Imagine this: you’ve just unboxed your new bow, the string hums with potential, and you’re ready to send your first arrow flying. But where does it go? Without the right target, that exciting moment can quickly turn into frustration. Choosing an archery target can feel like a puzzle, with so many types, sizes, and materials to consider. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, wondering if you’re picking something that will stop your arrows effectively or last long enough to make practice worthwhile.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down the world of archery targets, making it simple to understand. You’ll learn what makes a good target and how to match it to your needs, whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your skills. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in choosing a target that helps you hit the bullseye every time and makes your archery practice more enjoyable and productive.
Our Top 5 Archery Target Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Archery Target Detailed Reviews
1. Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger
Rating: 9.2/10
The Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger is an archery target built for serious practice. It’s a big bag, 20 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 20 inches tall. This target helps you get better at shooting arrows. It has two sides to shoot at, and ten bullseyes. This means you get lots of chances to aim and hit the center. It’s also made to last a long time.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to pull arrows out. This makes practice fun for everyone, even beginners.
- The E-Z Tote carrying handle makes it simple to move the target around. You can take it anywhere!
- The weather-resistant surface means you can practice outside no matter the weather.
- With two shooting sides and ten bullseyes, you have plenty of ways to practice. This helps you get ready for competitions.
- The target is very durable. It has 38 layers of stopping power, so it can handle lots of arrows.
- It’s built with X-Tended life design and IFS technology for long-lasting performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for field points, using broadheads could potentially damage the target faster and make arrow removal harder.
- The size, while good for practice, might be a bit large for very small backyards.
This target is a fantastic tool for improving your archery skills. It offers great durability and ease of use for hunters and hobbyists alike.
2. Morrell High Roller Foam Archery Target
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to take your archery game to the next level? The Morrell High Roller Foam Archery Target is your new best friend for backyard practice. This 6-sided cube packs a punch with 21 bullseyes, giving you tons of targets to aim for. It’s built tough to stop arrows from fast bows and crossbows, and it’s super easy to carry around. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned archer, this target helps you get better with every shot.
What We Like:
- It has 21 bullseyes, so you get lots of practice on different spots.
- It stops arrows traveling up to 450 feet per second, which is really fast.
- The foam is strong and heals itself, so it lasts a long time.
- It’s waterproof and the colors won’t fade easily.
- The carrying handle makes it easy to move wherever you want to practice.
- Morrell is a trusted brand, and they offer a warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The target is a cube, so you might need to turn it around to get to all the sides.
- While it’s durable, very heavy use might eventually wear it down.
This Morrell High Roller target is a fantastic tool for improving your archery skills. It’s built to last and makes practice fun and effective.
3. Morrell Yellow Jacket Dual Threat 380 FPS Foam Archery Target Block for Compound Bows and Crossbows
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to sharpen your archery skills with the Morrell Yellow Jacket Dual Threat 380 FPS Foam Archery Target Block. This bright yellow target is built for serious practice, whether you’re using a compound bow or a crossbow. Its tough construction and smart design mean you can shoot arrow after arrow without worry. It’s a fantastic tool for any archer looking to improve their accuracy and confidence.
What We Like:
- It works with all kinds of bows, stopping arrows up to 350 FPS. This lets you practice with different bow powers.
- The target is made from strong, fused cellular foam. It lasts a long time and always performs well.
- You can use any type of arrow, including field points, fixed blades, and mechanical broadheads. This gives you lots of choices for practice.
- It’s built to handle different weather. You can practice inside or outside. It also has a handle to carry it easily.
- Morrell is a trusted brand in archery. This target shows their commitment to helping you get better at archery.
- It has four sides and 32 bullseyes, so you have many targets to aim for.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it stops arrows up to 350 FPS, very powerful bows might eventually wear it down faster.
- The yellow color is bright, but in some lighting conditions, it might be harder to see against certain backgrounds.
The Morrell Yellow Jacket Dual Threat target is a solid investment for any archer. Its durability and versatility make it a top choice for consistent practice.
4. Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Field Point Archery Bag Target with Traditional Bullseyes
Rating: 9.0/10
The Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Field Point Archery Bag Target is a fantastic tool for archers of all levels. Its bright yellow color makes it easy to spot in any range. This target offers a variety of aiming points to help you improve your accuracy. You can practice with traditional bullseyes, a fun nine-ball game, a dartboard, and even deer vitals for hunting preparation. It’s built tough to handle powerful shots from both crossbows and compound bows, up to 450 FPS. Plus, it’s easy to carry around thanks to its handles.
What We Like:
- Versatile training options with bullseyes, nine-ball, dartboard, and deer vitals.
- Durable construction handles up to 450 FPS, ensuring it lasts.
- Easy arrow removal saves you time and effort.
- Replaceable cover extends the target’s life significantly.
- Generous size provides ample space for practice at any skill level.
- Convenient carrying handles make it portable.
- Backed by Morrell HME Quality Assurance and a manufacturer warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some users might find the initial weight a bit much for very frequent repositioning.
- The yellow color, while visible, could potentially show dirt more readily than darker options over time.
This target truly offers a comprehensive practice experience. It’s a smart investment for anyone serious about improving their archery skills.
