Release aids fall in the broad categories of back tension and trigger activated.
Back tension:
- Hinge – Activated by the rotation of the head in relation to the handle of the release aid.
- Resistance – Activated by overcoming the maximum tension level the release is set to.
Trigger:
- Thumb – Activated with the thumb trigger.
- Index finger – Activated with the index finger. Less commonly used in target archery.
Other releases with different methods of activation exist but will not be covered.
Release Aid Choice
There’s no superior type of release aid. Archers develop their preference over time, and some archers refine their own technique in using specific release aids, like shooting with a super-hot or super-cold release aid.
It’s often easier to start with the trigger activated release aids as they tend to be a bit more forgiving, and beginner archers are less likely to punch themselves in the face than with a hinge release.
Back Tension Activated Release Aids
Characteristics of shooting back tension activated release aids:
- Archers are less prone to target panic and anticipation as it reduces the anxiety associated with timing the release to the correct moment of release. Back tension release aids are often used as a training device in conjunction with a trigger release to combat anticipation and target panic.
- More challenging to shoot on command, making it less suitable for wind and time sensitive situations.
- Needs to be set optimally for the archer’s specific configuration and anchor position.
- Incorrect use or a small mistake can become dangerous very quickly. Anecdotes of archers punching themselves in the face are not uncommon.
Trigger Activated Release Aids
Characteristics of shooting trigger activated release aids:
- Archers are more prone to target panic and shot anticipation.
- As archers can become prone to punching, thus it requires very good, consistent technique to keep the arrow release clean.
- Easier to shoot on command in time pressure situations and windy conditions.
- Can be shot using a back tension technique, which makes it very accurate when done correctly.
- Forgiving to poor setup and configuration. It will fire if you can reach the trigger.