The idea is to keep the string stable enough so you can figure out where to put your nocking points. With the help of the markings on the vertical arm, you should be able to tune the position of your nocking points accurately.
For newbie users, we recommend setting your first nocking point at the first quarter inch mark. You can then attempt shooting to determine if this configuration works for you.
If your shots land on your intended target, then you don’t need to do any more fine-tuning. However, if a few of your arrows start dipping in an upward and downward manner, you may want to try the next point. For most archers, the position that works well for them is either the ½ or ¼ of an inch.
The 5 Best Bow Square Reviews
1. Zonon Bow String Bow Square
If you’ve been hunting for a top-rated bow square, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better model than the Zonon Bow String model.
One of its main selling points is the fact that it’s an all-inclusive set. Essentially, you get almost everything you need to set up your bow correctly. In addition to the bow square, you’ll also get a nocking buckle plier, and up to 6 bowstring nock sets.
Also important to note is that the Zonon bow square comes in a T-shape. This design allows it to attach easily to the bowstring both below and above the nocking point.
Anytime you’re buying a piece of archery equipment, you probably don’t give much thought to design. But in case you do, you’ll be pleased to learn that this set comes in two different colors- dark blue and black. This way, you can choose one that suits your preference.
Aesthetics aside, we also like that this T-square is compact and light. This makes for a very easy installation. Besides, its interior layer is made of anti-skid nylon, which helps to protect your bowstring.
If you’re not a fan of the T-shaped bow squares, there are L-shaped models that work just as well. The K’Netix 5-Piece Kit by Allen Company is a good case in point.
Like the Zonon set, this one comes with a couple of attachments, providing excellent value for your money. You’ll get their L-shaped bow square, a pair of nocking pliers and nocking points.
One thing we like about this kit is that each component is well-designed to provide maximum efficiency. For starters, the pliers boast an ergonomic design. This makes them very comfortable to hold.
Secondly, it sports a folding mechanism. So once you’re done configuring your bow, you can fold it into a more compact shape for easier storage and portability.
Also crucial to note is that this square has a very sturdy construction. Unlike other manufacturers that use plastic, Allen Company uses an aluminum alloy to make their bow square, resulting in optimal durability.
Are you looking for a professional-grade bow square that is also affordable? If you are, you should check out the Easton T Bow Square at a very low price.
One of its key highlights is the fact that it’s made by a reputable brand. Easton is a leading manufacturer of quality archery equipment, and this bow square is no exception (just check out some of the best Easton arrows for example).
In that regard, the square is constructed using anodized aluminum. Such a material makes the tool very sturdy without compromising on weight. So not only is this bow square durable but also lightweight enough to carry around.
Another thing you’ll like about this product is that it’s very easy to read. It contains laser-etched white-colored measurements that contrast nicely against the black background. We particularly like that the markings don’t wear off easily.
One challenge that you're likely to encounter when buying a bow square is finding one that’s suited for the type of bow you have.
Carbon Express understands how taxing this can be, which is why they invented a multifunctional model. The Carbon Express Pro is on a short list of bow squares that works with both recurve and compound bows.
Another major selling point is the robust construction. The manufacturer has used anodized aluminum that is lightweight and durable. We were particularly impressed to learn that the aluminum used is non-corrosive, which further adds to its longevity.
Another key part of this L-shaped bow square entails the metal clips. These are meant to secure the bow square into position.
A common misconception of Chinese products is that they’re cheaply made. But the Chuangtong Bow Square proves otherwise.
The T-shaped bow square is made from a premium-quality aluminum alloy, which makes for exceptional durability.
And like the Carbon Express Pro, this tool is also multipurpose. So whether you own a compound or recurve bow, you’ll be able to use this kit to fine tune your string.
The bow square, which comes in one of four colors, also contains two metal clips. These allow you to clip the bow square firmly into position.
How to Choose the Right Bow Square
The shape of the square isn’t the only factor that you should consider when purchasing a bow square. Other points you should keep in mind are:
Brace Height
Before purchasing any bow square, ensure that it’s one that can accommodate your bow’s brace height.
In case you’re new to archery bows, brace height refers to the distance between the grip and deepest section of the bowstring when it’s drawn.
For compound bows, you’ll find that some have a high brace height while others have a low one. The brace height of recurve bows often falls somewhere in the middle.
Question is, how can you tell whether a given bow square will accommodate your brace height? Well, the secret is to focus on the starting points of the measurements. A scale that begins at the 2- or 4-inch marks can accommodate any bow. This also means that they work well with both recurve and compound bows.
However, if you come across a bow square whose scale starts at 6 inches, it won’t accommodate the brace height of most traditional bows.
Materials
Regardless of how careful you are, a bow square is one of those tools that will be subjected to tough conditions. It may get dropped or bump against other archery tools when stored in a tool bag.
For this reason, you’ll want to ensure that the bow square you’re investing in is made of durable material. Most manufacturers opt for aluminum, and for good reason. It’s highly-durable but it’s also not so heavy that it will weigh you down. On the topic of this material, you may also be interested in checking out some great aluminum arrows.
The best bow squares also include an anodized finish, which keeps the metal bow square from corroding.
Portability
If you like to practice your shooting skills out in the field, then portability is another factor you’ll want to prioritize.
You can examine this aspect in two ways. One factor that we’ve already touched on is weight. It goes without saying that a lightweight bow square will be easier to carry.
The second perspective has to do with foldability. Some bow squares feature foldable designs, provide more compact storage and convenient portability.
Measuring Units
Another thing you should check is the measuring units used in the bow square’s scale. Some contain both units, that is, imperial and metric. However, others only have one type of unit.
Personally, we find the metric system easier to use, especially when it comes to computing calculations. Others though, find the imperial system better. So it all depends on what works for you.
Legibility
The core reason for buying a bow square is to help you set the nocking points correctly. As such, you’ll want to ensure that the markings on the scale are easy to read.
To achieve this, check the color of the calibrations and that of the arm. The color used to label the scale should contrast nicely against its background to provide easy readability.
Conclusion
Have you been looking for one of the best bow squares on the market? If you have, you’ll find that Zonon Bow Square offers an exceptional performance.
First off, the bow-tuning kit comes at a price that’s hard to beat. To add to this, it includes a nice selection of accessories including a nocking plier and nock sets. The bow itself also includes some retainer clips to provide a secure attachment.
The bow square takes on a T-shape, a factor that enables it to attach easily to your bow string. Furthermore, it’s made of an anti-skid nylon material to protect your bowstring from getting damaged during the tuning process.