Shooting Trad bows with a release

[atatarpm]

As my fingers are not up to the task of pulling the string is there anything one should know about releases and trad bows?

[Wapiti Bowman]

Actually, the earliest release aids were developed using trad bows.  They were a simple piece of wood with a notch/groove cut into them for the bowstring to fit into. The release was accomplished by rotating the "hook" slowly, until the string slipped out of the groove.  Variations using a small nail or peg were also made.

If I were going to use a release aid with a trad bow, it would be something similar to the early, simple release aids, like an early model Stanislawski.

[AllenR]

Be sure to use a sling.  I tried it once and my bow went sailing downrange about 15 feet.

I was getting a good "surprise" release.

[Wapiti Bowman]

Amen! Allen.

One of the real benefits of using a release aid is that the release comes as a total surprise, unlike the release achieved by a majority of shooters, myself included, who give a mental signal to "let go" of the string.

Another benefit with a release aid like the early "hooks" or an early model Stanislawski, is that it takes "back tension" to get the release aids to function properly.

So, by all means, get and use a finger sling.  

[NJWoodsman]

Tuning wise, there are a couple of issues. First, a release will allow (or require) a stiffer spined arrow. Your point of impact will change, too.

It will likely make your bow louder, though it will be quieter and easier on your string to use a D-loop.

Shooting wise, it will affect your draw length and anchor point. If you collapse or "punch" the release (if using a trigger style) the target will tell you. It will, of course, be easier to pull back and hold.

[dragonheart]

I would look into a compound if shooting a release aid.

[arky714]

don't worry about useing a release,if it helps you shoot better why not? some of us need more help along the long road...

[Larry m]

Wapiti Bowman
Ever seen one of these?
Atatarpm
I have know guys with shoulder and joint problems who use a release on traditional equipment. What ever it takes to keep you in the game and haveing fun.

[Wapiti Bowman]

Nope! But it looks like a home made model of numerous similar type commercially made metal releases I've seen when competing as a FS wheelie bow shooter in your area in the 80s.

The early 'hook' type releases I saw in the 50s were really simple, with no moving parts.

BTW, I totally agree that if a release aid helps your continued enjoyment of archery, by all means, use one and have fun!

[shortstroke 91]

Larry M, I had a friend give me one of those about a week ago. Just for giggles I tried it out and she still works.

[Larry m]

It was given to me in the early 90's. Have never used it but thought it was rather interesting. Simple concept but effective.
Thanks for the feedback....

[KumaSan]

It seems to me I saw a simple hand held one at Bowhunters Superstore in the past year or so. It was similar to the one posted by Larry M. They actually have the Stanislawski release, but it's expensive.

[atatarpm]

I thank you all gents. And i have no desire to fly compound bows. Most of the issues I've found deal with people who don't like me shooting my G.P. Blackhawk with a release.
  Spineing is a lot different and i have yet to get that full consept. It would seem that some arrows are just not going to fly from this bow.