It’s often been said that good things come in threes. When it comes to Spot Hogg’s release line, this historical rule rings true. Of course, when most inside the archery circle hear the name Spot Hogg, eyes glaze over and visions of racy, durable and purposeful sights dance in their minds. This is for good reason. This legendary manufacturer has developed an unwavering reputation for churning out bow sights craved by bowhunters and target archers alike, but here’s a quick newsflash: Spot Hogg makes a trio of ultra-sweet releases as well.

The Keeton

The manufacturers latest incarnation, this single-caliper release seamlessly blends two styles of releases into one. Now, before we get into the nuts and bolts of this bad boy and its pair of family members, know that I’m not going to regurgitate a Spot Hogg press release you can find by simply opening a new browser window and punching in the letters spot-hogg.com. The ink to come is all about the proper use and performance of each field-tested release.

Showcasing a head and trigger design that obviously descended from the popular WiseGuy (more on this release later), the Keeton’s padded buckle-strap felt great on the wrist, and the release offers infinite length adjustment via the easy-to-operate, highly durable plastic buckle and nylon strap. Simply lift up on the plastic buckle and pull the excess nylon strap toward the release head to shorten the strap and lift up on the buckle and pull the release head to lengthen the strap.

The integrated grip, which is basically a four-finger hinge-type bar, greatly aids in the draw-and-shoot system. How? Simple, the bar allows the shooter to better handle the draw and holding weight of the bow with more than just the shoulder. I really believe after shooting this release for several days that it is the perfect remedy for archers with shoulder issues.

With the release’s length set properly, which is an absolute must if you want to take full advantage of the grip pivot, clip the head onto the string and grab the bar much like you would a hinge-style release. As you draw, do not rotate the wrist in an effort to turn the thumb-knuckle down as you would a hinge or thumb-button. This is an index-finger release and should be anchored accordingly. For me, that’s with my index-finger right at the base of my ear lobe. Once full draw is reached, the release will pivot away, quickly aligning your index-finger with the trigger. I found this system increased my consistency of anchor, built confidence and absolutely distributed weight between the grip, wrist, arm and shoulder.

The trigger proved crisp, and offers sensitivity adjustment via a set screw located in the head right behind the trigger’s base. Shoot this release a few times, again, with it set at your ideal length setting, and it’s likely you’ll have found a new in-the-field companion.

The WiseGuy

Available in Rigid Buckle, Rigid Velcro and Nylon strap styles, Spot Hogg’s WiseGuy was built for the bowhunter seeking a dependable, crisp, accurate and adjustable index-finger release.

The tested version featured the Rigid Buckle system and I loved it. Length adjustment was as simple as loosening the hex-head screw that attaches the head of the release to the strap. I also loved the fact that when not in use, I was able to tilt the head back toward my wrist, which will prevent it from catching on debris or clanging against a treestand.

With my release length set properly, I instantly took notice of the release’s overall effectiveness. The open-hook jaw allows rapid attachment to the d-loop, and the Fail Safe Trigger design eliminates anxiety. Also appreciated was the forward-trigger design, and slightly curved trigger, which melted into my first index-finger knuckle.

At the shot, the release breaks crisp and clean; there is zero creep or travel. The open hook is self-reloading, so after the shot simply push the trigger forward and you’re ready to go again. As for the trigger adjust, simply locate the set screw located on the head of the release right behind the base of the trigger. Insert your Allen and turn the screw clockwise for a lighter trigger and counterclockwise for a heavier trigger.

Note: Trigger sensitivity adjustment on the Keeton and WiseGuy are identical. Just remember when making adjustments less is more. I highly recommend, whether you’re looking to make the release hotter or heavier that you make 1/16- to 1/8-inch turns at a time. These releases can be made ultra-hot.

The Whipper Snapper

Those that follow my writing know I’ve been on a thumb-button/hinge-style release kick for a while now, so I was very eager to wrap my hand around the Whipper Snapper and put it through the paces. The good news: I wasn’t at all disappointed!

This simple-to-operate, easy-to-adjust beauty felt great in the hand, and I loved the short three-finger (available in a four-finger) handle. When I shoot a hand-held release, I truly feel that having fewer fingers on the release creates less torque. After some testing, I found I could easily draw this miniature three-finger release with just my thumb and index finger, and only had to incorporate my middle-finger as I engaged the target and began pulling through the shot.

The head of the release protrudes out from the body, which means draw length is not lost, and my closed-jaw model (available in an open-jaw model) clipped easily onto my d-loop by simply inserting the string into the jaw and pushing the thumb-button forward. I really like a closed-jaw thumb release for hunting. When stalking, I can simply put it in my pant or vest pocket, and when in a treestand or ground blind, I click it on my d-loop and leave it.

As with all releases tested, the Whipper Snapper boasts zero creep or travel. It is smooth, crisp and flat-out accurate. Adjustment is a breeze. The adjustment set screw is situated right behind the base of the thumb-button attachment bar. A clockwise turn will make the release hotter and a counterclockwise turn will make it colder. The release does have an integrated too-hot indicator, which prevents the release from cocking. This feature will save a bloody nose. To adjust the position of the thumb-peg, loosen the set screw that attaches the peg to the handle and swap holes. It’s that simple. I absolutely enjoyed shooting this little hone of a handheld, and you will too.

Yep, good things come in threes. Your biggest problem know is discovering which Spot Hogg release is right for you. Don’t worry, you can’t go wrong. Just head to your local dealer and give each a test drive. Who knows, you might just discover that your credit card likes to make purchases in counts of three. Just sayin’.

For more information, visit www.spott-hogg.com.