An archery release aid is a personal thing. You’ve gotta find the right one for you, not your friend.Ive personally tested many archery release aids through the years, whether it’s at the archery range or crawling on hands and knees through the desert after a cagey buck.

　　The right release aid can mean the difference between eating tag soup or not for the season.It needs to meet several criteria in order to be worthy. It needs to feel good in the hand and be durable, dependable, and easy to use.

　　With that said, there are no shortage of options out there to choose from. Not to worry. I cut the fat and got down to business. Down below are our top picks for release aids in bowhunting for 2025.

　　Editors note: For our July 24, 2025, update, we added the Evolution Outdoors Shadow Thumb Button Release and included a Price and Value section to explain the differences between variously priced release aids.

　　The Best Archery Release Aids for Bowhunting of 2025 Best Overall Release Aid Spot Hogg Wiseguy 9.2/10 Rating Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at BlackOvisCheck Price at Amazon Best Budget Release Aid Tru-Fire Smoke Buckle Foldback 7.6/10 Rating Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at Cabelas Best Index Release Carter Like Mike II 8.0/10 Rating Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Carter Enterprise Best Thumb Release Stan Onnex 8.9/10 Rating Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at BlackOvis Best Hinge Release Evolution Outdoors Ibex 8.2/10 Rating Jump to review BUY OPTIONS Check Price at Evolution Outdoors See more picks Spot Hogg Wiseguy Check Price at BlackOvisCheck Price at Amazon

　　9.2 How we rate products Specifications Style: Index release Engagement: Adjustable light trigger/no travel Attachment point: Self-reloading open hook Pros Easy to use An ocean of positive reviews Multiple wrist strap styles available (Buckle, BOA, Keep Hammering, etc.) Cons The light trigger can sometimes be too light, causing misfires and even can lead to target panic Josh Kirchner If there is one archery release aid to own the spot of “best overall,” it’s hands down the Wiseguy ($130) from Spot Hogg. Available in both rigid and nylon versions, as well as several options for buckles like the Cameron Hanes Keep Hammering version, the Wiseguy has remained a favorite among bowhunters across the country for good reason.

　　The Wiseguy comes equipped with a self-reloading hook that’s connected to an incredibly light adjustable trigger with zero travel. In a nutshell, this system screams efficiency when you need it most.

　　Because of the ease of use and dependability, this release would do well in any condition on any hunt for any animal. To me, this is the best of all worlds when it comes to archery release aids.

　　Best Budget Release Aid Tru-Fire Smoke Buckle Foldback Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at Cabelas

　　7.6 How we rate products Specifications Style: Index release Engagement: Adjustable forward trigger Attachment point: Dual caliper Pros Affordable Easy to use Folds back when not in use Cons Barrel is limited to how short it can get and is rather long to start. This will keep many from achieving a full hook over the trigger. Josh Kirchner Tru-Fire is no stranger to the archery-release world. For those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality, the Tru-Fire Smoke Buckle Foldback ($60) is hard to beat.

　　This dual-caliper release features a forward trigger promoting a smoother release and can be adjusted for both left-handed and right-handed shooters. Bowhunters will also benefit from the comfortable wrist strap and the adjustable trigger travel.

　　And to cap it all off, the Smoke has a handy foldback feature that allows you to fold the barrel of the release back and out of the way of your hand. It’s about as good as it gets for not a whole lot of coin.

　　Best Index Release Carter Like Mike II Check Price at Carter Enterprise

　　8.0 How we rate products Specifications Style: Index Engagement: Rearward trigger Attachment point: Open hook Pros The rear trigger and web connect allows for a full hook with an index finger Simple but effective adjustments Wide range of trigger tensions Cons Expensive Josh Kirchner Index release aids are, without a doubt, the most popular among bowhunters. And the Carter Like Mike II ($200) is the best of the best in that category.

　　This index-style release is the next generation of its predecessor, the original Like Mike. The Like Mike II has a buckle-styled wrist strap and an adjustable web connection. An open hook design allows for quick D-loop acquisition and the rear-placed trigger cater to achieving a full hook at full draw.

　　Features of the Like Mike II are everything you need and nothing you don’t. The trigger has a tension adjustment range between 10 ounces to about 3.5 pounds. And for heavier triggers, Carter includes a steel ball to install that will raise the tension up to around 11 pounds.

