Archery Finger Tabs: Top Picks and Tips
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Archery finger tabs are essential for protecting your fingers from the bowstring and improving your shooting accuracy. In the realm of archery, precision and comfort are paramount.
Whether you’re an experienced archer or just beginning your journey, the right equipment can make a significant difference in your performance.
Among the essential gear for any archer is the finger tab—a small, yet crucial piece of equipment that protects your fingers and ensures a smooth, accurate release of the bowstring.
They provide a barrier between your fingers and the bowstring, reducing friction and preventing injury.
Finger Tabs vs. Archery Gloves
Choosing between archery gloves and finger tabs depends on your shooting style and personal preference. Both options offer unique benefits and drawbacks.
Overview of Archery Gloves
Archery gloves cover your fingers and sometimes your entire hand.
They protect your fingers from the bowstring, preventing blisters and calluses. They are easy to put on and take off, making them convenient for long shooting sessions.
Gloves come in various styles, including full gloves and three-finger gloves.
Full gloves cover all fingers, providing maximum protection.
Three-finger gloves cover only the index, middle, and ring fingers, offering more flexibility.
Gloves are made from materials like leather or synthetic fabrics, ensuring durability and comfort. They fit snugly, allowing you to maintain a good grip on the bowstring.
Full gloves can be bulky and may reduce finger flexibility. Three-finger gloves offer more flexibility and a better feel of the bowstring.
If you prioritize protection and convenience, gloves might be the better choice.
Overview of Finger Tabs
Tabs are usually made from leather or synthetic materials and come in various thicknesses.
Some tabs have additional features like finger spacers and adjustable plates for a custom fit. Tabs are lightweight and easy to use, making them a popular choice for many archers. They allow for a clean release of the bowstring, which can improve accuracy.
Finger tabs provide a clean release, which can improve accuracy.
They are lightweight and less bulky, making them comfortable to use. Tabs are easy to carry and store, and they allow for better skin-on-skin contact with the face, helping you find your anchor point.
However, they may wear out faster and require more frequent replacement.
If you value flexibility and accuracy, finger tabs could be more suitable.
Comparison of Archery Gloves and Finger Tabs
| Feature | Archery Gloves | Finger Tabs |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Full coverage for fingers, prevents blisters and calluses | Covers only the fingers that pull the bowstring, reducing friction |
| Flexibility | Three-finger gloves offer more flexibility; full gloves can be bulky | Lightweight and easy to use, clean release |
| Comfort | Snug fit, can be warm in cold weather | Less bulky, more comfortable in warm weather |
| Durability | Durable materials like leather or synthetic fabrics | Leather or synthetic materials, can wear out faster |
| Ease of Use | Easy to put on and take off | Small and lightweight, easy to carry and store |
| Accuracy | Provides a good grip on the bowstring, can affect the feel of the string | Allows for a clean release, improving accuracy |
| Maintenance | Requires regular cleaning and conditioning for leather gloves | Easy to maintain, just needs occasional cleaning |
How to Choose the Right Size for a Finger Tab
Choosing the right size for a finger tab is essential for comfort and performance in archery.
A properly fitting finger tab ensures that your fingers are protected and that you can shoot accurately.
If the tab is too small, it can cause discomfort and restrict movement.
If it is too large, it can interfere with your grip and release, affecting your accuracy.
How to Measure Your Hand for a Finger Tab
To measure your hand for a finger tab, follow these steps:
- Length Measurement:
- Place your hand flat on a table.
- Measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger.
- Width Measurement:
- Measure across your knuckles at the widest point of your hand.
- Circumference Measurement (if required by the manufacturer):
- Measure around your hand at the widest point, just below the knuckles, excluding the thumb.
Use these measurements to find the corresponding size on the manufacturer’s sizing chart. Most brands provide a sizing guide to help you choose the right size.
Tips for Ensuring Comfort
- Check Manufacturer’s Sizing Chart: Different brands have different sizing standards. Always refer to the specific brand’s sizing chart.
- Printable Sizing Guides: Some brands, like Fivics, offer printable sizing guides. Print the guide at 100% scale and compare it to your hand.
- Try Different Sizes: If possible, try on different sizes to find the most comfortable fit. Each brand may have slight variations in sizing.
- Adjustable Tabs: Look for tabs with adjustable features, such as finger spacers and plates, to customize the fit.
- Trim to Fit: Many tabs come intentionally oversized so you can trim them for a custom fit. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for trimming.
Sizing Guide of Popular Brands
| Brand | Model | Sizing Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Fivics | Saker 1, Saker 3 | Printable sizing guide available online |
| AAE | Cavalier Elite, KSL Gold | Manufacturer’s sizing chart |
| Win & Win | Wiawis EZ, 360 Cordovan | Manufacturer’s sizing chart |
| Fairweather Archery | Fairweather Finger Tab | Custom sizing system |
| Bateman | Cordovan Tab | General sizing (small, medium, large) |
| Saunders | Pak Tab | General sizing (small, medium, large) |
Finger Tabs Designed for Beginners
Finding the right finger tab is crucial for beginners in archery. Several brands offer finger tabs specifically designed to help new archers develop their skills comfortably and effectively.
