How to Grip a Bow for Consistent Accuracy

Updated March 2023

When it comes to accuracy, archery is all about consistency. We as hunters are always trying to increase our accuracy to become a better shot. Perfecting correct form that is repeatable is one of the most important things you can do to become a better archer. This is where proper grip is comes into play. The way you grip your bow can either increase your accuracy, or cause a multitude of problems leading to poor shooting and frustration. Hunters using an improper grip often complain about the inability to maintain tight groups, left or right shots and difficulty holding pins still.

In this article, we will cover the importance of a proper bow grip and how exactly you should be gripping your bow for consistent accuracy.

Why is Bow Grip Important?

Proper shooting form is often overlooked by bowhunters. When you are able to establish a solid form, your accuracy will dramatically increase. As with your stance and anchor point, proper grip is just as important and is the foundation of good form. For consistent accuracy, you want your grip to be repeatable. This will result in tighter arrow groups and good shot execution. The biggest mistake many new archers make is squeezing their bow grip. When you grip your bow too hard, you will most likely cause your bow to torque, resulting in left or right misses.

What is Torque and Why is it Bad?

Torque is when you grip your bow too tight resulting in your bow hand pivoting as you release an arrow, causing the riser of the bow to twist. Many new or inexperienced archers make the mistake of gripping a bow like a baseball bat. When you do this, the bow becomes easy to twist left or right. When the riser of a bow is twisted as an arrow is being released, you will consistently miss left or right. Torquing a bow can also cause an arrow to fly erratically and result in arrows impacting the target at an angle.

How to Grip a Bow for Consistent Accuracy

1. Lifeline of Palm – When you look at the palm of your hand, you will notice a large crease between your thumb and fingers. This crease in your palm is called the lifeline and is the first crease in your hand above your thumb. The grip of your bow should be placed between the lifeline and thumb pad. When gripped correctly, the bow grip will run parallel to the lifeline. The reason for positioning the grip in this location, is because it provides a neutral hand position and allows for a more repeatable grip for each shot.

Next, slide your hand all the way up the grip until it can’t go any further, to just underneath the shelf of the riser. Your hand should be placed in the deepest part of the grip, also called the throat of the grip.

2. Hand at 45-Degree Angle – The next step to perfecting your grip is to position your hand at a 45-degree angle from the bow’s riser. To do this, raise up your bow arm out in front of your face and position your hand as if making a “stop” gesture. Now, rotate your hand at a 45-degree angle, making a “V” with your forefinger and thumb. In this position, your knuckles should be at a 45-degree angle. This angle alleviates the possibility of squeezing your grip.

3. Loose Grip – With your bow grip located between the lifeline of your palm and your thumb pad, and your hand positioned at a 45-degree angle, your bow should comfortably rest in your palm. As you draw your bow, it is important to keep your grip loose. Doing so reduces grip pressure on the bow’s riser, avoiding torque. If a loose grip feels like you are going to drop your bow, installing a wrist sling on your bow will provide a sense of security. When your bow is drawn, your bow arm should remain relaxed. Your fingers should also remain relaxed and rest naturally. To know if your hand is relaxed at full draw, you should be able to wiggle your fingers easily. If you have trouble keeping a loose grip, the True Shot Coach training aid is a useful tool that helps ensures proper bow grip. When your grip is loose, the top of your bow should naturally fall forward after each shot toward the target.

Summary

The techniques covered in this article are essential for mastering proper bow grip for consistent accuracy. By placing your hand correctly on your bow, you develop a consistent shot sequence, resulting in tighter arrow groups. Making proper grip a habit takes time and practice. Once you are able to master your grip, you will be well on your way to increased accuracy and better form. For more articles and buyer’s guides, please check out other posts from Bowhunting Depot!