If you’ve ever experienced missed shots, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. You’re out there, in the field, practicing for what seems hours, and somehow, you just can’t hit the target.
It’s not always easy, but a kisser button can help.
But, hold on, you’re worried. How to install a kisser button and what the heck is it? Trust me, it’s easy to use and worth it.
To install a kisser button, attach the button to your bowstring at around 1.5 inches above your nocking point. Then, in full draw, have someone adjust it slightly so that it falls directly over the corner of your lip.
What Is A Kisser Button?
A kisser button is a plastic or metal button designed to be felt by you as you draw your bow. It can also come as a large knot of thread. They come in many different sizes, but most of the ones you see in stores are disk-shape. They’re used by many Olympic recurve archers.
What Is The Best Kisser Button?
When I was starting out, I used a few different kisser buttons. Some were of poor quality, breaking within a few uses. But, I eventually found one that worked for me.
I recommend this kisser button:
What Does A Kisser Button Do?
A kisser button doesn’t help you to aim, but it allows you to anchor shots by giving you a reference point. It acts as an additional anchor point and helps you to stay more focused and consistent with your aim.
Do You Need A Kisser Button?
The answer depends on your preferences. You’ll be disappointed—or grateful—to know that it is not a yes-no option. The following are some of the reasons why you might need a kisser button:
Consistency
Archery is all about consistency. If you have a consistent form, you can easily tune the bow to ensure that you can hit the target every time. If not, your accuracy suffers. A kisser button helps by improving your consistency in 2 ways:
1. Draw accuracy
The kisser can give you a reference as to what place you want to draw the bow. It’s easy to draw the bow higher or lower between shots. If you have a kisser, you can see this really easily because you notice that the button is not where it is supposed to be.
Many recurve archers have to deal with varying draw length. This causes serious inconsistencies in the target. You can work around this by putting the kisser at the corner of the mouth and taking it from there.
2. Consistent head position
Another reason why you might need a kisser button is that it helps with the head position consistency. When shooting, it’s a common mistake to rotate your head between shots. This can result in inconsistencies and clearance issues.
It’s for this reason that you should have 2 anchor points on your face. If you manage to hit both points, you can be sure that your head is in the same orientation every time.
The kisser can provide you with the anchor point you need to maintain this consistency. The kisser should be hitting the corner of your lip every time you draw. If it’s not, you might be rotating your head when you shoot.
Confidence
This might seem a bit far-fetched, but a kisser button can give you a boost of confidence.
With a kisser button, it’s easier to maintain consistency in your shots. It is very easy to feel, so you know just where your anchor point is. For new archers especially, this can be a game-changer.
Of course, not everyone will need a kisser button. Several archers feel that it is quite unnecessary because they don’t feel any difference at all. Plus, some also claim that the reference point is imprecise.
However, I’ve only had positive experiences with kisser buttons. You may not need one in the long run, but it is a great start.
How To Install A Kisser Button
You’ll understand the art of drawing a bow a lot better with a kisser button. It’s pretty straightforward and almost effortless to install. You’ll only need a few supplies, and once you get that, you’ll be good to go.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Needle-nose pliers
- Tape Measure
- Clamps (they usually come with the kisser button)
Installing the kisser button is pretty simple:
- Attach the kisser button to your bowstring.
- Measure about 1.5 inches above the D-loop (your nocking point).
- Adjust the kisser button to that location.
The kisser button should be right around the corner of your lips. Have a friend adjust it for you if needed.
And there you go!
How To Remove A Kisser Button?
Removing a kisser button is easy. Simply take the needle nose pliers and open the metal clip. The button should slide off the bowstring without a problem.
How Much Does A Kisser Button Slow Your Bow Down?
A kisser button slows down the string’s speed, which means less energy is transferred to the arrow. However, this difference in speed is minuscule and you won’t even notice.
Final Thoughts
Kisser buttons can make archery easier and a lot more fun. If you keep missing shots, they could be just what you need. Hopefully, now you’ll be more confident in your ability to use and install a kisser button.
If you need any more help, please feel free to check out my other articles.
