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Release Aids
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  • You can attach a thumb-trigger release to the string and you never have to worry about getting hooked up when a deer comes in; why do you still like index-triggered wrist strap releases?
    hunter from OK asks:
    Bill, I noticed some questions about attaching to the string directly or using a D-loop. Have you tried a thumb release? I'm sure you've thought this out, but a thumb release is much more efficient as far as I'm concerned. I leave the release attached to the D-Loop at all times (except for when it is extremely cold). When I pick up my bow to draw, I don't have to worry about attaching the release. If I need to range the distance, I don't have to detach my release and then reattach once I've used my rangefinder. One other factor is that I don't have a noisy release flopping around on my wrist hitting my equipment etc. The thumb release took some getting used to but I'm more accurate with it as well - I have less of a tendency to punch the trigger. I'm sure this is a personal preference thing, but just curious if there is some other reason you choose a wrist release. Thanks, Hunter
    Winke Responds:
    Hunter, That is good advice. I have a few friends who do it that way and it makes a lot of sense. There are many ways to skin this cat and what you will learn is that people, even me, have gotten used to doing things a certain way. We tend to tweak around that style but not change it dramatically. That is not to say that switching to a thumb-trigger may not produce some benefits, I just doubt I will make the switch at this point. So sometimes advice is simply preference. You always have to keep that in mind when listening to people. I always try to preface my advice by saying if it is science of just preference. I think for the most part, in this case, it is just preference. I have shot thumb-trigger releases but have not necessarily shot them more accurately than index-triggered releases. Some of the reasons you dislike the wrist strap are actually some of the reasons I like them. First, once attached to my wrist I never lose the release. It is always right where I need it even when walking to and from the stand. Second, I attach the wrist strap to the riser of my Hoyt when it is not on my wrist so it always with my bow. I never have to remember where I put it after my midday practice session. Finally, I am just used to the index method and have spent a few years learning to make a good surprise release using this style. I am sure there are ways around each of these items when using the thumb-trigger model, but unless I see a really compelling reason to change (which I haven't yet) I will likely stick with the system I am used to. Thanks for the good discussion. Have a great day. (3-26-12)
  • Do you ever think that you would do better if you used a string loop, lowered your draw weight and aimed for the heart each time?
    dave from NY asks:
    Bill , thanks for the great web site. I enjoy the site more during the off season, especially as a training tool. During the season its just to hectic to be online all the time vs being in the field hunting or scouting. My question is do you think you would be a better shooter and hunter if you lowered your bow poundage to 68 lbs & used a string loop and consistently aimed at whitetails at mid to low heart ? Everyone has his/her own style but sometimes I think we all make things more difficult than need be. I am always open to advice from professionals and savy every day hunters.
    Winke Responds:
    Dave, Thanks. I appreciate the support. I can handle the draw weight without any issues. I do need to automatically aim for the heart. There is no doubt about that. But I don't think I would shoot noticeably better with a nocking loop. I have used them before for years at a time and end up going back to attaching the release to the string because I can get it quickly and know that I have a secure connection when I start to draw. It is just one less thing I have to worry about when my pulse is racing. As you say, each person evolves their method to match their style of hunting, their temperment and the challenges they face in the field. This method is the evolution of all that for me. One day I will shoot one square through the shoulder and kill it clean and no one will question my draw weight then. I realize that you can kill them with much lower draw weights than I shoot, but I figure why shoot less if I don't have to? What if I hit the biggest buck of my life in the shoulder? Anyway, thanks for the support. (3-24-12)
  • What do you think of the Goat Tuff release that increases the draw length of the bow you can shoot by as much as three inches?
    John from IA asks:
    Bill, I've been watching this new release by Goat Tuff the "Equalizer". They claim that by switching the trigger and the hook-up point to the string with each other one is able to increase draw length by up to 3 inches. I haven't had one in my hand yet. It sounds too good to be true! Is it possible to increase draw length and not affect anchor point by this type of release? What are your thoughts about this? Are you familiar with the product I'm asking you about?