　　Something else to note is that the Like Mike II doesn’t have a trigger travel adjustment like many other releases. It doesn’t need one, due to the Carter Controlled Engagement System. This is all controlled internally and by tolerance. 

　　After extensive testing in a wide range of conditions, giving the title of Best Index Release to the Carter Like Mike II was a no-brainer. To learn more about the Like Mike II, check out our full review.

　　Best Thumb Release Stan Onnex Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at BlackOvis

　　8.9 How we rate products Specifications Style: Handheld thumb release Engagement: Thumb button Attachment point: Hook with loop retainer Pros Crisp trigger Has a practice mode Very adjustable Cons This trigger can be set so hot that it might prematurely fire. Josh Kirchner Thumb releases are showing up more and more in the bowhunting woods. For archers looking for a thumb release that’s as good as it gets, the Onnex ($280) from Stanislawski deserves eyes.

　　The Onnex seems to be the next version of the popular Stanislawski PerfeX thumb release. Just like the PerfeX, the OnneX comes with attachments for 2-finger, 3-finger, and 4-finger use. You’ll also get a few different thumb barrels with multiple barrel posts. And let’s not forget, the OnneX comes equipped with the crisp Stanislawski trigger everyone loves.

　　With that crisp trigger, Stanisklawski provides you with the ability to adjust trigger travel and trigger tension. And while the thumb barrel sizes can be changed out, you can also change the angle of them. Stan wants you to get this release EXACTLY how you like it.

　　A few other things worth mentioning are the ability to use the Onnex in practice mode and with the loop retainer. By inserting a small pin that comes with your release, you’ll be able to engage the trigger without the hook ever collapsing. A great training tool. And the loop retainer allows a seamless connection between the hook and D-loop, with the added benefit of letting the release hang from the D-loop while not in use.

　　Stanislawski really sets the bar here with its Onnex. For serious hunters looking for a top-of-the-line thumb release, this is it.

　　Best Hinge Release Evolution Outdoors Ibex Check Price at Evolution Outdoors

　　8.2 How we rate products Specifications Style: Handheld hinge Engagement: Rotation of a half-moon Attachment point: Caliper-style string retention Pros Locks on D-loop Click is more of a feel than it is audible Can be reset after clicking Cons Resetting the head after each shot takes a bit of practice Josh Kirchner Hinge releases have long been used by target archers with success. Their practicality for bowhunting, though, has never been too high. Evolution Outdoors has just changed that with the new Ibex hinge release ($300).

　　Evolution Outdoors is mostly known for its devastating broadheads, but recently jumped into the release game. The new Ibex release comes in two sizes, Small/Medium and Medium/Large. It weighs 2.3 ounces and is made of sturdy aluminum. Included with all releases are an attachable thumb peg and tab, a lanyard, and an EVA case.  

　　The Ibex is a problem solver, plain and simple. First and foremost, its unique design offers the ability for the release to pivot in the handle, not at the head. This is huge for consistent accuracy downrange. And with the micro-adjustable sears, you can ensure you’ll get just the right feel.

　　Another big standout is that the Ibex can be locked right onto your d-loop and hung at the ready — a valuable feature for bowhunters, whether theyre in a treestand or spot and stalking.

　　Unlike other hinges on the market that have a loud click, which indicates it’s getting close to firing, the Ibex has almost no sound on the click. It’s more of something you feel. Once it “clicks,” you can actually reset it, which is unique to the Ibex.

　　For a more comprehensive take on this hinge release, check out our in-depth review of the Evolution Outdoors Ibex.

　　Other Release Aids Tested for This Guide B3 Archery Hawk Check Price at Cabelas

　　7.3 How we rate products Specifications Style: Index Engagement: Forward trigger Attachment point: Open hook Pros Great price point Auto hook return Offered in both flex (web) and swivel (post) versions Cons In order to adjust trigger tension, you need to actually change a spring out, as opposed to slowly adjusting a screw. Josh Kirchner Solid and dependable with no BS. That’s what comes to mind with the B3 Archery Hawk ($106) index release aid.

　　This is a single sear open hook release aid with an angled forward trigger to maximize draw length. B3 Archery offers this release in an adjustable flex(web connection) and a swivel model. And the wrist strap operates via a buckle.

　　One of the coolest features of the Hawk release aid is its spring-loaded auto hook return. After each shot, the hook returns to zero, because time is money. And with the trigger, you’ll have the option of adjusting the travel and tension to get just the right feel you’re looking for.

