The complete buyer’s guide to Archery target sizes
The size of an archery target varies depending on your shooting range. 16, 18, 20, and 22 inches are what you would usually find at close range.
Duramesh Archery Targets FITA Target
- Durable and weatherproof: made from self-healing heavy-duty Ultraflex vinyl, these targets can withstand repeated shots and harsh outdoor conditions
- Affordable and versatile: these targets are a great value for your money, as they can be used for backyard, club range, indoor leagues, and even as replacement faces for older bag targets
- FITA compliant: these targets have a regulated diameter of 48” (122 cm) and conform to the international standards for recurve archery
Target selection is an essential step in archery and bowhunting. However, buying the wrong target can lead to frustration, wasted money, and even injury. So, be careful when choosing your archery target and consider a few things before buying your first archery target or upgrading your existing one.
For target shooters, there are generally two types of targets:
FITA target: The standard 10-ring target used in most competitions. The score goes from 1 (outer rings) to 10 (inner rings), color-coded white, black, blue, red, and gold. Also has an X-ring inside the 10-ring for tiebreakers.
Field targets: Used for field archery, typically smaller with only six rings (gold 5 & 6, black 1-4).
Choosing a target size:
It depends on the specific round you’re shooting. Each round specifies the distance, target size, and number of arrows.
Generally, larger targets are used for beginners or shorter distances, while smaller targets are for experienced archers or longer distances.
Common diameter of archery target and distances:
40cm (16″): Typically used indoors at 18 meters (20 yards).
80cm (32″): Average size, often used at 30-50 meters.
122cm (48″): Large size, used at 50-90 meters, including the 70-meter Olympic distance.
Other tips:
Age group doesn’t directly affect target size, but junior archers may shoot shorter distances with the same target size.
Target centers are cheaper replacements for the entire target, especially suitable for compound archers who rarely miss the gold.
Consider cost and space when choosing a target size for your own practice.
A little knowledge about the different types of targets and each one’s pros and cons would help you decide which type will work best for you.
There are a lot of archery targets out there that can be overwhelming for someone new to this sport or looking to buy their first target. However, since each one has its unique features, it is helpful for you to be familiar with them and their effect on your overall experience with that particular type of target.
Kainokai Traditional Hand-Made Straw Archery Target
- Kainokai traditional hand-made archery target, using forage as raw material, traditional hand-woven, very beautiful, more environmentally friendly, less damage to the arrow, deeply loved by traditional bow and arrow lovers! In addition to being used for archery, it can also be used as a decoration!
- The target surface is covered with a silk-made target image. It can be used directly or attached to the target paper. The target body has a lanyard for hanging the target on the rope or treetop, or it can be placed on the shelf! The 3-layer target is 6.2 lbs, and the 5-layer target is less than 10 lbs easy to carry!
- Dimensions: [3 layers .19.7" x 19.7" x 2.3"][5 layers 19.7" x 19.7" x 3.9"] [7 layers 21.6" x 21.6" x 5.5"], note: the product is handmade by the farmer and cannot be factory Then the standard, so the size will have a certain error, if you are particularly mindful, please buy carefully!
- Choice of recommendations: based on a shooting distance of 18 meters, a 3-layer target can be selected below 30 pounds, a 5-layer target can be selected for 30-40 pounds, a 7-layer target is recommended for 40 pounds or more, or two 3-layer targets can be purchased.
Here are some of the things you should consider when buying an archery target:
Size
The size of the target is necessary to consider because it can affect the price, ease of use, and durability.
Construction materials
Knowing the material used to construct your target can help you assess its toughness and how long it will last before needing replacement.
Weight
The weight of a target helps determine its stability for long-term outdoor usage. However, it also affects the portability, ease of use, and transportation of the target.
Foam density/softness
Predicting how soft or hard a particular type of archery target can affect your accuracy and overall experience.
Appearance and aesthetics
You might not think that something like this matters, but it does. Again, this aspect of your target is unnecessary, but it can affect how you enjoy using it, especially if that’s important to you.
