If you've immersed yourself into the world of archery for even a small amount of time, you will know there is a great variety of release aid available to you. From hinge to index, from thumb to resistance, and quite a few variants between them, there is a release purpose-built for every environment and occasion.
If you are new, you can check out an overview on all release styles HERE. This article will help you understand the references and release styles used in this article.
The releases that have historically dominated the competitive archery scene epitomize precision and repeatability over all else. Many of the release options traditionally used by hunters have prioritized simplicity and reliability.
This is not to say that target releases can't be simple or that hunting releases can't be precise, bur rather that those designs are generally geared towards those attributes. The simple, and common, dual-caliper index releases are perfect for your short-distance hunting scenarios, but they have an inherent imprecision that comes with that jaw system.
In some cases, those caliper systems can inconsistently release the d-loop due to variance in finger pressure and trigger speed - as I stated above, this is inherent in their design.
There are those of us that have been archery hunting with index releases for our whole lives, but now with the growing popularity of events such as the Total Archery Challenge, we might be questioning our old choice in release. This begs the question of, if you want to keep shooting an index release, what would be the best release to maximize your long range precision?
Fortunately, there is more to the index release market than your standard dual-caliper style hunting releases.
There exists a plethora of precise, single-jaw index releases that were built with repeatable accuracy in mind. These releases don't rely on finger pressure or speed to activate the mechanism, and thus are inherently more consistent when it comes to the release of the D-loop. That consistency is necessary when chasing high scores in competitive archery.
Let's go over a few options below as we explore precision index releases.
The One We Thought of First:
The T.R.U. Ball eXecute V2 Ultra
Modeled after the original - and insanely popular - eXecute, the eXecute V2 carries on the tradition of pure precision that its predecessor built a reputation on. The easy and simple cocking lever is intelligently positioned on the body of the release to allow for quick lock-on when your target buck walks in, and the single-jaw ensures a reliably consistent release from the D-loop.
It includes a Cerakoted one-piece brass release body with stainless-steel jaw, hardened steel internals, and unmatched machining precision. The ergonomic cocking bar and the individual sensitivity and travel adjustments ensure this release is dialed in to your style, and that it functions just as well whether you’re on the line or in the field.
The V2 is available in a solid or a strap connection and comes in three Cerakote colors: Midnight, Terrain, and Evergreen.
The Click One:
The STAN Solex Clicker
STAN's release systems are renowned for their ability to use 'clicks' during the firing process - a small audible and tactile notch in the trigger mechanism prior to the shot breaking. Though they are most commonly found in many hinge-style releases on the market, STAN included them in their thumb buttons and, as you see here, their index finger release as well.
The Solex is an incredibly popular choice for those archers that find the click benefits their shooting, as the click is known to help reduce target panic (or buck fever) as well as build a consistent shot cycle.
The single-sear trigger system means you can set the Solex with heavy tension but a 'zero-creep' travel, allowing for a very repeatable and form-heavy shot break. The trigger also includes a positive reset, which helps with simple repeatability and quick follow-up shots.
The Solex is available in the following:
The One with Tension:
Carter Like Mike II
The Like Mike II - named as the second edition of the Like Mike index release - is an incredibly reliable and simple index release. That isn't to say it doesn't have a few tricks up its sleeve, though.
It features Carter's Controlled Engagement System which negates the need for a trigger travel adjustment screw as the sear engagement is controlled internally by design and tolerance. Trigger Tension is where this release really shines, though.
From the factory, the Like Mike II features a tension adjustment range from 11oz to 3.5lbs. If you like a truly heavy trigger pull, though, you can utilize Carter's included tension system ball that will take the trigger tension to a whopping 11lbs of pressure - that will ensure the release only activates when you truly want it, most likely during your controlled shot cycle.
The Like Mike II is available in a strap connection only - the one in the image below.
The Technical One:
Scott S2
Create the perfect fit and feel tailored uniquely to you with the numerous customization options included on the S2.
The S2 from Scott Archery offers unmatched versatility with its two connection options: A solid spin-back featuring 3 length positions or the tried and true web strap. This wrist strap release includes a double sear trigger and an open hook jaw, ensuring a crisp, consistent shot every time.
The innovative design ensures the feel of consistent trigger pressure by separating the loop tension from the trigger for an ultra-accurate release. The inline, open hook design further enhances accuracy with 100% string and loop clearance by eliminating torque. The S2 even includes multiple trigger and trigger position options to further its level of customizability.
With travel, length, and tension adjustments, the S2 Solid provides complete customization to suit your shooting style. It's designed for archers who demand precision and adaptability in every release. The external cocking button provides a clean, crisp, and positive lock, ensuring your release is visually ready to go when the time comes.
The Scott S2 is available in a solid and a strap connection.
The One with Options:
B3 CL1 Pro
Precision is the name of the game with the CL1 Pro from B3 Archery. The hybrid, multi-sear design, auto-cocking button, fully-adjustable trigger options, and hardened/polished hook allow for the most crisp and precise shot available in an index finger system.
The ultra-comfortable wrist strap, combined with the post length adjustment and independent travel and tension, mean your shot will not only be repeatable and precise, but comfortable and specific to you.
The multi-sear trigger ensures a consistent and precise release and hold, regardless of your back wall or holding position. The CL1 Pro is also able to accommodate multiple different sizes and shapes of trigger that are offered by B3, as well as the ability to change the trigger position to achieve maximum comfort.
The CL1 Pro is available in a solid swivel connection only.
We have come to the end of the examples, but don't allow this list to limit your search for precision index releases. Though these are all exceptional, high-end index releases, there are others on the market that might fit you even better than one of the examples above.
Feel free to view our extensive collection of index releases HERE, so you can find one that helps you perform your best both in the field and on the shooting line.