Thumb Ring Use

by Thomas Duvernay

Thumb ring demonstration by Nicholas Duvernay (Yohan Lee), 1st Dan Korean-style archer

Bottom view of Korean thumb ring

Looking at a Korean style thumb ring from the bottom, opposite to where the thumb is inserted. Note the tape on the side, used to adjust the fit of a slightly oversized ring.

Initial thumb ring positioning

To begin, insert the thumb through the ring from the rounded side at a ninety-degree angle to the thumb.

Thumb ring placement

Position the ring just behind the thumb's knuckle.

Rotating the thumb ring

Rotate the ring ninety degrees so that it protects the thumb pad.

Bow handle position

Hold the bow handle with the arrow ready to be nocked. Note that the arrow will usually be placed on the opposite side compared to a three-finger draw.

Nocked arrow

The arrow is nocked and ready to be drawn.

String positioning

Position the string where the ring and thumb meet.

Index finger position

Wrap the index finger around the thumb, similar to flipping a coin. The arrow rests just above the thumb and ring. The index finger will push the arrow into the bow, preventing it from falling off, even if the bow is canted upside down.

Drawing position

Position the bow ready to draw and make an initial sighting of the target.

Full draw

Bow at full draw position.

Release and follow-through

Release and follow-through motion.

Target view

Archer's view of the target at 145m distance.