I have been using a Danmascus glove and I am developing a sore index finger. I am shooting alot. My index finger ( I am shooting split) hurts like crazy. It is where one would have a hangnail. The seam of the glove rides right there. Should I get a stiffer glove ? Thanks
How long is your bow, and what is your draw length? A short bow with a long draw length will lead to finger pinch that no glove or tab can cure.
Also make sure you are not raising your elbow too high as this can cause excessive pinch on the index finger.
2x elbow too high.
I switched to a Bateman cordovan tab and never looked back.
I had the exact same problem with damascus gloves and I could only attribute it to the pressure at the alignment of the seams and stitching between my middle and index fingers on the glove itself. I always shoot with a low elbow and I normally shoot longer bows that would imply no string pinch that you'd get from a shorter bow.
After getting fed up with that particular problem I went to the American Leathers full hand glove. It's a completely different feel and at first it feels awkward but after getting accustomed to it by shooting it and breaking it in I wouldn't use any other.
You won't experience any hand problems with this incredibly fine glove.
I shoot a 70" Hill Wesley Special. My draw is almost 32". I think it is the seam. I thought about my elbow and I also thought about too much or too little cant. There is almost a groove across my fingers where the seam rides.
Shooting too much,as I do too,has only one solution:a tab.I have to give up my beloved glove for a hated tab,but now things are much better and improved release too.
Anyway I plan to come back to the glove when hunting.
If you are shooting with a brass knocking point that can do it, try a tie on knocking point
I shot a Damascus glove for a long time but I've been pretty happy with the goatskin glove I got from Kustom King.
From your description it sounds like you need a better fitting glove or a tab. However, I've had the same problem shooting with a tab. Try to give your finger some rest. My guess is that your finger is trying to form a calous, but you aren't allowing enough time for it to develop. Take a week off and see if it improves.
When I get a new Damascus glove(new one every 2 years or so) I turn it inside out and trim the seams where it rubs my fingers. This seems to help. I also wash it in warm soapy water and rinse well. I then put it on my hand to form it, take it off and let dry. Once dry I put it back on and give it a good dose of hand rubbed Montana Pitch Blend. This all seems to help it fit better and so far has eliminated the sore fingers.
After you use the glove for a while you will develop a callus and that helps too.
The seam on the Damascus "seams" to be the problem....pun intended. :bigsmyl:
The glove I have now is small for me. I might need to get another. String doesn't seem to roll of as smooth as it should but that could be operator error. Also thinking of a tab. Thank you