Just for giggles I tried a release with a longbow...once. It was a back tension release, and a dang-near killed myself with it. Not fun at all.

That was not long after I got "into" traditional bows, and didn't even know what back tension was. Now I have a much better idea, and still won't try a release.

I do know one guy that, due to an injury, has to use a release. He's an excellent shot with it...but he was a dang good shot before he had to go to a release.

Personally, one of the main reasons I got away from compound bows nearly 20 years ago was to get away from the gadgets. Something always getting loose, forgetting to bring the release aid, sights getting bumped, etc. etc. etc. It was getting to a point where it wasn't much fun anymore.

I don't have a thing against compound bows--they are what got me started in archery--but I have to say I never had a fraction of the fun with compounds that I've had with tradtional gear. I never killed a fraction of the game with a compound that I've killed with tradtional gear. And, I don't think I would have ever considered shooting in tournaments with a compound, but I've been from TX to PA shooting traditional bows, and been on hunting trips from NM to Northern Ontario. It's just too much fun!

Chad