6 Top Bow Thumb Releases To Try

Bow thumb releases have long been a favorite for bow hunters. There are many bow thumb releases on the market today, so it can be challenging to pick just one. If you’re looking for the best bow thumb release, then you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post we will discuss 10 bow thumb releases that are sure to impress any archer with their functionality and variety of options.

What is a Thumb Release and How Do They Work?

A thumb release is a device that helps archers fire arrows more precisely. They use a trigger to release the bowstring instead of the archer’s fingers. They help in the quick release of the bowstring and reduce the amount of torque transferred from the archer’s fingers to the bowstring.

Thumb releases have a hook or jaws that hold the bowstring for drawing. A trigger, which is activated by the thumb, opens the jaws and releases the hook, thus causing the bowstring to shoot forward. This is a favorable release among archers as it can be activated like a hinge release while still allowing archers to have control over when to release the string.

How do you release your thumb when releasing a bow?

This question is usually asked by beginners. They want to release their bow and let the arrow fly, but they’ve been told that they need to release their thumb first.

How to release your bow and your thumb at the same time? You don’t release your thumb first. This may be new information to you, but thumb releases are not a requirement of the game. In fact, in competition you are not prevented from releasing your bow and drawing your arrow at the same time.

There is nothing wrong with letting go of that little finger before releasing the bowstring to loose an arrow on target.

Release the bow

When shooting a bow, it is important to know how your fingers are aligned. If your fingers are touching on the string of a compound bow, you should have the middle finger on top of the index finger. This is called “finger stacking.”

Additionally, it can help to have your thumb and ring finger curled behind and around the arrow . If you are shooting a traditional bow, your fingers should be on the string.

In this instance, you should have the thumb on top of the index finger and your middle finger behind the ring finger.

Release your thumb

There is not one specific way to release your thumb from a compound bow. You do not need to let go of it before releasing the bowstring!

How to Choose a Thumb Release

Before buying a thumb release, make sure to keep the following crucial features in mind:

Noise

It is important to keep the weight of the thumb release in mind when buying because its weight can become a burden, especially if you hold your thumb release for a long time. Moreover, the weight of the release can also have an impact on the torque of your arrow and the angle of your shots. Therefore, if you cannot handle a heavy thumb release for a long time, then look for one that is lighter in weight.

However, the weight of your thumb release should be between 4 to 8 ounces. A thumb release that is lighter than four ounces will probably not be strong enough to give you a powerful and reliable shot. Similarly, a thumb release that is heavier than eight ounces may give you a hard time. It might be difficult to balance your bow while holding it.

Weight

It is important to keep the weight of the thumb release in mind when buying because its weight can become a burden, especially if you hold your thumb release for a long time. Moreover, the weight of the release can also have an impact on the torque of your arrow and the angle of your shots. Therefore, if you cannot handle a heavy thumb release for a long time, then look for one that is lighter in weight.

However, the weight of your thumb release should be between 4 to 8 ounces. A thumb release that is lighter than four ounces will probably not be strong enough to give you a powerful and reliable shot. Similarly, a thumb release that is heavier than eight ounces may give you a hard time. It might be difficult to balance your bow while holding it.

Finger Grooves

Thumb releases available today come with two types of finger grooves: three-finger and four-finger grooves. Both of these thumb releases are different. A three-finger groove is comfortable and easy to hold, while the four-finger groove is more firm and stable.

While choosing between the two for the one best suited to your requirements, also take into account the size of your hands and fingers. We recommend holding them in your hand to get a feel for which one is best for you before purchasing a thumb release. Also, make sure the groove track is comfortable against your skin to save yourself from irritation and blisters.

String Style

A bow might rely on one of the following three various string setups: a metal-type fastener, a D-loop string, or a metal nock. Hence, you need to select a release aid that matches your string setup style.