Price
The price should be the last thing on your mind when shopping for new archery targets. However, it may significantly affect what type of archery target you will get, especially if you are on a limited budget.
Morrell Yellow Jacket YJ-425 Outdoor Portable Adult Field Point Archery Bag Target
- Archery target bag amplifies your archery skills; Designed to be 20 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 20 inches tall, this target is your key to advancing your abilities and achieving precision
- Durable, intuitive construction approved for use with high-speed crossbow and compound bows; Stops up to 425 FPS and is the ideal archery tool; MLDD and IFS technology allows for a long lifespan
- Comes with 2 shooting sides and 10 bullseyes, offering the versatility your training regimen demands; Easy arrow removal allows for the whole family to take part in outdoor fun
- Made with a portable design featuring a carry handle and a lightweight build of 32 pounds, it lets you take your target wherever you go, ensuring that your passion for archery is not limited by area
- Archery target boasts a weatherproof surface designed to accompany you outdoors, whether rain or shine, this target is your reliable companion, ready to withstand the rigid outdoor archery practice
Contents
What kind of archery target should I buy?
The archery target you need to buy depends on your needs. You can choose from archery targets like foam core, archery mats, paper targets, or field point targets.
Each type of target has benefits and drawbacks for its use. For example, foam core is durable but might deflect an arrow if it’s not the correct type of foam core. Likewise, archery mats are very good at stopping archery arrows, but you can’t use them for outdoor shooting due to their fragile nature.
Paper targets are inexpensive, but it might be hard to find a large one that’s sturdy enough for outdoor use. Field archery targets are great if you shoot at various distances since they’re adjustable. But they’re expensive and might not suit beginners.
Types of Archery Targets
Foam Core Archery Targets
Benefits: Foam core targets are very sturdy. They won’t rip or tear if shot with field points, so it will be safe to use them outdoors. In addition, if it’s the correct type of foam core, an arrow will not deflect when shot at the target.
Drawbacks: It might be hard to find the right type of foam core, depending on what you want to do with the target. If you’re shooting at a group of foam cores, arrows might get stuck in them if you are not shooting straight into its very core.
Archery Mats
Benefits: Archery mats are great for outdoor use since they’re lightweight and easy to move around. They can’t get damaged by weather and will not deflect an arrow when it’s shot at them.
Drawbacks: It might be hard to find a large archery mat that can hold up to heavy use outside. If you’re shooting at a group of archery mats, the arrows could get stuck in between mats if you won’t hit them or in the wrong place.
Archery Targets
- Various styles of archery targets for bowhunting and target shooting.
- 3D archery targets shaped like game animals for realistic practice and arrow placement.
- Archery targets with self-healing foam for durability and repeated use.
- Archery targets for different types of bows, including crossbows.
Paper Targets
Benefits: Paper targets are very inexpensive and easy to replace, so you don’t have to worry about someone else damaging your target when you’re not around. It can be durable enough for outdoor use if it’s a large paper target.
Drawbacks: It might be hard to find a large paper target that’s sturdy enough for outdoor use. If you’re shooting at a group of paper targets, arrows could get stuck in between the rolls and fail to stick into the archery target completely.
Field Point Targets
Benefits: Field points are great for practicing different distances since you can set them on an adjustable field point target. You can also use them outdoors since they are very durable.
Drawbacks: Field point targets are expensive and might not suit beginners. Field point targets can also be expensive and heavy, which might not suit beginners or those who need to move the target frequently. Field point targets can be damaged by broadheads, which can tear the foam or cardboard layers and reduce the target’s lifespan.
Generally speaking, archery mats are great for beginners because they’re lightweight, sturdy, and inexpensive. Archery targets made of foam core can be used outdoors with field points without deflecting arrows.
Paper targets are very cheap but might not be durable enough for outdoor use. Field point targets are adjustable but expensive and might not work well for beginners.
Other targets you will come across:
Straw Targets, Bag Targets, Layered Targets (Block, Black Hole), Foam Targets (Rinehart, Yellow Jacket, Classic), 3D Targets (Deer Target), Specialized Targets (Dice High Roller).
