Jump to a Specific Release Aid:
- Best Wrist Strap Release
- Best Handheld Thumb Release
- Best Hinge (Back Tension) Release
- Best Youth Release
- Best Budget Release
It’s incredibly hard to say that there is a single “BEST” release out there for everyone. I’ve used a number of releases over the years and there were a few I hated, a few I loved, and some that weren’t memorable.
I also know it can be hard to pick one out, so I did the leg work for you using a combination of research and my personal experience.
Best Wrist Strap Release
Tru-Fire Hardcore Buckle Foldback MAX
The wrist strap release aid is probably the most widely used type of release. I’ve owned a number of them over the years from a few different manufacturers.
One brand I’ve had good luck with is Tru-Fire, and it’s part of the reason I picked the Tru-Fire Hardcore release as my best pick in this category. It’s not the highest end, but I feel it provides incredible value and features for the money.
Here’s a look at what makes this one my top pick:
- Incredibly comfortable strap (maybe the best on the market)
- Adjustability (length, trigger pressure and travel)
- 100% Made in the USA
- Hook style head for Fast D-loop engagement
- Swept back trigger
It’s hard enough to find a decently priced product made in the USA, and this one offers some great features. Amazon carries this model for a really nice price. I’ve owned Tru-fire releases aids before and feel they offer a great product for Bowhunters and target shooters alike.
One thing to note is that this type of release is designed to be used with a string loop (or D-loop).
If you want to shoot off the string you should use a caliper style wrist release, and Tru-fire has a nice option with the TruFire Edge also available on Amazon.
Best Handheld Thumb Release
Carter Enterprises Wise Choice 3 Finger
When it comes to handheld releases it’s hard to beat a Carter. High quality smooth shooting releases used by professionals and amateurs alike.
The Carter Enterprises Wise Choice is a top selling release on Amazon with tons of great reviews (click here to see it). But that’s not the only reason I picked this as a best recommendation for handheld releases.
Carter is well known in the Archery industry for being quality made and very reliable. They make releases with a smooth operation. Here’s a few key points about this thumb release that I like.
- Auto Closing Jaw for quick and easy attachment
- Precise and simple trigger tension adjustment
- Index finger hole for added security and peace of mind
Giving this release a shot would be a “wise choice“. See what I did there? But seriously, I’d really recommend any Carter product but this one is a fan favorite.
Best Hinge (Back Tension) Release
Scott Ascent Micro
There are a number of quality hinge releases on the market and you can easily spend over $200 on one. But that’s what I like about the Scott Advantage, it’s reasonably priced (check it out on Amazon) and still offers superb quality and function.
- Patent pending dual sear locking design
- Thumb Peg for drawing assistance
- Micro adjustable click distance
- Micro adjustable travel
A back tension (hinge) release like this is the best way to battle target panic and/or improve your shot. Removing anticipation can really help you tighten your groups.
Best Youth Release
Scott Hero
Hands down this is one of my favorite youth releases and it’s very reasonably priced. I’ve said it before, but Scott is a reputable company that makes quality products and they don’t skimp on their youth products either.
The Best price I’ve found for the Hero release is consistently on Amazon. In fact, my daughter wants to try a release next season and this one is sitting in my wish list for her.
- Designed for kids smaller hands
- Adjustable strap
- Knurled trigger for extra grip
Best Budget Release
TruFire Patriot Wrist Release
So you’re on a budget or not sure you’ll like shooting a release? Well this is probably the best bang for the buck that you’ll find. Make the deal even sweeter by heading over to Amazon where the TruFire Patriot is a top seller with a great price (under $20 at the time this was writen).
Don’t let the price fool you though, this thing is packed with great features for twice the cost. The Caliper style head is familiar to most archers and great for beginners or seasoned archers.
- Padded Nylon Velcro Strap
- Adjustable trigger sensitivity
- Made in the USA! (yes even at this price)
- Right or Left handed
As you can see, this is a very affordable release that offers good value and quality. It’s probably the least expensive release available that’s made in the USA.