Best Bow Release

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Best Bow Release

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How to Pick a Great Bow Release

Want to fire your arrows more accurately? Of course you do! One of the easiest ways to make sure your arrows fly with more precision is to purchase a modern bow release. Also called a release aid or mechanical release, a bow release works by using a trigger instead of your fingers to shoot the bow. We know how important crossbow and archery accuracy is, so we compiled a list of best bow releases for sale. But before we jump to the mechanical bow release reviews, here are a few pointers on what to look for when shopping.

Best Bow Release

Type: There are several types of bow releases, including index finger, thumb trigger, back tension, resistance activated, finger tabs, and gloves. Each release is better for different kinds of bows or crossbows.

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Adjustable: Making sure you have the right size and shape for your hand is important, so ensure you can adjust the release if you want to. Some come with a limited range of adjustment, but others have an unlimited range.

How to Pick a Great Bow Release

Colors: What color or colors is the release aid? If you’re trying to match your bow, knowing the colors is very helpful. Color has no bearing on performance; however, you might prefer one over of the other.

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Hands: Is this release aid designed for right-handed people, left-handed people, or for both? Bow releases are usually ambidextrous, but can also be tuned for one hand or the other.

Best Bow Release

Material: What is it made of? Index finger releases are made of a hard material attached to a fabric arm wrap. Most of the other types of releases are made from metal.

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Material: What is it made of? Index finger releases are made of a hard material attached to a fabric arm wrap. Most of the other types of releases are made from metal.

Top 10 Products

Now that we’ve gone over the important stuff, it’s time for the top 10 bow releases! In the number one position is our top pick, the release we think is the best bow release for sale. The second is our equally recommended budget pick, which is the best bowhunting release we could find that will save you some dough while still giving you a quality product. Even more high-quality products can be found right below that. Now, let’s get to those bow release reviews!

Scott Archery Shark Release

Scott Archery Shark Release
Our top pick is the Scott Archery Shark Index Finger Release. We love it for its compact, dual jaw design. It makes for faster, more accurate shots. The Scott Archery Shark is made with quality materials in a compact design. It has high performance written all over it; this amazing product features length adjustment, a forward trigger, and a double caliper release that can help to make your shots smooth and professional. The trigger is sensitive but not overly so. Overall, this release is a great find, and well worth the price. Maximize every shot you take with a release aid from Scott Archery! It is one of the top rated bow releases for a good reason!
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TruFire Patriot Archery Release

TruFire Patriot Archery Release
Want the best archery release without breaking the budget? Then check out the TruFire Patriot Archery Release. It’s easier to put on than any other index finger strap we’ve ever seen, no matter which hand you’re using it with! The smooth trigger action makes for more accurate shots and repeatable results. The jaws close by pushing the trigger forward, making the motion easy and natural. It’s fully adjustable to make sure the sensitivity is right for you, and the padded strap makes it more comfortable to wear, helping to prevent finger pain. The construction of the TruFire seems incredibly durable and feels like it will last for a long time. And all this on a budget!
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TruFire Hurricane Extreme

TruFire Hurricane Extreme
Looking for an index finger release that does spectacularly? If you read all of the compound bow release reviews, it’s easy to see why the TruFire Hurricane Extreme comes out on top. Its length setting can adjust to any size, and the ½ inch connection webbing stays firmly in place. This American-made release is made of quality, hard-to-rip nylon in a designer brown camouflage color. You’ll be able to fire with accuracy and ease, aided by a dual caliper release and a spring-loaded trigger. The jaws are Teflon-coated to make them more durable. One of the coolest things about the TruFire Hurricane is the free-floating roller design that makes smooth, consistent shots easier than ever. We love TruFire, as you will see from the rest of this list.
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Cobra Bravo Bow Release

Cobra Bravo Bow Release
The Cobra Bravo Bow Release comes in three really awesome colors. Black, a light brown camo called Realtree Xtra®, and a beautiful blue camo called Muddy Girl®. They are all beautifully rendered and unique. The Cobra bow releases are all made in the USA. The Velcro closure stays closed, gripping tightly to make sure it stays in place. The trigger pressure, which is very sensitive and great for a newer user, is not adjustable, which is the only downside to the Bravo. But on the up side, the unique design of the Bravo allows for the use of both hands, since the rod just hangs loosely instead of being stiff. This means you don't have to remove it (with its very loud Velcro) when you are in the middle of the woods, waiting for a deer!
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TruFire Smoke Adjustable Release

TruFire Smoke Adjustable Release
Want “smoking” accuracy? The TruFire Smoke is a favorite index finger release. It’s easy to adjust and fits any size hand, whether it’s your right or your left. With the Smoke, you can rest assured you have the right fit with its quality buckle straps. The whole rod folds back too, leaving your hands free when you need them without removing your release. The trigger is made from durable metal rather than plastic, and the heavy duty nylon is difficult to damage. Like all of the releases on this list, the Smoke has a lifetime warranty, and it feels as though you will never need it! The quality parts make for consistent and accurate shots, time and time again. It’s one of the best bow releases for hunting.
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Hot Shot Vapor 4 Release

