The Release

A Pioneering Piece of Archery History

This iconic product played a pivotal role in launching the release aid movement of the 1960s.

The Release was among the very first—if not the first—commercially injection-molded release aids available to archers. It quickly earned a reputation for performance and durability, contributing to many of the first 300 perfect scores ever recorded using a release.

Designed, molded, manufactured, and field-tested by Pat Norris himself, The Release stood out for its unbreakable design, unlike many early homemade versions that failed under pressure.

It features a simple yet effective mechanism: pulled with one finger and released with two. When used correctly, it offers a true surprise release and smooth follow-through, the hallmarks of precision shooting.

Its minimal hand strain and straightforward operation also make it an excellent choice for shooters with arthritis or limited hand strength, providing comfort without sacrificing performance.

Whether you're an avid collector or you're looking to improve your precision, The Release is a must-have piece for any archery release collection.

Measures approximately 2-1/8" x 1-1/2" x 3/4". Weighs approximately 0.6 ounces.

What is a surprise release in archery? A surprise release occurs when the bowstring is released without the archer consciously "triggering" the shot at a precise instant. Instead, the shot breaks naturally as proper back tension and aiming are maintained. Many target archers believe a surprise release helps reduce target panic and promotes better follow-through, leading to more consistent accuracy. Early release aids like The Release were designed to help archers achieve this smooth, controlled shooting technique.