Carter Evolution 20 Release Review

First Impressions of Carter Evolution 20 Release

The Carter Evolution 20 Release enters the resistance-activated release market with promises of enhanced adjustability and a streamlined design. Carter Enterprises is a well-known name, and the Evolution 20 aims to improve upon its predecessors. With a single-spring system and an adjustable hold weight spanning 8-40 lbs, this release piqued my interest.

As an archer with over a decade of experience, I was looking for a resistance release that offered both micro-adjustments and consistent performance. My current release felt clunky, and I struggled to dial in the precise tension I needed for a clean shot. The Evolution 20’s lightweight build and adjustable settings seemed like a potential solution to my accuracy woes.

Upon unboxing, the release felt solid and well-made, despite its light weight of 3.2 oz. The three-finger design felt comfortable in my hand, and the hasp mechanism appeared intuitive. Compared to my previous resistance release, the Evolution 20 felt noticeably more compact and refined.

I chose this release over others because of the Carter reputation for quality and the promise of precise micro-adjustments. Some releases I’ve tested felt imprecise, leading to inconsistent activation. I was excited by the potential for improved accuracy and consistency.

My initial impression was positive; the release felt well-designed and the adjustment range seemed promising. Time on the range would tell if it lived up to the hype.


Real-World Testing: Putting Carter Evolution 20 Release to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Carter Evolution 20 Release was at my local archery range. I set up my target at 20 yards and began experimenting with the hold weight. The micro-adjustments were indeed very precise, allowing me to dial in the resistance to my liking.

The release performed well in the controlled environment of the range. It took some time to get used to the resistance activation, especially after using a trigger release for so long. However, after about an hour, I felt comfortable with the feel and activation of the release.

After first use, I was surprised by how clean the release felt. My previous release had a noticeable “click” upon firing. The Evolution 20 was much smoother.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Carter Evolution 20 Release has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the release. The finish has remained intact, and the mechanism feels as smooth as it did on day one.

Cleaning and maintaining the release is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is all it requires. I’ve also applied a small amount of lubricant to the jaw mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous resistance release, the Carter Evolution 20 Release is a significant improvement. The micro-adjustments make it much easier to fine-tune the resistance, leading to more consistent shots. It has definitely improved my accuracy and confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of Carter Evolution 20 Release

Specifications

  • The Carter Evolution 20 Release is a three-finger, resistance-activated archery release. It is designed to improve accuracy by promoting a consistent draw and release.
  • The release has an adjustable hold weight ranging from 8 to 40 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of archers. This adjustable range allows users to customize the resistance to their specific draw weight and shooting style.
  • The Evolution 20 weighs a mere 3.2 oz, minimizing added weight to the bow setup. This lightweight design helps to reduce fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
  • The release utilizes a single spring mechanism for consistent and reliable performance. This simplicity in design contributes to the overall durability and longevity of the release.
  • The jaw is reset by pushing down on the hasp until it snaps into the closed position. This easy reset mechanism allows for quick and efficient follow-up shots.

Performance & Functionality

The Carter Evolution 20 Release performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent and accurate shots. The adjustability of the hold weight is a standout feature, allowing archers to fine-tune the resistance to their liking. This level of customization translates to better shot execution.

The release’s strengths lie in its smooth operation and precise adjustability. The single spring mechanism provides a consistent feel, and the micro-adjustments make it easy to dial in the perfect resistance. One area that could be improved is the hasp reset mechanism.

Overall, the Carter Evolution 20 Release meets and exceeds expectations. The release is a high-performing, adjustable, and reliable option for archers looking to improve their accuracy and consistency.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carter Evolution 20 Release boasts a sleek and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold and use. The three-finger configuration provides a secure grip, and the lightweight construction minimizes fatigue.

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise machining. This attention to detail contributes to the overall durability and longevity of the release. There is a slight learning curve when transitioning from a trigger release, but the intuitive design makes it easy to master.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carter Evolution 20 Release is built to last, with durable materials and a robust design. It should withstand years of regular use with proper care.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regularly wiping down the release with a clean cloth and applying a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts will keep it performing optimally. No specialized tools or knowledge are required for basic maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carter Evolution 20 Release does not come with many accessories, focusing on the core functionality of the release itself. There are no readily available customization options beyond adjusting the hold weight.

While the Evolution 20 lacks extensive customization, it is compatible with standard d-loops. Users can adjust the d-loop length to further fine-tune their anchor point and release.

Pros and Cons of Carter Evolution 20 Release

Pros

  • Precise Micro-Adjustments: Allows for extremely fine-tuned resistance settings, leading to enhanced accuracy.
  • Lightweight Design: At only 3.2 oz, it reduces hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
  • Smooth & Consistent Release: The single spring mechanism ensures a clean and predictable release.
  • Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand regular use.
  • Easy Reset Mechanism: The hasp design allows for quick and efficient resetting of the jaw.

Cons

  • Hasp Reset Mechanism: The hasp can be difficult to reset, especially with gloves.
  • Price: It comes with a high price tag of $254.99 which may be a barrier to some buyers.


Who Should Buy Carter Evolution 20 Release?

The Carter Evolution 20 Release is perfect for experienced archers seeking a high-performance resistance release with precise adjustability. Target archers and hunters who prioritize accuracy and consistency will benefit most from this product.

This product might not be ideal for beginners due to the learning curve associated with resistance releases. Those on a tight budget may find the price prohibitive.

A must-have modification or addition would be experimenting with different d-loop lengths to optimize anchor point and release feel.

Conclusion on Carter Evolution 20 Release

The Carter Evolution 20 Release is a top-tier resistance release that delivers exceptional performance and adjustability. The micro-adjustments, smooth operation, and lightweight design make it a standout product in its category.

The price tag of $254.99 is undoubtedly an investment, but the enhanced accuracy and consistency justify the cost for serious archers. The Carter Evolution 20 Release is a significant upgrade that will improve your shooting experience.

I would highly recommend the Carter Evolution 20 Release to any archer seeking a premium resistance release with unparalleled adjustability. If you’re serious about accuracy and consistency, this release is worth the investment. Take your archery to the next level; give the Evolution 20 a shot!

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