Archery Grip: Types, Styles & Hand Placement

The archery grip is the section of the riser the archer holds during the shot. Positioned at the center of the bow, it is typically made from wood or synthetic materials and shaped to seat the hand consistently from shot to shot. A well-fitted grip provides stable support while allowing the bow to move freely — minimizing torque and protecting accuracy.

How Hand Placement Works

Correct technique starts with seating the thumb pad — the meaty area of the palm below the thumb — against the grip's pressure point at the deepest part of the handle, called the pivot point or throat. The knuckles should angle outward at roughly 45 degrees. This directs pressure consistently through the bow, rotates the inner elbow clear of the bowstring, and reduces the twisting motion known as bow torque. After the shot, the hand should stay fully relaxed, letting the bow jump forward naturally rather than being grabbed or held tight.

Bow Grip Types and Styles

Understanding the main bow grip types helps archers match equipment to their shooting style.

High Grip

A high wrist grip sits above the bow's centerline, letting the wrist rest against the riser. It suits archers with larger hands who prefer a closed, controlled position — common among recurve and traditional shooters. The tradeoff is potential wrist fatigue during long sessions.

Low Grip

A low wrist grip keeps the wrist away from the riser, producing a more open, natural hand position that reduces fatigue. Most modern compound bow grip designs are built with this style in mind. Less contact with the riser can increase torque if hand placement is inconsistent, so repeatable placement matters more here than in any other style.

Wooden Grip

Found on longbows and recurve bows, the wooden grip is lighter than synthetic alternatives and carries a traditional feel. Because the shape is fixed, it cannot be adjusted to fit every hand. Materials like Micarta — a dense laminate valued for its stability and grip texture — are common in traditional grip construction and influence both feel and durability.

Custom Grip

Molded from rubber or plastic to match the shooter's hand, a custom archery grip offers the most personalized fit. It improves shot-to-shot consistency for archers with specific hand geometry or grip preferences. Custom grips cost more than stock options and vary in durability depending on material quality.

Choosing the Right Bow Grip Style

The right archery grip balances comfort, consistency, and compatibility with your shooting discipline. Compound shooters generally benefit from a low wrist, open-hand style, while recurve and traditional archers often prefer higher wrist positioning. Whichever style you choose, repeatable hand placement is what matters most for accuracy.