Archery Release: How To Use It

Archery is a practice that has been around for thousands of years, and humans have been trying to master the technique for just as long. While archery may look simple, there are many nuances to the technique, including how to use a release. A release is a device that attaches to the bowstring and is used to help archers deliver the perfect shot. There are several types of releases, including index finger, thumb trigger, back tension, and resistance-activated releases. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences and goals. For example, index releases are popular among hunters because they stay attached to the wrist and are harder to lose, while thumb trigger releases are used by many target archers because they can be used like a back tension release but with more control. Ultimately, the best way to choose a release is to try out different types and see what works best for you.

How to use a hinge release

A hinge release is a handheld release aid that fires by rotation, with no trigger. It is sometimes called a back-tension release.

To use a hinge release, you must first draw the bow, primarily using your thumb and index finger. Then, you transfer the weight across to your middle and ring fingers, and this action will release the shot. It is important to practice drawing with a shot trainer or a string tied in a loop, as it can be tricky to master and you could accidentally release the bowstring too early.

There are several methods for rotating the hinge release, and you can experiment to find the one that suits you best. One method is to relax the back of your hand, which will cause the release to rotate naturally. Another is to transition the weight from your thumb and index finger to your other fingers, pulling your elbow behind and around your head to build pressure and release the shot.

You can also adjust the settings on your hinge release to suit your preferences. A hinge release can be set to be "hot" or "cold", which refers to how much movement is required to release the shot. You can also set it to "click" or "no click", which means it will or will not signal when it is close to firing.

How to use a back tension release

Hinge releases, also known as back tension releases, are a modern addition to archery. They are handheld releases that have become increasingly popular over the past decade.

The head of a back tension release is on a hinge and pin that hooks to the string loop of a compound bow. As the hinge rotates, it moves along a cam until the head releases and the shot breaks. The key to this is that the shot will be a surprise to the archer, preventing any shot anticipation.

To use a back tension release, you must engage the large upper muscles of your back, called the trapezius muscles or "traps" for short. Keeping tension in these back muscles and using a pulling motion while relaxing your hand will cause the release to rotate and the shot to break.

When drawing your bow, you will engage your trapezius muscle in the upper back, rather than your shoulder, bicep or forearm muscles. These other muscles should remain as relaxed as possible so that the back muscles can be used correctly. Then, while aiming, you 'pull through' the shot using your rhomboid muscles. These are deep layer muscles that are attached to the scapula. Once they begin compressing, they cause the scapula to move, which in turn causes your elbow and draw hand to move back. Finally, upon execution of the shot, the latissimus dorsi muscle is compressed in a descending motion, pulling your elbow down on the follow-through.

To identify whether you are engaging these muscles, stand with both arms out at your side to make a T-shape, then bend your draw arm so that the palm of your hand is resting on your chest with your fingers on your sternum. Now, gently slide your draw hand back towards your shoulder, keeping your elbow at a 90-degree angle. The muscle tightness you should feel in your back are the same muscles that should be tightening upon release.

To execute a perfect shot, stand in your usual shooting position and carefully draw your bow, finding your anchor point. Once comfortable, release any safety mechanism and concentrate on smoothly increasing the pressure on the cam wall using your back muscles. Keep your front arm solid and gently push against your draw arm, which should be relaxed. This pressure should be balanced so that your aim is steady and your release smooth.

Keep practicing this 'pull-through' technique until every shot flows smoothly. If the release is going off too quickly or too slowly, alter the timing until it activates in a fast but manageable time frame.

How to use a thumb trigger release

A thumb release, also known as a thumb button, is a handheld device with a trigger that is activated by your thumb. It is a popular alternative to the wrist-strap release, which is activated by the index finger. The thumb release is favoured by archers who want to avoid punching the trigger, which is more common with the index finger due to its higher sensitivity.

Thumb releases come in different sizes and configurations, with the most common style being a three-finger release that uses the index, middle, and ring fingers to draw the bow. It is important to adjust the release to fit your hand comfortably, ensuring that the trigger position is easily reachable with your thumb. You can also adjust the trigger's sensitivity, but it is recommended to set it so that a fair amount of pressure is required to release the string.

To get started with a thumb release, you should familiarise yourself with the new anchor point. A common method is to place your jawbone between the "V" formed by your index and middle fingers. This creates a solid and consistent anchor point, which is typically lower than the one used with an index-finger release. You may need to adjust your peep sight and draw length accordingly.

When you're comfortable with the new anchor point, you can begin practising your release. Keep your thumb away from the trigger as you draw, and apply steady pressure until the release breaks. Focus on learning how to use the release rather than worrying about precision.

There are different techniques to activate the release, and you can experiment to find the one that suits you best. One method is to curl your thumb around the thumb barrel and continue pulling with your entire arm until the release fires. This helps you stay relaxed and focused on the target. Alternatively, you can squeeze your hand as if squeezing a tennis ball as you pull through the shot, causing the release to fire.

Thumb trigger releases typically come with three- or four-finger handles, allowing you to grip the release with all four fingers or just the first three. Some target archers even prefer two-finger handles for an even straighter line. It's important to find the configuration that feels most comfortable and allows you to pull straight back.

How to use a resistance-activated release

A resistance-activated release, also known as a tension release, is a type of release aid used in archery to improve precision when firing arrows. It is a mechanical device that attaches to the bowstring and is designed to be activated by applying a set amount of resistance to the back wall at full draw.

• Draw the bow while holding down the safety mechanism to prevent accidental release.
• Maintain pressure on the safety as you anchor and aim, finding a steady position.
• Build a slight, comfortable back tension to ensure a good follow-through.
• Keep pressure on the safety until your aim is steady and you are ready to release.
• Release the pressure on the safety, which will immediately activate the release and fire the arrow.

The key advantage of this type of release is that it allows you to hold the bow at full draw for only as long as necessary, reducing the time of the shot execution. Additionally, the slight back tension can help you achieve a steady aim.

It is important to note that resistance-activated releases require practice to master, as finding the right amount of resistance can be challenging. Adjusting the resistance setting slightly can make a significant difference in the ease of pulling and releasing.

Resistance-activated releases are considered excellent training tools for learning proper shot processes and are particularly useful for developing muscle memory and a consistent tension release.

How to use a finger tab or glove

To use a finger tab, follow these steps:

• Insert your middle finger into the elastic string or loop.
• Tighten the loop and ensure the tab doesn't slide out.
• Nock the arrow and start your shot process.
• Pull the string, ensuring your finger hook is not too deep or too shallow.
• Set your anchor – depending on your tab, an anchor shelf will help you achieve a more consistent shot.
• Continue with the shot process and the string should simply slide off your finger tab as you release.

Finger tabs are usually made of leather or synthetic material and are designed to protect your fingers and prevent injury when pulling the string. They also ensure a smooth, consistent release of the string from your fingers.

If you're using a glove, the process is more intuitive. Simply cover the string with your fingers, draw, anchor, and release. Archery gloves are specially designed with padding to protect the fingers used in archery (index, middle, and ring fingers). They also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and materials.

Frequently asked questions