Hunt & Live

Q&A · Hunting

Why Does My Bow Have Flinches During Release?

April 6, 2026

Quick Answer

Your bow has flinches during release due to improper cam timing, inconsistent arrow rest height, or poor bow tuning, which can be caused by a misaligned cam or incorrect limb bolts.

Cam Timing Issues

Cam timing is critical in a compound bow, and any discrepancy can lead to a flinch during release. To check cam timing, use a paper tuning system by shooting arrows at a target with a paper strip attached. If the arrow hits the paper at an angle, adjust the cam timing to achieve a straight strike. Aim for a 45-degree angle between the arrow’s point of impact and the paper’s edge. A 60- or 90-degree angle indicates improper cam timing.

Arrow Rest Adjustment

The arrow rest plays a vital role in a consistent shot. If the arrow rest is too high or too low, it can cause the arrow to wobble or bind, resulting in a flinch. The ideal arrow rest height is 1/4 inch above the bow’s upper cam. To achieve this, adjust the arrow rest by loosening the set screw and sliding the rest up or down. Check the arrow’s flight path and make adjustments as needed.

Walk-Back Tuning and Bow Sight Alignment

Proper walk-back tuning and bow sight alignment are essential for a consistent shot. Walk-back tuning involves adjusting the bow’s limbs to achieve a consistent arrow flight path. To do this, start by adjusting the limb bolts in small increments and measuring the arrow’s flight path with a chronograph. Aim for a consistent speed and trajectory. Once the bow is properly tuned, align the bow sight with the arrow’s point of impact. Check the sight’s alignment by shooting at a target and adjusting the sight until the arrow hits the center.

compound-bow-tuning flinches release
Share

Find more answers

Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.