Archery's Surprise Release: What's The Point?

A surprise release in archery is a technique where the archer does not consciously trip the release aid. Instead, they focus on aiming and maintaining their full-draw position, while the release is activated through an increase in back tension or a slight rotation of the wrist. This can lead to more surprise shooting, as the archer is not punching the trigger and can stay focused on the target. This technique is said to cure target panic, which is a common problem for many bowhunters that results in poor groupings.

Pros and cons of a surprise release

A surprise release in archery is a technique where the release is not consciously triggered by the archer. This is in contrast to a command release, where the archer has full control over the release of the arrow.

Pros of a Surprise Release

• It can help to prevent anticipation and target panic, which can lead to a jerky release and missed shots.
• It allows the archer to focus solely on their aim and form, without having to worry about the timing of the release.
• It can lead to a smoother, more explosive release as there is no conscious effort to release the arrow.
• It can be useful for hunters as it allows them to focus on finding the best shot rather than worrying about the timing of the release.
• It can help to improve consistency as the release is not dependent on the archer's conscious trigger.

Cons of a Surprise Release

• It can be intimidating for the archer as they are not in full control of the release.
• It may not be suitable for all shooting situations, especially those where the archer needs to time the release with their aim, such as when shooting at a moving target.
• It can be difficult to learn and master, and there is a risk of misfiring if the technique is not executed properly.
• Some archers may prefer the feeling of being in full control of the shot and may find the surprise release too unpredictable.
• There is a risk that the archer's body may react to the surprise of the release, such as by closing their eyes or flinching, which could impact the accuracy of the shot.

How to execute a surprise release

A surprise release in archery is a technique where the archer does not consciously trip the release aid. Instead, the release is automated and occurs when the archer increases back tension. This technique is also known as a "surprise shot" or "unanticipated release".

Understand the Basics

Know that a surprise release is not about being startled or caught off guard. It is about automating the release process so that you can focus on aiming. The key is to increase tension gradually until the release aid activates on its own.

Choose the Right Release Aid

Select a back tension release aid, which is specifically designed for surprise releases. Unlike a trigger release, a back tension release does not have a manual trigger mechanism. This type of release aid is handheld and relies on a hinge mechanism that is tripped when you reach full draw.

Practice the Drawing Cycle

Familiarize yourself with the drawing cycle of your bow. This includes reaching full draw, taking aim, and holding that position until the release is activated. Practice this cycle repeatedly to build muscle memory and consistency.

Increase Back Tension Gradually

When you are at full draw and ready to release, focus on increasing back tension. This can be done by squeezing your shoulder blades together or relaxing your hand as if the release is slipping through your fingers. Do this gradually and smoothly to avoid jerking the bow off target.

Maintain a Consistent Anchor Point

Ensure that you have a consistent anchor point for your surprise release. This will help improve your accuracy and consistency.

Practice Makes Perfect

Surprise releases take time to master, so be patient and persistent in your practice. The more you practice, the more you will develop a feel for the release point and improve your accuracy.

Combine with a Thumb-Style Release

Consider combining your back tension release with a thumb-style release, as this can provide better control and comfort for some archers.

Remember, the key to a successful surprise release is to focus on your aim and allow the release to happen automatically when you increase back tension. With practice, you can master this technique and improve your archery skills.

The difference between a surprise release and a command release

A surprise release, also known as an unanticipated release, is when the archer is not in control of the exact moment the arrow is released. Instead, they focus on aiming and allow the release aid to determine the precise moment of release. This can be achieved through various release aids, such as a hinge, thumb-style release, or an automatic release. The advantage of a surprise release is that it frees up the archer's conscious mind to focus solely on aiming, potentially improving accuracy. However, it can be challenging to execute when hunting as it requires a stationary target and can induce target panic in some archers.

On the other hand, a command release, also known as command-style shooting, is when the archer actively decides when to release the arrow by pulling the trigger. This gives the archer more control over the timing of the shot, allowing them to choose the exact moment to release based on factors such as angle, foot position, and clear shooting lane. Command-style shooting is commonly used in hunting as it provides more flexibility to adapt to the dynamic nature of the sport. However, it requires a great deal of discipline to execute without anticipating the shot, which can lead to target panic or punching the trigger too hard.

Both methods have their pros and cons, and the choice between a surprise release and a command release ultimately comes down to personal preference and what works best for the individual archer. Some archers may find that they perform better with one method over the other, while others may be able to master both techniques and choose the one that suits their specific situation.

How to choose the right bow release

When it comes to choosing the right bow release, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, there are some key considerations to keep in mind that can help you make an informed decision.

Types of Bow Releases

There are two main subtypes of bow releases: trigger and triggerless.

