The obvious benefit of using a bow release aid is a cleaner release than using your fingers, which is what most hunters want. Instead of your three fingers holding the bowstring, a metal pin or a set of metal jaws holds the string. You get to place precise and consistent shots during your hunting expedition.
In this article, we have reviewed ten of the best bow release aids you can find on today’s market. Instead of overwhelming yourself with the numerous models that flood the market, you can simply use the information provided herein to find the ideal bow release for your application.
Types of Bow Release
There are three major types of bow release aids: index finger, thumb release, and back tension. The beauty of the best bow release is the consistent performance. Therefore, you have to figure out the type of release aid that best suits your need.
This release aid depends on your index finger for release. The most popular finger release aids come attached to either leather or synthetic wrist strap with buckle closure for positioning the whole setup on your wrist during use.
The index finger models are usually favored by bow hunters, simply because they stay attached to the hunter at all times. So, to you will not forget it somewhere on the ground or keep dropping it unexpectedly during hunting.
Pros
- You cannot lose it during a hunt because it stays connected to your wrist.
- The strapping offers additional muscles for drawing the string.
- It effortlessly hooks to the string.
Cons
- You are likely to face problems as far as punching the trigger is concerned.
The thumb trigger release aid is set up in a similar way as the index finger release. The thumb release features quite a unique design with two, three, or four finger placement operation. Most popular models are four fingers.
This design requires you to use adequate finger pressure to hold the release. To release the arrow, you will have to place your thumb on the trigger and squeeze for a quick release. The best bow release with a thumb design requires just a push for an easy and quick release.
Pros
- There are at least three variations to choose from, including two-finger, three-finger, and four-finger.
- The trigger release gives you more control over the placed shot because you have to apply pressure to the release.
- Thumb release aids do not require a wrist strap for operation because they are handheld and allow for 360-degree maneuverability.
Cons
- The operation of thumb release aids can be affected by wind.
Back tension release aids are handheld with a pivoting head that suitably attaches to the D-loop or string with an open hook. The back tension release aids are among the favorites. They provide you with a pretty good idea of where your arrow will hit.
A back tension model requires you to keep your hand flat, and apply enough tension with your fingers in order to hold the release. The holding pressure applied will force the release to rotate until the string is released for a perfect shot placement.
Pros
- There is no need of a trigger, just the tension force required.
- They are ideal to use in calm weather for perfect shot placement.
- You will know where your arrow is going to hit.
Cons
- Their performance deteriorates in windy conditions.
How to Choose the Best Bow (Archery) Release
When choosing a bow release aid, you should always consider the overall performance. You do not want a release that will perform perfectly fine in a specific weather condition and completely different in another. Therefore, the features should be flawless for unmatched release.
It goes without saying that a given type of bow release will perform excellently in one archer’s hand, and poorly in another’s hand. Therefore, you have to settle for the release type that is fully compatible with your expertise.
The most recommended release for hunters is usually the index finger release, because it locks on to the archer’s wrist. And it does not fall off easily during hunting. However, most archers and target shooters prefer index finger release because of convenience.
The most important attributes of a good bow release are speed, accuracy, and versatility. If you know your hunting expedition will involve a lot of movements, then a release with a wrist, Velcro strap and buckle is what you need.
However, if you are a professional after a supreme performance, then a handheld release with state-of-the-art features should be your choice. The thumb/handheld release should have finger-friendly contours for comfort during use.
Choose a release with a reliable trigger position, draw length and speed. The trigger pressure should be adjustable for convenience. In addition, the release ought to be both right and left hand compatible for comfort and convenience.
The 10 Best Bow Release for Hunting – Reviews and Comparison
1. Spot Hogg WISEGUY Release Buckle
The Spot Hogg WISEGUY bow release offers you reliable performance during your hunting expedition. It is incorporated with a leather buckle with a floating nylon connection. This release has the same leather wrist wrap as the other versions of WISEGUY release.
However, it allows you to have a shorter or longer range of connection between the wrist strap and the head of the release. The unique design of the WISEGUY release buckle flawlessly blends with your bow to offer you maximum performance.
