Trad Gang

Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: moththerlode on April 05, 2011, 01:53:00 AM

Title: Tabs
Post by: moththerlode on April 05, 2011, 01:53:00 AM
I'm playing heck getting an ancor with a glove , once I get in solid the string is in too deep and I don't get a clean release , used to shoot tab years ago, what is a good tab out there these days ?

          Scott
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Steve Clandinin on April 05, 2011, 03:31:00 AM
For years I've used the old Saunders Fab Tad,I added an extra pice of Latigo leather under the plastic face.It shoots great no matter the weather and no grooving with heavy bows,a real clean release.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: postman on April 05, 2011, 05:04:00 AM
I go back and forth with tab and glove, bottom line I just shoot better with tab. And it seems the calf hair works best with me, but don't last as long as the cordovan leather. Going to order a few calf hair ones today from 3-rivers.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: JRY309 on April 05, 2011, 07:30:00 AM
I like a Bateman single finger hole cordovan tab,been shooting the same tab for the last five years.I bought mine from Valley Traditional Archery,a sponsor here.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: buckeye_hunter on April 05, 2011, 07:40:00 AM
I like my cordovan tab. It is clear for me that I get a much cleaner release with a tab. The Leather is smoother and doesn't groove like my glove did.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: LONGSTYKES on April 05, 2011, 08:03:00 AM
Fred Eichler Cordovan tab works the best for me, from 3Rivers.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: trad_bowhunter1965 on April 05, 2011, 08:28:00 AM
I use a Blackwidow tab it works very well for me.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Dirtybird on April 05, 2011, 08:53:00 AM
Alaskan supplies has some nice tabs that are thin which I like.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: xtrema312 on April 05, 2011, 09:01:00 AM
Tried a lot of stuff and just love the Eichler tab.  I love calf hair, but they don't last.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: on April 05, 2011, 09:06:00 AM
Saunders Pak-Tab. Best I've found. It is very adjustable as far as thickness goes, is very slick, is broke in out of the box, and moisture will not effect it.

Bisch
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: moththerlode on April 05, 2011, 09:58:00 AM
Thanks Guys , saw the cordovan at the supply houses , is it thin enough to feel the string and fingers ?
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Pon on April 05, 2011, 10:00:00 AM
I use Blackwidow and lately I have been experimenting with a Cavalier and it feels very good, lot less fumbling to grab the string and get the fingers/tab in place
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Night Wing on April 05, 2011, 10:30:00 AM
I've used Bateman cordovan split finger tabs for over 30 years.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: 2fletch on April 05, 2011, 10:57:00 AM
Cordovan does vary a lot in thickness. Some of it takes a lot of breaking in. However it does last a long time. I prefer unborn calf hair because it is slick as ice and yet you get a great feel for the string. It takes no breaking in so it's ready to go from the get-go. We make a variety of tabs from cordovan and calf hair. Here are several of them.

 (http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n64/2fletch/P1010008-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Shawn Leonard on April 05, 2011, 01:56:00 PM
Angel tabs are the very best for me. You can get several styles. They hold up very well, been shooting the same one for 5 years now, plus a back up. Not cheap but well worth it. Do a search. Shawn
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: ron w on April 05, 2011, 02:14:00 PM
I like Black Widow tabs, I use the 3 under one and it's hard to believe but they are one of the cheapest....under 10 bucks most places.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: kbetts on April 05, 2011, 02:24:00 PM
Tried a glove and hated it. I'm back to a BW now. I do have a couple that I cut out myself from scrap leather but I like the finger flaps around the nock.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: maineac on April 05, 2011, 02:31:00 PM
When I started I bought a tab from LL Beans, think it was a Saunders.  I didn't like the felt piece that stuck up to keep my fingers separated, or the two layers.  I had some vegetable tanned leather lying around that I had bought at a store that made leather products.  I cut a tab in the same shape.  I found it to be just what I needed .  I can feel the string and get a smooth release.  Plus I have made about a dozen and have two or three in my bag I carry to the stand, a couple on the desk under my bow rack. The piece of leather cost me less than 10 bucks and I have enough to make a dozen more.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Nala on April 05, 2011, 06:09:00 PM
I have a BUNCH of tabs and have made some of my own.  One of the best tabs I have ever shot is the Eagles Flight Tabs pictured on the previous page.  It is just so comfortable.  That "O" ring is genius on a tab.  I have never had a tab feel as good.

