Archery is a fun and popular hobby that requires skill and patience. Some professional archers train to perform archery as sport. The goal of the game is to hit targets using a bow, arrow and precision. Finding a high quality archery target is ideal if you love to practice this skill, or if you're training for your sport. However, it can be difficult to decipher which targets will work for you since there are several different brands, styles and designs to choose from.
Hobbyists and professional archers alike all have different preferences when it comes to the style and function of an archery target. There are professional target products that are designed to enhance the archer's technique. There are also some targets that take a slightly different perspective when it comes to the design concept and are more functional for hobbyists.
Archery targets can be pricey, which can end up deterring consumers from purchasing a target. Finding a target that fits your price range and and is high quality is one of the biggest challenges in this particular industry; and this can have a major impact on the number of sales a particular product receives. However, you can definitely find an archery target that is well-made but within your price range.
Durability is one of the most common aspects that consumers are interested in. In turn, manufacturers place an extensive amount of emphasis on long-lasting durability so you won't need to purchase a new target every summer.
The good news is that we're here to help. In today's product review we will be separating five different products so that you can easily determine which style works for you. Each of these targets are built with a specific design style and focus on a particular collection of factors.
Hopefully by the time you are finished evaluating each of the targets in this buyer's guide, you will have a clear indication of which product you're interested in. Without further delay, lets get started with an in-depth look at Top 5 Archery Targets!
Top 5: Archery Targets Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
9.8 | ||
9.7 | ||
9.6 | ||
9.4 | ||
9.2 |
The number one product option in this countdown is the Block GenZ Series Youth Archery Arrow Target. This product has earned the top rating in this countdown because of its outstanding customer reviews. The target features a stylish design that makes it noticeable and attractive to users.
The design of the target is intended to provide additional portability, which makes it extremely convenient for customers that are looking for an easy-to-transport option.
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This GlenDel Buck 3D Archery Target is an interesting target because it features a true-to-life image of a deer making it an ideal target for hunting practice. This target was designed with a long lifespan in mind, so archers can enjoy shooting at this high-quality for a while.
The arrows can be easily removed from the surface of the target because of the enhanced polyfusion technology. This technology forces target layers to compress so that the arrows pop right out with ease. Customer reviews are extremely positive with this product because of the generous price range and overall great value that this particular product provides.
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This Longbow Archery target is an affordable archery target and one you should consider. These longbow targets are simple and based on professional specifications. The targets are built with heavy duty archery paper for increased shot effectiveness so your arrow will stick and you can accurately judge your shot.
If you are looking for a cheaper product, this is probably one of your best choices out of any product on the market.
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This Block Vault 4-Sided Archery Target is the fourth rated item on this list. One of the reasons it has earned a place in the top five is because of the target's enhanced polyfusion technology that boosts the quality of this target by a large margin.
The four sided target design is a nice complimentary feature as well, allowing users to factor in their accuracy by distance by choosing a new side for each distance or method of shot.
The impenetrable design makes it extremely easy to remove arrows from the target surface. This is a factor that other archery targets have failed to implement. The convenient design is one of the reasons that this product has received such an exceptional collection of positive customer reviews.
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This particular product is known as the Hurricane Bag Archery Target. This target is designed to be heavy duty and durable so that it has a longer life span and doesn't degrade at a rapid pace.
The bright colored design is intended to make it easier for archers to aim so that they can conveniently prepare their shots from a long distance range. The target is equipped with all of the necessary features in order to provide great services to the customer.
One of the best features implemented with the Hurricane Bag is that it is considered to be portable. There is a handle on the top so moving the bag is easy and convenient.
With this product, there are three separate target sizes to select from. There is a 20 inch target, 25 inch target, and finally the largest target measures at 28 inches. Depending on your specific requirements, any one of these sizes can be selected and purchased.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Some Arrows Easy to Remove and Some Aren't?
This has to do with the layer compression of the archery target itself. Some target brands have utilized a polyfusion technology in order to force the compression of the internal layers of the target so that the target cannot be penetrated internally and so that force is applied outwards so that the arrows come out with ease.
Which Aspect Is More Important: The Design or Durability?
Every customer will have a slightly different opinion, but the best answer to this question is probably both. Having an ugly target or poor visibility is disappointing, but you don't want to have to frequently purchase expensive targets. These aspects need to be in balance so you can enjoy your shooting experience.
Should You Use a Different Target Size for Long-Range vs. Short-Range?
This is a great question. And the expert response is: 'yes'. In order to practice effectively and gain more accuracy, a specific target size should be used for each shot range. This will help you work on the different techniques required for each.
