A quality release aid is one of the most important investments an archer can make, directly affecting accuracy, consistency, and shot execution. At Glenwood Springs Outdoors, we carry a comprehensive selection of wrist strap releases, handheld releases, and thumb releases designed for hunting, target shooting, and 3D archery.
Wrist Strap Releases - Popular and Reliable
Wrist strap releases remain the most popular choice among bowhunters and recreational archers, offering a secure connection that won't be dropped in critical moments, adjustable trigger sensitivity for personalized feel, comfortable wrist straps for all-day wear, and affordable options for every budget. These releases attach to your wrist with a strap and feature a trigger mechanism that hooks onto your D-loop. The wrist support helps maintain consistent anchor points and reduces fatigue during long practice sessions or all-day hunts.
Handheld Releases - Target Precision
Handheld releases are favored by competitive target archers and serious shooters seeking ultimate precision through a more natural hand position and grip, reduced torque on the bowstring, smoother trigger pull characteristics, and enhanced back tension shooting techniques. Without a wrist strap, handheld releases encourage proper form and follow-through. Many top tournament archers exclusively use handheld releases for their superior accuracy potential.
Thumb Button Releases - Versatile Performance
Thumb releases activate with your thumb rather than your index finger, providing a different shooting experience with reduced target panic for some archers, quick activation for hunting situations, comfortable ergonomic designs, and compatibility with both wrist straps and handheld configurations. Thumb releases have gained popularity among western bowhunters who appreciate their speed and reliability.
Back Tension and Hinge Releases
Advanced releases that fire through back tension or hinge rotation rather than a trigger help archers develop proper shooting form, eliminate target panic and punching, create surprise shot breaks for better accuracy, and build muscle memory for consistent execution. These releases are excellent training tools even if you hunt with a different release style.
Release Features and Adjustments
Modern releases offer numerous adjustable features including trigger travel and sensitivity adjustments, interchangeable jaw sizes for different D-loop diameters, adjustable wrist strap lengths and positions, and various head angles and lengths to match your shooting style. Proper release adjustment is crucial for comfort and accuracy.
Release Selection and Fitting
Choosing the right release involves considering your shooting discipline (hunting vs. target), hand size and finger length, desired trigger feel and sensitivity, and budget. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select and adjust a release that feels natural and promotes consistent accuracy. We encourage trying different release styles to find what works best for your shooting.
