TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger Review

Let’s Talk About TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is a modern archery release aid designed for archers seeking a customizable and reliable trigger system. TRU Ball is a well-respected name in the archery world, and the Rave aims to deliver performance and adjustability at a reasonable price. For years, I’ve relied on wrist strap releases for hunting, but recently, I’ve been exploring the world of handheld releases for their supposed increase in accuracy and consistency.

My main motivation for trying the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger was to see if a handheld release could improve my target shooting and, ultimately, translate to more ethical and accurate shots in the field. I was looking for a release that offered a clean, crisp trigger and the ability to fine-tune the sensitivity to my preferences. I also wanted something durable enough to withstand the rigors of hunting in various weather conditions.

My first impression of the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger was positive. The black anodized aluminum felt solid and well-made, and the medium 3-finger handle fit my hand comfortably. Compared to a Scott Little Goose I’ve used for years or a cheaper, generic caliper release I started with, the Rave’s build quality was noticeably superior. I chose it over a Stan Perfex due to the simpler design and easier adjustability claims, hoping to avoid a steep learning curve. Honestly, I was both excited and a little apprehensive. Switching to a handheld release is a big change, but I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.


Real-World Testing: Putting TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger at my local archery range, focusing on target practice at distances ranging from 20 to 60 yards. The range was sheltered, providing consistent lighting and wind conditions. It allowed me to concentrate on adjusting the release to my liking. I experimented with different trigger travel and sensitivity settings to find the sweet spot.

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger performed admirably in those controlled conditions. It took some time to get used to the loading process and the feel of a handheld release, but after a few hours, I began to see improvements in my groupings. There were no immediate issues, although the trigger felt a little too sensitive out of the box and required careful adjustment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger multiple times a week, it has held up very well. The anodized finish still looks new, and there are no signs of mechanical wear or looseness. I’ve primarily used it for target practice, but I did take it on a weekend hunting trip where it experienced some light rain and dusty conditions.

Cleaning the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a dry cloth is usually all it needs. The trigger mechanism seems well-sealed, preventing dirt and moisture from causing issues. Compared to my old wrist strap release, the Rave feels much more precise and consistent. My groups have tightened noticeably at longer distances.

Breaking Down the Features of TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: TRU Ball.
  • Color: Black.
  • Jaw Type: Pinch Jaw. The pinch jaw allows for easy D-loop loading by simply pinching the jaw closed.
  • Trigger Adjustment: Individual trigger travel and sensitivity adjustment screws with locks. This feature allows archers to customize the trigger feel from light to heavy.
  • Thumb Barrel/Teardrop: Multi-positional thumb barrel and teardrop. The adjustability allows customization of thumb placement for optimal comfort and control.
  • Handle: Medium 3-finger handle. The handle size is designed to fit most archers comfortably.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the user’s ability to customize the release to their individual shooting style and preferences. The adjustable trigger is crucial for achieving a clean and consistent release, while the adjustable thumb barrel ensures a comfortable and ergonomic grip.

Performance & Functionality

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger performs its job exceptionally well. The adjustable trigger allows for a crisp and clean release. It significantly minimizes the risk of punching the trigger. The easy-loading jaw is a huge time saver.

The primary strength of the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is its adjustability. The ability to fine-tune both trigger travel and sensitivity is a game-changer. The only area for potential improvement would be a slightly smoother action right out of the box.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is excellent. The aluminum construction feels solid and durable, and the black anodized finish is aesthetically pleasing. The medium 3-finger handle is comfortable in my hand.

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is fairly user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve for those new to handheld releases. The adjustment screws are easily accessible and clearly marked. It only takes a few minutes to dial in the desired trigger feel.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is built to last. The simple design and robust materials inspire confidence. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts should ensure years of reliable service.

Maintaining the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is simple. A drop of oil on the pivot points every now and then is all that’s needed. There are no complex mechanisms to worry about.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger doesn’t come with many accessories beyond the included adjustment tools. However, the multi-positional thumb barrel does offer a degree of customization. You can position it to fit your preferred grip style.

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger appears compatible with aftermarket thumb barrels from other brands. However, I have not personally tested this.

Pros and Cons of TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger

Pros

  • Easy D-loop loading: The pinch jaw design makes loading the release onto the D-loop incredibly quick and simple.
  • Highly adjustable trigger: Individual trigger travel and sensitivity adjustments allow for precise customization of the trigger feel.
  • Durable construction: The aluminum build feels solid and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Comfortable ergonomic design: The medium 3-finger handle fits comfortably in hand.
  • Improved Accuracy: Switching to a handheld release can potentially improve accuracy and consistency compared to wrist-strap releases.

Cons

  • Initial Trigger Sensitivity: The trigger might be too sensitive out of the box for some users, requiring adjustment.
  • Learning Curve: There is a learning curve associated with switching to a handheld release for those unfamiliar.


Who Should Buy TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger?

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is perfect for archers looking to upgrade from a wrist strap release to a more precise and customizable handheld option. It’s also great for target shooters and hunters who prioritize accuracy and consistency. Competitive archers seeking a reliable and adjustable release should also consider the Rave.

Archers who are completely new to archery or prefer the simplicity of a wrist strap release might want to skip this product, at least initially. Those on a very tight budget might find cheaper alternatives, though they may sacrifice adjustability and durability.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality bow rope or wrist sling to prevent dropping the release. Also, experimenting with different D-loop materials could enhance the release’s overall performance.

Conclusion on TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger

The TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger is a well-designed and highly adjustable archery release that offers excellent value for its price. It provides a significant upgrade in performance and customization compared to many entry-level releases. Its durable construction and user-friendly design make it a great choice for both target shooters and hunters.

The price of $149.99 is justified given the quality of materials, the range of adjustability, and the potential for improved accuracy. It is a solid mid-range option that delivers performance comparable to more expensive releases.

I would personally recommend the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger to anyone looking to take their archery game to the next level. It’s a worthwhile investment that will likely lead to tighter groupings and more ethical shots in the field. Give the TRU Ball Rave Release 3 Finger a try and experience the difference a quality release can make!

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