Bowstring release

A bowstring release includes a body, a jaw, a trigger, first and second biasing elements, and a back tension adjustment apparatus having a sheath, a tension adjustment rod, a tension adjustment knob, and a back tension biasing element. Moving the jaw into a channel of the body cocks the release. Pulling the trigger releases the bowstring.

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The instant disclosure relates to a release for drawing and releasing a bowstring.

BACKGROUND

Conventional bows are difficult, if not nearly impossible, to draw using only an archer's fingers. An archery release is a device that aids the archer draw the bowstring and release the arrow attached to the bowstring. Some embodiments of archery releases include a hook for pulling the bowstring, and a trigger operatively or functionally coupled to the hook whereby “pulling” or operating or activating the trigger causes the hook to release the drawn bowstring. Some archery releases include a handle for assisting the archer in drawing the bowstring.

While conventional archery releases are relatively easy to use, many archers encounter and/or have to contend with “target panic”. “Target panic” is a psychological, and perhaps neurological, condition experienced or encountered by both competitive and recreational archers in the form of “fear of failure” and high levels of anxiety when the arrow is brought onto the target. Typically, “target panic” sets in immediately prior to “pulling” the trigger because subliminally the archer knows that s/he is about to release the bowstring. To remedy this, i.e., to overcome “target panic”, archers are often taught to “pull through” the release and allow it to “go off”, i.e., release the bowstring, on its own rather than by “pulling” the trigger.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,357,939 discloses a bow string release having a trigger mechanism which may be selectively operated in a push to fire or pull to fire manner. The release includes a strap mechanism having a continuous loop wrist strap facilitating quick attachment and detachment of the strap to the wrist. The distance between the release and the strap is adjustable to permit adaptation of the release and strap to varying size hands. The sear mechanism in the release is adapted to pivot relative to the release body without the use of spherical bearing elements. The pull force of the trigger is adjustable in a direction orthogonal to the trigger travel. The head of the release is both rotatable and tiltable relative to the strap.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,407 discloses a caliper type bow string release having a reversible trigger which is operable selectively in either the push fire mode or the pull fire mode. The caliper jaws of the release include automatic alignment and locking features. Movement of the string into the release mechanism engages the automatic locking mechanism and closes the release into a string retaining position until the release is fired by activation of the trigger. A complex cam surface is provided on the actuator for permitting incremental linear adjustment of the trigger force.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,582,158 discloses a caliper type bow string release having a rocking trigger and caliper jaws with automatic alignment and locking features, whereby movement of the string into the release mechanism engages the automatic locking mechanism and closes the release into a string retaining position until the release is fired by activation of the trigger. A complex cam surface is provided on the actuator for permitting incremental linear adjustment of the trigger force. The release head is universally adjustable relative to a wrist strap or similar mounting.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,763,819 discloses a bow string release for engaging and releasing a bow string, comprising opposing jaws, a trigger, a housing, a jaw roller and a plurality of pins. The opposing jaws and the trigger are coupled to the housing by pins, and the jaw roller, coupled to the trigger, allows the opposing jaws to an open condition when the trigger is in a pulled position. The bow string release is adapted to minimize “loading up” of trigger force required to pull the trigger at full draw of a bow. Further the bow string release is adapted to release the bow string at a trigger pull force of equal to or less than 9 ounces when an effective draw weight of the bow is equal to or more than 15 pounds.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,240,672 discloses an adjustable trigger pressure archery release including a bayonet mounted trigger utilizing an actuator ramp to reduce trigger travel. The caliper jaws and cam profile combine to create an automatic closing action to close the release, whereby rearward pulling or squeezing movement of the trigger engages the caliper jaws to an open bow string or string loop apparatus receiving condition, and relaxing or releasing movement of the trigger closes the caliper jaws into a string retaining position. The release includes an independent mechanism for permitting adjustment of the trigger pressure force, without affecting trigger travel including frictional means of maintaining selected setting. The release head is universally adjustable or lockable relative to a wrist strap or similar mounting.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,314,045 discloses a string release for providing accurate release of a tensioned bow string. The release has a pair of jaws which are retained and controlled by a pivot ball and a jaw cup. The pivot ball is mounted on a shaft which is attached to an inner race which is in turn contained within a ball housing. The inner race is positioned such that it may slide laterally within the ball housing. In the closed position, a number of balls retain the inner race in an aft position relative to the jaws. A trigger mechanism actuates a locking sleeve which allows the balls to move such that the inner race may slide forward, thereby allowing the jaw to open. The release further includes a trigger force adjusting mechanism that allows adjustment of the force required to activate the trigger mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,276,575 discloses an archery bowstring release having a pair of bowstring-gripping jaws actuatable by a trigger, with the trigger and jaws both being pivotally linked to the housing. A cam situated within the housing has a trigger cam pivot which translates and rotates with respect to the trigger, such that the cam is urged by actuation of the trigger to open and close the jaws. The forward part of the housing bearing the jaws may be rotatable with respect to the rear part of the housing, such that the plane in which the jaws move can be rotated with respect to the plane in which the trigger moves.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,997,729 discloses an archery bowstring release having a single jaw for retaining a bowstring within a bowstring hook, in contrast to dual jaw pincer-type releases. The bowstring hook is situated on a release head which bears a trigger for actuating the jaw and releasing the bowstring, and a release body extends between the release head and a release mount (which can connect the bowstring release to a wrist strap, glove, or other anchor affixed to the user's body). The release head and body are pivotally joined, and when the release is ready to fire, the central axis of the release body, and at least the rear of the release head, have central longitudinal axes which are aligned with the notch in the bowstring hook, and are thus aligned with the bowstring, and are parallel to or in line with the arrow. The release therefore has a comfortable, natural, and intuitive feel during operation.