　　No fluff, just results. Check out the Hawk from B3 Archery if that sounds up your alley.

　　Evolution Outdoors Shadow Thumb Button Release check price at evolution outdoorsCheck Price at Scheels

　　9.1 How we rate products Specifications Weight: 2.3 oz. Material: Aluminum Colors: Arizona Archery Green Cerakote, Sniper Grey Cerakote Pros Very smooth and crisp Can hang from D-Loop Same profile as the Ibex hinge, meaning the two can be interchanged while still maintaining the same point of impact Cons Only offered in size Medium at the moment Josh Kirchner Read Review: Same Impact, Different Trigger: Evolution Shadow Thumb Release Review With the popularity of the Ibex, Evolution expanded its offerings by introducing the Evolution Shadow Thumb Button Release ($279), a shadow of the Ibex, with one significant distinction: it features a thumb button.

　　For many, hunting with a hinge-style release is a scary proposition, so Evolution owner Dale Perry made this one. Having two nearly identical releases offers a unique benefit. You can practice with the Ibex, but transfer to the Shadow in hunting scenarios.

　　Since the releases are so similar in hand, youll get the same impact point downrange when switching back and forth. You can fight off the panic during practice sessions with the Ibex, and get the control you want in hunting scenarios with the Shadow.

　　This thumb button also offers another unique feature- the option to purchase a separate inline barrel. Thumb button releases traditionally have an offset barrel. After shooting the release in both configurations, the inline configuration felt much more natural.

　　Everything about it is high quality, with a crisp, smooth operation. The only downside is that as of right now, its not available in larger sizes. So, if you have larger hands, youll need to look elsewhere.

　　Stan SoleX Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at Amazon

　　7.9 How we rate products Specifications Style: Index Engagement: Index finger trigger Attachment point: Open hook Pros Affordable with premium features and design Adjustable trigger tension and trigger travel Web connect allows one to shoot with a full hook from their index finger Cons A gap beneath the hook can allow debris inside the release Josh Kirchner The Stan SoleX ($99) checks all of the boxes for precision and accuracy for bowhunters at a fraction of the cost.

　　Stan Releases is well-known in the archery industry for its exceptional quality and its new SoleX doesn’t disappoint. This is an open hook index-style release made with everything you need and nothing you don’t. Bowhunters can purchase this release in either a web-connect model or a hard-connect model. Both are adjustable and both use a buckled-style wrist strap.

　　The SoleX has adjustable trigger tension and trigger travel to ensure you can match this release to your shooting style. Stan claims that when adjusting these settings via the easily-accessible screws, the open hook will never prematurely engage — if the hook is locked, then it’s locked. Our testing so far has confirmed these claims.

　　One of our favorite things about this release rests specifically with the web connect. It offers the ability to really shorten up the real estate between trigger and wrist strap. This, paired with being able to set the trigger heavy, allows a bowhunter to get a proper full hook with their index finger around the trigger.

　　Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned bowhunter, the SoleX from Stan Releases deserves your attention. Don’t sleep on this one.

　　For a deeper dive, check out our in-depth review of the Stan SoleX.

　　Ultraview Hinge 2 Check Price at Scheels

　　7.5 How we rate products Specifications Style: Handheld hinge Engagement: Rotation of a half moon Attachment point: Open magnetic hook Pros Quick D-loop acquisition Dual moon system The magnetic hook doesn’t rattle Cons Expensive The price will make many folks shy away Josh Kirchner Hinge releases have long been used by target archers with success. For hunting, though, they’ve never been too practical. Ultraview breaks those boundaries with the Hinge 2 ($250).

　　The Hinge 2 is absolutely loaded with customization options, from finishes in either anodized aluminum or matte black stainless to two-, three-, and four-finger models and right down to the ability to add on their hunting bracket. The hunting bracket allows a bowhunter to attach a lanyard of their choosing to the release, so it stays on their person at all times.

　　Another cool hunting feature is its magnetic head. This keeps the head of the release from rattling around and caters to quick D-loop acquisition when time is of the essence. And their new dual-moon system allows one to micro-adjust the timing of both their click and fire moons.

　　Ultraview UV Button Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at BlackOvis

　　7 How we rate products Specifications Style: Handheld Engagement: Thumb button Attachment point: Hook with springed D-loop retainment system Pros Mirrored profile allows one to seamlessly switch between Ultraview hinge and UV button Quiet (very little metal-on-metal contact inside release) Can leave attached to D-loop at the ready Cons Pretty darn expensive Josh Kirchner Ultraview is well known for its hinge-style releases, but the company recently came out with a thumb button. The Ultraview UV Button ($350) is no slouch in the release department.

