I don't know that it takes the skill out of shooting, but it does take something out of it. I feel using releases removes most of the shooter's involvement out of the act of releasing an arrow. I don't get nearly the satisfaction from making a good shot with a release that I get from making the same shot with fingers.

I also miss feeling the string. I feel like I'm more in control of the shot when I've got my fingers on the string. Maybe that gives me confidence, but I always shoot tighter groups with fingers than I can with a release.

I guess the popularity of releases goes hand in hand with our push button society. If it ain't mechanical, most people are afraid of it.

Another bow to add to the list, the Reflex Caribou. I'd prefer the older discontinued one, before the Tec riser version.