U.S. Pat. Application Pub. No. 2016/0258708 discloses systems and methods that enable archers to select and interchange various styles of interchangeable triggers, including one-finger and two-finger triggers, for use in an archery release. The interchangeable triggers enable an archer to customize the archery release with regard to increasing the archer's comfort and improving the archer's shooting performance.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,891,019 discloses an archery release configured to eliminate, or at least minimize, vibrations and/or noise generated when a drawn bowstring is released from a pre-shoot position. The archery release includes a substrate subassembly and an overmolding material bonded to each other. The overmolding material is configured to absorb and eliminate, or at least minimize the vibrations and/or noise. The archery release also includes a trigger, a release mechanism, and a latching assembly extending into a hollow interior of a handle of the archery release. Within the handle, the latching assembly is operably coupled with the trigger and with the release mechanism. Vibrations and/or noise is eliminated, or at least minimized, by placing the overmolding material at locations whereat one or more components of the trigger, the latching assembly, and the release mechanism strike or engage the overmolding material instead of the substrate subassembly.

U.S. Pat. Application Pub. No. 2019/0265000 discloses a bowstring release having a handle, a jaw, and a sear. The jaw is configured for drawing and releasing the bowstring. The sear includes a plurality of settings for adjusting the rotation of the handle at which the jaw releases the bowstring. While the bowstring is in the drawn configuration, the jaw and the sear are slidingly coupled and the jaw slides along a surface of the sear while the release is rotated. The bowstring is released when the jaw and the sear de-couple.

SUMMARY

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a bowstring release includes a body, a jaw, a trigger, and first and second biasing elements. In some exemplary embodiments, the body is defined at least in part by a first and a second end, a channel extending between the first and second ends, and spaced apart opposing walls at the second end. In certain exemplary embodiments, the jaw is defined at least in part by first and second ends and spaced apart opposing walls at the second end. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the jaw is disposed within the channel of the body, the second end of the jaw is disposed between the opposing walls of the body, and the jaw is coupled to the body. In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger is disposed between and coupled to the opposing walls of the body and includes an edge slidably engaged with a surface of the jaw. In certain exemplary embodiments, the first biasing element is disposed between the body and the jaw. In some exemplary embodiments, the second biasing element is disposed between the trigger and the jaw. In certain exemplary embodiments, moving the jaw into the channel of the body cocks the release.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the bowstring release includes a back tension adjustment apparatus. A non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the back tension adjustment apparatus includes a sheath, a tension adjustment rod, a tension adjustment knob, and a back tension biasing element. In some exemplary embodiments, the sheath is defined at least in part by a first section having opposing walls, a slot in each opposing wall aligned with each other, and a second section. In certain exemplary embodiments, the tension adjustment rod includes a first section extending into at least a portion of the body of the release and a second section extending into the second section of the sheath. In certain exemplary embodiments, the tension adjustment knob is coupled to the tension adjustment rod. In some exemplary embodiments, the back tension biasing element is disposed about the second section of the tension adjustment rod within the second section of the sheath, and extends between an interior end of the second section of the sheath and the tension adjustment knob. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the body of the release is disposed between the opposing walls of the sheath. In some embodiments, the first section of the sheath is in sliding engagement with the body of the release. In certain embodiments, the second section of the sheath is in sliding engagement with the second section of the tension adjustment rod.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more non-limiting exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like, but not necessarily identical, elements. It should be clearly understood that the embodiments described with reference to the drawings are merely exemplary in that any one or more of them may be implemented in alternative manner as may become apparent to a person of ordinary skills. The figures are not necessarily to scale. Specific structural and/or functional features and details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting but should rather be treated as a basis for teaching one of ordinary skills. There is no intent, implied or otherwise, to limit the disclosure in any way, shape or form to the embodiments illustrated and described herein. Accordingly, all variants for providing structures and/or functionalities similar to those described herein for the exemplary embodiments are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