Trigger Releases

Trigger releases require the shooter to work a trigger mechanism to fire the release. The two main types of trigger releases are:

• Index release: This is the most common type of release and is often the first release that people use when starting their archery journey. It attaches to the wrist via a strap and the trigger mechanism extends toward the palm of your hand. The release has a hook or jaw system to loop and hold onto the bowstring when drawn. To fire, you slowly squeeze the trigger like you would on a rifle.
• Thumb button release: This is a handheld release that is activated by pressing a button with your thumb. It provides a more comfortable and natural draw since you draw with your hand instead of a strap around your wrist. It also offers a more consistent anchor point because you hold it the same way every time.

Triggerless Releases

Triggerless releases require the shooter to perform an action other than pressing a trigger to fire the release. The two main types of triggerless releases are:

• Back tension release: This release has no trigger and only a safety. It requires personalized setup to fire at a few pounds over your holding weight. You hook the release to your D-loop, draw the bow, and let off the safety. The release will not fire until you apply additional pressure through back tension, causing the release to activate and the bow to fire.
• Hinge release: This is a handheld, triggerless release that uses a combination of back tension and hand movement to fire. When drawing, you keep most of the pressure on your index finger and thumb. At full draw, you begin to apply back tension while relaxing your index finger, transferring pressure to your middle and ring fingers. This steady transfer of pressure causes the release to rotate and eventually fire. Some hinge releases have a "clicker" that lets the shooter know when the shot is about to break.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Bow Release

When choosing a bow release, it's important to identify your goals and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

• Hunting vs. target shooting: For hunting, a thumb button or index release is generally recommended as they have triggers and are easy to operate in the heat of the moment. For target shooting, a hinge or thumb button release is often preferred by competitive shooters.
• Experience and skill level: If you're a beginner, an index release is a good starting point as it is simple and commonly used. More advanced archers may prefer the thumb button or triggerless releases, which offer more precision and consistency.
• Comfort and consistency: Consider the comfort of the release and whether it allows for a consistent anchor point. Wrist strap releases may be uncomfortable for some and can result in inconsistent anchor points if the strap shifts. Handheld releases provide a more natural draw and a more consistent anchor point.
• Punching the trigger: If you have a tendency to "punch the trigger" (quickly activating the trigger as soon as the pin hits the target), a triggerless release may be a better option as it encourages good form and prevents punching.
• Back tension: Engaging your back during the shot prevents your form from collapsing and encourages the use of large muscle groups to fire the release. Triggerless releases, such as the back tension and hinge releases, require back tension to fire, which can lead to a surprise release and improve shot accuracy.
• Practice and experimentation: It's important to try out different releases and practice with them to see which one works best for you. You may find that using multiple releases for different situations or to address specific issues, such as target panic, is beneficial.

Remember, the most important factor is to choose a release that you feel confident and comfortable shooting. The right release will improve your accuracy and confidence in the field, whether you're hunting or competing in target shooting.

How to avoid target panic

Target panic is a psychological, and perhaps neurological, condition experienced by many archers, both competitive and recreational. It is characterised by an anxiety or fear of missing the target, which impacts an archer's ability to shoot confidently and accurately.

To avoid target panic, it is important to understand and accept that you have this common problem. Next, you should focus on mastering your shot process, which involves knowing how to grip, draw, anchor, aim, and squeeze the trigger.

• Stand 5 to 10 yards from a target without any aiming points. Practice getting into your grip, drawing in one fluid motion, and crawling into your anchor. Exaggerate this process to develop repeatable anchor points that feel comfortable.
• Once in your anchor, put your pin on the target and let it float. Focus on maintaining good form by keeping your bow arm strong and pushing it into the riser and target. Hold as long as you can and then let down. Take breaks between each draw and hold cycle to avoid injury. Repeat this process 20 to 30 times without firing an arrow.
• On day 8 of your practice, stand 10 yards from the same blank-faced target and go through your process. This time, aim for the centre of the target and let the release fire the bow. Remember, you are not firing the bow, the release is.
• From days 8 to 14, continue standing 10 yards from the blank-faced target and execute perfect arrows. Focus on fighting for the centre of the target and releasing the bow to fire.
• On day 15, start again at 10 yards from the blank-face target. Execute a perfect arrow, and if successful, pull the arrow from the target. Back up to 20 yards and repeat the process.
• Starting on day 15, once you've achieved a perfect grip, exact anchor, and firm stance, you can begin to aim at a 3D target. Start at 20 yards and go through your process, making a killing shot. Focus on the centre of the target and letting your pin float while you push and pull through the shot.

In addition to these techniques, you can also try changing your release style. For example, switching from an index finger release to a back-tension style release may help reduce anxiety and improve accuracy.

Remember, overcoming target panic is a process, and it may take time and consistent practice to see improvements.

Frequently asked questions