Tips for Target Longevity
- Rotate shooting locations.
- Create new shooting areas with stencils.
- Use old, worn-out targets as backdrops.
- Compress layered targets with ratchet straps to extend their life.
Shooter Buck 3D Deer Archery Target
- Life-Like Shooter Buck - The biggest toughest 3D Target in the Universe, This Life-like Buck stands 48" Tall, 125" P & Y Antlers
- Bang For Your Buck - Includes a replaceable high density core insert that offers up to 5 times the shooting surface of other 3D Targets. The shooting insert extends the life of your target (Additional Inserts: Order GlenDel Model #G71630)
- Stability - the crossbow Shooter stands at 4 feet tall but it will never waver because ground stakes are included
- Impenetrable - Stops All Broadhead and Field Tip Arrows
- Made In The USA - at Shooter, we are proud that all of 3D targets are made right here in the USA
Factors to Consider:
Cost: Cheaper targets may wear out faster.
Durability: Depends on the target’s construction and material.
Arrow Removal: Some targets are easier to pull arrows from than others.
Suitability for Broadheads: Consider if the target is designed for broadhead practice.
Purpose: Choose a target based on your specific needs, whether for kids, broadheads, or general practice.
Remember, individual preferences and shooting styles may influence your choice, and it’s essential to find the right balance between cost, durability, and performance based on your archery requirements.
How much does an archery target weigh?
Generally, the weight of an archery target depends on the type of archery target and its size. Usually, you can expect a three-dimensional archery target to weigh around 90 pounds. However, a huge archery target could weigh approximately 175 pounds or more.
Many different materials are used to create an archery target, and their specific gravity and weight contribute to how much an archery target weighs. For example, homemade archery targets are typically made of concrete and thus will be heavier than an archery target made of rubber or foam.
The weight of the material that makes up the outer surface also affects how much an archery target weighs. As a reference point, the average three-dimensional archery target can be used for several thousand shots before you need to replace them. In contrast, a cardboard target might only last one hundred archery shots.
Importance of Determining the Weight of an Archery Target
The weight of an archery target is crucial because it determines how easy it is to transport, set up, and shoot at the target. For example, it would be challenging to transport a 175-pound archery target very far by yourself.
Also, heavier targets are harder to move when you are shooting them, making it easier for your shots to hit where you aim accurately. Knowing how much an archery target weighs will help you choose the right target type for your specific needs.
Black Hole Archery Target
- 4-Sided Shooting – contrasting aiming points on all 4 sides. Shoot field points at the "wrapped" sides and field tips, broadheads and expandables at the “open-face” layered sides.
- Easy Arrow Removal - Patented open layer design stops arrows with friction not force allowing for easy arrow removal and less shooter fatigue.
- Portable – lightweight with a convenient carrying handle.
- Economical – great price and long-lasting durability. Made in the Usa
- 2 Size Options To Choose From - 18 inch and 22 inch size options available for compound and recurve shooters.
Depending on its thickness, the average three-dimensional archery target weighs around 40 to 90 pounds.
- A 15-inch-thick target weighs approximately 40 to 50 pounds.
- Those 25-inch-wide targets can weigh upwards of 70 pounds
- Those 36 inches or thicker typically weigh around 90 pounds.
Archery targets made from lighter materials likely weigh less by nature, and those made from heavier materials probably weigh more than 90 pounds. And an archery target made from rubber could weigh around 30 pounds, and one made from concrete could weigh well over 100.
Although most three-dimensional archery targets are similar in weight, you must treat each of them separately depending on its specific material and dimensions.
Generally, the more weight an archery target has, the more stable it will be while you try to hit it with your arrows. This makes the archery target easier to use and hit shots more accurate. Knowing how much your archery targets weigh can help you choose the right type for your specific application.
How long do archery targets last?
The general recommendation for archery targets is to replace them every 3-10 years, depending on their frequency of use and materials.
For a high-density foam target, for example, it is recommended to replace the target every 2-3 years if you are using it regularly. A paper archery target can last a bit longer, but it may become unsafe to shoot after about three years of regular use.
