Best Bow Release For Hunting: What is the Best Wrist or Hand?

Long before rifles and firearms, bows were used by our ancestors for hunting. They used spears and bows, along with their sharp survival instincts. That’s why nowadays, bow hunting is closer to our history than any other weapon.

People love bow hunting because it needs expertise, precision and the margin of error is narrow. This brings more challenge and excitement to the hunting.

Using bows, especially compound bows might need quite some practice. Blissfully, equipment like the best bow release for hunting is there to help with accuracy and precision.

We’ve researched and reviewed best for you. Here is our top selected wrist release and hand release…

Thumb vs Wrist: What is the Good Choice?

Bow release is actually a release device and this will help you set your arrows to the target easily and moreover more preciously.

Now, there are different types of bow releases. And among them, there is thumb and wrist bow releases. And you must know the best before choosing between the thumb vs wrist.

Thumb Bow Release: People choose thumb bow releaser to overcome the target panic. It might not help you to overcome in a day or immediately but it will help you by executing the perfect shot. By this, you will understand easily how to make you diverted from target panic.

It will also give you best comfort zone and this will help you to be set the sight perfectly.

You won’t need to find glove as it contains the wrist strap.

Wrist Bow Release: Wrist bow releaser is one of the most favorite releases to the hunters. They choose it for its easy releasing mechanism mostly. It is very reliable and adjustable. It is also best for its low price. You will feel comfortable with using this bow release.

You can also find buckle or velcro straps. This will help you to feel comfortable for all day long journey. As you have to use your index finger to release the trigger. It will be easy for you to hold the bow fully.

Best Bow Release Reviews

1. TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback – Wrist Release

One of the finest tools that any archer would desire for is a perfect bow release that can unleash the hidden Robin Hood inside him. And if you think your self to be one of them, the TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback Compound Bow Release is for you. And on that note, it’s our #1 pick as well.

Features

The best thing about this best bow release is its way of simple but comfortable built. It’s made of 100% original USA materials and contains a revolutionary buckle strap. Also, you can adjust the length between the head and the strap with just turning he head clockwise or anticlockwise.

Moving forward, it has a jaw that opens up and closes by pressing and depressing the soft trier that comes along. You can adjust the trigger travel if you want.

If you’re a left-hander, no need to worry at all. Although most releases are made to be for right handlers, this one would do for both.

You can release two calipers at once with the dual caliper release. Another good news that comes in is, the entire trigger travel is swiftly adjustable.

All in all, we found the TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback Compound Bow Release to be a great fit for both amateur and professional archers. See whether it checks the boxes of your own priorities as well.

Pros

• Contains a revolutionaly buckle strap.
• One of the most comfortable straps ever.
• Adjustable jaws with pressing the trigger.
• Both for left-handers and right-handers.
• Made in the USA with 100% quality insurance.
• A great exterior design.
• Available in two different models.

Cons

• No thumb barrel.

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2. TruFire Hurricane Extreme Buckle Web – Wrist Release

If you want to stick with the TruFire product, yet do not have enough budget to spare, this one can be your choice. In a low price, you’ll get one top quality, automatic and durable release.

When it comes to comfort, nothing can beat the TruFire Hurricane Extreme Buckle Web Archery Compound Bow Release. The double thick wrist strap is easy on the wrist and suitable for carrying on long hunting sessions.

Features

The dimension of the product is 10.5 x 5.2 x 2.2 inches while weighing 4.8 ounces. The buckle is made of durable Camo nylon. The release is nonstick coated so that it can go for seasons without any damage.

The strap fits on both hands. You don’t need any tool to adjust it, set it to any length you want. The ½ inch web connection mechanism connects the strap and the head, and you can adjust the length according to your preference.

Simple design, yet one of the most convenient trigger settings on the market. The product features a dual caliper release, with an automatic spring load system. The jaws open upon pulling the trigger and close automatically after shooting.

The trigger level is adjustable and that is something great for people with a small or big knuckle. You can adjust the trigger travel to a length that comforts you.

The trigger pressure is good. For example, it takes only 35 ounces of pressure to fire the trigger for a 70-pound bow.

Pros

• 100% American-made product. Good quality with a low price tag.
• Very comfortable buckle with thick padding.
• Adjustable length and trigger level. One of the best bow releases for accuracy.
• Automatic spring loaded system so that you can be ready for the next shot immediately.

