Grip Hand Cramping Up

[NiteRunner]

:helpsmilie:

For the last while that I've been shooting, my left hand (my grip hand) gets to hurting after a few shots. It's mainly right at the base of my thumb. Is there something I'm doing wrong that's causing this? I haven't changed the way I hold the bow, so what could be the reason?

Thanks in advance!

Laura

[Arkansas Boy]

usually means you are gripping the bow too tight. I am guilty as well.

[LifeNRA]

You could be holding the bow too tight. I shoot with an open hand, fingers relaxed. With a wrist sling you don't need to worry about the bow falling off.

[layin on the smackdown]

You could be holding the bow too tight. I shoot with an open hand, fingers relaxed. With a wrist sling you don't need to worry about the bow falling off.

ditto....you should rest the grip in the crotch of your hand (between thumb and index finger), and it should sit there nice and comfy...Gripping hard can lead to all kinds of unwanted things.

[Double Drops]

It sounds like you may be gripping it improperly. Take a look at this article.

http://www.buckmasters.com/bm/Resources/Articles/tabid/135/ArticleType/ArticleView/ArticleID/385/Default.aspx

[NiteRunner]

I should get a Wrist Sling, its just one of those things that I didn't think was needed. I see in that article it says not to let the grip touch or go over the life line of your hand, I think that might be my problem... That's a good read DD, I'm saving it now!

Thanks All, I'll be working on it!

[LifeNRA]

One thing I forgot to add. When you place the bow in your hand for a shot, make sure that your wrist is turned up enough to get the entire grip firmly in the base of your hand under the thumb. This will allow the grip to be planted firmly into your hand. I read this, and it does allow for a steadier shot as well.

[Switchback29A1]

You could be holding the bow too tight. I shoot with an open hand, fingers relaxed. With a wrist sling you don't need to worry about the bow falling off.

I used to hold the bow closed handed, and got used to shooting open handed on the ground. I do it without a wrist sling. Once you get comfortable shooting with an open hand and stop thinking your gonna drop your bow, you'll see your groups get alot better. I also think it helps when your about to take a shot in the woods because if your adrenalin's pumping and your standing there squeezing your bow to death...well just not good lol.