    Winke Responds:
    John, The trigger is in front of the jaw - that is how they do it. I can see where that would work to actually allow you to shoot a long draw bow with the same anchor point. I am not sure how that affects the path of the string, however, or how it affects your ability to use a peep sight. Accuracy depends on some factors that this release is sure to impact. How you adapte will determine how well you shoot it. The string will be much farther back on your face completely changing the normal relationship between the eye and the peep. It will also bring the side of your face into the direct line of the string making it really important that you keep that area clear to maintain good accuracy. I think there are enough questions in my mind that I would want to shoot one several times before ever ordering one. This might be one that you have to try at a dealer first. Good luck. (2-7-12)
  • I bought a Scott Rhinon XT with three different springs. Is that what you call a spring trigger? Where should your elbow be pointing at your correct draw length?
    bill from PA asks:
    Hi Bill, I have a question about spring triggers and draw length. I recently bought the Rhino XT release by Scott. It came with three different springs to insert for different tension. Is this release what you refer to as a "spring triger release"? You also said that if your draw length is correct your arm will be straight back at full draw. Do you mean it will be parallel with the ground or in line with the stabilizer?
    Winke Responds:
    Bill, Yes, that is a spring trigger. With your correct draw length, your elbow will point straight away from the target, you forearm will be parallel (not necessarily in line with) the arrow when viewed from above. Correct form has the elbow just a bit raised so when viewed from the side it is not in line with the arrow. But when viewed from above, it is. I hope that makes sense. Good luck. (1-6-12)
  • What is a spring trigger?
    bill from AL asks:
    Hi Bill, I hope the wind gets right for G4 soon....in the course of responding to a question about target panic, you mention a "spring trigger release"...what is that? I have a release called "The Answer" that when adjusted properly, will not release if you punch it. Is that what a "spring trigger" does? What Scott back tension release would you recommend? Thanks again for taking the time answer these questions.
    Winke Responds:
    Bill, By spring trigger I am referring to a Scott release where you can actually screw out the peg trigger and screw in a spring in its place. The spring permits a lot of squeezing before it goes off. Check out the Deluxe line of Scott Releases to find the spring trigger option. I believe the releases ship with both a peg and spring trigger in the packaging. Great product. I have been a fan of Scott for as long as I have been a bowhunter. Good luck. (1-2-12)
  • Why do you attach your release aid directly to the string instead of using a D-Loop?
    Jordan from AL asks:
    Why do you hook your release directly to the string under the arrow instead of using a d-loop?
    Winke Responds:
    Jordan, I have done it that way for a long time. I have tried using a loop and it does great for most everything target related, but I just never felt that I was as quick or as sure when attaching the release to the loop while hunting as I am when attaching it straight to the string. From the stand point of pure accuracy, the loop is likely better (most experts believe so because it eliminates most string torque and down pressure on the arrow caused by the release aid under the nock). However, my system is accurate enough for what I do. I just want to be sure that I am hooked up solidly and can do it quickly every time. Often in hunting, timing is more important than pure precision. Good luck. Happy New Year (12-31-11)
  • My string nocking loop keeps twisting; did I tie it on wrong?
    Blake from SD asks:
    Bill, first of all, thanks for all your help answering my questions, but I have one more for you. I recently put new strings and cables on my bow and re-tied the string loop. My loop keeps twisting on the string. I have to adjust it before every shot. I tied the knots on opposite sides of the string. Should I try tying them on the same side and see if that makes a difference or am I getting interferance in another way? Thanks
    Winke Responds:
    Blake, You did it the right way. My guess is that the string is twisting and taking the loop with it. I would watch it closely to see if it stabilizes soon. If not, I guess I would have to go buy a better string. Good strings from custom string makers should not twiat when you draw them. They should be very stable. Good luck.
  • Why don't you use a bowstring nocking loop?
    FIONG from MN asks:
    HELLO BILL, YOUR SHOW IS THE BEST HANDS DOWN AND BEST TIPS. MY QUESTION IS, WHAT ARE THE PRO'S AND CON'S WITH A BOW SHOOTING WITH A D-LOOP AND WITHOUT A D-LOOP? I'VE SEEN YOU SHOOT WITH NO D-LOOP. SO, PLEASE FILL ME IN. THANK YOU, FIONG LOR
    Winke Responds:
    Fiong, Thanks for the support. I attach my release straight to the string because I feel it is faster and more idiot-proof in a hunting situation. I am sure the loop is a touch more accurate in more situations because it eliminates the side loads of the release on the string somewhat, but I feel that being able to hook up quickly and securely without looking is worth a tiny loss in accuracy. For that matter, I have not seen a noticeable difference in accuracy in my case, but top shooters tell me there is some added forgiveness with the loop. Good luck.