Cons

• The belt buckle might feel bulky on your wrist.

3. Tru-Fire Hardcore 4 Finger Revolution – Hand Release

Looking for some extra perks that an ordinary bow release can’t serve you with? I am talking about the rotating heads, or 360-degree rotations, or a pure aluminum based structure?

Well, these and many features are waiting for you right here in this product. It’s named as Tru-Fire Hardcore 4 Finger Revolution Archery Release and we are going to break down the features for you.

Features

Without any doubt, the best part of this bow release is the handle. It’s made of pure CNC aluminum and the head is with Lanyard. In terms of design, it’s one of the sleekiest models that we’ve ever heard of. That makes this release a little bit pricey. But still, we think such a rich set of features worth it to the fullest.

Moving to its functionalities, it contains a 360-degree rotating head. Behind the rotation, there are 11 different balls made of metals. So, there is a least chance that there will be any jamming or lag in this rotation.

Trigger knob is another important part of a bow release is made to be awesome in this model. It’s of 16 different positions where you can adjust the tension and operate it from the traveling line of the trigger.

Just like the few best products in the market, this release is fit for both left-handers and right-handers. You can call it isometric design anyway.

Also, the grip that comes with the device, is suitable for four fingers. Although you can’t use it for three fingers, four finger use is even better.

In spite of the little high price, both we and the existing users are pretty much positive about this product. What do you think?

Pros

• Made of CNC grade aluminum.
• 11 ball bearings to rotate 360 degrees.
• 16 position triggering knob.
• Both for right-handers and left-handers.
• A sleek, and comparing design.

Cons

• Very high in price.

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4. Scott Archery Caliper Grip – Hand Release

We all want to feed our insider hunter with the most featureful tools for sure. But what comes next is the price, and right then, some of us have to hold our horses. Well, those days are over. At least when you have to buy the best bow release from the market. Because we’ve researched out the best release for archers that won’t break the bank anymore.

By the way, the name of the release is Scott Archery Caliper Grip Release. It’s from the famous brand Hot Archery and we loved every bit of it.

Features

Swiveling around is one desired feature that most of the professional archers demand in their bow release. This one that we are talking about can swivel around to an angle of 360 degrees, which is another reason to fall in love with.

The Scott Archery Caliper Grip Release is made of a grip that is mold industrially. If you are new to archery, that surely affects your overall performance in a positive way. Same works for hunters who hunt with a bow as well.

The trigger, which is also called knurled trigger, is completely adjustable. You can take it towards any direction that you want.

You may wonder at first as there is no carve in the handle. But be assured that this won’t affect your performance at all. As there will be no problem in the drawing.

Lastly, the grip that it comes with superior strength and that gives a promise of long-term endurance.

Pros

• 360 degree swiveling.
• The molded grip that super endures.
• Adjustable knurled trigger.
• The versatility of grip is available
• Superior grip
• Extremely low in price.

Cons

• No automatic closing jaw.

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5. Tru-Fire Edge 4-Finger – Hand Release

With Tru-Fire Edge 4-Finger Hand Held Bow Release, we are stepping into the world of professionals. This outstanding release is used by veteran hunters and tournament players. Although it needs some mastering, once you’re habituated to it, you will get precise and targeted shooting almost every time.

This handheld release comes with an ergonomic design so that I can fit into your fingers nicely and don’t cause you any stress.

Features

The size of the release is 3.9 x 1.2 x 3.2 inches, it comes with 4.3 ounces of weight. The body is made of CNC machined aluminum, slim in shape and a camo pattern giving it a great outlook.

The product features a thumb and finger release mechanism. The trigger is spring loaded and comes with a dual caliper. When you twitch the trigger, the jaws open and they close automatically after the shooting.

The head of the release comes with a 360-degree rotation system. This facilitates the hunter a torque free shooting and helps him shoot from any angle he feels comfortable. The release can be used by both hands.

You can adjust the settings of the release, specifically the trigger travel and thumb knob. The trigger thumb can be adjusted to one of the 16 positions according to convenience.

Pros

• Made in the USA and come with a superb quality.
• Suitable for those who prefer handheld release more than wrist strap type.
• The 360-degree rotation of the head helps to prevent torque, thus providing precision shooting.
• The trigger thumb can be adjusted to different positions. Best archery thumb release right now.

