In this blog, I will show you how to pick the right bow target, not only for bows but for crossbows too. By the end of this blog, you will have an extent of knowledge on how to pick the right target for any bow or crossbow.

What to take into account 

When it comes to picking the right bow target, you have to take into account a few things.

The first thing to think about is whether or not you are going to leave your target outside or not. If you don’t have a place to put your target, I recommend getting a weatherproof target, so that you get the most life out of your target. Most targets that are waterproof will have a bag target-like cover around them, and targets that claim to be weatherproof usually are not.

weatherproof targets are usually bag targets, but there are downsides to bag targets, which we will get into later. But if you do have a spot to put your target, say an old shed, barn, or garage, then any target will work.

What does your budget allow? Does your budget allow you to get a 1,000 dollar moose target or a 50 dollar bag target? 

Buy from a good brand. If you want a target that will last longer than 8 months, then you have to buy from a good brand. Now if you shoot as much as I do, then no target will last longer than 2 years, but that is beside the point. You are better off just buying one good target.

Bag targets

Bag targets have their upsides and their downsides. Bag target examples include the Rinehart rhino bag, Morell yellow jacket series, Block Hurricane bag targets.

The first upside is they are generally less expensive than normal targets.

Usually, with bag targets, you get about a year with them, then you have to get a new cover. Hopefully, the brand you buy from has aftermarket covers. which is another reason to buy from good brands.  

One big downside to bag targets is you can’t shoot broadheads. So when you have to tune your broadheads you have to get a new target. The reason you can’t shoot broadheads is the way bag targets are made. Bag targets have multiple layers of burlap so your broadhead goes in spins a bit then you cant get it back out. And not to mention, your target would last half as long. So if you are planning to do a lot of broadhead shooting, then I would get both a bag target and a foam target.

Another problem is if your arrow spins a little too much in the target and your field point is loose, it will tighten on the burlap and you will lose your field point. This isn’t a huge problem, and it doesn’t happen too often, but if you don’t have many field points, or live where it’s tough to just run into town to get new field points, then this may be a downside.

A huge upside to bag targets is that you can leave them out all year. So instead of having to put up your target when you are done shooting, you can just leave it out.

If you have a crossbow, you may be cautious of bag targets, as the speed of your bolt may go through the target; so buy a good one that is rated for crossbows.

Foam targets

Layered and foam targets are pretty much all-around good targets. They can stop pretty much anything you throw at them. foam targets include Block 6×6, Block blackhole, Rinehart Rinoblock, Morell high roller, and Morell savage.

These targets will stop almost everything you throw at them, especially if they are rated for crossbows. You can shoot all types of broadheads and field points at foam targets.

The main downside to foam targets is they can’t be left outside, or else they will weaken and will not last as long. As long as your target is in a spot where the rain is not hitting it will be fine. But it’s best if stored in a place like a garage where it is completely out of the elements.

These targets are a little more expensive at about 110 MSRP, but they are worth the extra price as you can shoot them with anything.

A good foam target will last about 1-2 years, depending on how often you shoot and how you store it. Of course, buying a good target helps.

3d targets

3d targets are targets that look like animals, so they help you train for when the shot counts when your hunting. 3d targets will stop just about everything. Examples of 3d targets are Morrell bionic buck, GlenDel buck target, shooter targets: big shooter buck.

3d targets are good for training for hunting practice. So when it comes time to shoot that big buck your nerves don’t get you and you mess up the shot. They also help you train to where you know where to aim on a said animal.

Another upside to 3d targets is if you shoot 3d tournaments or want to you can practice at home. This will get you used to the scoring system and where to shoot.

3d targets, like foam targets, do not last long outside. But just like foam targets, all you need is a place to keep them out of the rain, but they last the longest when stored in a garage, like foam targets.

What is best

The question we have all been asking is, what is the best? Well, it depends. If you want to be able to walk out your back door and shoot a target, then walk back inside and not worry about the target rotting, then a bag target. If you want a target that will last a good bit but is not too fancy, then a foam target. If you want to simulate a hunt or build your range, then 3d targets.

Now I have all three types of targets, so I can do whatever. I can walk out my back door and shoot my bag target that stays out all year, Or I can set up my foam target, and have a whole shooting session. Or if it’s getting closer to season, then I can shoot my 3d deer target.

So it is mainly personal preference or whatever your budget allows on what target you choose. If you have the money to get all three, I would. Whatever you choose, make sure to enjoy the sport of archery.

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