8 Best Release For Bow Hunting & Archery: 2023 Edition

Practice makes perfect. This is particularly true for archers and bow hunters. But how do you ensure you always get a clean shot? The best way is to take advantage of the best bow release available to you.

Designed to release the strings when you pull the trigger, a bow release helps ease tension off your fingers. I have used a wide variety of bow releases and can testify to their effectiveness. These accessories bring out the best in your compound bow as well as in you.

This brings us to the topic of today, which is the best bow release for accuracy. In my experience, the best bow release is the one that puts you in control. Also, the release should provide a smooth and steady motion to prevent misfires.

Best Bow Release For The Money Review

Without further ado, let’s jump into the best release for bow hunting review section 🙂

TruFire Smoke Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release 

Spe​​​​​cs

• Foldable buckle strap
• Fits left and right hand
• Adjustable trigger travel
• 4.8 ounces weight

Last update on 2023-05-18

A relatively new entrant in the TruFire line of bow releases, this Compound bow release maintains the same high quality of its counterparts. There is a 16 position trigger thumb that can be adjusted to fit any hand size.

Additionally, this bow release can be used by both left-handed and right-handed archers. The trigger travel is also adjustable to allow for more customization and comfort. The craftsmanship of this bow release is top-notch.

It is very well made, and according to the manufacturer, the entire firing mechanism is built using the same material. Another feature that you will find interesting and useful is the foldable buckle strap.

This allows you to navigate any terrain without having to worry about your release hand.

Pros

• No dangling parts that may get in your way when retrieving an arrow
• Offers plenty of adjustments for comfort and improved accuracy
• The bow release can absorb water and sweat
• Looks and feels very well made with high-quality materials

Cons

• Has minimal adjustment on the trigger travel
• Setting the trigger may require an Allen wrench which is not included

Conclusion:

This TruFire bow release has a lot to offer. It is simple to use and is excellent for hunting thanks to its foldable buckle. You do not have to worry about it making noise as you navigate different terrains.

TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release

S​pecs

• Leather foldable buckle strap
• Suitable for left and right-handed archers
• Spring-loaded trigger
• Dual caliper release

Last update on 2023-05-18

Another TruFire bow release that makes the cut is the Edge Buckle Foldback adjustable archery compound bow release. There are a lot of good things about this bow release. The first is the excellent design it features.

In a bid to maximize draw length, the release is designed to reduce the distance between the trigger and strings at full draw. This release features a spring-loaded trigger that opens and closes quickly.

This allows for easy and quick attachment to the d-loop or strings. The wrist strap has a lovely camo shade that will appeal to bowhunters. The buckle wrap has a soft and padded inner for comfort, especially for hunting for long periods.

But that’s not all about this bow release as it is also built to be adjustable. You can adjust the wrist strap to fit you. Also, you can adjust the travel distance of the trigger as well as the length of the trigger from the wrist strap.

Pros

• It is designed for both left-handed and right-handed users
• Has a sensitive trigger for quick release
• Is suitable for both pros and beginners alike
• Allows for a smooth release of the arrow

Cons

• The calipers may weaken after a few months of use
• The wrist strap may be a bit too small for some archers

Conclusion:

The verdict is out; this is one of the best bow releases for the money. It is comfortable to use and is made from high-quality materials. Also, it can be adjusted to suit your needs as well as your preferences.

Spot Hogg – Wiseguy Release with Boa Strap – Cameron Hanes Keep Hammering Signature Series

Specs

• Micro-adjustable dial
• Self-reloading hook
• Forward trigger design
• Open-jaw for fast d-loop hookup

Last update on 2023-05-18

This bow release combines simplicity with performance. It has a feather-light trigger that has close to no trigger travel. The BOA strap is an excellent addition to an otherwise flawless piece of equipment.

This kind of strap does not have the noise problems of a traditional hook and hole wrist belt. Its forward release makeup is designed for improved draw length and velocity. In terms of weight and dimensions, it weighs about 5 ounces, which is not a lot.

The open jaw, on the other hand, allows for a fast hook-up to the D-Loop. You also get a micro-adjustable dial for a perfect fit. It thus can fit any hand size and comes with a self-reloading hook, which is another great feature.

Pros

• Comes with a mini-adjustable length
• Has close to zero trigger travel
• Is built using high-quality materials
• Comes with a minimal adjustable dial for a suitable fit
• It is a rigid and sturdy bow release

Cons

• It is not ideal for target practice

Conclusion:

This bow release is among the best on the market, hence its inclusion in our list. Its feather-light trigger with minimal trigger travel is a favorite of many. As is with other best-sellers, this one is adjustable and can be adjusted to meet your needs.

Spot Hogg Wiseguy Release Buckle

Specs

• Micro-adjustable length
• Light adjustable trigger
• Open-jaw for hooking to the d-loop
• Travelself reloading hook

Last update on 2023-05-18

A mechanical hook style release from Spot Hogg, the Wiseguy release buckle, is among the company’s best sellers. And for good reasons. It has what can best be described as a hair trigger with minimal trigger travel.