Unlike competing models, the WISEGUY release buckle is fitted with the lightest trigger that is ideal for most of your hunting ranges. The trigger system is incorporated with a fail-safe mechanism to ensure there is no trigger travel during the release.
The trigger also features a rigid body that is not only durable, but also provides comfort and speed when in action. The micro-adjustable length adds to the effectiveness of the release. In addition, the quick loading jaw and magnetic wrist strap develop a torque-free release for convenience during use.
2. TruFire Hardcore Buckle Foldback Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release
The TruFire Hardcore release makes hunting with a compound bow fun. A good release makes you a better archer who never misses the target once acquired. This is a reliable compound bow release when you want to upgrade from your old TruFire model.
It is available at a very competitive price, which you can certainly manage if high performance is what you are after. The TruFire Hardcore comes with amazing features that will transform your shooting routine during your favorite hunting sessions.
They include super plush camo buckle strap; aerodynamic trigger design with 5/8+ inch length adjustment; adjustable trigger pressure; easy and quick trigger travel adjustment; and a hook structure with TRU center technology.
If you are looking for a highly versatile release that can be used with both hands, then settle for the TruFire Hardcore. The trigger system sets it apart from other bow releases on the market. Moreover, the TRU center technology used guarantees slip-free attachment of the hook to the bow string.
3. Scott Archery Shark Double Caliber Release
The Scott Shark Release is your only solution to the accuracy problems you have been facing lately during bow hunting. You will be amazed by the précised shots you will be making, especially past thirty yards. Its performance is appreciable compared to competing models.
The specific features that distinguish the Scott Shark Release from the rest include: wide roller-sear, double caliber release, four-position length adjustment, and compact and dual jaw structure. The four-position length adjustment allows you to conveniently modify the length for convenience.
This is a buckle type release incorporated with Velcro strap, which allows you to silently tighten the wrist wrap on your hand without making a sound. One of the most attractive qualities of this release is the trigger, which is quite sensitive and requires only a touch to release.
There are a few hitches that you might have to deal with when using the Scott Shark. The most significant one is associated with the trigger. It doesn’t automatically go back to its original position after a release, you actually have press it forward for it to clip back into position.
4. Junxing Compound Bow Release
At first glance, you will love the vintage looks of the Junxing Compound Bow Release. Most of you may not believe how inexpensive this bow hunting gear is, given its attractive appearance. The trigger extension is excellently connected to the wrist strap for convenience.
If you are in the market for a compound bow release that will outclass competing or similar models in performance, then the Junxing is what you should settle for. You would all agree that the Junxing is an ergonomically designed release for the money.
The Evolution buckle strap and leather wrist wrap offer a simple and snug fit for easy maneuverability. The POSI lock hook allows for quick and effortless attachment to the bow string. The trigger system is sensitive and can be tight loose. The release also offers 360-degree auto adjustment for use.
The engineering of the Junxing offers more accurate positioning. This is made possible by the eight positioning holes on the wrist strap. You can suitably switch from one hole to the next until you acquire your desired release position.
5. Carter Chocolate Addiction 4F Release
Finding a bow release that fits your budget is particularly important, but finding one that offers long-lasting performance and durability is absolutely crucial. The Carter Chocolate Addiction 4F release offers you unmatched design features and performance at a considerably high price tag range.
The Carter Chocolate is a high-tech brand that is fully committed in providing archers with the best release features. They include 360-degree rotating, perfect thumb position setting; adjusto trigger plus, and three holes situated at the trigger base.
The design of this trigger differs considerably from most conventional bow releases. You will not struggle too much with positioning, because you only need a quick spin to achieve the perfect thumb position. You can easily adjust trigger pull with one of the holes.
The remaining two spring-loaded holes help in effecting trigger tension. Using the release is remarkably simple. You just have to place the hook on the string, then go ahead and push the cocking lever for the hasp to close on the string.
6. TruFire Hardcore 4 Finger Revolution Archery Release
The TruFire Hardcore 4 Finger is a new handheld bow release with a considerable customer-friendly price range. The unique design is made up of CNC solid aluminum head and handle. It is available in two distinct colors: Black and Camo.
It features a removable loop retainer. Simply take the screw off and the loop retainer will come off. This helps to keep the release in position even if it’s flopping due to the wind. It also comes with a removable lanyard. You just have to loosen the screw for the lanyard to come off.
