When it comes to choosing the best bow release, then we would recommend the Scott Archery Legacy Release. This release is adjustable and draws support from the wrist to put less stress on your fingers when drawing the string back.
There are hundreds of bow releases that you can buy online, but how do you know which one is the best? Trying to choose the best one is not as simple as most people think.
You need to consider many things before choosing a bow release, especially when it comes to your shooting style. I have been using bow releases with my bow for many years, and I cannot stop recommending them to someone just starting. I have tested many different types making me more familiar with what each one will bring to the table.
I will tell you how a bow release can make your hunting experience more enjoyable, plus I am going to reveal six bow releases that you can choose from. You will also have a guide at the end that will give you some pointers.
Best Bow Release Review
(Our Pick) Scott Archery Legacy Release
(Budget-Friendly) Tru-Fire Smoke Extreme
(Best 4-Finger Hand Release) Tru-Fire Hardcore 4 Finger Revolution
(Both 3 and 4-Finger) CUPID C3-4 Adjustable Thumb Bow Release
(Best 4-Finger With Caliper) Tru-Fire Edge 4-Finger Bow Release
Are you ready?
Let’s get started.
Why You Should Use a Bow Release
It took years for our ancestors to develop their hunting craft to the point where they could use a bow flawlessly. They had all the time in the world to practice, even from a very young age. They developed their muscles, hand coordination, and skillset to make them deadly at using the bow.
Some of us do not have that luxury as not all of us have the time to perfect our craft. Some of us are beginners at this and do not have years to become the best we can be. One of the most common issues new hunters or archers face is weak hand strength.
To pull and hold the string back, you need strong hands and fingers. Especially if you use a high-powered bow as those 60lbs plus compound bows, the tension in your fingers will cause instability and will make your shot less accurate.
The most common solution to weak hands is the use of a bow release. These devices come in different forms and sizes, but they all tend to serve the same purpose of giving you a more accurate shot.
A bow release will move some of the strength required from your fingers over to your arms. Some bow releases use a wrist band so that you do not need to use your fingers to pull the string back.
6 Best Bow Releases (Our Top Recommended Bow Releases)
This section will give you 6 of the best bow releases. It will cover different types that include the wrist release, hand release, and hinge release.
#1 Scott Archery Legacy Release (Our Pick)
- Type: Wrist release
This bow release from Scott Archery was our favorite because of its quality and adjustability. You will soon find out why this option was first on our list. This product uses a caliper for the release. The caliper has a sear design that makes it more accurate and precise.
Once you release the switch, the caliper will automatically close, grabbing onto the bowstring. The buckle strap is also made from leather, giving you a more secure fit. The nylon connector will extend from the strap and will be attached to the release.
This product has several adjustability options that you will love. Is the nylon connector too short? No problem. Just loosen the screws at the NCS clamp to adjust the length of the connecter. You can also adjust the trigger sensitivity, which is pretty neat.
The verdict
This bow release is of higher quality than most and has everything you need to get started. Its adjustability options make it sought after by most hunters and archers.
Cons: Not much to say here.
#2 Tru-Fire Smoke Extreme (Budget-Friendly)
- Type: Wrist release
The Tru-Fire Smoke Extreme is ideal for hunters that have a limited budget. It is also a wrist release type making it ideal for beginners and individuals with a weaker grip. This bow release also makes use of a caliper that can auto-close.
The wristband is made from no-stretch fabric and makes use of a buckle to maintain consistency. The release can also be rotated, making it suitable for both left and right-handed shooters.
You should know that this bow release has several adjustability options. The length of the connector cord can be adjusted but is very limited to how far out you can set it. You can also adjust the travel range of the switch to how far you want it to be.
The verdict
This product from Tru-Fire would be a good option if the first product were too expensive. It is ideal for beginners and has several adjustability options.
Cons: The adjustability of the extension cord is very limited.
