I was extremely pleased when I got my first glimpse of the new Jim Dandy release.  It is available in two offerings as a loop or a loop/bowstring release.  The loop release utilizes an open right angle jaw for quick clips onto the string.  The loop/bowstring model features a closed jaw and can be utilized with a loop or clipped directly onto the string.  I received the latter of the two but both feature a rounded radius on the jaw to ensure no excess wear on the string. 

Jim Dandy Bowstring/Loop Release

What first struck me was that the trigger is set forward which alleviates draw length loss.  I also liked it because I began hunting many moons ago and used my fingers to release the string.  When I evolved to a release I felt that I lost that fingers feeling.  I say this because most releases change your hand position placing it much farther back.  I prefer the feeling of your index finger closer to your mouth which the Jim Dandy accommodates rather nicely.

Jim Dandy Loop Release

I really like the compact looks with its machined rounded edges.  The anodized camouflaged look has the Fletcher name on one side and the name Jim Dandy on the other.  For its size it offers one of the most fluid motions.   Two independent rollers, one on the jaw and the other on the trigger, roll against each other upon release for a very smooth and consistent action.  The spring loaded trigger also accentuates the very fluid action.  The trigger itself is large and with a slight curve and should fit any shooters style.  For a more controlled feeling I prefer my finger all the way to the inside of the trigger so that it is resting against the release housing.  Others who prefer a shorter power stroke can move their finger closer to the outside edge of the trigger.   A set screw on the trigger extension can satisfy shooters over the complete range of the trigger pull sensitivity spectrum.  The Jim Dandy can be set to a very sensitive pull and yet be consistent with no misfires no matter how hard I tried.  Similar releases I have tried have sometimes been very inconsistent and downright scary resulting in a bloody mouth.

The Jim Dandy can be clipped on to the string directly by either pushing the string into the release or pulling the trigger open and then pushing the string on.  I prefer the second method because the first makes an audible click as the release locks onto the string.  If you are using a string loop the second option of pulling the trigger must be used as the loop is too flexible. 

The release is so compact that it doesn’t allow for a rotating head.  I had no trouble with it and it felt very comfortable in my anchoring position.  An archer who rotates their wrist out and prefers a rotating head should not have a problem with this release either.  The reason being is because of the extended trigger and compact size.  As an archer rotates their wrist out their index finger will extend out along the trigger.  Upon full draw the end of their finger will conform to the slight curve in the extended trigger. 

The wrist strap is of a double Velcro manner and is fairly simple to attach.  First wrap each end of the strap around your wrist and secure one end over the other with Velcro closure.  Next a second Velcro strap wraps over the first closure to provide a very secure lock.  The release connects to the wrist strap by a fairly narrow strap which runs through your palm.  It is extended in length and offers a wide array of adjustments by doubling back over itself through a bracket.  The bracket attaches to the wrist strap using double webbed stitching for security and strength.  The flexible strap allows the release to fall out of the way when not in use.  This is a plus when needing full use of your hand. 

I however would like to see several more options available with the availability of a glove style.  I prefer that while on stand so that the release would be quickly available.  Because of the Jim Dandy’s small size I believe you could still get away with using your hands with a glove style attachment. 

Design: 4.5 of 5 
The machined tolerances are excellent on this release.  The compact size combined with the double roller and spring loaded extended trigger is an engineer’s masterpiece.  The very smooth and fluid motion puts this release right at the top of the class.  The compact size also didn’t reduce my draw length.  The only thing keeping it from a perfect five is that I would like to see more available wrist attachment options.  I believe the compact size would make a great glove type release.  I prefer it while on stand so that the release could be quickly available.   Also with the Jim Dandy’s compact size I believe you would still have full use of your hand. 

Performance: 5 of 5 
As mentioned earlier the trigger was very fluid and consistent no matter how light the pull.  The trigger adjustment allowed for a full range of settings. 

Comfort/Fit: 4 of 5 
The Jim Dandy with the padded wrist sling was very comfortable.  The extended adjustment strap allowed for a wide variety of settings and should accommodate a great range shooters finger, hand and wrist lengths. 

For further information on this or any other Jim Fletcher product contact:

Jim Fletcher archery Aids Inc.
Box 218
Bodfish, CA 93205
760-379-2589: phone
760-379-5745: fax
Email:  info@fletcherarchery.com
On the Internet at fletcherarchery.com