Which Provides More Reliable Bow Shots Thumb or Index Release?

The two most common bowhunting release mechanisms are the traditional index finger release and the more recent thumb release.

It is not hard to understand why. Both are foolproof and user-friendly. Besides, they do the job when your dreamed buck is within your reach. At this moment, you have no time to lose!

So, these questions arise:

Which releasing method is more reliable, the thumb or the index finger? Which of them will allow you to fire your bow with higher precision and confidence?

I considered a change from my current index release to a thumb button design a few years back. I did not have a bad aim when using my index finger. But using my thumb seemed more natural. Thus, I decided to compare the effectiveness of the thumb and index finger releases.

Below, I will share my findings with you.

Knowing the Bowhunting Thumb Release

The handheld thumb release’s increasing popularity attracted many bowhunters. Most of them thought, “If the experts are using it, why shouldn’t I?” A thumb button release provides many benefits. Pulling back and securing to the rear wall is a lot easier and more natural feeling.

Being able to make a quick release is one of the main reasons why I prefer employing a thumb button over an index trigger.

Punching affects shot consistency a lot. Indeed, this is the first thing I check for when I help someone with their shooting. But you can avoid punching by employing your thumb instead of your index.

Switching to a thumb release does not mean your ability to trigger punching will go entirely. We still recommend practicing on a smooth, subconscious trigger pull. But the transition to a thumb release may be less arduous.

The thumb release has many positive aspects, but some players who prefer the index finger can have trouble adapting to it.

The first one is a shift in the anchor points. Your hand will be in a different position at full draw. Also, your holding will be different if you use a thumb release. So, I had to make some minor adjustments to my anchor points. This change is not a tremendous problem, but it is a change, and some hunters may be resistant to it.

The lack of a wrist strap on most thumb releases is another major drawback. It may seem I am picking at minor details, but I experienced this drawback firsthand a few years ago. On a deer hunt with a friend, I was recording, and the buck we were hunting walked out within 20 yards. My pal dropped the release, the deer ran away, and we never saw him again. Hence, anybody considering changing to a thumb release should choose one with a built-in wrist strap.

• Pros of Thumb Release:

- Fluid motion

- Reduced punching

• Cons of Thumb Release:

- Need to adjust anchor points

- No wrist strap

- Difficult to grip using gloves

- You must cock before use

- Usually, more expensive

Knowing the Bowhunting Index Release:

The conventional index release is unrivaled in terms of ease of use. Therefore, this is the standard for beginner bowhunters. All you have to do is to secure your wrist belt and start shooting.

So, this simplicity provides some comfort. When the buck you want to shoot steps out, you will not have to worry about your release. You only have to concentrate on taking a clean shot.

For many years, I’ve relied on an index release. If it is not broken, do not fix it! That was my philosophy until I decided to try out a thumb release. I am sure many bowhunters think the same, and there is some truth to it. But, I believe it is critical to continuously look for methods to improve at bowhunting, increasing our accuracy.

Adopting an index release has many benefits due to its ease and convenience. However, we must consider some drawbacks. Using an index release makes you more likely to punch the trigger. This issue can lead, in turn, to significant target panic, which is something every bowhunters strives to avoid.

It is not unavoidable to punch the trigger with your index finger. Maintaining accurate shot placement without worrying about switching releases is possible with regular practice to improve that surprise trigger. Is punching a problem for you? You can fire by using your back muscles together with the first joint of your index finger, close to the knuckle. This method may feel strange at first, but it’s one way to ensure more consistent index releases. Nevertheless, thumb releases will notably simplify this procedure.

• Pros of Index Release:

- Easy to use

- Low cost

• Cons of Index Release:

- Higher rates of trigger punching

- More trigger panic

- Less consistent form

What Type of Bowhunting Release Should You Use?

Like with so many other aspects of bowhunting, the release you employ will come down to personal preference.

First, I discovered greater shooting consistency with a thumb release. But now, I prefer using the index release because of its simplicity. Also, there is zero possibility to lose it in the field.

Every archer should try both methods to see which suits them best. Thumb releases can be somewhat pricey. Still, they are well worth it if they improve your shooting accuracy.

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