Releases and Release Aids: No Fingers Allowed

Hand Held Release

Wrist Strap Release

Most people unfamiliar with archery seem to think all bows are shot with fingers, and this is not always the case, especially when it comes to shooting a compound bow.  In most cases, compound bows are shot with a release or release aid. The reasoning is that when a bow string is released, fingers have the tendency to drag off the string causing the arrow to fly off the string inconsistently, not to mention it's also easier on the fingers and wrist. There are a few different types of releases, the most common are the hand held and wrist strap types.  A hand held release is a mechanical device that consists of a hook or jaws that clips onto the bowstring (or d-loop) and a triggering device to release the hook or jaws from the string. Whereas a  wrist strap release is a mechanical device that consists of a hook or jaws that clip onto the bowstring (or d-loop), a triggering device, and a wrist strap.

 (D-Loop)

Key Tips:

1. When pulling back the bow string with the release, make sure your finger or thumb is located away from the triggering device until you're ready to shoot.
2. Never pull a release towards your face. 
3. Never dry fire a bow, this could lead to personal injury or damage to the bow.
4. Choosing between a hand held and wrist strap release is a personal preference. I use a wrist strap release because the strap aids in pulling back the bowstring, also with a wrist strap release, it's always there when you need it.
5.  If you choose a wrist strap release make sure to go with a buckle strap opposed to a Velcro strap especially when bow hunting; otherwise just about every critter within a mile or so will hear you adjust your strap.
6. Wrist strap releases typically have an adjustable trigger length adjustment.  It is recommended that the trigger be adjusted so that the trigger is between the first joint from your hand and middle segment of the shooting finger. 
7. Most releases have adjustable trigger tension and trigger travel.  Adjust this based on personal preference. Warning: too much of a hair trigger could lead to the release firing prematurely.

Terminology:

• D-loop - this is a piece of rope or special material that is tied to a bowstring that a release attaches to for pulling back the bowstring.
• Trigger Tension - this is the amount of resistance it takes for the trigger to be pushed before releasing the arrow.
• Trigger Travel - this is the distance the trigger needs to travel before releasing the arrow.