Field Tested: T.R.U. Ball Beast XT Hybrid

Choosing a new release aid is one of the most important decisions a bowhunter can make. After all, it’s the release aid that provides the interface between you and your shot.That’s why T.R.U. Ball has packed so much performance into the new Beast XT Hybrid. Not only is it a particularly feature-rich release aid, it can also be adapted to your particular shooting style.

The Beast XT Hybrid builds on T.R.U. Ball’s proven Beast and Short-N-Sweet designs by taking the same light, non-collapsing trigger found on those models and adding three choices of trigger angle. Bowhunters can now opt for a forward, relaxed or straight trigger position, all in the same release aid — simply remove the trigger’s screw with an Allen wrench and reposition the trigger as desired. It’s that easy.

The adjustable trigger makes the Beast XT Hybrid innovative, but it’s just the start of the release aid’s customization options. I mentioned trigger tension is light, but you can also adjust trigger travel to suit your needs. A screw under the trigger can be tightened to reduce travel or loosened to extend it. A setscrew 90degrees to the right of that screw can then be tightened to lock the setting in place.

The Beast XT Hybrid’s length can also be adjusted. The one-piece, in-line body has two screws, one on each side. When these are removed, the release aid’s body can be taken off of the 360-degree Globo Swivel solid-rod connection, revealing five adjustment holes. Determine which length you prefer, then slide the body to the corresponding holes on the rod and reinsert the screws.

The Globo Swivel connection also allows the release aid to be brought to hand quickly and easily. The Beast XT Hybrid’s body rotates around the swivel, located where the body connects to the wrist strap, and falls out of the bowhunter’s way for unobstructed rangefinder use. However, unlike release aids with a strap connection, the Globo Swivel only allows the Beast XT Hybrid’s body to fall to a roughly 45-degree angle. When a big buck comes walking by, it’s easy to let the release aid drop back into your hand for a shot. This makes for the perfect balance between convenience and security.

The Beast XT Hybrid also has a single, open hook for quick attachment to your bow’s D-loop. This is probably my favorite feature, as an open hook lets me attach my release aid without having to look down at my bowstring. I keep my eyes on my quarry, the hook keeps me locked and loaded for a shot and there’s no chance of the jaws failing to close on the string, because there are no jaws.

Other features of the Beast XT Hybrid include an adjustable buckle wrist strap, an “X-TRA tough” textured grip and an ergonomic design for minimal torque when coming to full draw.

So, how did I set up my Beast XT Hybrid? I preferred to have the trigger in the relaxed, swept-back position, my length moved to the middle of the five holes and my trigger travel on the longer end of the spectrum. I found a little goes a long way when adjusting trigger travel, so make very small changes and then test-fire the release to find your sweet spot. When you’re done, lock in your preference with the setscrew. 

Like I said, selecting a new release aid is a major undertaking. When it comes to T.R.U. Ball’s Beast XT Hybrid, though, it’s a no-brainer! MSRP: $114.99 | truball.com

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