I also like the Black Widow tabs with the velcro strap.  Since I shoot 3 under I took a BW tab and traced it out and fabricated my own tabs and I like them better than the BW tabs.

I have also read a LOT about the Bateman tabs, but have never tried one.

Good luck.

Nalajr
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Ydanny on April 05, 2011, 06:42:00 PM
I like the Black Widow tab which is a thick tab.  If you are looking for a thinner cordovan tab, the one 3 Rivers sells might be worth trying.  It is two layers, Cordovan face with a leather back.  If you want it thinner you could cut off the leather backing.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Rando on April 05, 2011, 06:47:00 PM
Never hear much about the Neet brand tabs...
I've used 'em forever and always order several from my local archery (wheelie) shop cause ya never see 'em hanging on a rack. They've been getting them for me for probably 20+ years and I'm always surprised their still out there and available. Maybe not as durable as some of the more modern materials, but really comfortable to me.
Rando
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: EL Mejor on April 05, 2011, 06:53:00 PM
BW,TABS ARE IDEAL FOR ME,PRICED GOOD ALSO,,,,
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Gen273 on April 05, 2011, 11:19:00 PM
I orderd a Eagles Flight calf hair tab today.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Stumpkiller on April 05, 2011, 11:35:00 PM
Another vote for the Blackwidow tab.

  (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v169/Stumpkiller/Bowhunting/HPIM2276.jpg)
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: boznarras on April 05, 2011, 11:59:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by Rando:
[QB] Never hear much about the Neet brand tabs...
I've used 'em forever...."
I keep coming back to my Neet Monster tab. Very simple one holer, and just the right thickness.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: ncsaknech1ydh on April 06, 2011, 01:17:00 AM
I have not seen anyone mention the Cavalier Elite Cordovan tab, which I have been using for about 1 1/2 years now. The metal piece insures exact sting alignment each and every time. I also use the optional thumb piece which keeps my entire draw hand pretty much in the exact configuration on each shot, both of these help to eliminate string tourqe differences between shots. It feels very strange for the first month or two, but once you get used to the feel you won't turn back. I could very well be mistaken, but I think I have read before that most olympic shooters who use tabs, use this tab.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Zradix on April 06, 2011, 02:10:00 AM
I like my EW bateman cordovan "finger hole" no pinch tab
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Zradix on April 06, 2011, 02:13:00 AM
I tried a Cavalier.
Split my lip.
I don't have the best of form.
I anchor at my lip.
Let the string go and that plate jumped up and bit me.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: 2fletch on April 06, 2011, 09:07:00 AM
Nala, I learned about the O-ring from Lenny Rock at Bob Lee. His favorite tab is an unborn calf hair tab, 3 under, and with the Ok-ring. That's now what I shoot with. They won't last as long as cordovan, but they give a really smooth release. We also do cordovan.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Pointer on April 06, 2011, 10:46:00 AM
I've tried many...BW, cordovan, calf hair...I seem to go back to the 3Rivers all leather tab ...cant beat it for 8 bucks...
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: moththerlode on April 06, 2011, 11:09:00 AM
Don, I see your tabs are offered only in a Large. I don't have large hands , in fact probably med small, will that split finger tab still work once trimmed down ?  Thanks
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: 2fletch on April 06, 2011, 12:57:00 PM
We can use a different size O-rings if you let us know. Our standard size is the large.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Gen273 on April 07, 2011, 05:09:00 PM
I received my Eagle's Flight Calf hair 3 under tab, and it is a first class tab!!! It may be my faviorite tab of all time.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Bowwild on May 01, 2011, 10:24:00 AM
From time to time, today in fact, my fingers -- deep inside, not the skin, hurt like the dickens. I shot two arrows this morning and then just couldn't take it. I hook the fingers deeply in the first joints of three fingers under. I'll skip shooting on these "bad-finger-days" and go back the next day and no problem.  I don't know what is going on but I wonder if it's because I passed 30, 27 years ago?

Anyway, I've been using a glove, different ones but the thinner ones like Damascus. I like the feel of the string and they don't seem to groove badly for me. I'm shooting 46-48# recurves. I've thought about going to heavier gloves such as the Buffalos but I've been told they are very stiff in the fingers.