FIGS.1-5illustrate various views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a bowstring release10, whereinFIGS.1A and1Bare perspective views of the bowstring release10,FIG.2is a side view of the bowstring release10,FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of the bowstring release10,FIG.4is a close-up view of a portion of the cross-section illustrated inFIG.3, andFIG.5is a close-up view of another portion of the cross-section illustrated inFIG.3.

In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the release10includes a body12, a jaw14, a trigger18, a first biasing element20, and a second biasing element22.

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the body12is defined at least in part by a channel24extending between first and second ends26and28. In certain exemplary embodiments, the body12includes spaced apart opposing walls32and34at the second end28. In some exemplary embodiments, the body12includes a notch30at the first end26.

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the jaw14is defined at least in part by first and second ends36and38. In certain exemplary embodiments, the jaw14includes spaced apart opposing walls40and42at the second end38. In some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the jaw14is disposed within the channel24of the body12, and the opposing walls40and42at the second end38of the jaw14are disposed between the opposing walls32and34of the body12. In some exemplary embodiments, a dowel or a pin46pivotally or rotatably couples the body12and the jaw14to each other.

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the trigger18includes an edge50. In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger18is disposed between the opposing walls32and34at the second end28of the body12, and a dowel or pin52pivotally or rotatably couples the body12and the trigger18to each other.

In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and a surface132of the jaw14proximate the second end38are slidably engaged. In certain embodiments, the trigger edge50and the surface132slide relative to each other when the trigger18is operated towards or away from the jaw14, i.e., when the trigger is pulled or when the release10is cocked. In some embodiments, the surface132of the jaw14slides relative to the trigger edge50. In certain embodiments, the trigger edge50slides along the surface132of the jaw14. In some embodiments, both the trigger edge50and the surface132slide. In certain exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and the surface132of the jaw14dis-engage when the trigger is pulled.

In some embodiments, the second biasing element22is disposed between the jaw14and the trigger18. In certain embodiments, a biasing force from the second biasing element22applied to the jaw14and the trigger18is sufficient to retain or maintain the trigger edge50and the surface132of the jaw14engaged while the release10is cocked. In certain embodiments, a biasing force from the first biasing element20and/or the biasing force from the second biasing element22are/is not sufficient to dis-engage the trigger edge50and the surface132of the jaw14while the release10is cocked.

In some embodiments, the second biasing element22is a compression spring. In certain embodiments, the second biasing element22is an expansion spring. It should be clearly understood that there is no intent, implied or otherwise, to limit the second biasing element22to a spring. Alternate means of providing the described functionality of the second biasing element22are considered as being within the metes and bounds of this disclosure

In certain exemplary embodiments, a latching notch is provided on the surface132of the jaw14. In some exemplary embodiments, trigger edge50and the latching notch on the surface132remain engaged while the release10is cocked. In certain embodiments, the trigger edge50and the latching notch dis-engage when the trigger is pulled. In some embodiments, the biasing force from the second biasing element22applied to the jaw14and the trigger18is sufficient to retain or maintain the trigger edge50and the latching notch on the surface132of the jaw14engaged while the release10is cocked. In certain embodiments, a biasing force from the first biasing element20and/or the biasing force from the second biasing element22are/is not sufficient to dis-engage the trigger edge50and the latching notch on the surface132of the jaw14while the release10is cocked.

