Quick Answer
In cold weather, adjust your release aid's tension setting to compensate for decreased bow arm stability and reduced finger dexterity. Tighten the wrist strap or adjust the handheld release's trigger sensitivity to maintain a consistent shot. For thumb trigger and back tension releases, increase the trigger's pressure or adjust your back tension technique.
Adjusting Release Aid Tension
When hunting in cold weather, the cold temperatures cause a decrease in bow arm stability and reduced finger dexterity. This makes it difficult to maintain a consistent shot. To compensate for this, tighten the wrist strap on your release aid to increase stability. For handheld releases, adjust the trigger sensitivity to a lower setting, requiring less finger movement to release the arrow.
Pre-Shot Preparation
For thumb trigger releases, increase the trigger’s pressure by tightening the screw that controls the trigger’s tension. This will require more finger pressure to release the arrow, helping to maintain accuracy in cold weather. For back tension releases, practice adjusting your back tension technique to compensate for the reduced finger dexterity. This may involve increasing the amount of tension in your back muscles before releasing the arrow.
Release Aid Maintenance
Before heading out into the cold, make sure to properly maintain your release aid. Lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation. Also, check the wrist strap or handheld release for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your release aid operates reliably in cold weather.
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