Hot Shot Vapor Release Review

Anthony Smith

If you’re looking for a new bow release this hunting season, for your 3D course, or just your backyard shoot, then don’t overlook the Hot Shot Vapor. The Hot Shot Vapor comes in a 3- or 4-finger design depending on your preferences. The Vapor has tons of adjustability for any archery situation. Trigger tension, thumb barrel, thumb barrel twist, and thumb barrel up-down position can all be changed to fit any archer.

Hot Shot Vapor Release
Hot Shot Vapor Release

The Hot Shot Vapor release is designed to be any bow hunter’s go-to release. It features a fully adjustable thumb barrel, adjustable trigger tension, and zero noise actuating system, and comes in a 3- or 4-finger design. No matter your needs, the Hot Shot Vapor has you covered.

Price: $89.99
  • Fully adjustable thumb barrel
  • Left/Right orientation
  • Crisp, adjustable tension trigger
  • Zero noise internal actuating system
  • Automatic closing jaw
  • 3- or 4-finger designs available

Hot Shot Vapor Release Review | Trigger Tension

First, let’s talk about the trigger tension, which is one of the best features of the Hot Shot Vapor. The zero noise internal actuating system allows for a smooth crisp release. The Vapor factory setting is near a “hair-trigger” – a hair-trigger is the release that holds very well against the back wall and just the slightest pressure on the thumb barrel provides a smooth, silent release. Though the trigger tension can be adjusted, you’ll want to be very careful in doing so. Just the smallest turn on the set screw can set the tension so light that the Vapor can release it while drawing the bow. I did this, and it resulted in me smacking myself in the mouth when I got about halfway through my draw cycle. It was not my finest moment, but definitely a memorable one and something you should be aware of before adjusting your own release.

Another thing to keep in mind is to keep your thumb away from the trigger until you are absolutely ready to shoot or if you decide to cancel your shot. Unfortunately, I did this also at my local archery shop while installing a nose button. I went to let down my bow with my thumb near the trigger and a slight bump from my thumb released the string, resulting in a frayed cable and a couple of string barrels flying across the shop. So when I say it’s a hair-trigger, please believe me – I have the incidents to prove it.

Hot Shot Vapor Release

Hot Shot Vapor Release Review | Adjustments

Next, we will talk about the thumb barrel, which is fully adjustable. The barrel can be spun 180 degrees to fit a left-handed shooter. It can also be moved up and down, forward and backward to find the perfect fit in the pocket of your thumb. Adjustment is as easy as loosening a couple of set screws with the provided Allen wrench. It truly is designed to fit any bowhunter, regardless of the shape or size of your hand. You will also find easy-to-read instructions so you can set your Hot Shot Vapor up just the way you want it.

Hot Shot Vapor Release

Hot Shot Vapor Release Review | 3- or 4-Finger Design

As mentioned before, the Vapor comes in a 3- and 4-finger design. I bought both because I was concerned with string twists. Since buying the 3-finger first, I felt there was a little torque in the string on the back wall with my pinky hanging off to the side. Though both releases allow for plenty of hand placement on the release, both feel really strong when drawing the bow. The 4-finger design may feel better to those of us that find it hard to figure out what to do with our pinky on the 3 finger release. But I did find myself hunting with the 3-finger release more because of its compact design. Both releases come with optional lanyards that can be adjusted to fit any wrist.

Hot Shot Vapor Release

PROS:

  • Fully adjustable thumb barrel position and left/right orientation
  • Crisp hair-trigger with adjustable tension
  • Available in 3- or 4-finger designs
  • Made in the U.S.A.

CONS:

  • Adjusting tension too far can produce issues while drawing bow
  • Hair-trigger can cause unintended releases

Hot Shot Vapor Release Review Summary

Whether you choose the 3- or 4-finger release, you will feel confident in knowing the Hot Shot Vapor is made with only the finest materials that allow the release to function more smoothly over time.  All Vapor releases are made 100% in the U.S.A. and come with a limited lifetime warranty. Every Hot Shot release is guaranteed for the purchaser’s lifetime against defects in materials and workmanship. So if you’re looking for an amazing piece of archery equipment for a great price, then go and get yourself a Hot Shot Vapor release (3- or 4-finger designs). From my experience, you will not be disappointed.

Ready to buy? You can readily find this product from a wide variety of retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart, or Al’s Sporting Goods.

Thanks to Anthony Smith for this user-submitted gear review.  Hunting Gear Deals is funded by affiliate commissions. We may receive a small commission when you buy from our partners using the links provided. There is no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting us by using our links when making your purchases.

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Anthony Smith

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