From: ut-emx!shawn@emx.cc.utexas.edu (Shawn Boyd)
Subject: Re: Mechanical Release Problems
Organization: The University of Texas at Austin; Austin, Texas
Date: 18 Aug 92 08:05:09 CDT
Originator: hunting@osnome.che.wisc.edu
Keywords: Archery


In article <1992Aug14.091316.17588@doug.cae.wisc.edu> rlp@drutx.ATT.COM (Bob Prehn (@ The Right Choice)) writes:
>
>In article <1992Aug12.082239.11471@doug.cae.wisc.edu>, ras@fred.niaid.pc.niaid.nih.gov (Randy Stevens) writes:
>> I am currently using a Trophy Hunter Ball Bearing release with my
>> Browning Mirage bow.  I pull 68-69 pounds and shoot an overdraw.  The
>> problem is that the release has broken the string serving twice in the
>> last week.  Does anyone know of a soultion to this problem?  I heard
>> that this problem is not uncommon for bearing-type releases at higher
>> draw weights.  Is this true?  If so what is the best type of release
>> to use to eliminate this problem?  I should also mention that I do use
>> a nock between the release and the arrow.  It is also worth noting
>> that I have NEVER experienced this type of problem in three years with
>> my old bow (58lbs. draw weight).
>> 
>> All wisdom will be appreciated.
>> 
>I've used Trophy Hunter ball bearing releases since they came out many
>years ago. Bows in 68-74# range, Darton, several York, now a Hoyt Super
>Slam Supreme without cutting serving with the release once.
>I have cut servings with broadheads and when  removing/adjusting nocking
>points, however.  Did you check for a pebble or other foreign object,
>or for a defective bearing?  Are the strings handmade or are not tight.
>Also inspect around the opening of the release for a burr.
>
>The Trophy Hunter provides a smooth release without flipping the
>string to either side.  They don't like to be laid in the dirt though.
>I tend to replace them after about 3 years of use, placing them in
>back-up status.  (mail order sales around $17)
>
 [sig file inclusions deleted, SB -- nice signature BTW]

> Robert Prehn      

 I've been using the Trophy Hunter release for about five years, and shoot it
 with both a 70 pound and 80 pound compound, and agree with Robert.   Your 
 serving may not be wound in place tight enough, or could be working loose due
 a difference in shoot style.  I would note here that your anchor will change 
 somewhat with this style of release because of the fact the bearing mechanism
 is located somewhat more forward on your draw hand than with most other styles
 of releases.  Also, some other styles of releases keep the pressure on your 
 fingers, as opposed to your wrist (the Trophy Hunter keeps the pressure on 
 your wrist) and these two differences may have lead to some changes in your 
 release style.  I have actually seen archers pluck with a Trophy Hunter.  
 This could certainly cause problems on the midstring serving.  This is es-
 pecially the case if you're rotating your draw arm/draw hand at the wrist or
 at the elbow cause the sides of the release to rub on the string.

 The instructions on the packaging that came with your release actually 
 recommend two (not one) nock rings about an inch below the arrow if you're 
 having this problem.  Might help.  Hope so.

 Also, monofilament servings seem to break a little easier than stranded type
 servings when I shoot with a release.  I don't know why.  Try going with a 
 multipe strand serving, maybe with a bit heavier guage with plenty of bow wax
 to keep the serving nice and supple.  A little bow wax on the bearings won't
 hurt either, and will quieten the release.  

 Robert is 100% correct about keeping them out of the dirt.  The bearings can
 rust and pit.  This can't be good either.  Inspect the bearings closely
 for minute signs of corrosion or other abrasive characteristics.  That too 
 might be your problem -- again, that's something that a little bow wax might 
 help with.

 Oh... one further thought.  Is there any other portion of the release that 
 might be abrading the serving?  The sides?  The back.  Anything's possible.
 You might want to check it out if none-of-the-above seems to be the problem.

 Shawn Boyd