In certain exemplary embodiment, the release10includes a roller16disposed between opposing walls40and42of the jaw14. In some exemplary embodiments, a dowel or a pin48couples the jaw14and the roller16to each other. In certain exemplary embodiments, the roller16rotates unhindered between the opposing walls40and42. In some exemplary embodiments, the roller16is inhibited from rotating between the opposing walls40and42.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and a surface54of the roller16are slidably engaged. In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and the surface54slide relative to each other when the trigger18is operated towards or away from the jaw14, i.e., when the trigger18is pulled or when the release10is cocked. In certain exemplary embodiments, the roller16rotates when the trigger edge50slides along the surface54. In some exemplary embodiments, the roller16does not rotate when the trigger edge50slides along the surface54. In certain exemplary embodiments, the surface54of the roller16slides along the trigger edge50.

In some exemplary embodiments, the second biasing element22is disposed between the jaw14and the trigger18. In certain exemplary embodiments, the biasing force from the second biasing element22applied to the jaw14and the trigger18is sufficient to retain or maintain the trigger edge50and the surface54of the roller16engaged while the release10is cocked. In some exemplary embodiments, a force from the first biasing element20and/or the force from the second biasing element22are/is not sufficient to dis-engage the trigger edge50and the surface54of the roller16while the release10is cocked. In certain exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and the roller16dis-engage when the trigger is pulled.

In certain non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the first biasing element20is disposed between the body12and the jaw14. In some exemplary embodiments, a biasing force from the first biasing element20separates at least portions of the body12and the jaw14sufficiently to maintain the release10in an un-cocked state such as that after the trigger18has been pulled.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14is configured for holding or retaining a bowstring during draw and when fully drawn, i.e., when the release10is cocked. In certain exemplary embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14is configured as a hook or claw for holding or retaining the bowstring. In some embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14is configured for holding or retaining the bowstring when fully drawn. In certain embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14is configured for holding or retaining the bowstring while the release10is cocked.

In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the body12includes a notch30at the first end26. In certain embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14is configured for keeping the notch30at first end26of body12unblocked while the release10is not cocked. In other words, while the release10is not cocked, the biasing force from the first biasing element20applied to the body12and the jaw14is sufficient to inhibit the first end36of the jaw14from blocking the notch30at first end26of body12. In certain exemplary embodiments, the first biasing element20is a compression spring. In some exemplary embodiments, the first biasing element20is an expansion spring. It should be clearly understood that there is no intent, implied or otherwise, to limit the first biasing element20to a spring. Alternate means of providing the described functionality of the second biasing element22are considered as being within the metes and bounds of this disclosure.

In certain non-limiting exemplary embodiments, moving at least a portion of the jaw14into the channel24of the body12concurrently cocks the release10and moves the first end36of the jaw14in the direction58. For cocking the release10, the archer moves the jaw14in the direction56whereby the first end36of the jaw14moves in the direction58. Concurrently, a biasing energy or force starts getting stored in the first biasing element20. Also concurrently, the second end38of the jaw14moves in the direction60, and the biasing force from the second biasing element22moves the trigger18away from the jaw14in the direction62whereby the trigger edge50moves in the direction64until the trigger edge50and the jaw14engage. The archer may place or position the bowstring against the first end38of the jaw14either before or after cocking the release10. The archer releases the bowstring, i.e., “pulls” the trigger18, by moving the trigger18towards the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction62. For instance, the archer applies a pressure on the trigger18in the direction opposite the direction62to overcome the biasing force of the second biasing element22. In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50slides along the surface132of the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction64until the biasing force of the first biasing element20moves the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction56whereby the first end36of the jaw14moves in the direction opposite the direction58whereby the drawn bowstring is released to propel a projectile downrange. In certain exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and the surface132of the jaw14slide relative to each other.

In embodiments wherein the latching notch44is provided on the surface132of the jaw14, the trigger edge50and the latching notch44dis-engage when the trigger18is pulled. Thereafter, the trigger edge50slides along the surface132of the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction64until the biasing force of the first biasing element20moves the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction56whereby the first end36of the jaw14moves in the direction opposite the direction58whereby the drawn bowstring is released to propel a projectile downrange.

