I was not familiar with shooting with the thumb draw, still not sure just how it's done. Can this be used on recurves and longbows?

It can but not many people use it. Search for information about "thumb rings" and Scythian bows and you'll get some information. Most folks who use this draw have horse bows and are into reenactment stuff. Alco look for SCA sites they do that stuff. It doesn't seem to pertain much to hunting but I suppose you could always give it a try!

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Originally posted by loiblb:
I was not familiar with shooting with the thumb draw, still not sure just how it's done. Can this be used on recurves and longbows?

As MCTD manifested itself, I was unable to finger draw. I began to search for optional methods to draw my DAS Master Hunters.

Thumb drawing, using a fitted thumb ring, works extremely well. There are some quirks of which you need be aware.

1. Apparent draw weight seems to be reduced. What is really happening is you have not rotated your forearm to restrict those muscles.

2. You must practice drawing bowstring with thumb, gradually working to a full draw over a couple of weeks. Not only will the sequence of motions feel awkward at first, you need to toughen thumb pad and first joint.

3. Release will be significantly smoother and less disruptive of your hold than any finger release. Using a thumb ring is as close to using a relax-release [aid] as can be gotten without the relax-release.
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4. Your bowstring is stressed mirror image from any conventional draw. Two things that are helpful are: Use an off-hand bow (right-handers use leftie bows); and/or rest arrow on "other" side of where it usually is placed. Unfortunately, most recurve risers do not have an ability to put arrow on either side, so an off hand riser is the more convenient method.

You can try using your existing bow(s), but be advised that accuracy and consistency will probably be erratic.


Hope this helps.