The number of lighted nock options has exploded in recent years, and it has now gotten to the point where they are available in a dizzying array of colors and models. Making things even more confusing is the fact that each manufacturer claims to have the ideal system for ensuring maximum nock strength, brightness and ease of operation. Although

I can’t claim to have used every illuminated nock out there, I do believe DoubleTake Archery is onto something with the simplicity of the new NockTurnal Lighted Nocks.

Unlike other illuminated nocks that use riser-mounted magnets or internal speed sensors to activate, patent-pending NockTurnals simply have a push-button switch embedded near the base of the string groove. It won’t turn on when you load the arrow. But when you release the arrow, the pressure from your string pushes the switch in and turns on the internal LED.

To deactivate the nock, all you have to do is take a small object such as a pin or toothpick and slide the switch back to the off position via a small “reset hole” in the side. NockTurnals are made from clear plastic for maximum light transmission and are available with red, green, yellow or pink LEDs. Included batteries last more than 20 hours. NockTurnals weigh 20 grains each, which DoubleTake says is 25-50-percent lighter than the competition.

The self-contained units are available in four sizes to fit most arrows and require no assembly or glue to install. I used them on an April turkey hunt in Kansas and was pleased with their performance. If you visit our Stuck in the Rut blog online (www.bowhuntingmag.com/blog), you can even watch video of me killing a jake and missing a huge longbeard with NockTurnals on my arrows. I definitely can’t blame the nock for the miss. It was my own fault! MSRP: $8.99 each or $24.99 per 3/pk

Contact: DoubleTake Archery, 830-947-9744; www.doubletakearchery.com