Knöggle is designed for players ages 16 and older. Always wear ANSI-approved impact safety eye protection while playing, including spectators nearby.

Play on a flat, level, dry, hard surface in a clear, well-lit area approximately 15 feet in diameter. Keep children under 16 away from the playing area.

Always use the official Knöggle nail striker with its wrist strap secured. Keep both feet on the ground, never strike a loose nail, and never play under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Keep the competition friendly and follow the official rules!

Your team loses a turn if:

• You talk while holding the nail striker.
• You use the wrong side of the striker.
• You raise the striker above your shoulder.
• You strike the block or nail more than once during a turn.
• You stop or hesitate during your swing (a balk).
• You fail to wear the wrist strap.
• You toss, swing, or gesture with the striker toward another player.

Hitting out of order: If the opposing team catches your team hitting out of order, the opposing team adds a nail to its own side of the block.

NEW TO KNÖGGLE? START HERE.

Knöggle offers beginner-friendly rule modifications to help new players learn the game.

• Shorter nails: Start with nails extending 1¼ inches above the wood block instead of the standard 2½ inches.
• Two-handed play: Beginners may use both hands on the nail striker.
• Fewer nails: Start with just one nail per team.
• Flexible striking: Beginners may use either face of the striker.

These modifications may apply to an individual player or an entire team. All players must agree on which modifications will be used before the match begins.

EVERY GREAT GAME STARTS WITH THE RIGHT SETUP.

What you'll need: The Knöggle base assembly, official nail striker, 10d (3-inch) common nails, a coin for the opening toss, and a driver's license for checking the winning nails.

Setting up: Place the folded base face down on a flat surface. Unfold both leg assemblies, raise both sets of round tube legs, and connect the center braces until the locking button clicks securely into place. Turn the base upright and verify that the legs are fully extended and locked.

Before playing: Choose a level, dry, hard surface in a clear playing area approximately 15 feet in diameter. Inspect the equipment and make sure all nails are firmly secured before play begins.