Archery Release Types for Bowhunters

Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter stalking through silent woods or a target archer meticulously refining your form, selecting the right archery release aid is paramount for achieving consistent, accurate shots. This comprehensive guide delves into the various types of bow releases, exploring their functionalities, advantages, and considerations. By unpacking the intricacies of wrist strap releases, handheld triggers, hinge releases, and tension releases, we'll equip you with the knowledge to confidently choose the best bow release to complement your archery discipline and personal shooting style. Whether you're a bowhunter or target shooter, there are many factors when choosing the right arrow, depending on your shooting type. Thanks to some tips from our friends at Scott Archery, we have created a guide to help you decide what kind of archery release aid would work best for you!

Wrist-Strap Bow Releases

An index finger compound bow release has a trigger that fires the arrow. The archer can control the shot precisely, pulling it when the pin sight sits right where the archer wants the arrow to hit. A wrist strap helps you pull your bow back because you can use your wrist, arms, and back muscles to draw. The wrist strap makes sure that you always have your release ready when you need it.

Types of Wrist Strap Releases

When reading about these various wrist releases, note that it comes down to preference and what you are more comfortable with as an archer. Also, allow yourself time to get used to a new release when you first use it.

Single Caliper Releases

The most significant advantage of the single caliper release is consistency. A single caliper release has one moving arm that releases hold on the D-loop. A D-loop is attached to the bowstring and below the arrow's nock. With one point of connection, you can feel confident that the bowstring will be released the same way every time. Another advantage of a single caliper release is durability. A single caliper release is easier to maintain and reliably performs in poor weather conditions.

Double Caliper Releases

A double caliper release has two moving arms that pull back simultaneously to release the bowstring. A double caliper release evenly releases the tension on the bowstring. The more even friction distribution on the bowstring provides a cleaner release and reduces torque.

A disadvantage is that the bowstring may release slightly differently each time you shoot, either from the top or bottom. This may result in a small degree of lost consistency. Double caliper releases cause more wear and tear on their D-loops, so be prepared to replace them often.

Hook Releases

A hook release only has one moving part at the point of connection to the bow – the hook. It is shaped like a hook. Many bowhunters prefer hook releases because they are quieter and wear less on the string loop.

Handheld Thumb Bow Releases

A handheld release clips onto a strip with an open hook clamp, popular with bowhunters and target shooters. A handheld bow trigger release activates by pulling the trigger with your thumb instead of your index finger. There are some pros to handheld thumb releases – archers like anchoring more consistently. The hand placement on a thumb trigger release is very comfortable. It provides a more consistent anchor point than an index finger release.

Some archers feel their anchor point is not in the same place as before, meaning the spot on your face that your bowstring hand, or the string itself, should touch when you're at full draw. If your anchor point never seems consistent, this can be a problem with your aim. If that is the case, a handheld release can help solidify that.

The closed jaw clasps on a thumb release can be handy when sitting in a tree stand or ambush hunting. You can hook it to your D-loop, and it's ready. Then, wait patiently while you use your draw hand to use a game call.

Hinge & Back-Tension Bow Releases

A hinge release, or a back tension release, is relatively basic and user-friendly. It is a handheld release that does not have a trigger and is activated by the subtle backward rotation of the handle. When the handle rotates, it causes a searing mechanism to slip; the hook opens, and the bow fires.

Tension-Activated Bow Releases

Tension arhcery releases are similar to hinge releases; however, these releases have a built-in safety mechanism similair to a gun's safety. The archer can draw the bow without firing the arrow. This type of compound bow release is truly a game-changer for archers struggling with target panic or beginners looking to improve their shooting abilities.

They're also less likely to result in accidentally dry firing or releasing the string without an arrow. Dry firing a bow can damage the limbs, cams, and string, resulting in having to replace your bow, if you're lucky. If you're unlucky, a dry-fired bow will fly apart in your hands and cause injury.

Shop Bow Release Aids at OpticsPlanet!

At OpticsPlanet, when we're not in the office, we can usually be found enjoying the outdoors just like you. We have a great selection of compound and recurve bows, arrows, broadheads, and other archery equipment! Whether archery is a new hobby or if you've been enjoying it for years, check out our other Archery Guides for more tips on mastering your skills.