If you’ve spent any time in the archery world, you’ve likely experienced (or at least witnessed) the frustrating phenomenon of target panic. That moment when your pin hovers near the bullseye, but your brain short-circuits the process — either freezing beneath the target or triggering an involuntary punch of the release before you’re ready. It’s the silent killer of consistent accuracy, and I’ve been on a mission to solve it.
That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce the Nock On Back Strap, a revolutionary wrist-strap release that bridges the gap between traditional index finger releases and the proper execution techniques used by elite archers worldwide. It’s a complete solution for anyone struggling with accuracy or looking to elevate their shooting to the next level.
The Problem with Traditional Wrist Releases
The archery industry has a dirty little secret: the very tool most beginners start with — the standard index-triggered wrist release — often programs archers for failure. Here’s what typically happens:
When new archers get their first wrist strap release, they naturally learn to use their index finger to fire the shot. This quickly creates a mental connection between aiming and triggering. Once that connection forms, the brain starts anticipating the shot, causing either:
- Freezing – You physically can’t bring your pin up to the target
- Punching – You slap the trigger the instant your pin crosses the bullseye
- Buck fever – The entire system breaks down under pressure
I’ve coached thousands of archers, and this pattern repeats itself with remarkable consistency. The problem isn’t the archer. The problem is the method.
The Back Strap Solution: Two Releases in One
The Nock On Back Strap solves this fundamental problem through innovative design that allows it to function in two completely different ways:
Back Tension Mode
In its primary setting, the Back Strap works as a true surprise release:
- You draw your bow and anchor normally, finger off the trigger
- You squeeze the trigger to deactivate the internal safety
- Instead of continuing to pull the trigger, you maintain pressure and pull through the shot using your back muscles
- The release fires with a complete surprise when the tension reaches your preset threshold
This method completely divorces the aiming process from the execution, eliminating the anticipation that causes target panic in the first place.
Standard Index Mode
What truly sets the Back Strap apart from other training releases is its versatility. With a simple adjustment, you can convert it to function exactly like a standard wrist strap release that fires when you pull the trigger, perfect for hunting situations or when you need a more direct command of the shot.
Designed for Real-World Archery
The Back Strap isn’t just technically innovative. It’s built with practical archery in mind:
- Ultra-compact profile that won’t catch on clothing or gear
- BOA fit system for rapid, precise adjustment that stays secure
- Open hook design for lightning-fast loading onto your D-loop
- Wide tension adjustment range from 9-40 pounds to accommodate any archer
- Simple conversion for left-handed shooters
The wrist strap itself deserves special mention—I’ve licensed what I believe is the most comfortable, reliable strap system available. The BOA system allows you to dial in the perfect fit with a quick turn of the knob, and releasing is as simple as pulling the dial outward.
Proper Technique: The Key to Success
To get the most from the Back Strap, proper form and execution are essential. Here are the key elements I teach my students:
Perfect Anchor Position
Place your index knuckle at the base of your earlobe with the tip of your nose touching the string. This creates a consistent triangle between your eye, peep sight, and bow sight, while positioning your arrow in the “safe zone” between your lip and chin.
Many archers anchor too low (with the thumb behind the neck), which forces the arrow down onto the chin where any slight movement creates inconsistency.
The “Check-In” Method
Before disengaging the safety, I teach a concept called “checking in”: taking a moment to establish how much pressure you’re applying against the back wall of your bow. Are you pulling lightly or with significant force?
This awareness creates consistency in your pull-through, resulting in more predictable timing and improved accuracy.
The Surprise Execution
Once your safety is disengaged, the key is maintaining a steady, continuous pull with your back muscles. Imagine pulling the tip of your elbow directly toward the wall behind you. The shot should break with a complete surprise, often within 2-4 seconds depending on your pulling force.
Training Progression for Success
If you’re new to back tension releases or struggling with target panic, follow this progression:
- Start with a shot trainer or length of D-loop material to practice the motions without a bow
- Use large targets at close range when first shooting with your bow — this reduces the pressure to hit small targets while you’re learning the process
- Set proper tension at approximately 4-6 pounds over your bow’s holding weight
- Practice finger positioning with the trigger on the middle section of your index finger rather than the tip for better control
- Be patient with the float: accept that your pin will move, and focus on the pulling process rather than perfect aim
Conclusion: Breaking the Target Panic Cycle
The Nock On Back Strap represents my commitment to solving one of archery’s most persistent problems. After decades of coaching, I’ve seen too many promising archers derailed by target panic, a condition that’s almost always caused by improper release techniques in the early stages of development.
This release isn’t just another tool in your archery arsenal. It’s a complete system designed to build proper habits from the ground up or rebuild a broken shot process. Whether you’re a novice looking to start with proper fundamentals or a veteran struggling to overcome target panic, the Back Strap provides a clear path forward.
The truth is that a dynamic, surprise release execution has been the secret weapon of elite archers for generations. With the Nock On Back Strap, I’m putting that power in your hands, with the versatility to adapt to any hunting or target situation you encounter.
Trust your float. Pull through the shot. Let the surprise break transform your archery game.
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