Cons

• Smooth surface, hard to grip wearing gloves.
• The probability of dropping it if not careful.

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6. TruFire Hardcore Buckle Foldback – Wrist Release

With great padding, comes great comfort! The TruFire Hardcore Buckle Foldback release is the latest, advanced TruFire product on the rise. It offers amazing adjust ability along with easy and light trigger pull. The release is fully adjustable according to your comfort.

Features

The dimension of the product is 10.5 x 5.2 x 1.8 inches, and the weight is 4 ounces only. The bow release features comfortable buckle strap which comes in a camo design. This product is made in the USA, and quality was assured in every step of the production. One of the best compound bow releases on the market.

The trigger design is aerodynamic with along with length adjustment of 5/8 inches. The trigger is very light and it can be swept back. So climbing or hiking keeping your release in hand is easier. The trigger pressure can be determined within a range from 3 ounces to 16 ounces.

The automatic and self-closing hook comes with a 20 degree pivoting head. This is the only wrist release to have such feature. The head can be pivoted to either right or left to avoid torque.

The product can be used with both hands. The length can be adjusted to 1 inch and locked so that the loop doesn’t slip off. The release spontaneously brings your center shot into line. So the chance of error is reduced.

Pros

• The strap is one of the most luxurious and comfortable ones on the market. Best hunting bow release according to many users.
• The trigger is light, fold back and adjustable.
• Made in the USA and made for prolonged, serious use.
• Tru center technology, the head can be pivoted right or left to avoid torque.
• Adjustable trigger pressure from 3-16 ounces.

Cons

• Comes with a greater price range, but it justifies that price.

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7. TruFire Patriot Archery – Wrist Release

Have you ever heard of underdogs in a winning streak? Well, The TruFire Patriot Archery Compound Bow Release ensembles that scenario. It might not be the most sophisticated on the market, but for the price, it really keeps your work going.

Suitable for beginners, or even veterans, this product coming from TruFire means it possesses better quality than low budget, cut-rate products.

Features

The dimension of the product is 10.5 x 5.2 x 1.8 inches while weighing only 4 ounces. The trigger and jaws are black coated to offer durable service.

The TruFire comes with a V-shaped nylon wrist strap. The strap is not bad, especially not itchy due to the fabric on the inner part. This strap is Velcro, so you have to be careful about when you wear it or take off. It goes without saying, you can adjust the strap according to your suitability.

This here is a both hand strap. The mechanism is fairly simple, you pull the trigger to release the string. However, the trigger is not two-way, which means you have to lock the calibers by manually moving the trigger. The trigger travel distance can be adjusted.

You have to be careful about retaining the trigger position before making an attempt to draw again. This release is great for practice, and for the price, it can be the release that you simply keep in your pocket as a backup.

Pros

• The price is cheap and the quality is good for the price. Best cheap bow release.
• The nylon wrist strap doesn’t wear or tear easily.
• Adjustable strap can be worn in both hands.
• Smooth and silent trigger action.

Cons

• The trigger is not two ways, which you need to remind when you’re in a hurry.
• The Velcro isn’t 100% soundproof.

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8. TruFire Smoke Adjustable Archery – Wrist Release

Flexible, adjustable and easy to use. The TruFire Smoke Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release comes with an adjustable strap, trigger. Also, the release can be folded back which gives you the freedom to use your phone, or GPS without the release getting on your way.

Features

The dimension of the product is 8 x 2 x 0.8 inches. The V-shaped strap is made of nylon which provides durability and comfort as well. The strap is buckle type. So, it will silent.

The strap is compatible with both hands. The buckle strap comes with fold back ring and adjustment of 5/8 which means you can fit the release nicely with your hands. Also, glassing or climbing would be no problem as there will be no whipping or harshness.

The dual jaw is sturdy and the dime sized head ensures the release is smooth and soundless. This release is perfect for those who like to wait and stalk their game, using GPS, binoculars, and don’t want to take the release off in the process.

Features like trigger thumb adjustment and trigger travel adjustment ensure that the release can be used by people of various age and physique. You can adjust the thumb to any of the 16 positions to avoid stain to your finger.

