Fact checked by Steven Lines, lifelong Hunter and Outdoorsman
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You can find many types of release aids in an archery store. But their suitability often depends on the kind of bow that you have. So, can you use a release on a recurve bow?
Though they tend to be less popular, you will be able to use a release when shooting a recurve bow. However, because recurves were made to be shot using your hand, not a release, these techniques can often take a little longer to master, requiring more practice.
Finding and using a recurve bow release can be very difficult. Often, there will be several options for you to explore. Let’s take a closer look at this area, helping you find the right approach for you.
In this post, we'll cover:
Should You Use A Bow Release?
A release is a device that you use to help you improve your archery. Consider multiple pros and cons, especially when using them with a recurve bow. So, should you use a release?
Often this will depend on why you want to use the release. As a general rule, recurve bow designs enable them to fire by hand. As a result, you often won’t need to use a release. However, sometimes, like during an injury, you might benefit from using one.
The benefits you’ll receive will often depend on why you are using the release. To help you make a more informed decision, you’ll need to consider the pros and cons of using a release.
Downsides To Using A Bow Release
There are a few reasons you might not want to use a release.
First, as we mentioned, a recurve bow is designed to shoot using your fingers rather than a mechanical release. This allows you to feel the tension on the string, ensuring that you are getting the right amount of force on the bow.
If you are using a mechanical release, you might be placing more pressure on the string than is necessary. As a result, you need to replace it more frequently.
It’s also possible that a release might affect your accuracy. When you draw back the bow, you need to make sure that it comes back to the same anchor point each time. It can be hard to do this when using a mechanical release.
Finally, there is the risk that you might overdraw the bow. When this happens, the excess energy vibrates through the bow. Over time, this can cause severe problems, as parts of the bow get damaged and need replacing.
Pros Of Using A Release
While there are several downsides, there are still some reasons why you might want to consider using a release when shooting your bow.
For example, you might not have the physical strength to achieve a full draw. In this case, a release might be able to help.
It’s also possible that you might be trying to overcome an injury. In this case, you might use a release until you get back to full strength again.
As we’ll see later, using a release tool might be able to help you get a better grip on the bowstring. As a result, you will be able to draw it back more effectively, giving you more time and energy to aim and hit the target.
Can You Use A Release During A Competition?
If you decide to use a release, you will often need a lot of practice to ensure that it doesn’t affect your ability to hit the target. But, can you use a release during a competition?
This will often vary depending on the type of competition you are trying to enter. However, in most cases, you won’t be able to use a mechanical release in a match.
For more clarity, you’ll need to read the competition rules. In most cases, you will only be able to use a shooting glove or finger tab. However, in other cases, you won’t be able to use anything at all.
It’s also possible that using a release will affect the class you can compete with. You might need to compete in the compound bow class if you are using a release. If you’re using a recurve bow, this could put you at a disadvantage.
You’ll need to investigate this area before attending the competition. This will let you decide whether using a release is a good idea.
Types Of Recurve Bow Releases
There are several types of releases available on the market. Often, though, there will only be a few releases appropriate to use with a recurve bow.
Mechanical Releases
These are some of the most common kinds of releases on the market. In most cases, they will attach to the string.
There are several reasons why you might want to try using these releases. For example, these will make it easier to apply more pressure to the string. They also tend to make it easier for you to aim and shoot.
However, as we mentioned earlier, you might not be able to use a mechanical release on a recurve bow, as they are designed to be shot by hand. For this reason, you will need to investigate these releases to make sure that they are appropriate for your bow.
You might also need to practice your technique because this release technique tends to be more challenging to apply to a recurve bow.
Finger Tabs and Shooting Gloves
As they cannot use a mechanical release, many recurve archers will turn to a tab or archery glove to help them line up their shot. However, unlike a mechanical release, they won’t add any additional pull to the string.
Unlike a mechanical release, you will have complete control over the string. This makes them suitable for use with a recurve bow. As a result, they tend to be allowed at most professional competitions.
Another significant benefit is the ability to have a little more padding between your hand and the string. This can be very helpful if you find it uncomfortable when pulling on the string. This is particularly helpful if you have a hand injury.
Finally, you might be able to use these to improve your release. These can often provide a smoother surface for the string, allowing it to slide off your hand. Because of this, you will be able to reduce interference with the arrow, giving you the best chance of hitting your target.
Clicker
Another popular release tool, particularly for recurve bows, is a clicker. This is placed onto a bow and will let you know when you’ve reached full draw, making a clicking noise.
Once you hear this noise, you’ll be able to release the string, putting the maximum energy behind the arrow.
This is also a great way to protect against overdrawing the bow. When you hear the click, you should stop rather than risk stretching the string or damaging the bow.
The way you release the string is essential for archers, determining whether you hit the target. There are many mechanical release tools that you might be able to use. However, these often aren’t recommended in traditional archery with a recurve bow.
These bows’ designs allow them to be shot with your fingers, allowing you to get the correct pressure on the string. As a result, it’s recommended that you stick to more basic equipment, like finger tabs, gloves, and clickers, when using a recurve.
Steven Lines is a hunter and outdoorsman from Safford, Arizona, USA. Since he was a child, he has been hunting and fishing and has over 20 years of outdoor experience. Steven works as a hunting guide in Arizona during his spare time and runs a Youtube channel dedicated to sharing his outdoor adventures with others.