In embodiments wherein the roller16is provided, pulling the trigger18causes the trigger edge50to slide along the surface54of the roller16in the direction opposite the direction64until the biasing force of the first biasing element20moves the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction56whereby the first end36of the jaw14moves in the direction opposite the direction58and the drawn bowstring is released to propel a projectile downrange. In certain exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50and the surface54of the roller16slide relative to each other.

In certain non-limiting exemplary embodiments, moving at least a portion of the jaw14into the channel24of the body12concurrently cocks the release10and moves the first end36of the jaw14in the direction58to block the notch30at the first end26of the body12. When cocking the release10, the archer places or positions the bowstring within the notch30and thereafter moves the jaw14in the direction56whereby the first end36of the jaw14moves in the direction58and starts blocking the notch30at the first end26of the body12. Concurrently, a biasing energy or force starts getting stored in the first biasing element20. Also concurrently, the second end38of the jaw14moves in the direction60, and the biasing force from the second biasing element22moves the trigger18away from the jaw14in the direction62whereby the trigger edge50moves in the direction64until the trigger edge50and the jaw14engage. It will be appreciated that the components or elements of the release10are configured and/or dimensioned and/or selected such that when the trigger edge50and the jaw14engage, the notch30at the first end26of the body12is blocked by the first end36of the jaw14entrapping or capturing the bowstring.

It will be appreciated that the biasing forces of the first and second biasing elements20and22are sufficiently balanced to ensure that the trigger edge50and the jaw14do not disengage while the release10is cocked, until the archers pulls the trigger.

It will be appreciated that cocking the release10will most likely commence just prior to drawing the bowstring (not shown) placed either against the first end36of the jaw14or in a blocked space66at respective first ends26and36of the body12and the jaw14. Generally, prior to cocking the release10, the archer will first place the bowstring either against the first end36of the jaw14or within the notch30at the first end26of the body12. Then, the archer will start cocking the release10by moving the jaw14in the direction56causing movement of the first end36of the jaw14in the direction58until the trigger edge50and the jaw14engage. In embodiment having the notch30, the notch30is also blocked by the first end36of the jaw14with the bowstring entrapped or captured in the space66. After the release10is cocked, the archer draws the bowstring by pulling the release10in the proximal direction, i.e., towards him/her.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, after the release10is cocked with the bowstring entrapped or captured in the space66and the bowstring is fully drawn, the archer “pulls” the trigger18by moving the trigger18towards the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction62. For instance, the archer applies a pressure on the trigger18in the direction opposite the direction62to overcome the biasing force of the second biasing element22. In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger edge50slides along the surface132of the jaw14. In embodiments having the latching notch44, the trigger edge50and the latching notch44disengage and the trigger edge50slides along the surface132of the jaw14. In embodiments having the roller16, the trigger edge50slides along the surface54of the roller16. The trigger edge50will slide along the surface132of the jaw14or the surface54of the roller16in the direction opposite the direction64until the biasing force of the first biasing element20moves the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction56. In embodiments without the notch30at the first end26of the body12, the drawn bowstring is released to propel the projectile downrange. In embodiments with the notch30at the first end26of the body12, the first end36of the jaw14unblocks the notch30at the first end26of the body12, and the drawn bowstring is released to propel a projectile downrange. In embodiments without the roller16, the trigger edge50and the surface132of the jaw14slide relative to each other. In embodiments with the roller16, the trigger edge50and the surface54of the roller16slide relative to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the roller16rotates. For embodiments having the roller16,FIG.14illustrates a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the relative positioning of at least the jaw14and the trigger18after the cocked release10has been fired, i.e., after the trigger18has been “pulled”.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the release10, the first and second biasing elements20and22are selected such that their biasing forces are sufficiently balanced to ensure that the release10does not automatically cock. In other words, the archer must manually and deliberately cock the release10.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the release10includes a trigger travel adjustment mechanism having an adjustment means68extending through a hole70in the trigger18and a stop72coupled to the opposing walls32and34at the second end28of the body12. In some exemplary embodiments, the biasing force from the second biasing element22ensures that an end134of the adjustment means68and the stop72are in contact when the release10is cocked or when the release10is approaching the cocked state.