Hot Shot Vapor 4 Release
Here’s a great thumb release, brought to you by Hot Shot. The Vapor 4 is one of the best compound bow releases with its silent actuating system and automatic closing jaw. The thumb barrel is fully adjustable and can be easily switched from right-handed to left-handed with ease. Available in a three- or four-finger handles, the Vapor 4 offers more room for your fingers, helping to prevent finger fatigue and aches in your hands. Even if you plan on shooting for hours! It utilizes a specialty hook design for torque-free releases from the D-loop. We love the smooth, repeatable shots that this thumb release gives us. And we think you’ll love it too! Here’s to the Hot Shot Vapor 4 Thumb Release!
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TruFire Edge Bow Release

TruFire Edge Bow Release
The TruFire Edge Bow Release is a thumb release made out of lightweight aluminum. The durable design makes for a long-lasting release that is incredibly comfortable to use. The head rotates all the way around, making for a smooth, torque-free shot every time. We love it for how customizable it is! The trigger travel is adjustable as is the thumb knob for a personalized fit you can’t get anywhere else. Its super quiet design won’t give away your position. And the Edge utilizes something called a linear motion bearing which makes the trigger feel smooth and easy. And that’s not all; the head of the jaw is smaller than a dime. In spite of the tiny size, it still retains all of the functionality of a bigger jaw. Pretty cool, huh?
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Cobra C-437G Pro

Cobra C-437G Pro
Looking for an index finger release aid with a streamlined head? The Cobra C-437G Pro has just that and so much more! The whole design has been slimmed down, including the head and the smaller adjustment rod. A forward-mounted trigger helps with longer draw lengths and creates more power and speed behind each and every arrow. This Cobra has a fully curved trigger to allow for absolute, spot on finger alignment. The nylon version of this release comes in camo, but there is also a beautiful leather version in a soft brown that is as pretty as it is functional. It also features a unique Cobra feature; the EZ-Adjust module that doesn’t require a single tool! So streamline your life as well as your release with the Cobra C-437G Pro!
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TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback

The TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback fits almost any adult hand. It is fully adjustable, from the length of the strap to the trigger travel. We love how customizable everything on the Edge really is. Also, it is 100% guaranteed to be made in the old US of A, including the dual caliper release with spring loaded trigger. The Edge has made leaps and bounds with the comfort of their buckles and straps; it is more comfortable than any other release we’ve seen. This is the second Edge on this list, and there’s a good reason why; all of the TruFire Edge releases we’ve seen so far have been our favorites. How can you pick just one when they are all amazing?
The TruFire Edge Buckle Foldback fits almost any adult hand. It is fully adjustable, from the length of the strap to the trigger travel. We love how customizable everything on the Edge really is. Also, it is 100% guaranteed to be made in the old US of A, including the dual caliper release with spring loaded trigger. The Edge has made leaps and bounds with the comfort of their buckles and straps; it is more comfortable than any other release we’ve seen. This is the second Edge on this list, and there’s a good reason why; all of the TruFire Edge releases we’ve seen so far have been our favorites. How can you pick just one when they are all amazing?
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Tru Ball Max Hunter Pro 4

This thumb release aid is amazing! It has all of the quality and performance of a much more expensive release. We love the sleek 4-finger design and completely silent construction. The deer will never hear you coming. The head swivels a full 360 degrees, giving you the maneuverability you need. The sensitivity is adjustable also, making it great for newbies and seasoned veterans alike. The Max Hunter has a smaller head and jaw than some of the other releases. That provides a greater maximum draw length, more speed, and a smooth shot for better accuracy and power. And who doesn’t want to up their game? It comes in two colors: black and a very neat brown-and-green design called “Splash Camo.” We love it for its versatility and its ease of use, and we think you will love it too!
This thumb release aid is amazing! It has all of the quality and performance of a much more expensive release. We love the sleek 4-finger design and completely silent construction. The deer will never hear you coming. The head swivels a full 360 degrees, giving you the maneuverability you need. The sensitivity is adjustable also, making it great for newbies and seasoned veterans alike. The Max Hunter has a smaller head and jaw than some of the other releases. That provides a greater maximum draw length, more speed, and a smooth shot for better accuracy and power. And who doesn’t want to up their game? It comes in two colors: black and a very neat brown-and-green design called “Splash Camo.” We love it for its versatility and its ease of use, and we think you will love it too!
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About the Author

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Heather Patton

Expert Researcher and Writer

Heather Patton is a lead researcher and writer at GeekWrapped. She has been creating high-quality content for over a decade and covers home, lifestyle, beauty, fashion products and more.

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Article last updated on:

September 30, 2019

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TOP PICK

Scott Archery Shark Release

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