Comfort

Using an uncomfortable release aid to shoot your bow and arrow is an open invitation for disaster. The amount of padding on the wrist strap is the best way to determine whether your bow release aid is comfortable enough.

Buying a thumb release trigger without a padded wrist strap is extremely discouraged, especially if your shooting sessions continue for a long period of time.

The handle is also one of the key features that can make your archery experience more comfortable. In case of a handheld release aid, you need to make sure that the handle is extremely sturdy, durable, and well-constructed.

Adjustability

Don’t settle for a thumb release aid that comes with very limited adjustment settings. Versatility is essential. Therefore, it’s good to have a release that allows you to freely adjust the angle, size, tension, location, and travel of the trigger.

A professional anchor usually buys an archery release that can be easily customized according to their preferences.

Quality of the Release

You should be aware of the fact that bow release aids are quite costly. To make your investment worth it, aim to buy a unit that can serve you efficiently for years. Firstly, you need to make sure that the quality of the thumb release is up to the mark.

Along with considering the build quality, you also need to take good care of your release aid. You can purchase a bow bag or a bow case if you plan to travel with your equipment. This will increase its lifespan and ensure that it doesn’t become subject to any damage.

Top 5 Bow Thumb Releases

1. Tru Ball Max Hunter 3

The Tru Ball Max Hunter Release is one the best bow releases for stalking your next trophy. It will give you peace of mind during hunting and target shooting. Besides, it has a very unique design compared to its competitors. Let’s see what this release aid has to offer archers.

Great Design

The most unique thing about this release aid is its design. Unlike other hand-held bow releases, the Max Hunter has a special, different kind of trigger. It also has a three-finger handle design that provides a solid grip.

Performance

Other than its special design, the Max Hunter 3 is quite gifted when it comes to functionality. It has a small head and smaller jaws that allow for more draw length, as well as a high bow speed. Even better, this release is quick to load because you only have to activate the trigger to open the jaws and release it to close them.

Additionally, the Max hunter is silent when loading and when releasing. You can hunt comfortably without scaring away game.

Pros

• Made and assembled in USA
• Its head swivels 360 degrees
• Offers maximum silence when hunting
• Has an adjustable sensitivity screw

Cons

• Might be too small for people with large hands

2. T.R.U Ball Fang 4 Release

The TRU Ball Fang is a great release for the money. You don’t have to dig deeper into your wallet to get your hands on this unit. It has slowly gained popularity among archers, especially because of its functionality and affordability. Amazingly, this release comes with a full containment system that allows you to attach the hook on the D-loop.

Easy to Use

Most hunters love using this thumb release because it is so easy to use. With the Full Containment System, you will find it easy to shoot repetitively. You just have to pull the trigger to shoot and then pull it again to reset the hook.

Adjustment Opportunities

Another key attribute of the TRU Ball Fang Release is that it allows for unlimited customizations. For instance, it comes with a trigger travel adjustment screw, an adjustable thumb barrel and three sensitivity settings. You just have to play with these settings to customize your release adequately.

Pros

• Has an ergonomic four-finger design
• Crisp and quiet arrow release
• The hook-style jaw allows for hands-free hunting
• Lightweight

Cons

• The handle is not as comfortable as other brands

3. Hot Shot Vapor 4 Release

The Hot Shot Vapor 4 is arguably the best thumb release aid in the market. It has been around for quite some time and it just never ceases to impress archers. This explains why people have been raving about the simplicity and effectiveness of this bow release. You should not shy away from the Hot Shot Vapor if you are serious about improving your shooting precision.

Solid Construction

Apart from having an impressive design, the Vapor release has been treated to incredible hardness. By this I mean that this handheld release resists wear at all contact points. The material used to build this unit allows it to function well.

Customizable

If there is one feature that archers and bowhunters love about the Hot Shot Vapor 4, it’s the wide range of adjustments. For starters, you can tweak the trigger tension to either light or heavy depending on what you prefer. Secondly, you can customize the trigger thumb barrel fore-aft position, the trigger thumb barrel twist, and the trigger thumb barrel position.

