Here's a nice response form an earlier RAS discussion onthe same
subject form "66"


1. Tost release is designed to release under normal load. No special
requirement, just pull release.

2. Schweizer release may actually not release the tow rope under a
real soft load (if arm sticks, for example, and towring is recaptured
when release closes). As long as load isn't excessive (i.e. pulling
up prior to release) no damage should result from normal tension
release.

3. Tow pilots generally do not like soft releases - it's embarassing
to climb an extra thousand feet or two with nothing on the end of the
string (BTDT). Especially on a nice bumpy day, with a light glasshole
behind me, I want to know when he/she decides to leave!

4. Why do a maneuver just prior to release that will decrease the
rate you get separation from the towplane and distract you from
clearing your airspace prior to release?

5. Worse case is that you match speeds with towplane, pull release,
then eat the end of the towrope. Dumb.

So now, tell me again why a soft release is taught? Oh right, to save
a few bucks on maintenance...

Only thing worse than a soft release is a kiting release - those guys
(you know who you are) deserve a good thrashing!

Just get behind the towplane, stabilize, clear the airspace, release,
watch for the rope to leave, then turn away. Easy...

Kirk
66