Check out my new blog: www.TraditionalChineseArchery.com In this video I want to briefly give you an overview of how to start using a thumb ring for Chinese archery. Each particular discipline of Asian archery will have their particular secrets and techniques, and some might say my method is completely different from theirs. Sure, but this is what I use, what I know, and by no means the ONLY way to use a thumb ring. To use the thumb ring, you simply slip the ring into your draw hand’s thumb, the long side protecting the first section of your thumb. Hook the string using the ring, and in most Asian archery, you cover the thumb with the first section of the index finger, and the other 3 fingers do not touch the ring, but lightly held in a fist. In Gao Ying’s book, he recommended using only the index, but if the bow is too strong, he recommended to use both the index and the middle finger to ensure a good grip on the ring. To release the arrow, simply open up the index and thumb at the same time. The smooth ring surface will ensure a smooth and quick release. You do not need to open the other 3 fingers, because doing so might add too much movement to your draw hand. To ensure you are not opening the other fingers, you can lightly hold a straw or a small piece of stick in your palm while you practice. When you release the arrow, only open up your index and thumb, and as you can see here, the straw stays in place. A quick history of the Chinese thumb ring. The thumb ring is the stable of Asian archery, being used by wearing it on your thumb, and allowing a long draw to maximize the power of the bow. One of the oldest Chinese thumb ring was excavated in the tomb of lady Fuhao. Fuhao was one of the many wives of the Emperor Wuding of Shang Dynasty [商朝]. She probably passed away around 1,200BC [about 3,200 years ago]. Fuhao was very active in military campaigns and warfare. It was uncommon for Chinese women to engage in warfare in general, but there were a few famous female warriors, and Fuhao is probably among the first recorded historical figure to do so. The ring is really an ancient trigger device. Its design and shape had changed in time. They could be made with all kinds of materials, from wood, jade, horn to metal. One of my favorite is a brass ring made by Vermil Archery, thumb ring maker from Thailand. It is very sturdy, and has great stress dissipation, and the force of the draw do not concentrate heavily on one spot on your finger. If you have any question regarding Chinese archery or the usage of thumb ring, feel free to email me: traditionalchinesearchery@gmail.com