The lightweight trigger is what made us choose to add this release on our list. The strap is very comfortable, and there are two variations of it. There is a Velcro-type fastener and a buckle type. For the purpose of this review, we used the buckle release.

The buckle feels very well constructed and is made from heavy-duty steel. The only problem we had with the buckle was its black paint. It has a glossy black finish that may give you away, especially during the day when the sun is shining.

Nonetheless, this wrist release is very comfortable. You are unlikely to experience fatigue or any sort of discomfort. And this is always a plus in our books.

Pros

• Made from heavy-duty materials
• Comes with a lightweight trigger
• Has an adjustable length
• Fitted with an open jaw for ultra-fast hook-up to the d-loop
• The forward trigger is designed for maximum draw length and speed

Cons

• The glossy black finish of the buckle is not ideal for hunting during the day
• Might be a bit pricier than other similar products

Conclusion:

Overall this is a high-quality release that is crafted with heavy-duty materials. Also, it is designed for quick release, which is essential for the modern-day hunter. Also, it feels comfortable and does not inflict fatigue on a user.

Scott Archery Little Goose Release-Buckle Strap

Specs

• Leather wrist strap
• 4 hole adjustment
• New jaw radius for today’s bows
• Mossy Oak camo pattern

Last update on 2023-05-18

It may be little, but this Scott Archery release is more than capable of competing with the big boys. It weighs in at around 3.2 ounces. But that is not its main selling feature. That honor goes to its four holes adjustable system.

Being able to adjust the length is always an important thing to consider. This release has four holes for adjusting the length. But that’s not all you also get adjustable trigger travel. Speaking of the trigger, it is fitted with a sensitive hair-trigger.

This trigger can be swapped out for either a spring, straight or swept version. Thus you are at liberty to use any of its trigger variants. On top of all this, it features a mossy oak camo pattern, which helps add to your camo.

Pros

• Constructed using high-quality materials
• The trigger to list length is adjustable
• The trigger sensitivity and travel is also adjustable
• The wrist strap is quiet and offers a solid anchor

Cons

• The adjustment screws are vulnerable to rust
• The strap material is somewhat hard to feed through the buckle

Conclusion:

Scott Archery has a long history of making high-quality bow releases. And this Little goose is right up there with the best. It is one of the best releases for bow hunting. It has all the features you need in a modern bow release.

Scott Archery Shark Double Caliber Release

Spe​​​​​cs

• Leather wrist strap
• Robust swivel connector with 5 holes length adjustment
• Forward positioned knurled trigger
• Dual jaw design
• Oversized head

Last update on 2023-05-18

Available with either a Velcro or buckle strap, the Scott Archery Shark Double caliber release has many exciting features. To begin with, it is fully adjustable with a five-hole adjustment system.

But what sold us on this release was its forward-positioned trigger. The latter is closer to the bowstrings allowing you to maximize the draw length. Shooting a longer draw length does not interfere with the form of this release.

The trigger also comes with a sensitivity adjustment screw. This allows you to adjust the sensitivity of the trigger to suit your needs. In turn, this helps improve your accuracy. Overall it has a solid construction and performs smoothly on the field.

Pros

• Made from high-quality materials
• The length is fully adjustable
• Has a very smooth operation
• The trigger sensitivity can be adjusted to suit your needs
• The wrist strap is made from high-quality materials

Cons

• The adjustment screws are vulnerable to rust when exposed to moisture
• The release does not fold out of the way easily enough

Conclusion:

This Scott Archery release is a solid performer. It works well in the field and is priced at a reasonable price point. With adjustments, it helps with accuracy. As such, it is one of the best bow releases for accuracy.

TRUGLO Detonator Ultra-Smooth Single Jaw Archery Release

Specs

• Hook that opens away from the shooter
• Micro-adjustable trigger pull
• Stainless steel jaw
• Forward trigger position
• The stainless steel firing mechanism

Last update on 2023-05-18

Another release whose forward-positioned trigger we loved is this Truglo Detonator model. It is built from high-quality materials, including leather, nylon, and stainless steel. However, it is priced at below $100, which is a steal for us.

The jaw is also in a forward position, meaning that you can fire and reload within seconds. In terms of design, it is a hook and release type of bow release. As such, it resets after every trigger pull.

Also, it has an ergonomic design, which makes it suited for wearing for long periods. You will experience no fatigue when you have this release on your wrist. The trigger has micro-adjustable trigger travel. Furthermore, the head rotates at 360 degrees, which eliminates string torque.

Pros

• It is easily adjustable and very well made
• The forward-positioned trigger has been known to increase speed
• It is easy to fire and reload quickly
• It is one of the most silent bow releases on the market

Cons

• The release has been known to fly apart when fired
• Nylon materials on this release wear out after continuous use

Conclusion:

This is a comfortable wrist release that is designed to increase performance. The forward-positioned trigger helps increase speed. On the other hand, the forward-positioned jaw helps increase the speed of reloading.