In some exemplary embodiments, the trigger travel adjustment mechanism is used for adjusting or changing the sensitivity of the trigger such as for instance changing the amount of pressure or force required to release the bowstring. In certain exemplary embodiments, the trigger travel adjustment mechanism is used for adjusting or changing the distance the trigger18must travel for releasing the bowstring after the release10is cocked. In some exemplary embodiments, the adjustment means68is set for engaging the trigger edge50and the jaw14when the release10is cocked. In certain exemplary embodiments, the adjustment means68is set for positioning the trigger edge50relative to the law14when the release10is cocked. In some exemplary embodiments, the adjustment means68is used for positioning the trigger edge50relative to the latching notch44when the release10is cocked. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the adjustment means68is a screw, such as for example a set screw, which can be threaded towards or away from the stop72for adjusting the sensitivity and/or the travel distance of the trigger18when firing the cocked release10. In certain exemplary embodiments, the adjustment means68is used for positioning the trigger edge50on the surface132of the jaw14or on the surface54of the roller16or on a surface74of a latching ledge76of the jaw14when the release10is cocked. Of course, the adjustment means68is used for engaging the trigger edge50and the jaw14when the release10is cocked. In view thereof, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that the adjustment means68can be manipulated to adjust the sensitivity and/or the travel distance of the trigger18when firing the cocked release10.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the biasing force of the first biasing element20is at least slightly greater than the biasing force of the second biasing element22. In some exemplary embodiments, the biasing force of the first biasing element20assists in keeping the release10un-cocked after the trigger18has been pulled. In certain exemplary embodiments, the biasing force of the second biasing element22is not sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the first biasing element20after the trigger18has been pulled, and therefore is not sufficient to cock the release10. In other words, the biasing force of the second biasing element22is not sufficient to separate the jaw14and the trigger18after the trigger18has been pulled and, as such, prevents the latching notch44and the trigger edge50from engaging.

Although not shown, some non-limiting exemplary embodiments of release10include a release mount coupled with or attached to the second end28of the body12. Also, while not shown, certain non-limiting exemplary embodiments of release10include a handle coupled with or attached to the second end28of the body12. In some non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the release10includes a release mount coupled with or attached to the handle. The release mount enables easy attachment of the bowstring release10to a wrist band/strap, glove, or other arm mounting means for anchoring the release10to an archer's hand, wrist, or arm using, for example, flexible straps. The release10may therefore be anchored to the archer's hand, wrist, or arm; the archer may then situate the bowstring against the first end36of the jaw14or in the notch30at the first end26of the body12and then cock the release10to entrap or capture the bowstring against the first end36or within the space66. The user can then pull his/her hand, wrist, or arm, thereby pull the release10, proximally or rearwardly towards the archer to draw the bow. Thereafter, the user may “pull” the trigger18for moving the first end36of the jaw14in the direction opposite the direction58and release the bowstring. Non-limiting exemplary embodiments of release mounts are disclosed in Applicant's co-owned U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,320,318, 7,422,008, 7,753,043, and 7,926,476 which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the release10includes a back tension adjustment apparatus78. A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the back tension adjustment apparatus78is illustrated inFIGS.1-3,5,912. In some exemplary embodiments, the back tension adjustment apparatus78includes a sheath80, a tension adjustment rod82, a tension adjustment knob84, and a back tension biasing element86.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the sheath80includes a first section88and a second section90. In some exemplary embodiments, the first section88is defined at least in part by spaced apart opposing walls92and94having slots96and98, respectively. In certain exemplary embodiments, the slots96and98are substantially aligned with each other. In some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the opposing walls32and34at the second end28of the body12are disposed between the opposing walls92and94of the first section88of the sheath80.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the tension adjustment rod82includes a first section100and a second section102. In some exemplary embodiments, the first section100of the tension adjustment rod82extends into at least a portion of the body12through an aperture104at the second end28of the body12. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, a dowel or pin106is provided for attaching or coupling the body12and the tension adjustment rod82to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the dowel or pin106extends through the first section100of the tension adjustment rod82and the opposing walls32and34at the second end28of the body12. In certain exemplary embodiments, the dowel or pin106extends into the slots96and98in the opposing walls92and94of the first section88of the sheath80. As such, the dowel or pin106slidingly engages the body12and the sheath80to each other. In particular, the dowel or pin106couples the body12and the back tension adjustment apparatus78in sliding engagement such that the back tension adjustment apparatus78can slide along at least a portion of the body12at the second end28thereof in the direction108.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the second section102of the tension adjustment rod82extends into the second section90of the sheath80through an aperture110such that the sheath80and the tension adjustment rod82are in sliding engagement whereby the sheath80can slide along the second section102of the tension adjustment rod82.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the tension adjustment knob84is coupled or attached to the second section102of the tension adjustment rod82at an end112thereof. In certain exemplary embodiments, the tension adjustment knob84is a bolt or a screw threadingly coupled or attached to the tension adjustment rod82.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the back tension biasing element86is disposed about the second section102of the tension adjustment rod84within the second section90of the sheath80. In some exemplary embodiments, the back tension biasing element86extends between the tension adjustment knob84and an interior end114of the second section90of the sheath80.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the release10is defined at least in part by the body12and the back tension adjustment apparatus78slidably coupled to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the body12and the sheath80of the back tension adjustment apparatus78are configured to slide relative to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, when the bow is held fully drawn and/or as the bow is being drawn, the sheath80will slide proximally, i.e., towards the archer, relative to the body12and/or the body12will slide distally, i.e., away from the archer, relative to the sheath80.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the back tension adjustment apparatus78is configured for adjusting, e.g., increasing or decreasing, the amount of back tension or force required to draw and/or hold a bow at full draw. When coupled with the release10, the back tension adjustment apparatus78enables an archer to apply gradual and steady back pressure to hold the bow at full draw and provides the ability to calmly “pull” or “squeeze” or “press” the trigger18.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the amount of back tension or force required to draw and/or hold the bow at full draw and/or to expose a portion or surface116of the trigger18can be adjusted, e.g., increased or decreasing, by operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84. Increasing the back tension means relatively more back tension or force is required to draw and/or hold the bow at full draw and/or to expose the portion or surface116of the trigger18. Decreasing the back tension means relatively less back tension or force is required to draw and/or hold the bow at full drawn and/or to expose the portion or surface116of the trigger18. In certain exemplary embodiments, operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction increases the back tension, i.e., increases the amount of back tension or force, required to draw and/or hold the bow at full draw. In some exemplary embodiments, operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction decreases the back tension, i.e., reduces the amount of force, required to draw and/or hold the bow at full draw.

