A simple design that delivers exceptional results. The Carter Like Mike II is a workhorse of an archery release aid.
There are just some pieces of gear that seem to always pop up in conversation, be it a certain tent, a jacket, or a pair of boots. And sooner or later, you’ve just got to try out that piece of gear for yourself. This is exactly how I felt about the Carter Like Mike II index-style release aid.
After hearing so many good things from other diehard bowhunters, I didn’t have a choice but to try this archery release out for myself.
In short: The Carter Like Mike II checks all of the boxes hardcore bowhunters are looking for in a release. For the casual bowhunter, though, the price may be a little steep.
Carter Like Mike II Release: Review
A New Generation
The Like Mike II is an upgraded version of Carter’s extremely popular Like Mike. Some of the improvements are an updated tension adjustment and their new Controlled Engagement System.
![Carter Like Mike II Release Carter Like Mike II Release](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/10/Dialed-In-Hunter-0328.jpg)
This wrist strap index style release has an open hook design for fast D-loop acquisition, as well as an easily adjustable web connection from strap to trigger. The trigger locks into place by simply pressing a button on the belly of the release.
Its Flex Connector wrist strap is fully adjustable as well, made to fit a wide variety of hand sizes and reduce torque at full draw.
Along with the release inside the packaging, you’ll find an appropriately sized Allen key, directions, and an extra steel ball to vastly increase the trigger tension if desired.
Features
These are a few useful features that stood out to me with the Carter Like Mike II.
Deep Trigger Position
Most trigger positions on index-style releases sit more forward. This is fine, but if you’re someone that prefers to fully wrap your index finger around the trigger, it makes doing so quite difficult.
The Like Mike II, however, has a deep trigger position, meaning the trigger is located farther back. This feature promotes achieving that full hook, which just plain leads to better shooting with an index release and less trigger punching.
Adjustable Trigger Tension
Trigger tension is the amount of force it takes to engage the trigger. The Like Mike II has adjustable trigger tension. All you need is a small Allen key, which is provided in the package if you don’t happen to already have your own.
![Carter Like Mike II Release: Adjustable Trigger Tension Carter Like Mike II Release: Adjustable Trigger Tension](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/10/Dialed-In-Hunter-0505.jpg)
Controlled Engagement System
My Experience
![Testing the Carter Like Mike II Release Testing the Carter Like Mike II Release](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/10/Dialed-In-Hunter-1152-1.jpg)
![Like Mike II Index Release Like Mike II Index Release](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/10/Dialed-In-Hunter-0039.jpg)
What’s Wrong
Web Gets in the Way
![Carter Like Mike II Release - Web problems Carter Like Mike II Release - Web problems](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/10/Dialed-In-Hunter-0265.jpg)
Not Easy on the Wallet
Carter Like Mike II Release: Final Thoughts
![Carter Like Mike II Release: Final Thoughts Carter Like Mike II Release: Final Thoughts](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2022/10/Dialed-In-Hunter-1414.jpg)