5. Delta McKenzie Speedbag Revolver 6-Sided Archery Target – 450 FPS Rated Portable Cube for Compound Bows
Rating: 8.8/10
The Delta McKenzie Speedbag Revolver 6-Sided Archery Target is a fantastic tool for archers of all levels. This portable cube is built tough and designed for serious practice. It can handle high-speed shots from various bows, making your training sessions more effective and enjoyable.
What We Like:
- It has six different sides to shoot at, so you can practice from many angles.
- The graphics are bright and easy to see, even from a distance.
- It’s strong enough for bows up to 450 FPS, which is really fast.
- Arrows come out easily, so you won’t struggle to pull them out after each shot.
- It’s not too heavy and is easy to carry around for practice anywhere.
- It can handle being outside in different weather conditions.
- It works well for beginners and experienced archers alike.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s only designed for field points, not broadheads, so keep that in mind.
- While durable, it might eventually show wear and tear after many, many shots.
Overall, the Speedbag Revolver is a reliable and versatile archery target. It’s a great investment for anyone looking to improve their archery skills.
Choosing the Best Archery Target for You
Picking the right archery target helps you improve your skills and have more fun. This guide will help you find the perfect target for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a target, check for these important things.
Durability
A good target lasts a long time. It can handle many arrows without falling apart. Look for targets made from strong materials.
Arrow Stopping Power
The target should stop your arrows safely. It shouldn’t let arrows go all the way through. This protects your arrows and keeps you safe.
Portability
Do you need to move your target often? Some targets are lightweight and have handles. Others are bigger and heavier.
Size and Shape
Targets come in different sizes. Smaller targets are good for practice at close range. Larger targets are better for shooting from farther away. Shapes can be round, square, or even animal-shaped.
Ease of Use
Some targets are easy to set up. Others might need more work. Think about how much time you want to spend getting ready to shoot.
Important Materials
The material a target is made from affects how well it works.
- Foam: Many targets use dense foam. This foam grabs arrows and stops them well. It’s also usually lightweight.
- Hay Bales: Old-school targets are made of compressed hay. They stop arrows but can be messy.
- Layered Materials: Some targets have layers of different materials. This helps them stop arrows and makes them last longer.
- Cloth/Fabric: Some targets have a tough fabric cover. This cover holds the inside material together.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a target great or not so great?
Good Quality
- Dense construction: The tighter the material is packed, the better it stops arrows.
- UV resistance: If the target sits outside, it should resist sun damage.
- Replaceable parts: Some targets let you replace the shooting surface. This saves money.
- Clear scoring rings: Easy-to-see rings help you track your progress.
Poor Quality
- Soft or loose material: This lets arrows pass through easily.
- Flimsy construction: The target can break or fall apart quickly.
- Difficult arrow removal: Sometimes arrows get stuck, which is frustrating.
- No protection from weather: Sun and rain can ruin a target fast.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses these targets and how?
Beginners
New archers need targets that are easy to use and safe. Foam targets with clear scoring are great for learning.
Experienced Archers
Serious archers want targets that can handle powerful bows. They look for targets that offer a challenge and last a long time.
Backyard Practice
If you shoot in your yard, you need a target that stops arrows safely and doesn’t damage your surroundings. Make sure you have enough space.
Club Shooting
Archery clubs often use large, durable targets. These targets need to withstand heavy use from many different archers.
Field Archery
For shooting at different distances and angles, portable targets are useful. Some targets are designed to be carried easily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Archery Targets
Q: What is the best type of archery target for a beginner?
A: Foam targets are usually best for beginners. They are lightweight, stop arrows well, and are easy to find with clear scoring zones.
Q: How do I make my archery target last longer?
A: You can make your target last longer by rotating it. This means shooting at different sides or sections. Also, keep it out of direct sun and rain when you’re not using it.
Q: Can I use any arrow on any target?
A: Most targets are made for specific types of arrows and bows. Check the target’s description to make sure it can handle the power of your bow and the type of arrows you shoot.
Q: How do I remove arrows stuck in a target?
A: Gently twist and pull the arrow. If it’s really stuck, you might need an arrow puller tool. Avoid yanking hard, as this can damage the arrow or target.
Q: What’s the difference between a block target and a layered target?
A: A block target is one solid piece of foam. A layered target has many thin layers of material stacked together. Layered targets often stop arrows better and are easier to remove arrows from.
Q: Do I need a special stand for my target?
A: Some targets come with their own stands. Others might need a separate stand or a way to prop them up. Check the product details.
Q: Is it safe to shoot at targets in my backyard?
A: Yes, but only if you have a safe shooting area. Make sure there are no people, pets, or valuable items behind the target. Always have a backstop, like a large hay bale or a dedicated safety net.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good archery target?
A: Prices vary a lot. Small, simple foam targets can cost around $20-$50. Larger, more durable targets can range from $100 to $300 or more.
Q: Can I shoot broadheads at my target?
A: Some targets are designed to be used with broadheads, which are hunting arrowheads. Most practice targets are not meant for broadheads. Using broadheads on the wrong target can ruin it and make arrows hard to remove.
Q: Where is the best place to buy an archery target?
A: You can buy archery targets online from big retailers or specialty archery shops. Local sporting goods stores also often carry them.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.