Pros

• The wrist strap is padded and comfortable. Best bow release for the money.
• The release can be folded back for other need and comfort.
• The dime-sized head is rugged and ensured a balanced, even string release.
• The trigger thumb can be adjusted to 16 positions. Choose whatever position you like.

Cons

• The trigger might produce a metallic sound when pulled back or adjusted. Be aware to do so beforehand.

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9. Tru-Fire PT-JR Patriot Junior Compound Bow Archery Release Aid

If you’ve been meaning to take your child to a hunting trip, this release here can give him a taste of shooting. Or they can use it for practicing archery in the backyard. The TruFire Patriot Power Strap Archery Compound Bow Release provides a comfortable strap for juniors. Also, the mechanism ensures hassle-free, precise shooting by using the fingers only.

The product is one of the cheapest on the market. So you can always keep it, even as a backup without daunting your budget.

Features

The measurement of the release is 11.2 x 5.5 x 2 inches. And the weight is 4 ounces. The strap comes with a durable and comfortable nylon, resistant to any sudden wear and tear. The closure system is Velcro, so you can take it off and on within a few seconds.

The trigger is adjustable, which is an important feature for juniors. The length between the trigger and the strap can be adjusted more than 1” for convenience.

This bow release is ambidextrous. Which means it can be used by both hands. The trigger is not fully automated. Which means you have to retain the position of the trigger manually after shooting.

The jaws are wide and effective. They come through heat treatment system and are Teflon coated to ensure a long service.

Pros

• Made in the USA, economical, good quality for the price.
• Unlike other releases on the market, this one is specialized for children. Best youth bow release according to users.
• The adjustable trigger helps to shoot comfortably.
• Jaws are rugged, heat treated and Teflon covered.

Cons

• The release is not advised for adult men, as the strap might feel tight.

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10. Hot Shot Vapor 4 – Hand Release

What does a hunter or archer seek in the best bow release? Of course, it’s the accuracy and ease of use. Keeping these two vital facts in mind, we’ve selected another pick of today’s list- the mighty Hot Shot Vapor 4 Release. It’s from famous brand Hot Shot and we’re sure that you will love every bit of the product.

Let’s see what’s in the feature list of this product-

Features

The Hot Shot Vapor 4 Release is designed with a professional bow hunter in mind. You can choose from the two models that contain either three or four finger handle. Each of the items weighs about 1.6 pounds, which is pretty light to carry on.

Moving forward, the next feature that we loved about it is the adjustable thumb barrel. With a little screw adjustment, you can place the thumb barrel at your preferred position for the thumb.

The jaw that you can see in the picture will close automatically when it’s done with its function. That makes sure that you can quickly get done with one shot and over to the next one.

The last impression it left on us is the zero level noise. The actuating system won’t create any noise that will divert the attention of the animal towards you.

Pros

• A lightweight bow release.
• Compact in design, with ¾ finger handle.
• The thumb barrel is adjustable.
• Automatically closing jaw.
• Zero level actuating noise.
• Small and compact in design.

Cons

• Comparing to the versatility, the price seems to be high.

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11. Tru Ball Max Hunter Pro 4 – Hand Release

A simple, but effective in archery- that’s what they call this awesome bow release Tru Ball Max Hunter Pro 4 Release. It’s a compact one that has the essential features the price seems to pretty much under control even if you are looking for something under 100 bucks. It comes from the house of TRU the brand and this is our 8^th pick of the list.

Features

The best thing abuts this max hunter is its draw length. For a hunter drawing or pulling strength is important when he’s up to distant hunting. With Tru Ball Max Hunter Pro 4 Release in hand, he can accurately hit even50-80 meters of distance.

The reasons behind it’s longer draw length is a smaller jaw and a smaller head. Most of the modern bow releases missed the point though. And as you know, more draw length comes with more bow speed.

So, if you are looking to go forward for speedy shots, go for Tru Ball Max Hunter Pro 4 Release.

On the other side of the feature list, we have a 360-degree rotating swiveling head that will let you hunt in any direction through out the site.

With the adjustable sensitive screw, you can set it according to your preference.

Pros

• A 360-degree swiveling head.
• An adjustable screw system.
• Large draw length.
• High speed bowing.
• Compact and sleek in design.
• A mid-ranged price.

Cons

• It misses the ball rotation of the head.

