I am thinking about going to a handheld release starting after deer season is over. I have looked at several brands and models but have not hooked one on the d loop yet. I have been told that my draw length will change and I will have to get the d loop adjusted for a handheld. Just looking for some information on what I will be getting into by switching to a handheld release.

I like a handheld release and shoot the TruFire Edge 4 finger version. I started with a 3 finger release from Hot Shot release in the early 80's that was made in Rockwall.

I shoot a half inch longer draw when setup for the Edge than I do with a wrist strap release, no adjustment needed to the d-loop.

I am more accurate due to a more consistent anchor point with the handheld release.

One caution though do not let go of the release when the bow is drawn. Will let another member comment on that.

Ya especially three days before an elk hunt....

Won't lie though my best accuracy is with thumb. I just get to relaxed and bad things happen lol

Tried going to a hand held over a wrist strap release and it was bad.
Went back to the wrist release pretty quick.
I think it's like anything. Whatever feels comfortable to you is what matters.
I'd suggest you try one out before you buy!...Glad I did!

I made the switch this year to a hand held thumb release and really like it. I feel steadier, I shoot better and like how you anchor a lot more than I did with the wrist strap. The guys at the shop even said you can pull more weight easier with hand held then wrist but I just took their word for it no idea if that’s true. To tell you the truth I like everything about it more and it took one session of shooting to get the new feel down after that I was good to go

I use a Carter Whisper but there really was not a Carter release I didn’t like. It did change my peep sight location in the string and my anchor point but didn’t have to change anything else that I remember. Most important is go to a shop that sells a good variety of them and that has people that use them. I know a few of the shops I went to had some but didn’t have any knowledge on them since all they used was wrist straps

I really like the handheld release over the wrist release. Better accuracy and better feel for the shot.

However, I second the comments about you have to be very diligent on not letting up on the release. It is amazing how fast the release will go through the bow and shatter your cable guard, then damage your sight on the way through. Don't ask me how I know this.

I now use the TRU Ball V Lock wrist strap. No issues at all.

I know how you know it, and you're a repeat offender.

I've never liked them. I believe you get better trigger control not having to use your hand to hold the weight of the draw. But when I tried them it was in the day when let off was a lot less and I was drawing a lot more weight. That said with a wrist strap the hand is relaxed and you have relaxed and independent control of your finger on the trigger.

Like txhunter87 said i also can pull more weight with 4finger thumb release, i am right handed but had to switch to left due to eye injury. I like it

I have shot both and just bought me my third thumb release a chocolate addiction and I love it. Have big hands and this release suits me perfect. Always shoot whats comfortable but don't limit yourself to one specific release. If your near the Longview area my buddy Kasey at East Texas Hardware in Kilgore knows his stuff and can help you out.