For example, if you want to practice your long range shots then you should purchase a range target designed for longer distances. This would mean a larger emphasis on visual accuracy such as clear graphical elements and bright colors. Short range targets should be more durable and usually require a thicker build and tougher fabric.
10 Tips for Beginners at Archery
Before mastering archery, we are all beginners at some point. The main focus is on shooting effortlessly while hitting a target using the bow and arrow with utmost accuracy. Since archery skills usually manifest progressively, there are some tips that beginners should adhere to.
Beginners should practice regularly. They should focus more on their interest in archery. With time, they will perfect their skills. Some tips for beginners may help them to achieve their goals.
People may be wondering, which are the most suitable tips for beginners? As a beginner, you should focus more on learning about arrow nocking; this is whereby the arrow usually makes a sound when it has been secured on a bowstring.
Such tips come in handy. More tips would prove to be beneficial to beginners. Ten useful tips for beginners at archery include:
1. Exercising and Conditioning
Archery is not physically exhausting. It is a sport that relies on your athletic prowess. For instance, when you visit a gym, the main focus is on the upper half of the body.
People usually work on their arms, chest, and other parts of the upper half of the body. The back and the legs should not be neglected either. As an archer, you will realize that bodily endurance so that you can stand for numerous hours while shooting arrows.
2. Proper Stance
Besides perfecting your aim, you should also ensure that you have a proper stance as an archer. As an archer, the position of the body matters a lot.
For starters, you should focus on your target. You will then learn the right stance. Your body should be sideways from your target; the legs should be at the same distance as the shoulders. Ensure there is adequate space between the legs.
By focusing on your target, you will be able to position your feet accordingly. While firing arrows, the head, and the arms should move. The rest of the body should be at a standstill. Your back should be upright and rigid. The waist should not twist, lean, or move in any direction. Also, the knees should not bend.
At first, such a stance may feel uncomfortable. As you continue to perfect on your skills as an archer, you will get used to this stance. With time, you will become accustomed to the proper archery stance.
3. Loading the Arrows
After picking the bow and arrow, you are supposed to load them. The arrows should have at least three feathers. While positioning the arrow on the bow, the main focus should be on the feathers. One of the feathers should be close to you and not the bow.
After that, you should focus on finding the arrow’s nock; the nock is located on the back of the arrow. While positioning the arrow on the bow, you will realize you have achieved the right position when you hear a clicking noise.
4. Choosing the Right Bow
As an archer, you should understand that there are different types of bows. They have been created differently. Different sporting stores sell bows. When purchasing a bow, you should ask yourself, how well will the bow work? How many times will you use the bow before it breaks?
When you buy a cheap bow, you will only use it for a few months. Although a good bow is expensive, it is worth every coin. Also, you will not have to replace the bow regularly.
There are different types of bows that you can choose from. The most suitable bow for a beginner is known as a compound bow. It has wheels, and they are located at the end of the bow. The wheels usually act as a pulley system.
The compound bow usually ensures there is less drawback. As a result, you will take less time to choose your target. Such a bow is also suitable for hunters.
There is also the recurve bow. It is suitable for beginners at archery since it’s also short. The recurve bow has an S-curve, and that means it is easily distinguishable from other types of bows.
Beginners can also use the traditional long bow. The bow has existed for a prolonged period in some parts of the globe. Besides being used for many years, the traditional bow’s design has undergone minimal changes since it is highly efficient.
The bow is long, and it only has a single curve. It is not easy to use the traditional long bow as compared to shorter bows.
As you learn about the basics of archery, you will realize the recurve bow is the perfect option for a beginner. With time, you will gain more experience, and you will learn to use a long bow efficiently.
5. Aiming The Arrows
With a bow and arrow, your primary focus will be on aiming and shooting accurately at your target. The arrow should have a green pin. You should make sure the pin has been positioned in line with your target. In most instances, the target might be yellow.
The main challenge you may experience is trying to remain steady. Strength and endurance in the upper body and arms will come in handy as you focus on being steady.
As a beginner, your aim may not be accurate. You should not be discouraged. Everyone starts from somewhere, and with time you will improve your aim by being patient and practicing regularly.
6. Bow Sight Adjustments
As a beginner, there are different types of equipment that will help you to improve your skills as an archer. You may need to use a bow sight since it will help to improve your aim. Although the bow sight comes in handy, you should reposition it from time to time since it is an imperfect instrument.
At first, you should shoot the arrow towards the target without using the bow sight. You will then track the area that has been impacted on the target. The bow sight should be adjusted to match the archer’s shooting closely.
You may have to make a few adjustments before you can fire the arrow. With time, you will be able to understand how to use the bow sight effectively.