Archery targets can last a long time. If properly maintained. An archery target can last for hundreds of hours of use before being replaced.
Morrell High Roller Target
- Stops compound and crossbow arrow speeds up to 450 fps;
- Stops field points and broadheads;
- Weather resistant;
- 6 sides, 21 bullseyes;13"x13"x13", 10 lbs.
Initially, it is vital to determine what kind of archery target you have and its recommended lifespan. The longevity and durability of an archery target depend on the density and type of materials.
Proper Handling and Storing of Archery Targets
It would help if you hung the archery targets in an area that allows ample room surrounding it (12+ feet) and where there is no room for error. Arrows can go through an archery target, and they are typically made of dense material that will stick to the ground if shot with sufficient force.
If your target hangs in front of a wall or fencing, ensure enough clearance, so arrows do not ricochet off the surface during use. If you mounted your target to a wall, make sure you anchored the screws securely to provide enough support for the target’s weight without sagging.
Store your archery target in a dry, ventilated area with a moderate temperature when not in use. And cover it with a cloth or blanket to reduce exposure to the sun.
You need to position if you have wooden targets with wooden backs or plastic backings with wooden faces to lean slightly forward when not in use to allow water to run off the support and avoid staining the surface.
The targets should be placed face-up on a flat surface when being transported. Protect the front of the target with a blanket or tarp to prevent it from rubbing against any sharp objects that may cause damage.
What size is a crossbow target?
If you are using a crossbow, your target size should be at least four feet by six feet. Alternatively, smaller target sizes are available for first-timers or those who do not want to go to the trouble of setting up the larger size. These smaller targets should be at least twenty yards away from the shooter.
Another factor contributing to your choice of target size is how far you plan to shoot. If you are only practicing your aim, smaller targets may be good for you. However, the downside of using small archery targets is that it is easier to miss them entirely, especially if you shoot with magnified optics or crosshairs.
Archery Targets 3D
- Realistic Design: Lifelike animal representation.
- Multiple Target Zones: Vital organs and scoring areas.
- Easy Arrow Removal: Self-healing foam for easy retrieval.
- Stability: Ground stakes for secure placement.
- Portability: Lightweight with handles for easy transport.
- Weather Resistance: UV-resistant and waterproof coatings.
- Easy Assembly: Quick setup and disassembly.
- Replaceable Parts: Replaceable core for extended life.
If the old target is too easy for you, consider purchasing a larger one. But do not go much bigger than four feet by six feet. Instead, pick only the smallest size available if your goal is to shoot at targets from thirty yards away or more.
This technique will improve your chances of hitting the target and increase your accuracy. Then, you can later increase the size to improve your skills.
If you are trying to increase the difficulty of hitting your target, purchase a larger one. Larger archery targets may be harder to shoot accurately at first. Still, once you have mastered accuracy with a smaller target at shorter distances, you can move on to more challenging targets further away.
This way of practice will require more patience, but it is an excellent way to challenge yourself and improve accuracy.
If you are not sure what size target you need or want, consider visiting a crossbow shop in your area. Sellers typically have sample targets to show you the different sizes of targets and the shooting distances suitable for you. With that, it is easier to figure out what you need, so go down to the shop and have a look.
Once you have found a size that looks right to you, buy your target and start practicing. As long as you practice regularly, your skills will improve, and you will become an expert in archery.
Sanlida Archery Dragon X8 RTH
- Large range of adjustable draw length 18-31", draw weight 0 -70 lbs without needing a bow press. A bow for all ages and skill levels.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty on main parts after your registration within 30 days of purchase.
- Specifications: Axle-to-Axle 30", Brace Height 6.6", Draw Weight 0 to 70 LBS, Draw Length 18" to 31", IBO Speed 310FPS, Net Weight 3.8 LBS, String Length 58.13", Cable Length 32.23".
- Material: CNC machined cams and modules with the 6061 T6 aluminum. Bowstrings and cables are made of BCY-D97
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