#3 Tru-Fire Hardcore 4 Finger Revolution (Best 4-Finger Hand Release)
- Type: Hand release
This product is a 4-finger bow release that is suited for hunters with smaller hands so that they may be able to use all of their fingers for a better grip. The head can also rotate 360 degrees with the help of 11 ball bearings so that you can shoot in any position. This feature will reduce the torque that is placed on your hand so that you can fully concentrate on your target.
The trigger knob can also be adjusted through 16 positions, giving you the amount of trigger tension that you want. You can also use this product with both hands, which is very handy and will give you more stability while aiming at your target.
It uses a fang-style release mechanism with a safety guard that will prevent you from accidental releases.
The verdict
It is a great product. It has many features that make it convenient for hunters. It also has many customer reviews, which are very positive and give the company confidence in their product.
Cons: It is a bit expensive and might be too bulky for some hunters.
#4 CUPID C3-4 Adjustable Thumb Bow Release (Both 3 and 4-Finger)
- Type: Hand release
This bow release has three-finger and four-finger adjustment options, so hands of any size will enjoy using this bow release comfortably. The thumb trigger is easy to use and releases with minimum effort, making it easier to pull it back and have higher accuracy!
It comes in the colors blue, green, and red that makes it easier to be matched. You will also get a wrist wrap making it safer than you expected. You never have to worry about the bow release slipping out of your hands which can cause a serious injury.
The verdict
The Bow Release is an excellent bow release option for any archer. I highly recommend purchasing this bow release and having it in your arsenal.
Cons: Not much to say here.
#5 Tru-Fire Edge 4-Finger Bow Release (Best 4-Finger With Caliper)
- Type: Hand release
Did you know that some hand bow releases also use a caliper instead of the old-fashioned fang-style release mechanism? This product uses a caliper release mechanism that is called an “auto-lock.” This release mechanism helps eliminate hand fatigue while also helping you keep better control of your bow.
It uses a 360° head rotation that will help you shoot in any position. This feature will also reduce the torque enabling a more precise release.
The trigger tension can also be adjusted to fit your shooting style and your bow. Unlike other release mechanisms, this one can be set to a lighter tension for beginners or more experienced shooters who want more control.
Both left and right-handed shooters can benefit from this product. You can use this release in either your left or right hand, so you can change it to fit your preference.
The verdict
Overall, this product does almost everything you could want from a bow release. It is silent, adjustable for left and right-handed shooters, and has an impressive amount of features. This is a great product for beginner and intermediate archers who want to improve their performance on the range.
Cons: Not much to say here.
#6 Tru-Fire Sear Hinge Release (Best Hinge Release)
- Type: Hinge release
The Tru-Fire Sear release is a hinge release which means that it will release the arrow without using a trigger. When the string is pulled back to its fullest, the release will then automatically let the string slip out of the release.
It can either be used as a 3 or a 4-finger release, making it ideal for hunters with big or smaller hands. It has a 4th finger attachment that can be attached at the bottom of the body of the release giving you an extra finger.
It has 4 different click options that include short, medium, and fast. There is also the no-click option. You also have several color options to choose from.
The verdict
The advantage of this release is that you don’t need to use a trigger, and it can be either a 3 or 4-finger release. This device is ideal for individuals suffering from “trigger panic.” It has several color schemes to choose from.
Cons: You need extra experience with this device to hunt deer with confidence.
Types Of Bow Releases
There are many types of bow releases to choose from. You can choose from a wrist release, hand release, and hinge release. All of them have their own pros and cons to be familiar with.
Wrist release (Index finger)
This style can also be referred to as the most classic and is the most used by beginners, and for a good reason. This bow release uses a band around your wrist for extra support from the release itself. The band can make use of either velcro or a buckle.
Most of these releases also use an index finger trigger instead of the thumb trigger. The body of the trigger makes use of a caliper which will grab and hold onto the string. Once the trigger is released, the caliper will open and thus release the bowstring.
Pros
- This device transfers the draw weight from your fingers to your wrist, making it perfect for people with grip strength issues.
