I've read it so many times that you should hold your bow string like you would a paint bucket handle. I've been trying to do it and when I do, my follow through upon release feels so natural and I shoot so much better.
Now, if I could only do it every time..........

Any time you get to the point you can do something the same way every time, you're usually the winner  

Is the paint bucket used only to learn to hold the string, or is it also used to teach proper release?  I suspect it is used only to learn proper holding, but I'm not sure about releasing, so I thought I'd ask.

QuoteOriginally posted by McDave:
Is the paint bucket used only to learn to hold the string, or is it also used to teach proper release?  I suspect it is used only to learn proper holding, but I'm not sure about releasing, so I thought I'd ask.

Jimmy Blackmon recently did a video on this but I think he used rubber tubing instead of the paint can but the principle was the same. He clamped it to the floor with his foot and drew it vertically and released it. It was to demonstrate what the release should look like when you just relax the fingers.

I believe one affects the other. If I hold the string this way, relaxing the back of the hand, I get a better release

QuoteOriginally posted by bear bowman:
I believe one affects the other. If I hold the string this way, relaxing the back of the hand, I get a better release

What I meant was, do you practice releasing the paint can, or just hold it and then put it down?

McDave,  Instead of a paint can, use a standard galvanized bucket.  Fill to 3/4 full with water and do the release.  If you stay dry, you have a good release, if you are wet, your release is "all wet."     :D  

Part of the idea is that you can learn the FEEL of a totally relaxed string arm from hook to shoulder and how it helps the release.  Then transfer that feeling to a drawn bow.

Arne