　　This handheld thumb release was made with consistency in mind. It has the same exact profile as the Ultraview Hinge release, which means the impact points between the two will be the same. You’ll have the choice between two different sizes (M and L) as well as two different finishes (Matte Black and Smoke Gray).

　　The internals of this release are equipped with ULTRAGLYDE technology. This eliminates any and all unnecessary metal-on-metal contact via bushings. A quieter and more advanced step for handheld releases. And while we’re on internals, you do have micro-adjust in both trigger travel and tension.

　　Some other things to mention are the Contour Knob and Springed D-Loop Retainment. The Contour Thumb Knob has spiral grooves that prevent slip and create a point of reference for repeatability. And the Springed D-Loop Retainment lets you keep your release on your string ready for anything at all times.

　　The Ultraview UV Button is a step in the right direction for thumb releases. A great addition for any serious bowhunter.

　　Spot Hogg Keeton $143 at Amazon

　　6.7 How we rate products Specifications Style: Index/handheld hybrid Engagement: Trigger Attachment point: Single hook with full containment Pros Combines index and handheld pros Draw more weight easier and hold at full draw longer Good for folks with pre-existing injuries and to help avoid injury overall Cons Design can take some getting used to for operation Josh Kirchner A wrist strap index style release that’s also a handheld release? We’re talking about the Spot Hogg Keeton ($115).

　　The Spot Hogg Keeton takes everything to be loved about a wrist strap index and combines it with a handheld. This hybrid type of release has an integrated handle that swivels, a wrist strap, and an index-style trigger. The wrist strap has an adjustable webbing as well.

　　One of the biggest positives about the design of the Keeton is that it naturally allows the hunter to pull more draw weight easier. You can more evenly distribute weight throughout the hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder. And because of that, you can stay at full draw longer.

　　From full draw, the integrated handle will pivot out of the way, leading to perfect trigger acquisition. No time is wasted, and efficiency is at an all-time high.

　　The Spot Hogg Keeton is a great release for bowhunters wanting to maybe up their draw weight and hold time at full draw. Or even folks with previous injuries. All the while gaining the best of both worlds between index styles and handheld release aids. Not to mention, it’s just different.

　　Scott Archery Pursuit Check Price at Cabelas

　　7.3 How we rate products Specifications Style: Handheld thumb with wrist strap Engagement: Thumb button Attachment point: Open single caliper (closes manually) Pros Combines security of wrist strap with the precision of a thumb release Ergonomic handle Has 3- and 4-finger extensions Cons Manually closing the caliper takes some getting used to Josh Kirchner When it comes to the game of inches that is bowhunting, efficiency is everything. The Pursuit ($170) by Scott Archery is efficient, practical, and precise.

　　The Pursuit combines the practicality of an index finger release with the precision of a thumb release. This handheld release has an ergonomic handle with a fully adjustable trigger position and trigger travel to give the feel you want.

　　The target-inspired multi-sear technology makes that trigger about as crisp as they get as well. To add to the customization, the Pursuit comes with three- and four-finger extensions.

　　And because of the wrist strap, you won’t be fumbling around looking for your thumb release in the field. The Pursuit is always there and at the ready.

　　Carter Wise Choice $258 at Amazon

　　6.0 How we rate products Specifications Style: Handheld thumb Engagement: Thumb button Attachment point: Fully closed jaw once cocked Pros A favorite among bowhunters Can leave hanging on D-loop Optional lanyard Cons Pricey Josh Kirchner There is an incalculable amount of hours that bowhunters spend in the field each fall. All those hours come down to one moment, and the Carter Wise Choice ($230) will be there time and time again.

　　Carter has been making top-notch releases for over 25 years, and the Wise Choice has become a favorite among bowhunters. This three-finger thumb release comes in either black, blue, red, or silver.

　　You’ll also notice it has the option of using a lanyard for your wrist. If that’s not your cup of tea, then the fully closed jaw once cocked will allow you to attach it to your D-loop and let it hang at the ready. Read: This is a perfect setup for treestand hunting.

　　The Wise Choice has both adjustable trigger tension as well as adjustable barrel positions. If you’re serious about your bowhunting, then this release from Carter would be a “wise choice.”

