There are over five different types of bow release aids, and countless you can find in the market. Here are some of the best bow release aids to take note of to help you refine your search: TruBall Archery The Goat Release Aid, SPOT HOGG Wiseguy Release with BOA Cameron Hanes Edition, and Scott Archery Hero X Release.

The main bow release aid types are caliper, fingers, thumb, hinge, and tension release. Each type differs from the other and boils down to what suits your style the most. Some archers make it a habit to personalize or customize their bow release aid.

If you try to search online, you’ll find that most brands sell hundreds of bow release aids so you won’t run out of options. However, with many bow release choices, finding the best one can be stressful and time-consuming.

Thus, we’ve made a list comprised of the best bow release aids to aid in your search.

1. TRU Ball Archery The Goat Release Aid

The TRU Ball Archery The Goat Release Aid is the most recommended and best release aid that earns most of the top one spots on various rankings. It is the best release for accuracy and versatility thanks to its hybrid design. The best competition archers use it.

In conjunction with Reo Wilde, TRU Ball Archery The Goat Release Aid was created to function as both a thumb trigger and hinge release. It means converting it into a hinge release in less than 30 seconds is possible by turning a few screws and moving the pin.

As a result, you won’t have to buy two separate bow releases since there’s a significant difference between the neck configurations and handle, leading to a negative effect on accuracy.

TRU Ball Archery The Goat Release Aid has heft and provides that target release feel due to its nickel-plated brass side and anodized aluminum on the other. You can set it with zero travel in its thumb trigger state. Meanwhile, switching to hinge release achieves an effortless smooth release rotation.

You can use it as a two-, three-, or four-finger release. Its finger extension is also movable forward and backward. On the other hand, its hook is open, and since it cannot fully capture the D-loop, you can’t hang it if you plan to hang your bow in the tree.

It may be too pricey, but TRU Ball Archery The Goat Release Aid is highly customizable and easy to operate.

2. TRU Ball Archery Fang

Another TRU Ball bow release aid to consider is the TRU Ball Archery Fang which weighs only four ounces. You can use it as a three- and four-finger release. Despite its slightly high price, it is the best four-finger release at par with other upscale bow releases.

TRU Ball Archery Fang is a hook-style release that is quieter, smoother, and easier to hook on a D-loop than a caliper-style release. It is also available in two designs: hand-held and wrist-strap.

Its four-finger version is awkward yet easier to grip, while its three-finger version is less cumbersome but less stable. You can adjust its thumb barrel position, and it has an independent trigger travel adjustment. Also, double-check its size to see if it fits your hands perfectly.

3. Tru-Fire Max Edge Buckle Foldback Archery Compound Bow Release

Besides TRU Ball bow release models, you may also want to check Tru-Fire Max Edge Buckle Foldback Archery Compound Bow Release. It is the best bow release for those who prefer double-caliper index finger release aid. You can use it when shooting on the range or field.

Moreover, it has an elegant, comfortable, and slender design for a cleaner arrow release. Since it is highly customizable, some archers prefer to customize it by adjusting the trigger travel and length.

The most striking feature of Tru-Fire Max Edge Buckle Foldback Archery Compound Bow Release is its foldback design. It means you can fold the bow release’s head back when unused.

The foldback design of Tru-Fire Max Edge Buckle Foldback Archery Compound Bow Release prevents it from hitting the metal or getting flopped from various sides.

The bow release is also easy to operate and has a lockable length adjustment, resulting in increased shoot consistency. Sadly, it lacks a velcro strap option, and the extra padding retains moisture. Nevertheless, the bow release boasts a smooth and crisp trigger.

4. SPOT HOGG Wiseguy Release with BOA Cameron Hanes Edition

SPOT HOGG Wiseguy Release with BOA Cameron Hanes Edition has that complete radius handle design and weighs only 2.4 ounces. It is lightweight and slim, with an excellent padding on the handle.

It is the best bow release if you are a bow hunter and prefer a very light trigger. On the contrary, you should pass on the SPOT HOGG Wiseguy Release with BOA Cameron Hanes Edition if you like heavier triggers.

