What the best way to hold the arrow on the string ....between the pointer and middle or thumb ring ect?

Question

What the best way to hold the arrow on the string ....between the pointer and middle or thumb ring ect?

Answer 1

There are two main methods of holding the arrow on the string: The "Mediterranean release" and the "Asian release".

In the Mediterranean release, the index ("pointer") finger is placed above the arrow nock, while the second ("ring") finger and third finger are placed below; the string is placed approximately in the first joint from the finger tips. The thumb and "pinky" finger are not used.

In the Asian release, the thumb is placed on the string, wrapping around it, under the arrow; the index finger (and sometimes the other fingers) is used to "lock" the thumb in place. The side of the index finger is usually pressed against the arrow nock, twisting the string a small amount, to aid in keeping the arrow on the string. NOTE: This method is not recommended unless you use a "thumbring", a device designed to protect the thumb from the string.

There are other methods of release, such as the one children most often begin with, The "Tertiary" release, where the arrow nock actually is pinched between the thumb and index finger. This method is not recommended for various reasons, such as safety (if your "pinch grip" isn't strong enough, it is far too easy for someone to get hurt).

Hope this helps. :-)

Answer 2

Well, any modern arrow will have nocks that hold it on the string.  You don't actually need to hold the arrow.  About the only style of archery where the archer actually hold the arrow between his fingers is that done by native Americans and some natives in the Amazon.

Now as for what is the best way to hold the string, well, there's a reason you don't see anyone at the Olympics shooting with any other type of finger position but the Mediterranean draw style.  That is split fingers, index finger above the arrow and the other two fingers under.   There are numerous advantages to this type of draw.  It allows for direct bone on bone contact between the jaw bone and the top of the index finger.  The index finger sitting between the jaw and the arrow also places the arrow further down the face, allowing the archer to cover more distance with his sight without having to pull too much weight.

Now if you're into certain traditional archery, you might not have an option but to go with a certain type of release.  With Kyudo for example, you won't get anywhere in rank unless you shoot with a special glove with a built in thumb ring.