  • Will a Carter hand-held release help to beat target panic?
    Jim from MD asks:
    I watched your video on how the spring trigger will help eliminate target panic/punching the trigger and it got me thinking. I recently tried the Carter "Like Mike". It has, what I consider to be, a very stiff trigger with zero travel. The few shots I made with it were complete surprises and the results were scary. In your opinion, would this release be another option to help cure the PANIC?
    Winke Responds:
    Jim, I would say so. Any release that surprises you will cure target panic. It is only scary for awhile until you get used to the feel of not being in control of the shot timing. Then it starts to feel quite natural. But whatever you do, don't fall back on the habit of commanding the trigger (telling yourself when to shoot). I like the Scott Longhorn Hex from the standpoint that there is no trigger so you can't start punching it after you get used to the feel. You need several weeks of consistent surprise release archery before it will be ingrained enough that you can start to focus on shooting tight groups. Until then you are just getting comfortable with the feel of a surprise release. Good luck.
  • Do you see any problem with using a thumb-trigger release and attaching it to my D-loop in the tree stand and just letting it hang there?
    James from MN asks:
    Hi Bill, after "trying" to film my own hunts last year, I notice that my wrist strap release would get in the way or bang against the camera when trying to use the zoom button. So, I was thinking about getting a thumb release and just have it hang from my D-loop when I'm in the woods so I can use the zoom button with out having it in the way and when I'm ready to shoot, just grab my bow with the thumb release already on it. Do you see any problems with that idea? The only thing I can think of is using my gloves might cause a problem during hunting season... As always, thanks. Looking forward to see you guys after the break.
    Winke Responds:
    James, I have friends who use the thumb-trigger release and hang it from their loop and have no problems. I would always be afraid of bumping the trigger and dumping the release on the ground. However, they seem to have no problems. We use lens controllers on all our cameras so the right hand is never on the camera. The left hand runs the focus while the right hand is on the extension arm of the fluid head running the zoom with the controller. We use Varizoom controllers. They do a good job, but aren't super durable. We go through about 25% of them every year and have to send them in for repairs. But they do make it easier to get nice video. Good luck.
  • Is a wrist-strap release easier to draw than a hand-held model? Are they easier to shoot?
    Mike from NJ asks:
    Bill, I currently shoot a caliper style wrist strap release but would like to try a handheld release. Is it more difficult to use the handheld release versus the wrist strap? Does the wrist strap release make it easier to draw the bow? I am looking at a Scott caliper style handheld release. Your thoughts on this subject would be appreciated. Thank You, Mike
    Winke Responds:
    Mike, It takes the same muscles to draw the string with the hand-held release as it does with the wrist strap release. Some people are more comfortable with the wrist strap because they don't have to use their hand strength during the draw thus leaving their hand a bit more relaxed at full draw. That has not been my experience. I shoot them both equally well. You just have to get used to the feel of the handheld. It will take a few weeks of daily shooting to get there. I am sure you will do fine with the Scott model. It is good, if you are a serious archer, to try every style out there to learn and find what works best for you. Good luck.
  • I am struggling with the back tension release. Give a good reason to keep shooting it.
    Martin from NY asks:
    Bill I bought a Scott Longhorn Hex release because I too suffer from a touch of target panic and wanted a cure. I realize that shooting a back tension release is quite a bit different than shooting the Tru-Fire 360 release I'm accustomed to but I feel like a mental patient trying to shoot the Scott release. I find myself still giving the dreaded "NOW!" command to this release. Please give me a valid reason, talk me into, for keeping this release and sticking to learning how to shoot back tension... Thank you for all your advise...it's helped my shooting a lot.....well, except for this one :)!
