Archery Grip: Types, Styles & Technique Guide

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

How Hand Placement Works

Correct hand placement means seating the thumb pad — the meaty area of the palm below the thumb — against the grip's pressure point, which sits at the deepest part of the handle (called the pivot point or throat). The knuckles should angle outward at roughly 45 degrees. This position directs pressure consistently through the bow, keeps the inner elbow rotated 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 gripped tightly.

Bow Grip Types and Styles

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

High Grip

Positioned above the bow's centerline, the high wrist grip lets the wrist rest against the riser. It suits archers with larger hands who use a release aid and want a closed, controlled grip position. The tradeoff is potential wrist fatigue during long sessions and a less natural hand angle. Most recurve and traditional shooters favor a high or medium grip style.

Low Grip

A low wrist grip sits below the centerline, keeping the wrist away from the riser. It produces a more open, natural hand position that reduces fatigue — making it well suited to archers with smaller hands. Most modern compound bow grip designs are built with the low wrist style in mind. The main drawback is that less contact with the riser can increase torque if hand placement is inconsistent.

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, which may affect consistency for some archers. The material used in many traditional grips — such as Micarta, a dense laminate valued in archery for its stability and grip texture — can influence 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 long-term durability depending on material quality.

Choosing the Right Archery Grip Style

The right bow 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 use, repeatable hand placement is what matters most for accuracy.