Let’s Dive into TRU Ball Champ Release
The TRU Ball Champ Release is a thumb-activated archery release designed specifically for archers with smaller hands. Manufactured by TRU Ball, this release aims to provide a comfortable and consistent shooting experience for those who find standard releases too large or unwieldy. Its standout feature is its smaller head, intended to maximize draw length, a critical factor for accuracy and power.
I was seeking a release that would provide a clean, crisp release while also fitting my smaller hand comfortably. Many releases I’ve tried felt bulky, leading to inconsistent anchor points and ultimately, less accurate shots. The TRU Ball Champ Release promised to address this issue directly.
My first impression upon unboxing was that the TRU Ball Champ Release was surprisingly compact and lightweight. The materials felt solid, and the mechanism seemed well-constructed. It felt like a high-quality piece of gear.
Compared to the Scott Archery Little Goose or the Carter Enterprises Solution 3, the TRU Ball Champ Release immediately felt less cumbersome in my hand. While both the Scott and Carter releases are excellent, they are designed for a broader range of hand sizes and I chose the TRU Ball Champ Release for the focus on smaller hands. I was excited to see if this would translate into better control and accuracy on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting TRU Ball Champ Release to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TRU Ball Champ Release at my local archery range. The weather was mild and sunny, offering ideal conditions for dialing in the release. I spent the first hour simply getting a feel for the trigger and the release mechanism.
The TRU Ball Champ Release performed admirably. The release felt incredibly smooth, and the smaller head made a noticeable difference in my draw length. The trigger pull was crisp and consistent, leading to tighter groupings than I was accustomed to with other releases. There were no immediate issues and the release felt immediately comfortable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the TRU Ball Champ Release has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The finish still looks great.
Maintaining the TRU Ball Champ Release is simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each session keeps it free from dirt and debris. A drop of lubricant on the moving parts every so often ensures smooth operation. This maintenance is significantly easier than some other releases I have used.
Compared to my previous release, a larger model from a different manufacturer, the TRU Ball Champ Release has noticeably improved my accuracy and consistency. The smaller size allows for a more natural and repeatable anchor point, and the crisp trigger minimizes any unwanted movement during the shot. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of TRU Ball Champ Release
Specifications
The TRU Ball Champ Release is a thumb-activated release designed for archers with smaller hands. It features a unique jaw system that opens when the trigger is pulled and closes upon release. The release is constructed from high-quality aluminum.
- Smaller Head: This is perhaps the most critical specification, designed to maximize draw length. This allows archers with shorter draws or smaller hands to achieve a more comfortable and efficient shooting posture.
- Thumb Trigger Activation: The thumb trigger offers a consistent and repeatable firing method, which is especially advantageous for archers looking to improve their consistency.
- Jaw Design: The jaws open upon trigger pull and close upon release. This facilitates quick and easy attachment to the D-loop.
Performance & Functionality
The TRU Ball Champ Release excels in providing a consistent and accurate release, especially for archers with smaller hands. Its strengths lie in its smooth trigger pull and comfortable ergonomic design. This is a very effective release.
The only potential weakness is that the jaw design might require some initial practice to become proficient at quickly attaching it to the D-loop. With practice, this becomes second nature. It meets my expectations perfectly and has boosted my accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the TRU Ball Champ Release is excellent. The aluminum construction feels robust and durable. Its lightweight design contributes to a comfortable shooting experience, even during extended sessions.
The ergonomic design is well-thought-out, with the thumb trigger positioned for easy and natural access. There is a short learning curve. Once you are accustomed to the release, it feels natural in hand.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid aluminum construction, the TRU Ball Champ Release is expected to last for many years with proper care. The simple design minimizes the number of parts that could potentially fail. This seems built to last.
Maintaining the release is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required to keep it in optimal working condition. This release is easy to care for.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TRU Ball Champ Release comes as a complete unit. There are no included accessories.
While there are no specific customization options offered directly by TRU Ball for the Champ Release, the standard D-loop connection point makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket D-loops and release ropes. These can be used to fine-tune the length and feel of the release.
Pros and Cons of TRU Ball Champ Release
Pros
- Specifically designed for smaller hands, offering a more comfortable and secure grip.
- Smaller head maximizes draw length, potentially increasing accuracy and power.
- Smooth and crisp trigger pull promotes consistent releases.
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple design makes it easy to maintain and operate.
Cons
- Jaw design might require some practice for quick D-loop attachment.
- Limited customization options compared to some higher-end releases.
Who Should Buy TRU Ball Champ Release?
The TRU Ball Champ Release is perfect for:
- Archers with smaller hands who struggle with standard-sized releases.
- Beginners looking for an easy-to-use and reliable thumb-activated release.
- Hunters and target shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistency.
Who should skip this product? Archers with larger hands may find it too small and uncomfortable. Also, those who prefer a wrist strap release might not appreciate the thumb-activated design.
A must-have modification is a high-quality D-loop cord that suits the release. This can improve the connection and overall feel.
Conclusion on TRU Ball Champ Release
The TRU Ball Champ Release is an excellent option for archers with smaller hands seeking a comfortable, consistent, and accurate release. The $99.76 price tag is justified by the quality of construction and the performance benefits it offers. It is a great value.
I would personally recommend the TRU Ball Champ Release to anyone who fits the target demographic. It’s a well-designed and well-executed product that delivers on its promises. If you are struggling with finding a release that fits your smaller hand, this is the release to try.