Adjusting the strap on this bow release is straightforward and allows you to shoot fast, thanks to its open jaw feature.

Compared to its older version, the newer version has a BOA closure system. Unfortunately, you may find the BOA closure system loud when tightened. Nonetheless, the SPOT HOGG Wiseguy Release has zero trigger travel, a rigid structure, adjustable length, and a fail-safe trigger.

The bow release has a micro-adjustable dial and a self-reloading hook. It is the best index release aid and caters mainly to bowhunters looking for a bow release to refine their shot placements.

5. TRU Ball Honey Badger Claw Release Quick Silver 3-Finger Medium

Most experienced archers across the globe use TRU Ball Honey Badger Claw Release in archery tournaments and when hunting. This TRU Ball bow release made it to our list due to its notable heavy brass handle.

Like other TRU Ball bow releases introduced previously, TRU Ball Honey Badger Claw Release is expensive. Despite its high price, its release is crisp, and you can attach it to the wrist strap when hunting. With great adjustability, you can move the thumb post into three locations by loosening the screws.

TRU Ball Honey Badger Claw Release is the best bow release for those who prefer hinge release aids. It produces a clean break with visual hot or cold adjustments. Somehow you have to be wary of its screw’s tendency to strip.

Another significant feature TRU Ball Honey Badger Claw Release has is its audible click engaged that is easy to turn off when needed.

6. Carter Enterprises First Choice Release 3 Finger Release

Bowhunters find thumb release aids the best bow release type to cater to their shooting needs. As a result, most bowhunters prefer to use a thumb release aid, amongst others. If you are a bowhunter, consider checking out Carter Enterprises First Choice Release 3 Finger Release.

It is the best thumb release produced by Carter Enterprises, which feels lovely in hand, airy, and super light thanks to its universal fit handle. Bowhunters that often use treestand in hunting may see Carter Enterprises First Choice Release 3 Finger Release as the best option.

But, its price may be too costly for those on a budget.

Carter Enterprises First Choice Release 3 Finger Release has a locking jaw and an exceptional barrel-style thumb release button. The latter boasts thumb-to-button contact with a toughened and gridded aluminum barrel button.

However, the lock button can be ultra stiff which may require more effort to press it. Besides significant button adjustment, its tension is also adjustable, and when combined with its crisp trigger design, it results in a more relaxed and better shoot execution.

The bow release boasts an ideal head-to-handle length ratio that is also present in plenty of Carter’s other bow release models.

7. Tru-Fire Hardcore Buckle Foldback Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release

Tru-Fire Hardcore Buckle Foldback Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release is one of the best bow release aids for those looking for a less expensive index finger release with premium performance. It is perfect for target shooters and bowhunters needing a bow release lasting 10,000 shots.

Aside from being a reliable and durable bow release, it boasts comfortable and adjustable straps which can fit various wrist sizes. Archers with tiny wrists and hands may find it loose despite its adjustability. Since it is thicker than most, it may also come to a break-in period.

The bow release’s leather foldback head entices archers with a trigger pressure range of 16 to three ounces. Thanks to its 20-degree head pivot, experiencing torque during shots is minimal. On the other hand, its hook design makes it difficult to slip off the D-loop.

8. Bicaster Barebow Finger Tabs Cordovan Leather + Brass Finger Guards

Next on our list is the Bicaster Barebow Finger Tabs Cordovan Leather + Brass Finger Guards. Unlike Tru-Fire Hardcore Buckle Foldback, the Bicaster Barebow Finger Tabs is the best bow release for younger archers and adults with small hands and wrists.

Additionally, the bow release’s design is for recurve bow shooters. Some bow release aids have a modern design fitting for non-traditional archers. Luckily, the Bicaster Barebow Finger Tabs Cordovan Leather + Brass Finger Guards retain that traditional feel appealing to longbow and recurve bow shooters.