　　Archery Release Aids Comparison Chart

　　Why You Should Trust Us There isn’t one day. Not one day goes by without me doing something bowhunting-related. It’s one of my ultimate passions, and that passion flows through my veins stronger and stronger with each passing year.

　　Bowhunting is quite literally a game of inches. A whole lot has to go right in order for success to materialize. Which means there is even more that can go wrong. Release aids are not something I mess around with in the least. They need to be on point, because I need to be on point. In that regard, I’ve tried a ton of releases, and am always looking for the next best one.

　　In order to come up with this list, I took into consideration durability, dependability, ease of use, and practicality. Some of these releases have been shot over and over again for years, dragged through all manner of weather, getting thrown every which way from Sunday. Along with that, I noted a wide range of price points, other experts in my circle, and then also market demand. All of them cut the mustard.

　　When testing, I’m looking for how crisp the trigger engagement is, the feel of the release in my hand, and the adjustments. Adjustments like trigger travel and trigger tension are tinkered with for the right feel too. Durability is something I don’t take lightly either. Bowhunting doesn’t happen in a nice, comfortable office. It happens at the mercy of Mother Nature and the gear that’s with me needs to be ready for that.

　　A bad release can blow up a hunt. And for me, that’s just not an option. It shouldn’t be one for you either.

　　(Photo/Josh Kirchner) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Archery Release Handheld vs. Index Release Going through our list, you’ll notice that there are several options for both handheld and index-style release aids. So, on top of just finding the right release for you, this poses yet another question. Should you snag a handheld release or an index-style release?

　　Both releases are tried and true, but they indeed each have their own pros and cons. Here is a breakdown of each to get you set on the right track

　　Index-Style Release Aid Index-style release aids are by a long shot the most popular option among bowhunters. If you’re familiar with firing a gun at all, even a toy gun, this will be a pretty seamless transition. Operating this trigger system is nearly identical to that of a trigger on a gun.

　　These releases attach to your wrist via a buckled or Velcro strap. A very handy feature for field use and one that will make sure your release is always ready. The chances of losing one of these are very slim because of this. Along with that, they are incredibly easy to use.

　　As I mentioned above, it’s virtually the same as the trigger on a gun. Pull the bow back, aim, and pull the trigger. That’s all she wrote. All of this makes these a fantastic option, especially for beginner bowhunters. There are also plenty of seasoned pros who prefer the simplicity of this type of release.

　　(Photo/Josh Kirchner) The biggest downside of an index-style release is that they are notorious for instilling target panic in folks. Because they are so easy to use, most don’t actually learn the proper way to use them. Why learn when it’s the same as a gun, right? It’s very similar mentally, but not the same in terms of technique.

　　Without direction and proper technique, bad habits can form, and boom goes the dynamite. You’ve got the panic. It’s best to try and stay on top of this before it’s an issue.

　　(Photo/Josh Kirchner) Handheld Release Aid On the other side, we have the handheld release. As far as what they are, the name really says it all. These are going to be either thumb buttons, hinges, or resistance releases.

　　Each one of them operates a little differently, but they are all known for their incredible accuracy. Mostly prevalent in the target world, these have been growing in popularity quite a bit for bowhunting over the last few years.

　　One of the biggest ups I can personally give handheld releases is their ability to combat the target panic that we mentioned above. This is why I personally believe most bowhunters will naturally end up trying one out. They are a fantastic tool for reshaping the mind and battling the mental demon that is target panic.

　　(Photo/Josh Kirchner) Along with this, they each cater much more to achieving a surprise shot, which usually translates into more consistent accuracy. This is why they are favored among target archers. And with thumb button releases in particular — depending on the design — hunters can actually attach their release to their D-loop and just let it hang there at the ready. A convenient setup.

　　Just like anything, though, handhelds have their shortcomings. Handhelds are much easier to lose, as most models are not attached to your wrist. Because of how pricey these can be, that’s a hard pill to swallow and a lucky day for anyone who finds the release you dropped.

　　And with them not attached to your wrist, if it’s not already attached to your D-loop, there is the possibility of fumbling around looking for your release in the heat of the moment. There’s a smidge more thinking involved with a handheld. Either way, a little practice will be in order.

　　(Photo/Josh Kirchner) So, Which One Is Better? As far as which one is better, that really is going to depend on you, your style of hunting, and your goals. Treestand hunters might prefer those thumb-button handhelds more because they can attach the release and let it hang until ready to shoot.