As previously described, the release10is defined at least in part by the body12and the back tension adjustment apparatus78slidably coupled to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the body12and the sheath80of the back tension adjustment apparatus78are configured to slide relative to each other. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the distance and/or the range of such relative movement or displacement is adjusted, i.e., increased or decreased, by operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84. In some exemplary embodiments, operating or rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction decreases the distance and/or the range of displacement of the body12and the sheath80relative to each other. In certain exemplary embodiments, operating or rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction increases the distance and the range of displacement of the body12and/or the sheath80relative to each other.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the tension adjustment knob84is used for adjusting the exposed portion or surface116of the trigger18when the bow is drawn and/or held at full draw. In certain exemplary embodiments, the exposed portion or surface116of the trigger18is the portion or surface116of the trigger18that is co-planar with the ends or tips118and120of the opposing walls92and94of the first section88of the sheath80. In some exemplary embodiments, the exposed portion or surface116of the trigger18is the portion or surface116of the trigger18that is distal of or beyond the ends or tips118and120of the opposing walls92and94of the first section88of the sheath80. As previously described, the body12and the sheath80of the back tension adjustment apparatus78are configured for sliding relative to each other. In certain exemplary embodiments, operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction increases the back tension or the force required to expose the portion or surface116of the trigger when the bow is drawn and/or held at full draw. In some exemplary embodiments, operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction decreases the back tension or the force required to expose the portion or surface116of the trigger when the bow is drawn and/or held at full draw.

In some exemplary embodiments, rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction moves an end118/120of the first section88of the sheath80away from the trigger18. In certain exemplary embodiments, rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction moves the end118/120of the first section88of the sheath80towards the trigger18.

In some exemplary embodiments, moving the end118/120of the first section88of the sheath80away from the trigger18requires less force to further retract the sheath80. In certain exemplary embodiments, moving the end118/120of the first section88of the sheath80towards the trigger18requires more force to further retract the sheath80.