The most captivating quality of this 4 finger handheld release is the sixteen position trigger with adjustable tension. This setting is different from the trigger travel. The 16-position trigger offers you separate ounces of pressure to fire.
The design has a single jaw with a very quick release. It is without a doubt a very versatile bow release for the money. You can effortlessly remove the loop retainer or the lanyard by detaching the designated screws as abovementioned.
7. Hot Shot Vapor 4 Finger Release
The Hot Shot Vapor 4 Finger is another ergonomically designed bow release. It has an absolute design with well-defined bow release parts. The engraved finger placements are properly spaced for a perfect and snug fit when holding the release.
This is a very strong and durable release that works excellently. It comes will all the necessary adjustment tools. It is designed to accommodate your whole hand on it when you pull back. You need to hit the button to lock it, and then push around the string.
The release comes with a fully adjustable thumb barrel, which provides you with numerous ways of mounting. Therefore, you can easily acquire the perfect fit so as to make firing tremendously easy. The trigger will fire remarkably well every time.
The manufacturer ensured that the release will never fall off during your hunting expedition by incorporating the user-friendly tempest. You just have to lock it on the string. Generally, the release feels really good because it fits your whole hand on it for convenience.
8. TRU Ball Max Hunter Pro 4 Release
The TRU Ball Max Hunter Pro 4 is a lightweight and competitively priced bow release with a sleek design. This masterpiece will provide you with level shooting as well as accuracy in a single package. It offers a maximum draw length that guarantees the finest release.
You should never worry about draw length and bow speed, because the Max Hunter Pro 4 is incorporated with smaller jaws and a smaller head to help achieve adequate draw length and remarkable bow speed for unmatched performance.
The most unique aspect of this release is the whisper-quiet loading, which makes it very convenient during hunting where stealth is a necessity. The operation is also easy. You have to open the jaws by activating the trigger, and do exactly the opposite to close them.
The operation of the release can be tricky if you are a first-timer. However, you should consider placing all the tension on your index finger once you have hooked the release to the string. This will allow you to easily pull the string for the perfect release.
9. Carter Enterprises Wise Choice 3 Finger Release
Carter Enterprises presents you with the Wise Choice 3-Finger release with handheld operation. This is a high-quality, easy to use release aid that is suitable for a variety of bow shooting activities, including target shooting and hunting.
This product is available in a number of color options apart from the red one, and there is also a similar version with a 4-finger configuration. It is a unique design because it has two finger locations with an index finger hole that offers more consistent finger placement.
Conventional bow releases come with different springs for increasing the tension, but the Carter Enterprise Wise Choice is equipped with an unalike technique. There is an Allen key hole on the circumference of the ring that you can want in or out to increase/decrease the tension.
An impressive feature offered by this release aid is the self-closing jaw. When you cock the release the jaw closes, which is a preferred quality for a lot of the bow hunting individuals. There is also an optional lanyard that you can use to secure the release on your wrist.
10. Scott Archery Sigma 3 Finger Gunmetal Release
When you are on the market for a bow release, you need to look out for the most ergonomic model. The Scott Archery Sigma is engineered for bow hunters who want a comfortable feel provided by a more ergonomic handle.
The ergonomic handle allows for a closer and truer anchoring for a more repeatable and reliable anchor point. Unlike similar or competing models, you will certainly feel the change at full draw when using the Scott Archery Sigma release.
This is the ideal choice if all you want is accuracy by design. Scott engineered this release in such a way that your hand position is less perilous and your shooting is less sensitive to shifting anchor points. This exclusivity improves your shooting accuracy.
One of the nicest features of this release is the option for different finger sizes. You can conveniently transform the release into a three-finger, four-finger swept, or four-finger straight depending on your preference.
Along with the full range adjustability, the release is integrated with sound dampening technology for a quieter operation. In addition, the internal components are coated with anti-friction and anti-wear titanium for long-lasting durability.
Conclusion
When deciding on an index finger, thumb, or back tension release; it all comes down to personal preference. Each of these release categories is rich with choices. We have narrowed down the selections for you, by reviewing the best bow release aids on the market. Choose wisely depending on what you can work with.
