First Impressions of B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release
As an archery enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the field, I’ve seen countless releases come and go, each promising the moon. The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release, the latest offering from B3 Archery, caught my eye with its promise of security and precision. Its closed hook design, coupled with the multi-location thumb peg, piqued my interest. I was eager to discover if it could truly live up to the hype.
My archery journey started with finger tabs, progressed to wrist straps, and now, I’m constantly searching for that perfect handheld release. The quest for a consistently clean and accurate release has been a long one. I’ve battled target panic and inconsistent anchor points, always searching for an edge. Would the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release be that edge?
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release. The radiused handle felt immediately comfortable in my hand, hinting at the ergonomic design B3 Archery promised. The Crocodile Green finish is a nice touch, setting it apart from the usual black or grey releases.
Compared to my trusty Stan Shootoff! and a Scott Archery Little Goose, the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release felt different. It felt more streamlined and deliberate. The Stan is known for its crisp trigger, while the Scott provides familiar reliability, but the B3 Archery intrigued me with its secure hook and adjustable features. I chose the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release for its closed hook system, hoping it would eliminate any string slippage during the draw.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The design appeared well-thought-out, and the build quality seemed promising. I hoped this release would provide the consistency and accuracy I’ve been looking for. It also needed to feel natural in my hand and be easy to adjust in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release was at my local archery range, a mix of indoor and outdoor lanes. I spent the day shooting at distances from 20 to 60 yards. The weather was clear, but the air had that crisp, fall bite, perfect for testing gear.
The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release performed surprisingly well in the range conditions. The closed hook design gave me an immediate sense of confidence, and the draw felt smoother than with my wrist strap release. After a few practice shots, I was grouping arrows tighter than usual at 40 yards.
There was a slight learning curve adjusting to the multi-location thumb peg, but once dialed in, it provided a very comfortable and repeatable anchor point. I didn’t encounter any issues, but I did notice that the release was sensitive to even slight adjustments in my grip. This required more focus on consistency.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release continues to impress. I have used it in various conditions, including a light rain and some dusty outdoor shoots. The finish shows no signs of wear, and the internal mechanism still feels smooth and crisp.
The Hardened 440C Stainless Steel Sear appears to be holding up well, with no noticeable change in trigger pressure. The adjustable handle design has allowed me to fine-tune the fit to my hand, reducing fatigue during longer shooting sessions. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use.
Compared to my older releases, the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release offers a significant improvement in consistency and accuracy. My confidence in making accurate shots at longer distances has increased noticeably. The B3 Archery delivers on its promise of a secure and smooth release, outperforming my previous experiences with other handheld models.
Breaking Down the Features of B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release
Specifications
The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release boasts several key specifications. The Closed Hook Design ensures a secure connection to the bowstring, eliminating any chance of slippage during the draw. It is made by B3 Archery and comes in Crocodile Green.
The release features Travel Adjustments for precise trigger control and a Fully Radiused Handle for a comfortable grip. The Hardened 440C Stainless Steel Sear provides exceptional durability and consistent performance. A Multi-Location Thumb Peg allows for customized grip and control, while options exist for a 3 or 4 Finger Base Handle.
The Adjustable Handle Design allows for personalized comfort, and the Patented Lock and Load System ensures ease of use. The Springless Internal Design contributes to consistent performance. Finally, the Hand-Polished Stainless Steel Hook delivers smooth releases. These specifications combined, suggest a finely-tuned release.
Performance & Functionality
The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release performs its job exceptionally well. The closed hook design ensures a rock-solid connection. This solid connection boosts confidence and reduces the chance of a premature release. The adjustability of the thumb peg and trigger travel allows for a customized feel, leading to improved accuracy.
Its strengths lie in its consistent release and comfortable ergonomics. One weakness is the initial learning curve required to find the optimal thumb peg position. Overall, the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release meets and even exceeds my expectations for a high-end archery release.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release is excellent. The materials feel premium, and the Fully Radiused Handle is comfortable in hand, even during extended shooting sessions. The weight is well-balanced, contributing to a stable and controlled release.
It is relatively user-friendly. Although finding the perfect thumb peg position and trigger travel takes some experimentation, the adjustments are straightforward. The Patented Lock and Load System simplifies the process of attaching the release to the bowstring.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the Hardened 440C Stainless Steel Sear and other high-quality materials, the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release is built to last. The anodized finish should resist wear and tear. Regular cleaning and lubrication will extend its lifespan.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after each use and occasional lubrication of the moving parts is all that’s needed. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing instead on the core functionality of the release itself. The primary customization option is the Multi-Location Thumb Peg, allowing archers to find the ideal grip position. The release comes with options for either a 3 or 4 finger base handle, further customizing the feel in hand.
It’s compatible with most standard D-loops and bowstrings. While it doesn’t directly support external accessories like wrist straps, the adjustable features allow archers to fine-tune the release to their individual preferences.
Pros and Cons of B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release
Pros
- Secure Closed Hook Design: Eliminates string slippage and boosts confidence.
- Highly Adjustable: Customizable thumb peg and trigger travel for a personalized fit.
- Consistent Release: The Springless Internal Design ensures a smooth and predictable shot every time.
- Durable Construction: The Hardened 440C Stainless Steel Sear and quality materials promise long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The Fully Radiused Handle fits naturally in the hand, reducing fatigue.
Cons
- The learning curve may be too steep for beginner archers.
- The Crocodile Green may not appeal to all users.
Who Should Buy B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release?
The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release is perfect for experienced archers looking to improve their accuracy and consistency. It is also well-suited for hunters who demand a reliable and secure release in the field. Competitive shooters will appreciate the customizable features and consistent performance.
Beginner archers might find the adjustability overwhelming. Also, archers who prefer wrist strap releases may not adapt well to a handheld model.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality D-loop. Ensuring the D-loop is properly installed and maintained is crucial for consistent performance.
Conclusion on B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release
The B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release is an outstanding piece of archery equipment. It provides a level of security, adjustability, and consistency that is hard to find in other releases. The price of $169.99 is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and demonstrable improvements in shooting accuracy.
I would absolutely recommend the B3 Archery Draw Closed Hook Release to any serious archer looking to take their shooting to the next level. Its secure hook, customizable fit, and smooth release make it a valuable addition to any archery setup. Invest in your archery performance and experience the difference a quality release can make.