Mediterranean Draw and Release
This is accomplished by the forefinger on the string above the arrow, and the middle and ring finger on the string below the arrow. The arrow is normally placed on the left side of the bow. The modern thought on the draw is to keep effort in the hand at a minimum. The only work the hand is to do is the effort required to keep the bowstring on the fingers. The wrist is to be either straight or flexed away from the archer. This allows for the least tension in the hand, and thus a faster relaxation of the hand at release. This generally results in a more accurate and consistent shot.
The Mediterranean draw or its variants is the only traditional form attested in Europe; it is also native to the Middle East, appearing on Assyrian carvings at all periods. The Hadza, who do not use quivers, may hold other arrows with the free thumb and little finger. At present this is by far the most popular method of drawing a bow. It is now used by almost all recurve, traditional, and bare-bow shooters.
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