A moment ago I dug out some very old tabs; Neet and Widow. They are for split finger but I just cut the felt flaps off the Widow and shot. No finger pain. My groups were as good or better. I don't quite like the feel at my corner-of-mouth anchor but maybe I need to trim the tab a bit or just get used to it -- it's been nearly 30 years since I shot finger tabs. I know this can't be true but the arrow "seemed" to fly slower using the tab vs. the glove but surely that is some type of illusion? I'm coming to he same anchor and my follow-through is the same. If anything, I'd expect a slightly (2-3 FPS) cleaner release with the tab vs. three contact points in the glove.

I did a search and resurrected this thread. I'm intrigued by the Eagle and the Cavalier. I should make myself LOVE the Neet because I probably have 100 lefties that were given to me a couple of years ago.  However, on an item like this the price is irrevalent, I just want to be comfortable shooting.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: jimmerc on May 01, 2011, 10:49:00 AM
moththerlode, shoot me a pm with your addy and I'll send you a new Skookum tab! I've tried tabs and wish they would work but didn't!!! I think this one is a med> for righty;  No charge, just do someone else a archery fav some day!!!
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Old Chief on May 01, 2011, 11:03:00 AM
Bowwild, I want to thank you for resurrecting this thread.  Learned about the Eagle's Flight tab and just ordered the 3 under cordovan and calf hair tabs.  I have arthritis in the tip of my right index finger and can not use a glove.  I have been using the Cavalier Elite tab, but it is for split finger and I shoot 3 under and at times it will irritate my upper lip.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Ringneck on May 01, 2011, 12:52:00 PM
I like the Bateman cordovan tab and have had real good luck with them.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: tex-archer on May 01, 2011, 10:14:00 PM
2fletch, can you make a 2 finger under tab with the ring on it?
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: 2fletch on May 02, 2011, 09:35:00 AM
Bowwild, I like the calf hair on a tab because it gives a good feel of the string yet there seems to be less friction on the tips of the fingers.

Tex-archer, yes we could make a 2 finger tab with the ring.

Old Chief, Your tabs will go out today. Thanks.

  :archer2:
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: MT Longbow on May 02, 2011, 10:00:00 AM
Super Tab from alaska BHS or 3 riv.  nice and thick, but also good feel.  Cordovan is nice.  I have a few old Marshall cordovan tabs from my Late Grandfather from the 1950's ond they are still going strong and super slick...they just keep getting better.

Patrick
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: DannyBows on May 02, 2011, 07:30:00 PM
I've always used gloves, never stuck with a tab long enough to get comfortable with them. I recently got one of Don's (Eagle Flight Archery), pictured on page 1. The 3 under cordovan. It's an excellent Tab. Built to last and I love the O-Ring set-up. Gives me a feeling of control and a nice clean release. I'll be trying that Calf-Hair soon. Thanks Don!
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: ishoot4thrills on May 02, 2011, 08:02:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by CA BOWHUNTER:
I use a Blackwidow tab it works very well for me.
X2 in "Superleather".
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Friend on May 02, 2011, 09:05:00 PM
Even though I have shot tabs for years, I haven't shot many different ones. Reason being that the Bateman cordovan tab last for years and years and breaks in quickly. There may sure be better ones, however I have had no need to search.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: MarkE2006 on May 02, 2011, 09:17:00 PM
Mr. Bateman is one of those truly genuine people worth supporting.  Have really enjoyed the time I have spent with him, and stories from his life that he has shared.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: djohnson on May 02, 2011, 09:25:00 PM
I like and have always had good luck with Bateman tabs - either cordovan or calf hair.  :campfire:
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: JParanee on May 02, 2011, 09:58:00 PM
IMHO Cavalier works best for me
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: HB3 on May 04, 2011, 11:50:00 PM
Bateman cordovan tab, trimmed just past string
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: Bighornangler on May 06, 2011, 09:03:00 PM
I've been using Screaming Eagle Cordovan tabs for years now and love them. Anybody else use these tabs? I just ordered a Fred Eichler Cordovan tab from 3 Rivers just to try something new.
Title: Re: Tabs
Post by: COLongbow on May 06, 2011, 10:53:00 PM
Any tab is better than a glove.