Field Evaluation - Flathead by Jim Fletcher Archery By Keith Dunlap - Senior Field Evaluator
Oct 9, 2009 - 5:01:11 AM
Since 1960 Jim Fletcher Archery has been manufacturing high quality, precision archery equipment. Their products are known for their smoothness and longevity. In fact, most of their products have a true lifetime warranty.
The product I evaluated, the new FlatHead release is similar to the Fletchunter release but with a forward trigger design, which helps with draw length. The FlatHead features the exclusive self-locking, over-center trigger design that provides a smooth, fully adjustable trigger pull and an inset hook that works well with a string loop.
The Flathead is very compact, and comes in two wrist-strap styles, the deluxe buckle strap and the deluxe Velcro strap. Either style will allow the release to be adjusted to exactly the right length for the shooter. The release Jim Fletcher Archery sent to me has the Velcro wrist strap. The FlatHead release has Toxic Green camo on a black-anodized finish on the release mechanism.
FlatHead release from Jim Fletcher Archery.
Initial Inspection:
Upon initial inspection of my FlatHead release, I found no defects in either workmanship or finish. All components worked properly and the quality was evident as I thoroughly examined the release.
The FlatHead is designed to provide flexibility in two ways, providing a custom fit and feel. The correct fit for the trigger is adjusted by a length strap that connects the release to the wrist strap. The release is easily configured for the right length by loosening and then retightening compression loops within the strap. The trigger should fit nicely into the first joint of the index finger.
Once the length is adjusted, I adjusted the weight or resistance needed to trigger the release. This is accomplished by advancing or retracting a 5/64" hex screw located opposite of the trigger in the release head. Advancing the screw reduces the length of pull while retracting it requires more travel and finger pressure to fire the release. It did not take long to adjust the FlatHead to my liking, both for fit and trigger sensitivity.
Fits nicely in my hand.
The trigger assembly is centered within the release and features a self-locking inset latch design. The FlatHead latches onto your bowstring or D-loop with little effort, simply advance the release onto the string or D-loop and it loads quickly, without having to hold the release open and then push the trigger forward to load. The fluid motion of the four hinge-point action automatically locks the release onto the string. I found this feature to be very effective, and can be a real advantage in hunting situations when you don't have time to think.
The forward design of the FlatHead trigger will help to gain back valuable draw length. Many releases on the market today set the trigger back too far from the string set. This not only shortens draw length but can also make anchoring very cumbersome. The distance between the string set and the trigger on the FlatHead is approximately 1/4" making for a reasonable anchor set.
FlatHead keeps a firm hold on the string until released.
Testing:
It was time to test the FlatHead in the field. I used my new Ross Carnivore 37 bow set at 70 lbs and 29" draw length. The first part of the testing was to see how effectively the release clipped onto my bowstring. The opening of the Flathead is narrow, and the rounded and curved edges of the jaw enabled the release to clip onto the bowstring with no effort. The pressure of the string on the backside of the jaw locks the release onto the string. To test the release's holding ability, I used the FlatHead to complete various types of draw, from a slow and smooth pull to a quick jerk of the bowstring. Each time, the FlatHead held the string without premature release, and without my applying any pressure to the back of the trigger.
Next, I evaluated my ability to shoot accurately and comfortably using the FlatHead release. I am not a back tension shooter, so I opted to use the trigger method for evaluation purposes. I normally use trigger-style releases that do not have the same sensitivity as the FlatHead. As such, I started my evaluation with the trigger adjusted for a bit heavier resistance. I immediately liked the smooth and quick release as I gently squeezed the trigger. I noticed right away that this compact release was easy to pull, and could eliminate the problem of punching the trigger for those who struggle with this problem. I proceeded to adjust the trigger sensitivity until I was able to release the string with the slightest of pressure, without giving up the holding capabilities of the release. The FlatHead performed very well and provides a very nice compact and lightweight release without sacrificing safety or accuracy.
If you struggle with target panic or punching the trigger, you know that these can have a devastating impact on your accuracy. You should try a release that can offer you trigger sensitivity that almost "surprises" you when you release the arrow. With its fully adjustable trigger sensitivity and its ability to be used as a back tension release, the FlatHead can help you with these problems.
Conclusion:
The FlatHead is a compact release with full adjustability. I found the adjustments more than adequate to gain a very comfortable feel while using this release. The quality is evident and the "hair trigger" can make you a more accurate shooter (eliminates target panic and punching the trigger).
Specifications as Tested
Size of release head: 1 7/8"
Weight: 2 oz (56.7 grams)
Strap material: black nylon
Main body material: aircraft quality aluminum
Finish/Camo Pattern: Toxic Green camo on black-anodized
Straps Available: Deluxe Velcro or Deluxe Buckle
Retail Price: $72.95
Warranty: Lifetime to original buyer
Pros: Release remains open until placed on bowstring; adjustable trigger pull; works as trigger or back tension release
Cons: I prefer buckle straps to Velcro, but good news is JFA offers both
To see the full line of products, visit their website: Jim Fletcher Archery
