Police are appealing for witnesses to an alleged confrontation in Billingshurst.
It took place at about 3pm on Friday October 14, in Henshaw Way.
The teenage boy was riding a moped when he says he was approached by a man holding a weapon.
Police arrived at the scene and arrested a 41-year-old man. He's since been released pending further enquiries.
Witnesses or anyone with relevant footage from CCTV, doorbell cameras or dashcams are asked to come forward.
Information can be reported to Sussex Police online, quoting serial 965 of 14/10.