Shooting a recurve with a release aid

bofish-IL · January 13, 2014, 11:24:00 PM

I have been fighting Rheumatoid arthritis for the last 20 year. I have taken all the usual Rx pills and 3 of the self injection medicines. The RA keeps getting worse in my fingers and I am getting so I cannot reach full draw due to the severe pain.

I have never shot a release but was thinking of trying one of the wrist type. Problem is I know nothing about them.

Before you suggest dropping bow weight I have dropped 10 pounds lighter.

1. How or where do you anchor with one?

2. Do you have to install a kisser button or something for a reference point to anchor?

3. Since you pull a trigger do you still have to continue with the back tension for a release?

LB_hntr · January 14, 2014, 12:29:00 AM

I have seen quite a few people at 3d shoots that use a release for the same reason.
I also shoot my kids compounds with a release when im setting them up and teaching them.

You can use the head of the release in the corner of the mouth like a finger if you don't want to use a kisser button.

Yep back tension and every other shooting related thing should stay the same.

Glad to see your finding ways to keep shooting.

damascusdave · January 14, 2014, 12:31:00 AM

Do a search on the Wynn Free Flight C12...it is a relax type that works more like a finger release...I always shot mine with a kisser button on my wheel bows...they have been discontinued but do show up used

DDave

damascusdave · January 14, 2014, 12:38:00 AM

Sorry the company is Winn, not Wynn...check out their website and contact them...they may have some further suggestions for you

DDave

January 14, 2014, 01:31:00 AM

Vital3 Joint solution will not react adversely to drugs. I used one with a target bow for a bit. I put one of those rubber brush button on my nocking point as a corner of the mouth anchor. The model I have needs to have the little loop mounted on the string for the jaws to grab. It has the double wrist velcro straps to hold it on. If you wish to try it let me know.

bofish-IL · January 14, 2014, 09:20:00 AM

Thanks for the replies not sure what I will do.

tracker12 · January 14, 2014, 09:32:00 AM

No reason you can not set up a recurve to use a release aid. I shot with a guy whoi has done that for years after loosing a couple fingers. I would tie in a couple nock points and D loop and pick a release you like. I use a scott finger release with my wheel bow and do use back tension vice pushing the trigger with my finger. For for ailmant a wrist mounted release would probably be best.

SteveL · January 14, 2014, 01:01:00 PM

Something else you might consider, is a finger sling or wrist sling for the bow hand. Especially if you are used to shooting a relaxed hand. The first time I used a release on a recurve it was so fast on the release it took me by complete surprise and the bow went flying.

I think you'll find going to a release will keep you in the game longer. Good luck.

Steve

Caddo · January 14, 2014, 01:45:00 PM

It was years ago, but was always partial to the Fletch Hunter or Fletcher Rope releases by Fletcher. Don't know if they even still make them. Haven't seen one recently that would compare to them. JMHO

LD

**DONOTDELETE** · January 14, 2014, 02:11:00 PM

If you are going to use a release aid with a wrist strap. i would recommend a lower anchor and use the tip of your nose on the string. Everything is exactly the same on back tension. using an elevated rest will help when using a lower anchor point too..... just a suggestion. it will take some getting used to. but if it keeps you in the game it will be worth it.

TURKEYFOOTGIRL · January 14, 2014, 02:18:00 PM

When I shot a release I put 4 eliminator buttons on the string below the arrow nock then attach the release below the eliminator buttons. This kept my natural aim on. If I put the release right below the arrow I would shoot a foot high at 10 yards.

M60gunner · January 14, 2014, 04:05:00 PM

I knew a guy that had a very long draw and used a rope type release on his Black Widow. It was his only choice at the time because Easton alum shafts were 32in. Long. He was quite good if I remember. If you can keep shooting that is what is most important.

knobby · January 14, 2014, 04:08:00 PM

I can help you here, Elmer.
Pretty simple set-up, really, though snap-on nocks are needed.
Put a second nock set on your string 1/2"-1" below the nock set that's there right now. The release grabs the string under this nock set.
I anchor by placing the head of the release under my cheek bone.The gap between the two nocks sets will elevate the arrow to up near your eye. It'll give you pretty much the same sight picture as shooting three-fingers-under does. It works once you get comfortable and consistant with your new anchor.
Let me know if you need more help.

bofish-IL · January 14, 2014, 04:19:00 PM

Thanks for all the suggestions and replies.

Scott Grella · January 14, 2014, 10:32:00 PM

Personally, if I was using a release I'd use a string loop like they all do on compound bows. Helps with level nock travel and saves wear and tear on your serving. I'd say go for it, whatever keeps ya in the game.

twigflicker · January 15, 2014, 11:46:00 AM

PM Sent Elmer...

Jonathan

Bowwild · January 15, 2014, 12:27:00 PM

I shot a release with another type of bow for about 30 years. So, I'm very familiar with the feel, set-up, and clean let-go they provide.

Just for kicks every now and then I put a release on my recurve. Wow, I can't tell you how uncomfortable it is! I last about 2 shots and then back to my tab.

By the way, split finger, after shooting 3-under for just 4 years, also seems very strange and uncomfortable too me now.

runningbird · January 15, 2014, 02:18:00 PM

Personally, if I was using a release I'd use a string loop like they all do on compound bows. Helps with level nock travel and saves wear and tear on your serving. I'd say go for it, whatever keeps ya in the game.

IMO

This is your best option.... and get a release with a good wrist strap.

meatCKR · January 15, 2014, 02:47:00 PM

Do a google search on the James Green gator jaws release. It's a release that you can use to grab the string above and below the nock. Might be kinda like shooting split-finger.

Bazooka Joe · January 15, 2014, 07:37:00 PM

I shot a release back int the 70's as a PAA member.
the first ones were like a plastic lace hook that you pivoted. Saw several people knocked out at Cobo Hall in Detroit :-)