Some may think otherwise that its design lacks an extra traditional feel due to its brass plate. Nevertheless, Bicaster Barebow Finger Tabs Cordovan Leather + Brass Finger Guards feature robust aluminum cord lock, modular construction, and adjustable set screws.

9. Scott Archery Hero X Release

The best bow release aid option for ladies is the Scott Archery Hero X Release. It is an index finger release with a skin-fitting wrist strap built exclusively for women. Moreover, it is a cheap bow release with a high-quality, Proven Scott caliper roller sear design.

It is a quick, repeatable, steady bow release with an NCS connector strap system. Its strap system provides impressive length adjustment. Moreover, the bow release has an auto-closing jaw, apparent in Scott Archery bow release aid models.

Contradictorily, Scott Archery Hero X Release requires you to push the trigger forward when you attach it to the D-ring.

10. Tru-Fire Smoke Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release with Foldback Design – Black Wrist Strap

One of our list’s cheapest bow release choices for under $50 is the Tru-Fire Smoke Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release with Foldback Design – Black Wrist Strap. Its padding is 2.5% thicker than the standard thickness on other bow releases.

Despite its low price, it is an outstanding product from a widely-trusted brand. Its trigger thumb adjustment system allows you to move it up to 16 positions.

Unlike other bow releases that are only available in one particular hand orientation, Smoke Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release is ambidextrous. Both left- and right-handed archers can use it without a problem.

Its head can rotate only up to 20 degrees, compared to some of its counterparts that can turn up to 36 degrees. Yet, it is the best bow release that can meet the needs of newbie archers with smaller wrist sizes.

You can fold back this dual-caliper release when not in use. Also, Smoke Adjustable Archery Compound Bow Release has an adjustable trigger travel feature, but you must close it manually since it has no frills.

Each bow release aid offers distinctive features. For instance, some may be ideal for bow hunters, while others may be better for target archers.

Furthermore, the difference is also apparent in the quality, and finding the best bow release without an idea or guide on what to look for can be taxing.

Reading the list above gives additional insight into the best bow release and what features make each product worth considering. The bow release of your choice significantly depends on where you use it, your style, and your preferences.

Buying Guide for the Best Bow Release

Finding the best bow release takes a lot of trial and error, considering there are various types, making buying it quite a complex process. Read more below to know what qualities to find in the best bow release.

Pursuit

When buying a bow release, consider whether you’ll use it for target shooting, 3D archery, or bowhunting. For example, bowhunters who are less likely to suffer from target panic use the index finger bow release.

Remember to choose the type of bow release that serves your pursuit the most.

Comfort

If you are confident with your bow release, it will positively affect your shooting. A bow release that feels comfortable outweighs the trendy ones. Ensure that the bow release’s wrist strap has plenty of padding.

On the other hand, ensure that the handle is sturdy if you prefer to use a hand-held bow release.

Adjustment settings

Choose a bow release that lets you adjust its trigger sensitivity, angle, and size.

String

Compared to nock points, bow releases work best with D-loop. Although you can use the bow release with a simple nock point, sadly, it may damage your arrow nocks at some point and may lead to dry fire.

Materials

The best bow release has quality materials, making it durable and will serve you for extended periods. For instance, a wrist release with leather straps is a durable choice.

Budget

A high-quality bow release reflects how serious you are with archery and how badly you want to shoot accurately. Bow releases’ price ranges can differ a lot from each other. Hence, the bow release you’ll buy depends on how much you are willing to spend.

Noise

Avoid bow releases with a clicking sound if quietness is a big deal. For bowhunters who want to make as no sound as possible, a bow release with a buckle system is the best choice instead of those with velcro straps or clicking sound.

FAQs

What is the best style of bow release?

The best bow release style for target archers are tension and hinge release aids. Meanwhile, caliper and thumb bow releases are the best styles for bow hunters.

Hence, it would be best to identify what you intend to use it for and try out a few types before deciding which suits your style the best.

What release should I use for bow hunting?

Thumb and hinge bow release aids are your best bet for bowhunting. Bow release aids like the Spott Hogg Wiseguy, and Tru-Fire Smoke is excellent for bowhunters.