Scott Archery Caliper Bow Release Buckle Strap Realtree AP Camo

Specs

• Solid swivel connector
• Knurled trigger
• Padded nylon wrist strap
• Dual jaw
• One-piece trigger design

Last update on 2023-05-18

Last on our list is a bow release that is designed to be adjustable and easy to use. It hooks up quickly to your bow, and there is minimal setup involved. It does not get in the way when you shoot and does not produce any noise.

This is of great importance, particularly for hunters who hunt from a tree stand. Unlike some other releases, you do not have to grip it excessively hard. It also does not interfere with your accuracy.

The knurled trigger helps with the grip. The dual caliper design is built for string loop shooters. Also, the trigger sensitivity can be adjusted to improve accuracy. The one-piece trigger design helps make it simple to use.

Pros

• Constructed from machined aluminum and stainless steel
• The trigger sensitivity can be adjusted
• It comes with a smooth and quiet performance
• The buckle strap is fully adjustable
• The padded nylon wrist makes it feel very comfortable

Cons

• The wrist strap may not be adjustable enough for people with large hands
• Some come with a sharp bead on the rubber that is uncomfortable

Conclusion:

Scott Release has a lot of faith in this bow release. So much so that they offer a “can’t be it” guarantee. And will fix or replace your release in case it’s broken. Their faith in the product is justified as it is an excellent piece of equipment, with prices from as low as $47.

Types of Bow Releases

1. handheld and 
2. wrist

Handheld releases are then subdivided into various types. But ideally, a handheld release is any release that you hold in your hand and is not attached to your hand in any way.

Some of the common types of handheld releases are 

• thumb releases,
• hinge releases, and
• back tension release.

Thumb releases are triggered using your thumb. On the other hand, to use a hinge release, you have to rotate your hand.

Back tension release will require you to apply back tension to release. These types of releases are designed to let the bow do the work. Thus they offer more consistency, and you are unlikely to develop target panic.

Wrist releases, on the other hand, are more popular and feature a wrist strap that goes around your hand. Additionally, they come with a trigger that extends from the wrist strap. To use this release, hook it to the d-loop of your bow, draw and use the trigger to release the bowstrings.

Wrist straps are more common and affordable than handheld. On the average wrist, releases cost anywhere between $20 and $200. Handheld releases cost between $100 and $200. Thus, for hunters who are looking for an affordable option, the wrist release is ideal.

How To Choose Bow Release For Your Bow

When searching for the best release for bow hunting, there are some things you should consider. These are the features that make up the best bow release.

Adjustment

Trigger travel refers to how much you need to pull the trigger before releasing it. It is essential that you can adjust this setting. You can change it so that you have a heavy trigger; thus, you will need to pull the trigger a long way back.

On the flip side, you can adjust it to be a light trigger so that you pull it only halfway, and you release the arrow. Basically, the best release will offer you various adjustment settings for you to play around with.

Bowstring style

Different bows have differing string configurations. Some have a D ring while others have a metal lock. The release you purchase should be compatible with the configuration of your bowstrings.

Avoid automation

Some archery releases are automated. This means the release will release the arrow after some time after pulling the trigger. These types of releases are usually expensive and may not be the best option for all. Thus, if possible, avoid this type of release.

Comfort

Wrist releases have to be strapped to your wrist. Meaning that chances are you will have it on for long periods. This type of release needs to be comfortable, ideally with a padded wrist strap.

Release mechanism

This is a factor that depends mainly on you. Bow releases have release mechanisms that differ. Some utilize a back tension; others utilize your thumb or index finger. This will depend on what you find suits you best. The hooking mechanism also varies from release to release. Would you prefer a caliper system or a fang-style hook?

Build quality

For active hunters, the build quality of a bow release matters a lot. It is recommended that you go for a bow release made from stainless steel. This is a metal that does not rust and will thus last long even when exposed to moisture.

Velcro vs. Buckle-and-Pin.

Wrist releases come in either of two versions a Velcro or a buckle and pin. The Velcro version uses a Velcro to attach to your hand. The buckle and pin use a buckle and a pin, which you can put in different holes to achieve different levels of tightness. Buckle and pin releases are always better than Velcro. Velcro will sometimes be loose or tight and has limited adjustment options.

Single Caliper vs. Dual Caliper vs. Hook on the Release Head

The release head is the part that hooks onto a bow’s D-Loop. This component can have either a single caliper, dual caliper, or a hook. In a single caliper, one side of the caliper is flat, and the other opens up. On a dual caliper, both sides open up.Calipers are like jaws. Some bow releases have a hook mechanism that relaxes when you pull the trigger. Hook mechanisms are more accurate than calipers. And dual calipers are more accurate than single caliper.

Trigger Shape.

This is another factor that is dependent on you. Wrist strap releases usually have either a straight trigger or a curved one. The curved trigger is curved to fit your finger. Most people prefer this type of trigger. But some still prefer the straight trigger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best bow release comes down to what you know about these devices. Armed with the right knowledge, things will be very easy for you. But ultimately, it comes down to your needs as well as shooting style.