    Winke Responds:
    Martin, You answered the question yourself. The fact that you still issue the now command even with the back tension release is all the reason you need to keep using it until you have gotten past that. Start by getting away from the spot and learning just to get used to the feel of shooting the release. Get in front of a blank bale and forget about trying to hit something. You may even want to do it with your eyes closed a few times just to get away from aiming. You are not trying to hit a spot here, but rather to execute a perfect release. Even when I am shooting at a spot I don't try to smoke that spot. I let the pin float around the spot, as close as I can keep it, but I am not consciously trying to time anything. Even if the pin is not right on the spot when the bow goes off, for some reason it still hits very close to the spot. I think it is the natural centering instinct we all have as our subconsious mind looks for symmetry. Don't worry about exactly where the pin is, focus on just making a good surprise release and I think you will be very surprised how accurately you shoot it. Then you can make the transition to your hunting release as you get closer to the hunting season. You owe it to yourself to get this right. Now is the time. Good luck.
  • Does the Longhorn Hex require a nocking loop?
    Joey from WI asks:
    Hello, do you need a loop to shoot the Longhorn Hex?
    Winke Responds:
    Joey, They may offer some kind of a rope option to go with that release, but from what I can see, it relies on a nocking loop to function. Good luck.
  • Do you recommned the Longhorn Hex for hunting? Why or why not?
    Joey from WI asks:
    Do you recomend that Longhorn hex for hunting? If not why?
    Winke Responds:
    Joey, I think it would work fine but it is not my first choice. I feel that a certain percentage of shots in the field rely on timing (a deer walking through an opening, for example) and these releases aren't designed to be shot quickly. You may not face many such shots but they do exist when hunting. Scott has other releases that are better suited for hunting. Some of their models permit you to use a spring trigger which is a better option for hunting since you can shoot it correctly (more or less by surprise) and quickly if you need to by sliding your finger in close to the release stem.
  • How much trigger tension do you suggest for making a surprise release?
    Erich Burkentine from DE asks:
    Bill, Question regarding using a surprise release. Do you prefer a lighter trigger tension or a stiffer trigger. I shoot a Scott wildcat and I have made zero trigger adjustment so its as stiff as it gets. I have everything you talk about wired and have had so for a long time but I prefer to pull through the shot using more back tension with my finger wrapped deep on the trigger and minimal finger movement. Sometimes I feel like it introduces some torque. I guess it comes down to personel preference but I was curious on what you prefer for trigger tension on your hunting release. Thanks a lot and great show and site. Erich
    Winke Responds:
    Erich, Personally, your method won't work for me. I have tried it several times for weeks at a time. I shoot to the left and have some torque and poor arrow flight issues. I shoot best when I pull straight back into the wall, stay active with my pull into the wall and then just make a solid, smooth movement with my trigger finger - not a squeeze as much as a determined slow pull. The trigger pull doesn't slow if the pin drifts. I keep the same pace all the way through. It takes discipline, but it produces the best result for me. This method does produce a surprise release but it is not quite as clean from the standpoint of the surprise as your method, but it produces a purer motion where the arm goes straight back at the shot and the bow jumps straight forward. I like a medium tension on the trigger because I wear gloves when hunting (that is also why I wear gloves when practicing). I want to feel the trigger before it goes off, but I want it to respond to my finger tension fairly quickly. So, middle of the road, probably. Have a great Easter.
  • After switching to a back tension release, will I have to go back to it often once I switch back to my hunting release?
    Dustin from IL asks:
    Dear Mr. Winke, I have 2 questions but first of all I want to say, wow! what a great show. I have been watching midwest whitetail for the past 2 seasons now and am very impressed with the way you guys and gals hunt and your passion/commitment to the outdoors. I think I feel the same way about the outdoors as all of you do. Ok now onto my question. I just watched your new offseason video about using a back tension release, to help eliminate target panic. I definitely have suffered from this in the past and unfortunately missed a great buck this fall due to target panic. I practice a great deal during the summer so the target panic issue is not due to lack of practice, so I am thinking about maybe trying a back tension release. My question is if I use the back tension release this summer and then go back to using the trigger style release, should I periodically use the back tension release in order to "whip" my brain back into shape and then once the season nears stick with th
    Winke Responds:
    Dustin, Yes, you will need to go back and forth between the two release styles regularly to keep the edge. Eventually, you may be able to shoot your hunting release by surprise every time too (that is what I do) but to keep that feel fresh, it helps to take a few shots with the back tension release regularly so your body doesn't forget what a proper release feels like. That makes it much easier to keep making the right types of shots with the hunting release. Good luck.
  • How do you create a surprise release with a four-finger hand held release?