Easton First Start Beginner Finger Tab
The Easton First Start Beginner Finger Tab is designed for new archers. It is made from synthetic leather, which is both durable and easy to maintain. The simple design makes it easy to use, providing basic protection for the fingers.
This tab is affordable, making it a great choice for those just starting in archery.
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Features: Simple design, easy to use, provides basic protection for new archers.
- Purchase: Easton First Start Beginner Finger Tab
Zara Beginner’s Tab
The Zara Beginner’s Tab is another excellent option for beginners. Made from leather, it offers durability and good finger protection. Its affordable price makes it accessible for new archers.
The tab’s design ensures a comfortable fit, helping beginners focus on their technique without worrying about finger pain.
- Material: Leather
- Features: Affordable, durable, and offers good finger protection for beginners.
- Purchase: Zara Beginner’s Tab
BICASTER Archery Finger Tabs
The BICASTER Archery Finger Tabs are made from genuine cowhide, providing a comfortable and durable option for beginners. These tabs are available in multiple sizes, ensuring a good fit for different hand sizes.
The simple design makes them easy to use, allowing beginners to focus on improving their skills.
- Material: Genuine cowhide
- Features: Available in multiple sizes, provides a comfortable fit, and is easy to use.
- Purchase:
Decut Rugbii Finger Tab
The Decut Rugbii Finger Tab is designed with beginners in mind. It features a combination of leather and aluminum, providing durability and comfort. The tab is adjustable, allowing for a customized fit.
This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it ensures the tab stays in place during shooting. The Decut Rugbii offers excellent protection and helps new archers develop proper form and technique.
- Material: Leather and aluminum
- Features: Adjustable, durable, and provides excellent protection and comfort for beginners.
- Purchase: Decut Rugbii Finger Tab
Comparison of Beginner Finger Tabs
| Brand | Model | Material | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easton | First Start Beginner Finger Tab | Synthetic leather | $7.99 | Simple design, easy to use, basic protection |
| Zara | Beginner’s Tab | Leather | $5.99 | Affordable, durable, good finger protection |
| BICASTER | Archery Finger Tabs | Genuine cowhide | $10.99 | Multiple sizes, comfortable fit, easy to use |
| Decut | Rugbii Finger Tab | Leather and aluminum | $15.00 | Adjustable, durable, excellent protection and comfort |
These beginner-friendly finger tabs offer a range of features to help new archers develop their skills comfortably and effectively. Whether you prioritize affordability, durability, or adjustability, these tabs provide excellent options for enhancing your archery experience.
Popular Brands and Models of Finger Tabs
Choosing the right finger tab is crucial for archers, as it directly affects comfort and shooting accuracy.
Here are some popular brands and models based on user feedback and expert recommendations.
AAE (Arizona Archery Enterprises)
- AAE Cavalier Elite:
- Known for its durable construction and adjustable features
- Offers a customizable fit for different hand sizes
- Includes a finger spacer and an adjustable plate for a secure grip
- Purchase:
- AAE KSL Gold:
- Designed by Olympic coach Kisik Lee
- This tab features a unique ergonomic design that promotes a consistent release
- Includes a palm plate and finger spacer for added stability
- Purchase: AAE KSL Gold Finger Tab
Fivics
- Fivics Saker 1:
- This tab is popular for its high-quality cordovan leather
- Provides a smooth release and long-lasting durability
- Includes an adjustable finger spacer and a metal plate for added support
- Purchase: Fivics USA Saker 1 Finger Tab
- Fivics Saker 3:
- Similar to the Saker 1, this model offers additional customization options
- Includes interchangeable plates and spacers
- It is ideal for archers who want a personalized fit
- Purchase: Fivics USA Saker 3 Finger Tab
Fairweather Archery
- Fairweather Finger Tab:
- Made from soft kangaroo leather, this tab is easy to break in and offers excellent comfort
- Includes a unique sizing system that ensures a precise fit, making it a favourite among top archers
- Purchase (Australia): Fairweather Archery Finger Tab
Win & Win
- Win & Win Wiawis EZ:
- This tab features a minimalistic design with a thin metal structure
- Providing a clean release
- Includes an anchor shelf and finger spacer for added accuracy
- Purchase: Win & Win Wiawis EZ Finger Tab
- Win & Win 360 Cordovan:
- Known for its high-quality cordovan leather
- This tab offers durability and a smooth release
- It is suitable for archers of all levels, from beginners to advanced
- Purchase: Win & Win 360 Cordovan Finger Tab
Bateman
- Bateman Cordovan Tab:
- This tab is praised for its thick cordovan leather
- Provides excellent protection and a smooth release
- It is available in both split-finger and three-under models, catering to different shooting styles
- Purchase: Bateman Cordovan Tab
Saunders
- Saunders Pak Tab:
- Made from synthetic materials
- This tab is durable and easy to maintain
- Includes a rubber inner layer for added comfort and protection, making it ideal for archers with sensitive fingers
- Purchase: Saunders Pak Tab (CA)
Comparison of Brands and Popular Models
| Brand | Popular Models | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| AAE | Cavalier Elite, KSL Gold | Durable construction, adjustable features, ergonomic design |
| Fivics | Saker 1, Saker 3 | High-quality cordovan leather, customizable plates and spacers |
| Fairweather Archery (Australia) | Fairweather Finger Tab | Soft kangaroo leather, precise sizing system |
| Win & Win | Wiawis EZ, 360 Cordovan | Minimalistic design, high-quality leather, suitable for all levels |
| Bateman | Cordovan Tab | Thick cordovan leather, available in split-finger and three-under models |
| Saunders | Pak Tab | Synthetic materials, rubber inner layer, ideal for sensitive fingers |
Differences Between 2 Under and 3 Under Finger Tabs
Choosing the right finger tab is crucial for archers, as it directly affects comfort and shooting accuracy.
