Whats the big differences in how many fingers are on the grip? i see some people with 1 or two fingers on the riser then i see people who have all fingers on the front of the grip/ riser, will all these different styles change your grip pressure on where the bow should be shot?

I don't know what's the difference but when I first start drawing the bow I hold it with just I couple. Before I shoot however I put all of them just to hold the bow.

anyone else?

Depends one or two with recurve, pressure on the web of my hand.  I wrap all around on a longbow pressure on the heel of the hand..

how do you decide one or two fingers? whats the benefit with one?

I shoot each bow I have a bit differently. But you should typically grip it the same way all the time regardless. . The more surface area you contact the handle with. The more torque you can put on the bow possibly leading to more errors during the release.

Honestly I don't really over think it too much. I just kinda go for comfort and that works pretty well.

I draw with my bow hand slightly open and when the bow settles AFTER reaching FULL draw, I'll lightly close my handike I have a bird in there that I don't want to hurt

QuoteOriginally posted by Tradcat:
I draw with my bow hand slightly open and when the bow settles AFTER reaching FULL draw, I'll lightly close my handike I have a bird in there that I don't want to hurt

Thats what I do. Tradcat described it better.

I hold with all my fingers very lightly most times. Some times I will hold with my index finger and thumb so the bow can't jump out of my hand, and curl the other fingers against the bow.

I see where some will have an open grip and when they release they grab the bow which makes the bow jump.

QuoteOriginally posted by nhbuck1:
Whats the big differences in how many fingers are on the grip? i see some people with 1 or two fingers on the riser then i see people who have all fingers on the front of the grip/ riser, will all these different styles change your grip pressure on where the bow should be shot?

Depends on the grip style and shooter's hand.  I have a high and loose grip.  Thumb and index finger with the rest very relaxed.  It depends on what works for you.

To borrow from William Goldman: "Gripping the bow is like holding a bird.  Too tight and you strangle it.  Too loose and it flies away".

There is no mandatory rule on holding a bow, but there are certain generalities that seem to be commonly seen. This would be a higher, lighter grip with most pressure in the web of the thumb for recurves and a lower, firmer grip in the base of the palm with long bows. This is not hard and fast, as you will hear many archers that use many variations on grip. Essentially, it is what is comfortable and helps maximize your control of your bow.

can overshooting effect the grip? i took a few days off and the grip seems to not be in my fingers as much when i shoot too much