    Allen from MO asks:
    Bill, Sure enjoy the new shows every Monday. The video is the first thing I try to view when I get on the PC. Concerning the suprise release featured on the video this week, how do these work for someone who shoots a 4 finger handheld release with the thumb trigger? I have a wrist strap release that I carry as a backup but feel far more comfortable with the handheld release. Allen
    Winke Responds:
    Allen, Thanks for your support. It means a lot. With the hand-held release, you basically set the tip of your thumb on the release body in front of the trigger, make light contact with the trigger with the pad of your thumb and then as you rotate the release with your other fingers, this motion will cause the thumb to put more pressure on the trigger and soon it will fire. It is possible to cheat this, just like it is possible to cheat an index release so you need to ingrain the feel of a surprise release first or you will always struggle with commanding the trigger. I still say every bowhunter should own a back tension release and use it mostly during the off-season before going back to their hunting release and using it in a way that causes it to fire by surprise. Good luck.
  • Can the Scott Longhorn Hex work as a hunting release?
    josh from KY asks:
    can the scott hex release be used as hunting release why or why not and would u
    Winke Responds:
    Josh, It can be done, but it is harder to make a quick shot if the need arises. Because you can't command it, it is hard to time a shot at a buck crossing through an opening 15 yards away, for example. The Longhorn Hex makes a great training aid and works well for competing because timing is not a crtical on some shots, but I would go back to my regular hunting release in the fall. I will follow-up with some suggestinos in the next episode on how to trigger your regular hunting release by surprise.
  • Is there is a better release for hunting than the index-trigger release? I still have a hint of target panic.
    dave from AL asks:
    My question has to do with the best type of shooting release to hunt with. I have been shooting an index finger release forever. I have had good success but just about every other yr, about mid summer,a hint of target panic creeps in. I hate that.I am all about squeezing and using the non sensitive 2nd joint of the finger but old habits can reappear. Would a quality thumb release that could attaches to the string loop while on stand be good for a hunting choice and also help rid of the panic reoccurence ? I notice a few well respected TV hunters using a Carter or Hotshot and having success in there efforts. I would appreciate your thoughts on this issue . thank you
    Winke Responds:
    Dave, Some guys use that method, but there are other options. I would buy a back tension release and use it all throughout the off-season and then go back to your index trigger release just before the season. The back tension model will reprogram your nervous system and make it much easier to wait and aim until the release fires when you switch back to the trigger release. This is basically what I do. Good luck.
  • I punch the trigger a little; what is the best release strategy for hunting - a spring trigger or learn to shoot the solid trigger correctly?
    Terry from IA asks:
    My goal this year is to work on my release. I do punch the trigger but not terribly. I'm curious which is the best way to go with a trigger release. I've purchase a Scott with the spring to try out. I've also seen where 3D and tournament shooters use a standard trigger but hook their index finger solidly on the trigger and pull/rotate with their back. For hunting, would one method would have a benefit over the other?
    Winke Responds:
    Terry, I would start the off-season shooting a back tension release that doesn't have a trigger. You can find good ones from Carter, Scott, Stanislawski and Tru Ball to name a few. I would then transition to the spring trigger release about two weeks before you start to hunt and either hunt with that or go to a solid trigger the last few days. The idea is to maintain the surprise release when practicing as well as when hunting. I have tried the methods the 3-D shooters tout, as you mention. I was not able to shoot accurately that way, - I always followed through too far to the left. Now I focus on pulling straight away from the target with my release arm (use the back muscles to anchor the shot) and just make a conscious effort to squeeze the trigger with my finger. I don't time the shot, just a steady squeeze that is not tied to the pin location. That is my hunting method, but be sure to use the traininga aids (BT release, etc.) or you will not be able to perform this corectly with the solid trigger. I used to think that you didn't need to perform a surprise release when hunting, but it definitely makes it easier to cope with buck fever and slows you down so you don't rush the shot - a very worthwhile goal. Learn to shot the bow by surprise and you will be much, much better. Good luck.
  • How do I remove odors from my release strap?
    tom from PA asks:
    I purchased a new release. Any suggestions on getting rid of the new smell on the strap
    Winke Responds:
    Tom, It can be tough to remove the odors. Hand washing in scentfree detergent and then saturating in scent killer spray is a good starting point. The straps made of webbing are easier to wash than leather straps, so for those who have not made the purchase yet, you might lean toward nylon straps. Scent eliminator spray is your best option.