In some exemplary embodiments, moving the sheath80proximally, i.e., towards the archer, relative to the body12and/or moving the body12distally, i.e., away from the archer, relative to the sheath80will store energy in the back tension biasing element86. Thereafter, decreasing or removing the back tension or force will permit the sheath80to move distally, i.e., away from the archer, relative to the body12and/or move the body12proximally, i.e. towards the archer, relative to the sheath80. In certain exemplary embodiments, such movement of the body12and/or the sheath80relative to each other is due to the force or energy stored in the back tension biasing element86.

In some exemplary embodiments, rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction increases a force required to draw a bowstring. In certain exemplary embodiments, rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction decreases the force required to draw the bowstring. In some exemplary embodiments, rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction increases a force required to hold a bow in a fully drawn state. In certain exemplary embodiments, rotating the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction decreases the force required to hold the bow in the fully drawn state.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84in a first direction compresses the back tension biasing element86, and operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84in a second direction opposite the first direction de-compresses the back tension biasing element86.

In some exemplary embodiments, the back tension biasing element86is a compression spring. In certain exemplary embodiments, the back tension biasing element86is an expansion spring. It should be clearly understood that there is no intent, implied or otherwise, to limit the back tension biasing element86to a spring. Alternate means of providing the described functionality of the back tension biasing element86are considered as being within the metes and bounds of this disclosure.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, pulling the trigger18, i.e., releasing the drawn bowstring from the release10, will permit the body12to move proximally relative to the sheath80and/or permit the sheath80to move distally relative to the body12.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the release10includes one or more slots122on the second section90of the sheath80. In some exemplary embodiments, at least one of the one or more slots122is configured for viewing a position of the back tension biasing element86around the second section102of the tension adjustment rod84within the second section90of the sheath80. In certain exemplary embodiments, the second section90of the sheath includes one or more marking124. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or markings124are indicative of the back tension for which the release10is set or configured for. In certain exemplary embodiments, the one or more markings124are along at least one of the one or more slots122. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more markings124are on at least a portion of an outer surface126of the second section90of the sheath80.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the tension adjustment knob84is accessible through at least one of the one or more slots122. In some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of an outer surface128of the tension adjustment knob84is accessible through at least one of the one or more slots122. In certain embodiments, the archer adjusts, i.e., increases or decreases, the back tension for the release10by operating, e.g., rotating, the tension adjustment knob84through at least one of the one or more slots122.

In some embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14and the trigger18are substantially coplanar. In certain embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14and the sheath80are substantially coplanar. In some embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14, the trigger18and the sheath80are substantially coplanar. In certain embodiments, the notch30at the first end26of the body12and the trigger18are substantially coplanar. In some embodiments, the notch30at the first end26of the body12and the sheath80are substantially coplanar. In certain embodiments, the notch30at the first end26of the body12, the trigger18and the sheath80are substantially coplanar. In certain embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14, the notch30at the first end26of the body12and the trigger18are substantially coplanar. In some embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14, the notch30at the first end26of the body12and the sheath80are substantially coplanar. In certain embodiments, the first end36of the jaw14, the notch30at the first end26of the body12, the trigger18and the sheath80are substantially coplanar.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the back tension adjustment apparatus78incudes a release mount130coupled with or attached to an end of the sheath80. As previously described, the release mount130enables easy attachment of the bowstring release10to a wrist band/strap, glove, or other arm mounting means for anchoring the release10to an archer's hand, wrist, or arm using, for example, flexible straps. The release10may therefore be anchored to the archer's hand, wrist, or arm; the archer may then situate the bowstring in the notch30and cock the release10to entrap or capture the bowstring within the space66. The user can then pull his/her hand, wrist, or arm, thereby pull the release10, proximally or rearwardly towards the archer to draw the bow. Thereafter, the user may “pull” the trigger18for unblocking the notch30by moving the first end36of the jaw14away from the notch30and release the bowstring. Non-limiting exemplary embodiments of release mounts are disclosed in Applicant's co-owned U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,320,318, 7,422,008, 7,753,043, and 7,926,476 which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In view thereof, modified and/or alternate configurations of the non-limiting exemplary embodiments illustrated and described herein may become apparent or obvious to one of ordinary skill. All such variations are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. For instance, while reference may have been made to particular feature(s) and/or function(s), this disclosure is considered to also encompass any and all equivalents providing functionalities similar to those described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. Accordingly, the spirit, scope and intent of the instant disclosure embraces all variations. Consequently, the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure are defined by the appended claims and all equivalents thereof.