The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS Made a Bold First Impression
As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of archery and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless releases come and go. But the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS, from the reputable manufacturer TRUGLO, immediately caught my eye with its promise of simplicity and affordability. At a price point that won’t break the bank, this dual jaw release with a Velcro closure offers an accessible entry point for archers of all skill levels.
I needed a reliable, no-frills release for backup and to introduce newcomers to archery without overwhelming them with complicated mechanisms. The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS seemed to fit the bill. My first impression upon unboxing was that of a straightforward, functional design. The Velcro strap felt secure and the release head, although simple, appeared robust enough for its intended purpose.
Compared to more complex releases I’ve used – models with adjustable triggers and elaborate locking mechanisms – the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS presented a welcome contrast. I chose this over other budget releases specifically for the TRUGLO name; I’ve generally found their products reliable, and the Velcro closure seemed more durable than cheaper buckle systems. Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. The low price made me slightly skeptical, but I hoped TRUGLO quality would shine through.
Real-World Testing: Putting TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS was at my local archery range. The weather was mild, perfect for sighting in my recurve bow. Initially, I found the Velcro strap easy to adjust for a comfortable fit.
However, drawing back the bow revealed an immediate issue. The dual jaws felt a little “sticky” on the D-loop, requiring more force to release than I was accustomed to. This caused a slight jerk in my shot. After about 20 shots, my release consistency improved slightly as I adjusted my technique to accommodate the release’s idiosyncrasies.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS has held up reasonably well. The Velcro strap shows no signs of fraying or loosening, despite regular adjustments. The release head, however, continues to feel a bit stiff.
Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to more advanced releases requiring lubrication and intricate disassembly, this is a significant advantage. While it hasn’t entirely replaced my primary release (a high-end model with a crisp trigger), the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS remains a dependable backup and a great training tool for beginners.
Breaking Down the Features of TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS
Specifications
The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS is designed for archers seeking an affordable and simple release aid. It features a dual jaw mechanism for secure D-loop engagement. The closure system is Velcro, allowing for quick and easy adjustments.
The entire release is finished in black, offering a low-profile appearance. The release is designed to be ambidextrous and one size fits most. These specifications offer a simple and streamlined approach to archery releases, targeting archers who prefer user-friendly features and minimal complexities.
Performance & Functionality
The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS performs adequately for its intended purpose: releasing the bowstring. However, the dual jaws don’t offer the smoothest release. As mentioned previously, the “stickiness” requires a deliberate pull to activate, which can impact accuracy, especially for novice archers.
The release is exceptionally easy to use, requiring no complex setup or adjustments beyond fitting the Velcro strap. The simplicity is both a strength and a weakness; while it’s beginner-friendly, experienced archers might find the lack of adjustability limiting. Overall, the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS meets basic expectations but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The materials feel durable enough to withstand regular use, although they lack the premium feel of higher-end releases. The Velcro strap is comfortable against the wrist and provides a secure fit.
The release head is compact and lightweight. The design is inherently user-friendly, with no learning curve for new archers.
Durability & Maintenance
The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS seems reasonably durable, although I anticipate the Velcro strap will eventually wear out with prolonged use. The simplicity of the design makes maintenance a breeze. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth should suffice to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS comes with no additional accessories. There are no customization options.
Pros and Cons of TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Excellent value for budget-conscious archers.
- Simple and Easy to Use: Perfect for beginners and those who prefer a no-frills design.
- Durable Velcro Strap: Provides a secure and adjustable fit.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and requires no specialized care.
- TRUGLO Reliability: A brand known for quality at an accessible price.
Cons
- Sticky Release: The dual jaws require more force than desired, potentially impacting accuracy.
- Limited Adjustability: Lack of customization options may disappoint experienced archers.
Who Should Buy TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS?
The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS is perfect for beginner archers seeking an affordable and easy-to-use release. It’s also suitable as a backup release for experienced archers who appreciate its simplicity and reliability. Anyone teaching archery will find this release useful as a way to quickly onboard students with minimal complexities.
However, competitive shooters and experienced archers seeking a high-performance release with adjustable trigger tension and precise release mechanisms should skip this product. They’ll want a more refined release with more options.
A must-have accessory for those using the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS is a high-quality D-loop; the sticky release can put extra strain on the loop, so a durable one is essential.
Conclusion on TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS
The TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS delivers on its promise of affordability and simplicity. While it lacks the finesse of higher-end releases, it provides a reliable and functional option for beginner archers and those seeking a backup release. The price is definitely justified for what you get.
I would recommend the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS to anyone starting out in archery or looking for a basic, dependable release without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a solid, no-frills release that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, give the TRUGLO RELEASE SPEED SHOT XS a try.