  • Do you use a spring trigger release for hunting?
    Josh from WI asks:
    I just ordered a spring trigger for my release and was wondering if you hunt with yours or just use it for practice.
    Winke Responds:
    Josh, I have hunted with them. They work fine. If you have to shoot quickly, simply keep your finger close to the release head body so the spring can't flex very far at all. For practice though, be sure to keep your finger away from the release so the spring flexes and causes a surprise release. Good luck.
  • I would like to use my spring trigger release for hunting; will that work?
    Chuck from AR asks:
    Bill, I read your article on using a spring trigger on my release to practice. I have been using it all summer long and my shooting has improved beyond my belief. A true suprise release is so pure. I feel like I have wasted 7 years shooting the wrong way. My question is, Im thinking about hunting with it. Is there any negatives about using a spring trigger in the field? I value your opinion. Thanks for the article and all the others. Chuck
    Winke Responds:
    Chuck, I have done it. There is no real trick to it. If you feel like you have to shoot fast, such as when a deer stops briefly in your shooting lane and you know he is going to run, you can move your finger in along the trigger until it is right next to the body of the release. That way it barely flexes and acts more like a solid peg trigger. Good luck.
  • I have tried a spring trigger as you recommended in Petersen's Bowhunting, but I am shooting left. Now what?
    Dave from MN asks:
    Hi Bill, I read your article in Peterson's Bowhunting about spring trigger releases and it made a lot of sense to help keep target panic at bay. I bought a T.R.U. ball release with a spring trigger and have started to use it. I was fliching at first but after shooting a bit more, my flinching has gone away but I continue to shoot to the left. I put the regular trigger on, and my arrows hit right on the money. I've shot about 50 arrow with the spring trigger so far and am wondering why you think they are hitting to the left. My guess is that I must have some sort of subtle flinch or movement, but not sure. Does this seem normal and do you think I should continue using the spring trigger during the off season? Thanks and as always, you, your site and staff are the best!
    Winke Responds:
    Dave, I would keep using it. The next step is to get where you can make a surprise release with your regular trigger. Just squeeze it as you aim. Don't try to time the shot in any way. I bet you will start shooting in the same place with the regular trigger when firing in this manner as you do with the spring trigger. Try it and let us know.
  • What release properties should I be looking for when buying my next model?
    rob from IA asks:
    Hi Bill , my question is i`m looking for a new release, i`m wondering what qualities should i look for, full jaw ,half jaw,lenght of the release ? I shoot a Bowtech Admiral so it`s pretty short axle to axle, with a 29" draw. it`s set up with a string loop. Currently use a t.r.u. ball but am leaning toward a Carter for my next purchase. Your thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you Rob Riley
    Winke Responds:
    Rob, If you are going to keep using a string loop, I would opt for a single-jaw release, especially if you plan to hunt with it. TRU Ball and Carter both make some good open jaw, hook style releases. I like that style because I feel like I can hook them up faster when hunting. I set the release length so that the trigger hits my index finger just past or at the first joint of the finger. That takes some of the dexteriity out of the finger and makes it easier to produce a squeezed shot (surprise release) with a wrist strap model. You will get used to it if you try it. Good luck.
  • What release do you recommend?
    Alex from OH asks:
    Thanks for the information about the arrows.I'm getting the crush arrows this weekend. But my question now is what releases should i be looking at? There are so many brands and I was wondering what you like and/or prefer? Thanks
    Winke Responds:
    Alex, I am a keep it simple guy. I still use a set of calipers I got back in 1991. That makes them 19 years old. I have gone through four or five wrist straps but still shoot the same head. You can't go wrong with Scott, TRU Ball or Tru-Fire. I would recommend a single jaw hook if you are going to use a nocking loop - something like the Scott Silverhorn. The other two companies also make good releases in this category. Good luck.
  • I need some advice on release aids; I switched to string loop, which release style should I use?
