Archery Drills - Bow Hand Release Drill

Many archers think they are allowing the bow to fall freely when they release, but they are actually grabbing the bow. This drill is great to demonstrate how it should feel like you are “throwing” the bow away and downwards when you release.

Key Points

1. Shoot as normal, but do not put your finger sling on.

2. Get a friend or coach to stand slightly to the side and place their hand under your stabilisers.

3. When you shoot, the bow will jump out of your hand and your coach or friend should catch the bow before it falls on the floor.

4. Make sure to follow through properly with the rest of the shot. It can feel as if you are throwing the bow during this drill, but you must maintain your direction and movement on both the bow and draw sides.

Notes:

Try doing alternate ends with this drill and with normal shooting.

You can learn about how the follow through fits into the recurve shot on our page: The Recurve Shot Cycle.