Photo By: Nathan Hanks
It takes skill and precision to be a successful archer. You must use your bow as an extension of your body. You don’t become a skilled archer overnight, but with the right gear, you can take your bowhunting game to the next level. It’s important to find the best bow release for your hunting style before you hit the woods or the archery range.
Don’t forget to consider your hunting style when looking for the best bow release for you. You can choose from a wrist release or hand release model. Both come with different features that may assist your hunting style more than others. Regardless of which you choose, you want to ensure your gear is made of the highest quality material.
If you are new to using a bow release, there is a slight learning curve at first. With time and practice, you will find that using a bow release will increase your accuracy and decrease target panic. Learning to trust your gear is part of the process and will increase your skill and consistency.
The right bow release will provide you with a consistent shot. It will improve your control and give you the chance to refine your gear for the most accurate shot possible. There are plenty of great bow releases on the market, but it may be difficult to sort through the hundreds of options.
We have compiled a list of the best bow releases to push your hunting skills over the edge. The right bow release can change your hunting or archery game for the better. Below you will find the 5 best bow releases to choose from. Remember that the right gear can make all the difference.
#1 TruFire Patriot Archery Compound Bow Release
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The TruFire Patriot bow release is one of the most durable releases on the list. It is crafted with the same tough metal throughout, giving you more time to enjoy your hobby. The release is very smooth and quiet. It also fits both the left and right hand, so it works for everyone!
This wrist release is equipped with an adjustable trigger, providing the opportunity to fine-tune your gear to your habits. The padded strap will keep you comfortable and ready to shoot. This bow release is also one of the most affordable on the list. The adjustability is simple and easy to learn, making it great for those new to bow releases.
FEATURES
- Adjustable trigger
- Works for left or right hand
- Velcro strap for an adjustable fit
- Durable steel design
- Affordable
- Grear for beginner archers
- Smooth release
- Durable
- Velcro strap can be noisy
- Sized small
- Sensitive trigger
#2 Tru-Fire Hardcore Buckle Foldback MAX
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The Tre-Fire Hardcore Buckle Foldback MAX was designed to fit the needs of every archer. The adjustable trigger allows you to change the tension from 3 ounces to 16 ounces. The head pivots 20 degrees to increase precision and consistency. Tru center technology provides accuracy and balance for beginners and novices, alike.
The adjustable wrist strap is wider and more durable than the previous model to ensure you stay comfortable. The Hardcore Buckle is one of the best bow releases on the market for many reasons, but one of the most important is the ability to easily hook D-loops. Say goodbye to losing your catch in high-pressure situations.
FEATURES
- Padded buckle strap
- Hook design with Tru center technology
- Adjustable trigger pressure
- Swept-back trigger
- Very customizable
- Thick, adjustable strap
- Won’t slip off loops
- Sharp hook to hold D loop
- Bulky strap
- Takes time to break-in
#3 Tru-Fire Edge 4-Finger Hand Held Bow Release Aluminum
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The Tru-Fire 4 Finger Hand bow release is one of the most rugged on the list of best bow releases. This hand release is made of durable aluminum, guaranteeing a long lifetime. The uninhibited rotation provides torque-free shooting for consistency.
This hand release is not for beginners, but it’s great for competition archers. This release can be noisier than others on the list, which is something to consider when hunting. The customization and sleek design make this bow release perfect for those looking to increase their skills on the range.
FEATURES
- Aluminum handle and head
- 365 degrees of rotation
- Adjustable thumb button
- Sleek design
- Very durable
- Very customizable
- Great for competition archers
- Not for beginner archers
- Can be noisy
- Trigger can be gritty
#4 Scott Archery Shark Double Caliber Release
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The Scott Archery release makes the list of best bow releases because of the dual jaw technology. This enhances tunability and accuracy in the long run. This release is durable leather, and the oversized head makes handling a breeze. Plus, the streamlined design will good with any bow.
This bow release is very adjustable. From the swivel connector to the trigger, you can find what feels right for you. The wrist strap is less comfortable than some on this list, and the trigger can be sensitive. This bow release is not for the beginner, but with practice can enhance your archery game 10-fold.
FEATURES
- Duel Jaw enhances tuneability
- Oversized head
- All leather
- Swivel connector with patented 5-hole length adjustment
- Very adjustable
- Durable
- Streamlined design
- Sensitive trigger
- Buckle wrist strap can be uncomfortable
#5 Scott Archery Little Goose Release-Buckle Strap
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The Scott Archery Little Goose bow release has an exceptional draw length due to the forward-positioned knurled-trigger. The angled jaw design will increase your string clearance, and provide more control. The increased draw length and extended clearance set this bow release apart from the rest.
The Little Goose is highly adjustable with a 5 hole length strap for the swivel connector. The durable design will keep you shooting without worrying about wear and tear to your gear. Keep in mind, this release is small and can be tricky to adjust at first. Once you get the hang of it, this bow release is good for beginners and season pros.
FEATURES
- Patented angled jaw design
- Swivel Connector with patented 5-hole length adjustment
- Forward-positioned knurled-trigger
- Durable design
- Great draw length
- Great sting clearance
- Good for beginners
- Sized small
- Great sting clearance
- Little padding in strap
Things to Consider When Buying a Bow Release
Bow releases come in two different models. As mentioned above, there are wrist releases and hand releases. Both come with effective features that can enhance your hunting capabilities. Choosing between a wrist release and a hand release is one of the first decisions you will make.
The hand release model provides versatility and adaptability for a variety of situations. Advanced hunters and competitive archers favor hand releases because of the accuracy provided by the thumb tension release.
Many everyday archers are switching to a hand release because of the smooth pull back and adjustable features. A hand release will be more light-weight, portable, and adaptable than a wrist release.
Wrist releases are popular among beginner archers. This is because a wrist release makes it easier to handle a bow while fully drawn. It comes with fewer adjustments than a hand release, which is easier to learn for a beginner.
You release the trigger with an index finger. They are great for those who are used to hunting with a traditional trigger. The wrist release is also more affordable than the hand release. Both releases have great features, but the best bow release for you will be determined by your hunting habits.
Keep in mind that gear is only as strong as the material it’s made from. Look for durable material like leather and heavy metals. Nothing ruins a day in the woods like defective gear, so keep an eye out for bow releases that claim durability as a star feature.