    Chris from OK asks:
    Bill, I am shopping for a new release aid and would like your advice and input. I recently put on a sring loop and am not sure I like it.I am looking at a short nosed version to get back some draw length.So dual caliper, single caliper,or hook? Advantages and disadvantages? I like the Scott Wlidcat, Sabertooth, Little Goose , Silver horn and Shark. Some of these come with different triggers. Does a spring trigger serve the same funtion as a back tension release? I fight target panic from time to time so that is also a concern. Thanks, Chris
    Winke Responds:
    Chris, I would go with a hook over the others for easier, faster loading on a loop. The Silverhorn would seem to be a great choice. I think you can swap triggers on that one. If not, it is worth the extra money to get one from the Scott line that does permit the use of a spring trigger. The spring makes it harder to punch the trigger and encourages a patient squeeze but it is not a true back tension release because it does have a trigger whereas a pure back tension release fires with a rotation of your hand not the pulling of a trigger. If you find yourself fighting target panic often, you probably will do well to also invest in an affordable back tension release too, just to break the habit of commanding the shot. Good luck.
  • Can I use a back tension release for hunting?
    Tracy from IA asks:
    Hello Mr. Winke! I was wondering, is it possible to hunt with a back tension release? I have fairly bad target panic, the back tension helped with it, but I still usually can't shoot very much with a regular release before it returns. If it's possible to hunt with it, is there any tips you could provide to make it easier to do so, if I can't practice enough with my regular one to use it for hunting? Thank you very much! Tracy
    Winke Responds:
    Tracy, It is possible. I know some guys that do it. I would probably favor one like the TRU Ball that have buttons or levers that allow you to lock the head when you are ready to start your pull-through. This keeps it from going off before you start the final stage of the shot. One other option is a to use a spring trigger on a standard release like the Scott. You can see the models on their website that allow an optional spring trigger instead of the standard solid post. The spring isn't as responsive as a traditional trigger so it is easier to squeeze it off, yet if you have to shoot fast you can without too much movement. I shoot my standard caliper release by surprise simply by forcing myself to squeeze. Forget about locking up the pin in one spot, let it float while you squeeze. I have little tricks that I use to make it work, but there is not enough room here. Besides, with some practice you will learn to come up with your own tricks. The key is to make sure it is a true surprise release. If you can shoot with an open hand and not have the bow fly out of your hand, it is not a surprise release.
  • Should I be worried about the deer hearing firing pin of my cocking bar release firing?
    Eric from NY asks:
    Hey Bill, love what you are doing w/ this website and all your other work! I currently shoot a thumb activated/T-handle release aid w/ standard caliper head. I was looking to switch to a more crisp trigger w/ no trigger travel that will be more conducive to using back tension. In doing so I'd have to use a release that has a cocking bar/mechanism. Should I be worried about the extra noise this release makes when going off? My bow is not super fast, about 255fps Hoyt Vtec. Thanks for your advice!
    Winke Responds:
    Eric, Thanks for supporting the show. I wouln't be worried about the noise. I think the deer are likely to hear the bow anyway. Sure, the less noise the better, but the sound of the limbs bottoming will be louder than the release. Sounds like a great combination. Good luck.
  • Does it make sense to use a T-handle (thumb trigger) release for hunting?
    Landon from IL asks:
    Bill. Thanks for all you do. I'm a big fan of the show and your articles. My question has to do with T-handle release aids. What are your thoughts on using one for hunting? I've been having trouble squeezing the trigger without flinching and am hoping a T-handle will help. Also, I've tried one before and liked it. I know this kind of release is not typically used for hunting, but I think David Blanton uses one as well as Lee Lakosky. Are there any T-handles that you know of that would be good for hunting? I've been looking at the Carter Target4, (Lee Lakosky uses this one). So, what are your thoughts? What do you think the pros and cons are for using a T-handle? Thanks for your time and for answering other questions I have asked you. I really appreciate it. Thanks again. Landon
    Winke Responds:
    Landon, I think they are fine. I know of several other guys that also use them for hunting. The only real disadvantage I see is the chance of losing them more easily since they aren't strapped to your wrist. Also, I always felt that if I had to keep it in my pocket and grab it for the shot, that is just one more thing I have to do. Sometimes I have to shoot quickly and don't like to have that extra step. Some guys use the kind that clip closed and leave them hanging from the nocking loop. It would be my luck that I would bump the trigger when a big one was coming in and watch the release bounce from branch to branch. Those are the reasons I don't use them, but from an accuracy standpoint, they make great sense. If you can get past the issues I have (maybe a wrist strap model) you will do great with them.