Why You Need A Bow Release

If you are a beginner, even a seasoned hunter, bow release can improve your proficiency and accuracy while shooting. In bow hunting, deviating even a centimeter from the target path might result in missing the game by meters. Worse, you might end up with wounding the animal instead of a kill shot, initiating a chase and suffering of that creature.

Here’s how you can miss a target. If you use your fingers to release the string and make a staggered release, the shot will deviate. ‘Staggered release’ is your fingers discharging the string unevenly, which happens every now and then even with the seasoned hunters. A bow release eliminates the chance, discharges the string evenly and more importantly, let you concentrate only on the shooting.

Also, using bow release will help you avoid tender or hard-skinned finger. While the release is taking the toll, the only thing you need to care about is hitting the target.

Type of Bow Release

Mainly, there are two types of release. Mechanical and non-mechanical. Their mechanical release is mostly used, though non-mechanical releases are still on the market.

There are 4 types of bow release according to grip style. Wrist, handheld, tension and T-handle/thumb switch. The first two are more popular.

The Wrist Type: Wrist type also known as caliper release is most widely used and popular among hunters. This release consists of three parts, caliper, middle part and wrist strap. The wrist strap gets wrapped around your wrist and takes the most weight. The middle part connects the other two and the caliper grips the string and initiates either firing or trigger mechanism.

The Handheld Type: The handheld is simpler and easy to use. This is a T shaped structure which does not have any strap. The hunter needs to hold it in his hand. The release of the string is done by the thumb. Many hunters feel comfortable in it as it provides less jumpiness than the other types.

The Tension Type: The tension style and T-handle types are more like for experienced users. When the string is pulled, the tension style requires reaching a specific tension point until it releases the string.

The T Handle/Thumb Switch Type: The T handle type depends on the user’s strength. The user holds it between the index and middle finger and uses his thumb for releasing the string. Some models come with back tension mechanism instead of the thumb.

What Look To When Buying The Best Bow Release

String Style

Make sure the bow release you purchase is compatible with your bow. Bowstrings can be used in many ways. You can use either D-loop, or metal fastener, or metal knock. Whatever style you use to make sure the release goes with that just fine.

Customization

One of the characteristics of the best bow release is it can be customized according to the user’s preference. Hand size defers from person to person, so does the comfortable size. As for wrist types, make sure the length is comfy for you. You do not want to strain your hand when pulling the string. However, you can adjust the length as wrist types allow that.

As for handheld, see if the angle and distance of the trigger are convenient for you. Also, having the option to adjust the trigger sensitivity will provide you greater control.

Automation

If you want to concentrate on the shooting only, you need hydraulic release mechanism for your bow. The mechanism releases the string after a specific tension point, or after a specific time. You can get this type of mechanism with wrist style or handheld style, but they tend to be pricier. However, nothing beats comfort, right?

Comfort

Comfort depends on how much you are habituated with your own bow release. Generally speaking, the wrist types are comfier as they put more weight on the wrist instead of palms, evenly split. Also, they come with padding to protect your wrist from getting sore.

Some people like the handheld type more, as they can practice more control. However, nowadays handheld types come with great ergonomic designs that suits your hand.

Noise

As the surrounding of a hunting place has very distinguished sounds, any unnatural sound can spook your game easily. You don’t want your bow release to make a sound when you pull the string or wear it.

The wrist type, more specifically the Velcro type might make some noise when you wear it or pull it. Make sure you have a silent one. Also, the click sound coming from a trigger can do the same. Hopefully, our top picks can help you with the selection of truly silent ones.

Target Panic Cure

This might happen especially to beginners. This refers to the inability to use the trigger (thumb or index) when the right moment comes. If this is the case, a handheld release with back tension mechanism will help. As it doesn’t rely on the user pulling the trigger.

Conclusion

The best bow release for hunting depends on individual preference. Same goes for the handheld type, other goes for the wrist strap type. Whatever your preference is, never go for any cheap, cut-rate bow release just because you think it won’t matter. It might become valuable during the shooting. This small decision can even affect your whole hunting trip.

Always, keep another one as a backup. You can go for cheap ones as a backup. In case you forget your release in the car or it fails, it will prove helpful to have another one.

We hope our list was helpful for you. They are the best of the market right now, and they justify the price. Let us know which one worked out for you. Happy Hunting!