Alice Lloyd
The release of a recurve bow is a highly technical process that requires consistency and precision. While most recurve archers opt for a finger release, some prefer using release aids for reasons ranging from injuries to personal preference. It's important to note that release aids were designed for modern compound bows, which have a different design and functionality than recurve bows. This means that using a release aid with a recurve bow can affect accuracy and may require adjustments to your shooting style. Ultimately, the decision to use a release aid or finger release comes down to individual preference, comfort, and compliance with competition rules.
What You'll Learn
Release aids are not necessary for recurve bows and may cause issues
Recurve bows are designed to be shot with the fingers, and most recurve archers do not use release aids. Release aids are designed for compound bows, which have a lower draw weight than recurve bows. Using a release aid with a recurve bow can be dangerous, as the release aid might not be able to hold the weight of the draw for long, causing an accidental shot.
If you are new to archery, it is best to stick to using your fingers or a finger tab or glove, rather than a release aid. Using a release aid can also cause issues when shooting in competitions, as you may have to shoot in a different class, and it will affect your shooting style.
If you are using a release aid due to an injury, you may be able to continue doing so in competitions, depending on the rules.
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Release aids can be used to compensate for injuries
Recurve bows are designed to be shot with the fingers, but some archers with injuries prefer using release aids. Release aids can be used to compensate for injuries, and different archers will have their own reasons for using them. For example, if an archer has a "bum" knee, they may rely on other body parts to shoot, causing undue stress and leading to further injuries. A release aid can help to prevent this.
Archers with injuries may also be provided with aids by their doctor, such as crutches for an injured ankle, which can help to prevent compensation injuries. Similarly, release aids can be used to prevent further injuries caused by the stress of holding a recurve bow at full draw for a long time. This can cause a lot of stress on an archer's draw muscles and risk further injury.
Release aids can also be used to compensate for memory impairments. Research has shown that survivors of brain injuries can learn to compensate for cognitive challenges by using external aids. These tools are described as "low tech" or "high tech" aids. Low-tech aids include simple organisational tools such as checklists, calendars, and notebooks. High-tech aids include electronic devices with a range of programming options, such as digital voice recorders, programmable watches, and smartphones.
There are also different types of release aids to choose from. Modern release aids are designed to be used with compound bows and may not be suitable for holding back the larger draw weights of recurve bows. Releases designed for higher draw weights will be more suitable. Older releases from the 1950s and 1960s can also be used, as well as ancient releases such as leather strap-style releases and thumb ring-style releases. These types of releases allow the use of a release aid without the risk of an unintended release, as the string is not released as fast as with a modern compound bow release.
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The correct finger placement is crucial for a consistent release
To achieve this style of release, there are three main elements: proper placement of the string in the fingers, strong back tension, and continual movement. The most crucial factor is consistency in finger placement. The optimum place to put your fingers is inside the first joint of your index finger, just behind the joint of your middle finger, and then in the joint of the ring finger. The string should be held very lightly, allowing the tendons to engage and the fingers to roll open slightly. This is the most biomechanically efficient position, causing the least movement away from the neck.
It is important to note that not all archers shoot in this position. Some archers may find it more comfortable to shoot closer to their fingertips. However, consistency in finger placement is key to achieving a clean and consistent release.
In addition to proper finger placement, strong back tension is essential for a clean release. The correct power generated by the back muscles will ensure a smooth release and improve the overall accuracy of the shot. At full draw, continuous force should be applied through the shot, engaging the large muscles in the back. This will result in a flawless release, with minimal left and right arrows.
Lastly, continual movement is crucial to the release process. A relaxed hand and wrist will help eliminate minor changes in the passing of the string that can occur when they are tense. The correct back tension will create a smooth and continuous release, with minimal changes in the body aside from the relaxation of the forearm muscles to allow the string to escape the fingers.
By focusing on proper finger placement, strong back tension, and continual movement, archers can achieve a consistent and accurate release when shooting a recurve bow.
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The archer's paradox changes when using a release aid
The Archer's Paradox is a phenomenon that occurs in archery when an arrow does not follow its intended path as it leaves the bow. The arrow, despite being aimed directly at the target, bends or curves as it travels through the air, causing it to veer off course. This bending is caused by several factors, including the speed of the arrow, its weight, the tension in the bowstring, and the design of the bow.
The use of a release aid also affects the direction of the arrow's bend. Without a release aid, the arrow typically bends left and right as it leaves the bow. However, when a release aid is used, the arrow tends to bend vertically, or up and down, as it departs from the bow. This change in the direction of the bend is due to the difference in the way the string is released from the fingers compared to the release aid.
To compensate for this change in the Archer's Paradox when using a release aid, adjustments need to be made to the arrows used. The arrows need to be set up more for use with a compound bow. This typically involves using arrows with a different stiffness or "dynamic spine" to ensure they flex correctly when released and return to the desired path as they leave the bow. Using arrows with the appropriate spine for the specific bow setup is crucial for accurate shooting.
While release aids can provide some benefits, such as faster arrow release and reduced finger strain, they also come with certain drawbacks. They can be expensive and prone to accidental breakage. Additionally, the use of release aids can lead to legal issues when hunting and may place archers in a different competition class, requiring them to compete against archers using more advanced equipment. Therefore, it is essential for archers to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of using release aids and make an informed decision based on their individual needs and preferences.
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Using a release aid may require different arrows
Using a release aid with a recurve bow can have an impact on the arrows you use. Recurve bows are usually shot with the fingers, and this is reflected in the design of the arrows. When using a release aid, you may find that you need to switch to heavier arrows.
The arrows made for recurve bows are typically not compatible with release aids. This is due to the archer's paradox, which causes the arrow to bend in a different direction when released with a release aid. When shooting with your fingers, the arrow bends horizontally from side to side. However, when using a release aid, the arrow bends vertically, causing the fletchings to make more contact with the shelf of the bow. This results in a loss of accuracy.
To compensate for this change in arrow trajectory, you will need to adjust your shooting style. One way to reduce the contact of the fletchings with the bow is to use an elevated rest on the shelf of your bow. Twisting the nock on the arrow can also help the arrow leave the bow with less contact.
Additionally, you may need to change the type of arrows you use. Heavier arrows are typically more suitable when shooting with a release aid. Consult your local archery store for advice on which arrows to use with your specific setup.
It is important to note that using a release aid with a recurve bow can be more challenging and may require adjustments to your technique and equipment. However, with the right approach and equipment, you can successfully use a release aid with a recurve bow and improve your accuracy over time.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use a release aid on a recurve bow. However, it is not common as recurve bows were designed to be shot with the fingers. If you are new to archery, you may want to try a release aid before shooting your first arrow.
The release of the string is one of the most difficult skills to learn. To get a good release, you must think of keeping your fingers in the same place as the draw hand moves backward. You do not open your fingers, the string pushes them out of the way.
The most crucial element is that the string goes in exactly the same place in your hand each time. The optimum place to put your fingers is inside the first joint of your index finger, just behind the joint of your middle finger, and then in the joint of the ring finger.
