How to Pull & Release a Bowstring

Shooting a bow requires a combination of strength, concentration, and the habit of long practice. When performed properly, the pull and release of a bowstring is a smooth series of motions with no jerks or long pauses. A good pull and release is an essential part of shooting a bow accurately and safely.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow
  • Arrows
  • Wrist guard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Grasp the bow in your non-dominant hand. Assume a firing stance with your feet shoulder width apart. You should be facing the target squarely, or at most a few degrees to one side.

    • 2

      Nock an arrow by placing it on the bowstring just above the nocking point (the small bead about halfway down the bowstring). If your bow has two nocking points, nock the arrow between them. The arrow should rest between your index and middle fingers on the string. Use the second joints of your fingers to grasp the string. The shaft of the arrow should be just above your bow hand.

    • 3

      Raise the bow to a firing position, putting a moderate amount of strain on the string. Your drawing hand and shoulder should all be at the same height, with the elbow slightly higher. The arrow should be leveled at the target. The bow should rest in the vee between your thumb and forefinger.

    • 4

      Draw the arrow back in one smooth motion until the drawing hand is even with your chin. The majority of the strain should be on the muscles of your back, not all on your arm.

    • 5

      Aim at your target. The string and bow should form a straight line between you and the target.

    • 6

      Release the arrow by relaxing your fingers and allowing the bowstring to move your fingers out of the way. Let the bow fall naturally into a follow-through position, similar to the nocking position.