Pros

• Super quiet
• The thumb trigger has plenty of settings
• Has a lightweight and sleek design
• Offers a smooth release

Cons

• Has a non-swivel head

4. Tru-Fire Hardcore 4 Finger Revolution Release

If you are an archer looking to improve your groups, the Tru-Fire Revolution will help you achieve your goal. As you well know, Tru-Fire releases always ooze quality and elegance, and the Revolution is no exception. It offers minimal movement, consistency, and a smooth release. What more could you ask for?

4 Finger Advantage

The Revolution release is lightweight and compact enough to fit perfectly in your hand. It has been designed to offer placements for four fingers, allowing for a solid grip and stability. Having four fingers on the aid allows for a quick and easy drawback.

Adjustments Galore

This release has a wide range of adjustment settings that will please y’all control freaks. It comes with a five position thumb adjustment system, a trigger pressure adjustment, and a trigger travel adjustment. Besides, you can choose to use or remove the wrist lanyard. It’s quite a remarkable package for a single release.

Pros

• Has a 360-degree rotating head that allows you to shoot from odd angles
• Can be used by both lefties and righties
• Provides more torque on the string
• Great for hunters
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Cons

• Might be difficult to set up for beginners

5. Tru-Fire Edge 4-Finger Hand-held Bow Release

It is a great purchase for newbies who would like to switch to thumb releases. The Tru-Fire handheld bow release is a workhorse and does not disappoint when it comes to performance and versatility. Besides, it is a nice-looking shade and will help you to camouflage when hunting in the woods.

Four Finger Design

As the name suggests, this model utilizes a four-finger design that helps you aim for long periods of time without experiencing discomfort. Moreover, the handle is sleek enough to fit in your hands perfectly. The thumb trigger is placed at a great position to enhance your shooting accuracy.

You will also love the fact that the unit has a full swivel head that allows you to fire from odd angles.

Adjustable

The TruFire Edge Bow release does not lack in terms of adjustability. You will notice that it comes with plenty of adjustment opportunities on the thumb area and the trigger. You can also adjust the trigger tension and thumb barrel to suit your preferences.

Pros

• Has a wide range of settings
• The handle provides good grip
• Has a full swivel head
• Durable

Cons

• May produce a minor clicking sound upon release

6. Carter Thumb Release

The Carter Enterprise Wise Choice Release is a hunting rifle that has caught the eyes of many hunters due to its high quality performance, but not its cost.

“One of the only releases that comes with both a solid & yet comfortable build”

Three Finger Design

It comes with a self closing caliper jaw and an amazing trigger sensitivity which provides another layer of firmness to your shots. This allows you to focus more on the target and makes your shots a lot more accurate.

Adjustable

Easy & simple to use, The tension can be adjusted without too much hassle and the release itself requires little to no maintenance apart from cleaning dust particles after continues use.

Pros

• Index finger hole design.
• Easily adjustable set screw tension.
• Great trigger sensitivity.
• Self-closing caliper jaw.

Cons

• Higher price range.

Benefits of a Thumb Release

As mentioned earlier, a thumb release comes with a lot of adjustability options. Along with those options, the following are some other benefits of a thumb release:

• Thumb releases are more consistent and easier to anchor.
• If you get a feeling that your anchor point is floating and has had some sort of inconsistencies, then a thumb release is great for solidifying your anchor point.
• When you are shooting from a tree stand or are preparing for a surprise attack then a thumb release that comes with closed jaw clasps becomes quite handy.
• If your drawback is accurate, a thumb release trigger automatically aligns your elbow behind the arrow in a better manner.
• Handheld release requires a certain hand position which allows an archer to split their jaw bone between their 1st and 2nd finger/knuckle.
• A thumb release provides a comfortable, convenient, consistent, and repeatable anchor point as compared to an index finger release.