- This type of release makes it easier to draw and hold high-powered bows that require a lot of strength and endurance.
- It is safer to use this release. You do not have to worry that it will slip from your hand because it is attached to your wrist.
Cons
- This device needs to be properly adjusted for more accuracy.
- It takes extra time to grab onto the string and to use it. It might take you several hours of practice to get used to this device.
- Need to be attached to a D-loop.
Hand release (Thumb release)
This device is held in your hand and does not make use of a band around your wrist. The device can either be a 3 or a 4-finger release. The 4-finger release is best suited for hunters that have smaller hands. You will use your thumb as the trigger finger instead of your index finger.
Pros
- They are smaller and easier to use. Your draw time will also be significantly quicker than that of a wrist release.
- Accuracy will also be improved as there are fewer variables in its position.
Cons
- You need more hand strength to operate and use this device. It is still easier to use this device than your hands alone.
Hinge release (Tension release)
The hinge release looks very similar to the hand release but is a lot more complicated. Most of these designs do not use any manual trigger. Instead, it uses an automatic trigger to release the string when it is pulled back to its fullest.
Once the trigger has rotated enough, the string will automatically slip out of the trigger, thus releasing the arrow. This type of release takes a lot of time and confidence to master. It makes use of your feel and draw-cycle to determine the time of its release.
Pros
- Very accurate to use.
- It helps you to get over target panic.
Cons
- Not the best option for beginners.
- You need strong hands.
- You need more confidence to use this product.
Should you use a hinge release for hunting?
It all depends on your experience and confidence in this type of release. When hunting, you do not have time to waste, while it is also important to time your shot placement perfectly. Some experienced hunters will never use this device for hunting.
You should know exactly when it will release the arrow, and you should have already mastered your bow and shooting. If you suffer from target panic, then this release will surely benefit you.
What To Look For When Choosing a Bow Release
Choosing the right bow release for your bow does not need to be that hard. Here is a guide on some of the criteria that you need to look out for to ensure that you get the best product for your needs.
Adjustability and Comfort
Not all hunters and archers have the same hand size and draw length. You need to get your hands on a bow release that you can adjust according to your unique specifications. The last thing you need is to hurt one of your fingers while trying to reach the trigger.
You also need a wristband that can be adjusted when you opt for a wrist release. “Trigger travel” or trigger sensitivity is how far the trigger needs to move before it is released. In some bow releases, You can adjust the trigger travel. If everything can fit properly, you will have a more comfortable experience while using your bow.
Noise
Some bow releases will make a clicking sound when the trigger is pressed. This sound has the potential to spook the game away if it is too loud. You also need to take note of the noise that comes from velcro straps if you are using a wrist release. Consider choosing the buckle strap instead.
Release mechanism & caliper type
The two main types of release mechanisms to choose from are the caliper and fang-style hook mechanisms. You need to choose the one that you are comfortable with. Most people prefer the caliper type as it is more sensitive.
String style
The most common type of string type available is the “D” loop string. Most of the bow releases will be able to attach and release themselves to this type of string. You also get nock points made from metal that make it more difficult to use.
Velcro vs. buckle strap
If you plan to use a wrist strap, you need to choose between a velcro or a buckle strap. The velcro strap is softer around your wrist but can make a lot more noise when used. The buckle strap does not make any noise and will give you more consistency when choosing the same hole for the pin each time.
Finger quantity
Most hand releases will be curved so that your fingers can fit better around the device. Most of them will either be a 3-finger or a 4-finger device. The 3-finger device is better for those that have bigger and stronger hands. The 4-finger device is better for hunters that have a smaller hand.
The Verdict
You see. It was not that hard. Once you know what to look for, then choosing one is as simple as riding a bike. If you still could not make up your mind, I would highly recommend the Scott Archery Legacy Release.
This bow release was by far my favorite. We also showcase different types in this review ranging from the wrist release to the hand release. Now it is up to you. Which release was your favorite?
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