Dished Grip: Definition, Types & Hand Placement

A dished grip is a bow handle design in which the center of the grip curves inward — or is "dished" — toward the archer's hand. The curvature is most pronounced at the throat (the deepest point of the handle), with the sides sloping outward toward the limbs. This geometry passively seats the thenar eminence — the fleshy pad at the base of the thumb — into the throat, helping the hand settle into a consistent position from shot to shot.

How a Dished Grip Differs from Other Grip Styles

Common longbow grip styles include straight (Hill-style), dished, humped, locator, and sculpted/recurve. The dished form appears frequently in traditional and stick-bow contexts, though it also shows up on some recurve risers. Its defining structural feature is a narrow, deep throat — typically about 1–1¾ inches deep and 1–1⅛ inches wide at the narrowest point — which sets it apart from flatter or more heavily contoured designs. For a broader look at how grip geometry affects technique, see our guide to archery grip types, styles, and hand placement.

Deep vs. Shallow Dished Bow Grip

The dished bow grip comes in two main variants:

• Deep dished grip: A more pronounced inward curve that provides a secure, defined hand position. Often preferred by archers shooting heavier bows or those who want maximum control.
• Shallow dished grip (concave bow grip): A subtler curve that suits archers who prioritize comfort and a more relaxed hold, common on lighter bows where less aggressive geometry is sufficient.

Benefits of a Dished Grip

• Reduced bow torque: Seating the thumb pad at the pivot point directs force straight through the bow, limiting the twisting that throws arrows off course.
• More consistent hand placement: The curved throat acts as a natural locator, helping the archer repeat the same low-wrist grip position every shot.
• Reduced hand fatigue: Pressure is distributed across the palm rather than concentrated in one spot, easing strain during long sessions.
• Better alignment: A correctly fitted dished grip encourages the inner elbow to rotate clear of the bowstring, supporting cleaner form.

Hand Placement on a Dished Grip

Relax your hand, place it on the bow, and slide it upward until the web of your hand seats fully in the throat. Only the area between the thumb and the palm's lifeline should contact the grip; the remaining fingers stay relaxed and hover rather than clutch. Setting your knuckles at roughly a 45-degree angle to the riser helps keep the elbow rotated clear of the string. After the shot, keep the hand loose and let the bow move forward naturally — inconsistent bow reaction on release is a reliable signal that grip pressure is varying between shots. If the grip geometry doesn't suit your hand, aftermarket options or moldable putty can build up specific areas for a better fit.