Overview of 2 Under Finger Tabs
2 under finger tabs are designed for archers who use the split-finger technique, where one finger is placed above the arrow and two fingers below it.
This method is also known as the Mediterranean draw.
The 2 under finger tab provides protection for the index and middle fingers, which bear most of the pressure from the bowstring.
This type of tab is commonly used in traditional archery and is favoured for its balance and control. It allows for a more natural anchor point and can help with aiming, especially for instinctive shooters.
Overview of 3 Under Finger Tabs
3 under finger tabs are designed for archers who use the three-under technique, where all three fingers (index, middle, and ring) are placed below the arrow.
This method is often used in barebow and stringwalking styles of archery.
The 3 under finger tab provides protection for all three fingers, distributing the pressure more evenly across the hand. This technique allows the arrow to be closer to the eye, which can improve aiming and accuracy.
It also reduces the gap between the arrow and the eye, making it easier to aim directly at the target.
Comparison of 2 Under and 3 Under Finger Tabs
| Feature | 2 Under Finger Tabs | 3 Under Finger Tabs |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Split-finger (Mediterranean draw) | Three-under (barebow, stringwalking) |
| Finger Placement | One finger above the arrow, two fingers below | All three fingers below the arrow |
| Pressure Distribution | Concentrates pressure on index and middle fingers | Distributes pressure evenly across index, middle, and ring fingers |
| Aiming | Natural anchor point, suitable for instinctive shooting | Arrow closer to the eye, reduces gap, improves aiming accuracy |
| Common Use | Traditional archery, instinctive shooting | Barebow, stringwalking, target archery |
| Comfort | May cause more pressure on fewer fingers, can be less comfortable for long sessions | More even pressure distribution, generally more comfortable for extended shooting |
Key Differences
- Finger Placement: In the 2 under technique, one finger is above the arrow, while in the 3 under technique, all three fingers are below the arrow.
- Pressure Distribution: The 2 under technique concentrates pressure on the index and middle fingers, while the 3 under technique distributes pressure more evenly across all three fingers.
- Aiming: The 3 under technique allows the arrow to be closer to the eye, reducing the gap and improving aiming accuracy. The 2 under technique provides a more natural anchor point, which can be beneficial for instinctive shooting.
- Comfort: The 3 under technique generally offers more comfort for extended shooting sessions due to the even pressure distribution.
Choosing between 2 under and 3 under finger tabs depends on your shooting style and personal preference.
If you prioritize a natural anchor point and instinctive shooting, the 2 under finger tab may be more suitable.
If you prefer improved aiming accuracy and even pressure distribution, the 3 under finger tab could be the better choice. Both options have their advantages, so consider what works best for your needs.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Here is a table summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of 2 under and 3 under finger tabs:
| Feature | 2 Under Finger Tabs | 3 Under Finger Tabs |
|---|---|---|
| Advantages | – Provides a natural sight picture for long-range shooting – Offers a secure grip on the bowstring |
– Brings the arrow closer to the eye, improving aiming accuracy – Distributes pressure evenly, making it more comfortable for long sessions – Easier for beginners to learn and use |
| Disadvantages | – Can cause more pressure on fewer fingers, leading to discomfort – May be challenging for beginners due to the tendency to pinch the nock |
– May not be as suitable for long-range shooting as the split-finger technique |
Choosing between 2 under and 3 under finger tabs depends on your shooting style and personal preference. If you prioritize a natural sight picture and long-range shooting, the 2 under finger tab may be more suitable.
If you prefer improved aiming accuracy and even pressure distribution, the 3 under finger tab could be the better choice.
Consider what works best for your needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the right finger tab is an essential step in optimizing your archery performance and ensuring a comfortable shooting experience. With the vast array of options available, it can be challenging to find the perfect fit.
Consider key factors and personal preferences that can enhance your accuracy and overall enjoyment of the sport.
Our top picks highlight some of the best finger tabs on the market, each chosen for its quality, durability, and performance.
Investing in a high-quality finger tab can make a significant difference in your shooting consistency and finger protection.
Remember, the right equipment is just as important as technique and practice.
As you refine your skills and aim for new heights in archery, let a well-chosen finger tab be your reliable companion on this journey. With the perfect finger tab, you’ll not only protect your fingers but also elevate your precision, making each shot more satisfying and accurate.