7. Bowstring Anchoring
As a beginner, you should take time to learn about bowstring anchoring. The bowstring should remain in a consistent spot so that you won’t waste time on repositioning everything each time you want to shoot an arrow. The repositioning takes time, and it is also inconvenient.
To anchor the bowstring, you should tug it back. It should be positioned up your nose. The string should be kept at a slight angle, and it should be positioned diagonally towards your mouth. At first, it may be uncomfortable, but you will get used to it with time.
8. Relaxing and Focusing on Getting the Right Mindset
If you are a beginner, you might be nervous at first. It’s normal since you have never held a bow and arrow before. With time, you will get a hold of everything, and you will get the right mindset.
Make sure you are confident and relaxed. In the process, you will become a professional archer, that is if you are consistent when it comes to practicing. A proper mindset will help you achieve your goals.
Also, when you’re relaxed, your body will not be stiff. We had earlier looked into the right posture for archers. The correct body positioning comes in handy as you try to hit the bullseye. You should stand up straight and ensure that your arms are not stiff.
You should not focus solely on feeling relaxed. You may experience some issues as you try to unclench your muscles since you may be overthinking. Ensure you are having fun. At first, you may be unable to take the perfect shot. With time, you will feel more relaxed, and you will fire off the arrows with a lot of ease.
9. Make Sure You Have the Necessary Gear
Some people usually associate archery with activities such as hunting. Archery is a fun sport, and it does not entail just hitting live prey in the wild. Just because you are not supposed to wear hunting uniform, it doesn’t mean you should wear old clothing while shooting.
You should wear somewhat tight clothes. Although jeans are suitable, the archery gear should fit closely to the body. You should have a t-shirt that does not have baggy sleeves. If you reside in a cold region, you should wear a long-sleeved shirt. The main focus is on avoiding anything that has loose sleeves.
It is also advisable to avoid shirts that have baggy collars. Also, archers should avoid scarves since they may interfere with their ability to take the perfect shot. When you fail to wear the appropriate gear, you may end up inflicting physical injuries on yourself.
You should also wear athletic shoes. Make sure the shoes have excellent traction since you may be shooting in an area that may have a lot of grass if you are engaging in outdoor archery. You should not wear sandals.
When you wear sandals, you may hit your feet, and you may end up injuring yourself. Shoes that have heels are also not suitable since you may end up tripping accidentally, and you will incur some physical injuries in the process.
People with long hair should pull it up and out of their face. The face should be clear so that you can spot the target well as you shoot the arrows. At times, the string might get close to your face. The archer’s hair may be tangled in the bow, and they may experience excruciating pain in the process.
10. Practice Makes Perfect
There is an adage that talks about how practice makes perfect. It is true. As an archer, the more you practice, the more your perfect your aim and skills. Although some tips may help you to improve your skills as a beginner at archery, some terminologies may be hard to understand. With time, you will understand some of these terminologies as you also gather more knowledge about archery.
With time, you will be ready to shoot arrows. In case you are not financially capable of purchasing the necessary equipment, some stores rent out the archery equipment at affordable prices. If you fail to enjoy archery, you will not incur additional expenses.
Archery is a skill that cannot be mastered overnight. You are supposed to learn more about positioning and different techniques that may seem somewhat unnatural and foreign at first. The techniques will become easier as long as you practice regularly.
It is advisable to practice during your free time. For instance, during the weekend, most people are free. You may take advantage of the weekends. Beginners at archery can improve their skills by devoting more time towards archery.
Additional Tips
In this context, the main focus was on ten tips for beginners at archery. We have looked into the most suitable tips that may come in handy for beginners. Other tips may come in handy, including choosing anchor points, mastering concentration, procuring the services of a coach, and tracking your progress.
When it comes to archery, you should master concentration. Archery entails ensuring you have both physical and mental prowess. You are supposed to visualize the angles and the speed of the arrow before you release the string. Such skills cannot be honed overnight, and they will also prove to be invaluable to your archery career.
Some people may be unable to concentrate for a prolonged period. Such people should practice and also engage in meditation as a means of improving their focus.
Final Thoughts
Archery may prove to be hard at first; however, beginners should focus on virtues such as patience. Also, they should practice regularly. By practicing regularly, a beginner will be in a position to improve their skills, and they will end up becoming professional archers with time. Beginners may also hire a coach. A coach is in a better position to offer tips and guidelines to a beginner at archery.
Final Verdict
We have taken five different archery target styles, all of which would be a great choice at an affordable cost. Each of these targets offer a slightly different array of features in their overall design and can have a major impact on customer preferences and overall value.
It might be helpful to purchase from several different brands so you have an understanding of which quality aspects that brand excels at. It's fine to purchase one brand for short range and another choice with long range specifications. Regardless of your intentions, each of these products would be great additions to your archery target collection.
