The 11 Best Releases for Bowhunters

Updated March 2023

Introduction

A bow release aid is a helpful tool that allows an archer to cleanly release their bowstring resulting in more precise arrow flight and better accuracy. Releases are commonplace in the bowhunting and archery world as they assist hunters in making better shots on game. When choosing a release, you will need to take into consideration your own needs and the type release. This article will explain the different types of archery releases as well as reviews of some of the best releases you can purchase.

Summary List

What is a Release?

A release is a shooting aid made for use with compound bows in order to get a “clean” and precise release of the string when shooting an arrow. This allows for an arrow to come off of the rest and out of the bow in a smooth manner, allowing for tighter groups and increased accuracy. The most popular type of release, an index trigger, is similar to the trigger of a rifle in which the calipers of the release open and release the string sending an arrow, just like the trigger on a rifle initiates the firing pin. When shooting a high-poundage compound bow, a release is a necessity.

Why you Need a Release?

Everyone who shoots a compound bow should be using a release aid. A release will make you a better archer by increasing accuracy by allowing for a smooth release of your bowstring. Having a release helps with form when shooting a bow, specifically when finding a consistent anchor point.

Types of Releases

Index Trigger – An index trigger release, also known as a wrist strap or caliper release, is the most popular type of release aid for bowhunting. This type of release straps to your wrist via a buckle or Velcro and has an index finger trigger than opens calipers to release your string.

Thumb – A thumb, or handheld, release is held in the palm of your hand and has grips designed for easy holding. A thumb release has a small button that is initiated by your thumb to release the bowstring. The T.R.U. Ball GOAT is a very popular thumb-style release.

Back Tension – Back tension, or hinge, releases are less popular than index trigger or thumb releases. Many hunters that have “target panic” suffer from “punching” the trigger on an index trigger release. By training with a back tension release, the “surprise” of the shot helps a hunter focus on their aiming position until the release goes off. A back tension release releases the bowstring as you slowly start to turn your hand that is holding the release. The Scott Archery Advantage and Tru-Fire Sear releases are popular back tension releases that combine both quality and functionality.

The 11 Best Releases for Bowhunters

Scott Shark – The Scott Archery Shark is Scott’s best-selling dual caliper release that features a solid swivel connector that has the ability to adjust the release’s total length. The knurled trigger provides maximum grip on your index finger and a smooth pull all in one. The Scott Shark is a classic release from Scott and is trusted by bowhunters everywhere. This release is designed to last a long time and is ideal for any high performance bow.

Click here to view this release on Cabelas.

Tru-Fire Edge – Tru-Fire’s Edge release features a leather foldback buckle strap for hands-free operation providing the ability to secure the release to your wrist with one hand. This release can be adjusted 1” in length and can be locked in place to fit almost any person. The Edge utilizes a linear motion bearing that delivers an extremely smooth trigger pull. This durable release has dime-sized calipers that open by pulling back the trigger and close by letting off. All in all, the Edge release is compact, comfortable and reliable making it a great all-around release for just about any situation.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

Spot Hogg WiseGuy – The Spot Hogg Wiseguy release was designed to increase both speed and accuracy of your bow. Made with all quality parts, the Wiseguy has a durable wrist strap and a light, adjustable trigger. Unlike a caliper style release, the Wiseguy’s open jaw design allows for ultra-fast D-loop hook up. The Wiseguy was built for hardcore hunters and designed to hold up under all conditions and types of hunting.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

T.R.U. Ball Stinger – T.R.U. Ball’s Stinger release is their best-selling release and for good reason. This versatile release is opened by pulling the trigger and closed by letting off. The Stinger’s ultra-comfortable wrist strap makes it easy to forget you are even wearing it, until you need it. This release is completely adjustable making it convenient for every user.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

T.R.U. Ball Bandit – Another great release from T.R.U. Ball is their Bandit release. What makes this release unique is its rope connection is covered by weather-resistant tubing that is designed to make the release ready in all hunting situations. The rope connector makes this release adjustable for the perfect fit. Because of the rope connector, this is one of the most light-weight and adjustable releases available.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

Tru-Fire Smoke – The Tru-Fire Smoke release is another great option that features a rugged and compact design for all situations. This accurate and affordable release has solid jaws that open upon trigger pull and close with let off. The Smoke is a budget-friendly release that offers quality design and durability. This is a great release for anyone wanting to take their accuracy to the next level.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

Scott Echo – The Scott Echo release is a compact and flexible release with a minimalist design. The wrist strap of this release is made of a combination of leather, cotton and neoprene for an extremely comfortable fit. The independent jaws on this release help to eliminate torque when shooting. Scott’s Roller Trigger System (RTS) allows for a smooth, adjustable trigger. Scott hit the mark with this release and is very popular among all bowhunters.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

Tru-Fire Synapse – The Synapse by Tru-Fire is a high quality brass thumb button release that is made with precision milled internal components for an extremely smooth operation. The thumb trigger on the Synapse is highly adjustable in both travel and pressure. The aluminum anodized coating makes this release look and feel crisp in your hand. If you are looking for a reliable thumb button release, look no further than the Synapse.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

TruGlo Nitrus – The TruGlo Nitrus release is an extremely quiet, fast and accurate release. The stainless steel design makes this quality release even more durable in combination with its wear-free jaw. The trigger on the Nitrus is ultra-smooth for a crisp feel and is designed for increased reliability. TruGlo designed the Nitrus release with a forward trigger position for enhanced arrow speeds and an ergonomic hand and finger position that features a 360-degree rotating head to eliminate string torque. This is a great all-around release that is both comfortable and made to last.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

Scott Wildcat 2 – The Scott Wildcat 2 release is one of Scott’s top-selling products that features a stainless steel jaw for added strength and a knurled trigger for enhanced grip. The Wildcat 2 is built off of the original Scott Wildcat release with added ergonomic design features for both comfort and performance. Similar to Scott’s Shark release, the Wildcat 2 will surely not disappoint.

Click here to view this release on Cabelas.

Tru-Fire Edge 4 – The Tru-Fire Edge 4 is a great option if you are looking for a thumb button release. Similar to other thumb button releases, the Edge 4 is designed to fit precisely in your hand with a rotating 360-degree head. This release also has the ability to adjust its trigger travel and thumb button sensitivity.

Click here to view this release on Amazon.

Best Release Brands

Scott – Scott releases are some of the most popular releases that have been used by bowhunters for decades. Scott’s commitment to consistent quality have allowed them to become a leader is archery releases. If you can afford a Scott release, they are worth it and you can expect to have it for a long time.

T.R.U. Ball – T.R.U. Ball is another quality brand of releases with a ton of different options and models to choose from. T.R.U. Ball makes a variety of products including sights and stabilizers but they are most well-known for their releases. What makes T.R.U. Ball releases great is that they come in a wide range of prices, so you can be sure to find one that fits your price range.

Tru-Fire – Tru-Fire is another brand of release aids that has been around for awhile in the bowhunting community. Tru-Fire is owned by the parent company, FeraDyne Outdoors, which owns a handful of other hunting products brands. Tru-Fire is one of the largest manufacturers of archery release aids in the world and have led the way in innovation and product development. Tru-Fire delivers accuracy, reliability and functionality all-in-one.

Summary

As you have read, release aids can be a helpful tool for compound bow users to increase accuracy and precision of shots. There are many different release aid options available to bowhunters in a wide price range so there is something for just about everyone. Choosing the right release is part personal preference and part desired function. Regardless of which style or features you choose, practicing and hunting with a release will only make you a better shot.

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