　　Spot and stalk hunters might prefer an index style, so they don’t have to worry about where their release is as they crawl through the sagebrush toward that bedded buck. The answer rests in the beholder.

　　My best advice here is to go try them all out and go with the option that feels the best for you. Most bow shops have various archery releases that you can try on-site, so it never hurts to ask.

　　We’re all different, and we need to remember that. Sure, there is give and take on each end, but you are the one who decides what you want to give and take. Form your own opinions and hunt the way you want to hunt.

　　Price and Value At face value, a release may seem like a basic piece of equipment. Many hunters who dont understand why on earth someone would pay over $200 for one when there are options that do the same thing for $40. However, theyre far from basic and spending more money on one is worth the coin.

　　Budget At a minimum, hunters should plan on spending $30-60 on a release. And honestly, it should be closer to the $60 mark. Releases have complicated, small internal parts, and quality construction is important.

　　Budget releases are made from lower-quality materials without tight tolerances. Cheaper ones may end up failing. Is that worth saving a few bucks? A release is the primary thing keeping your bow from sending a sharp projectile downrange at high speeds. From a safety standpoint, thats probably not the best. And when bowhunting, anything that can go wrong will go wrong. You dont want a cheap release to be the thing that results in a missed shot you worked so hard to get.

　　That being said, there are budget options like the Tru-Fire Smoke Buckle Foldback that will provide reliable performance. Most quality budget releases are index releases. Thats because handheld releases require more moving parts, which cost more to manufacture.

　　For many hunters, a budget index release is all they ever use. However, that can build bad habits. If you develop target panic, youll more than likely need to jump up in price on a new release.

　　Mid-Tier Jumping up to $90-160 gives bowhunters access to a more diverse style of releases. In this price range, youll find some decent thumb releases, such as the Scott Archery Pursuit. Handheld releases in this price range wont have the smoothest operation and wont be as adjustable as their expensive counterparts.

　　Spending this kind of money will also give you access to some of the highest-quality index releases on the market like the Stan SoleX and the Spot Hogg Wiseguy. Since index releases arent as complicated as other styles, brands can put high-quality materials, tight tolerances, and greater adjustability in them without asking extremely high prices.

　　Premium Archery release aids are a lot like the trigger on a gun. Sure, you can get by with a cheap one. But the best will be buttery smooth, have a wide range of adjustability, and likely improve accuracy. For release aids, that means spending $200 or more.

　　Releases like the StanOnnex allow users to adjust the trigger/button tension to perfectly fit the archers preference. That particular release also comes with different barrel sizes, and you can adjust the angle of the barrel. Stan even allows you to adjust the number of fingers you place on the release. Thats the name of the game with premium releases: adjustability that allows the perfect fit for individual users.

　　In this price category, youll be able to find a myriad of hinge releases and thumb releases. Many of these releases are designed to help develop proper form and can assist archers in overcoming target panic.

　　Like a high-end trigger, premium releases will have a smooth operation, tight tolerances, and be built to last. Dont get me wrong, they wont automatically make you a better archer, but if used correctly, they will tighten up groupings. If youre doing things right and shooting your bow often, a premium release is the way to go.

　　FAQ What release should I use for bowhunting? You should use the one you feel the most comfortable using and what you’re most accurate with. We stand by our top pick of the Spot Hogg Wiseguy here.

　　What is the best release for treestand hunting? We really like thumb button releases for treestand hunting like the Stanislawski OnneX because you can attach the release to the d-loop and let it hang at the ready.

　　How long should my bow release be? Speaking about index style releases, your release aid should be short enough that you can fully wrap your index finger around the trigger at full draw.

　　Do I need a release for my bow? Technically you don’t need a release for your bow and you can shoot with fingers. However, using a release will make for a more consistent and repeatable release arrow after arrow.

　　Is a wrist or hand release better for hunting? Ultimately, you should use the release you feel most comfortable with, but a wrist strap index-style release is definitely more practical for bowhunting. This is due to the fact that it’s attached to your wrist at all times, so no losing it in the field. Along with the ability to command shoot if need be. Not to forget, these are generally the easiest to use. All releases work, but there is a reason the index style is the most widely used for bowhunting.

　　The Best Broadheads for Hunting in 2024 Finding the right broadhead for you can be the difference between filling a tag and not. Heres our list of game-dropping broadheads for 2024.

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