The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Archery Targets

The moment you step into the backyard with your bow, you’re not just practicing; you’re dreaming. You’re dreaming of a perfectly executed shot, a clean pass-through, and a quick recovery. But that dream can quickly turn into a nightmare if you're using the wrong target. We've all been there: a flimsy bag target that lets your arrow pass right through, a block target that buries your field points so deep you need a pry bar to get them out, or a 3D target that's so torn up it looks like a pack of wolves got to it. It’s a frustrating and, frankly, dangerous situation. A bad target doesn't just waste your time and your money; it can ruin your expensive arrows, and in the worst-case scenario, it can lead to a lost or damaged broadhead that's an absolute headache to replace. The truth is, your target is the most important piece of gear in your practice setup. It's the silent partner that gives you the feedback you need to become a better archer.

I’ve seen hunters try every kind of target imaginable. They’ll build their own out of old cardboard, they’ll shoot at a bale of hay, and they’ll try to make a single, cheap target last for an entire season. And every time, they come back with the same stories of frustration. They want to know, “How do I get a target that will stop my arrows, allow for easy removal, and actually last for more than a few weeks?” It’s a great question, and the answer is simpler than you might think. A great target isn't about the price tag; it's about the material, the design, and the purpose it's built for. You don't need to spend a fortune to have a target that gives you a great practice session. You just need to know what to look for and where to compromise.

We’re going to walk through this together. We'll demystify the world of archery targets and break down the essential features that truly matter. We'll talk about the different types—bag targets, block targets, and 3D targets—and what makes a durable, reliable version of each. And because I believe in practical, real-world advice, we'll review seven of the best, battle-tested, and purpose-built archery targets on the market today. We'll show you that you can have a target that feels like a rock and doesn’t empty your wallet, leaving you with more money for the gear that truly matters.

The Foundation of a Great Target: Material, Durability, and Arrow Removal

Before we even consider a brand or a model, we have to talk about the three most important things: the material, the durability, and the ease of arrow removal. A good target will stop your arrows without a problem, will withstand thousands of shots, and will allow you to pull your arrows out with one hand.

• Material: Archery targets are made from a variety of materials, but the most common are foam and synthetic fiber. Foam targets, which can be either layered or solid, are great for both field points and broadheads. They work by using friction to stop the arrow, which means that the arrow will be easy to remove. Bag targets, which are filled with a compressed synthetic fiber, are great for field points, but they are not recommended for broadheads.

• Durability: The durability of a target is determined by its material and its construction. A target that is designed for high-volume shooting should have a durable, self-healing foam that will close up after each shot. A target with a replaceable core is also a great option, as it allows you to replace the most-shot part of the target without having to buy a whole new one.

• Arrow Removal: This is a big one. Nothing is more frustrating than having to use a two-handed, body-weight-assisted pull to get your arrow out of a target. A good target will allow you to pull your arrows out with a gentle, one-handed pull. This is a direct result of the material and the design of the target.

Product Reviews: Your Perfect Practice Partner

I've personally sold, used, and shot thousands of arrows into these targets. These seven are the ones that consistently deliver on the promise of being durable, reliable, and effective.

1. Rinehart Targets 18-1 Archery Target (Versatile)

• Price Range: $150 - $200

• Why it's a winner: The Rinehart 18-1 is a legend in the archery community, and for good reason. It’s a compact, all-purpose target that is incredibly durable and versatile. It features 18 different sides to shoot at, which means you have a fresh surface for every shot. It’s made from a unique, self-healing foam that closes up after each shot, and it can handle both field points and broadheads without a problem. The arrow removal is as easy as advertised, and it’s a perfect option for a hunter who wants a single target that can do it all.

2. Morrell Yellow Jacket YJ 450 Plus (Bag Target)

• Price Range: $50 - $70

• Why it's a winner: If you're a serious archer who shoots thousands of field points, the Morrell Yellow Jacket YJ 450 Plus is the perfect target for you. It's a heavy-duty bag target that can stop arrows and crossbow bolts traveling up to 450 FPS or faster. It offers four sides for shooting, and the arrow removal is incredibly easy. While it's not recommended for broadheads, it is a fantastic target for a high-volume shooter who wants a durable, reliable target that will last for years.

3. BLOCK Classic Archery Target (Foam Block)

• Price Range: $70 - $90

• Why it's a winner: The BLOCK Classic is a classic for a reason. It's a simple, no-frills foam block target that gets the job done. It's made from a layered, compressed foam that uses friction to stop the arrow, which makes for easy arrow removal. It has multiple shooting faces and is a great option for a hunter who wants a simple, effective target that they can take with them to the field or use in the backyard.

4. Rinehart Targets RhinoBlock (3D Target - Value)

• Price Range: $200 - $250

• Why it's a winner: If you're looking for a 3D target that won't break the bank, the Rinehart RhinoBlock is a fantastic option. It's a lifelike deer target that features a durable, self-healing foam core. The best part is the replaceable core, which allows you to replace the most-shot part of the target without having to buy a whole new one. It's a great target for practicing shot placement and for getting a realistic feel for a hunting scenario.

5. Delta McKenzie Predator (3D Target - Entry Level)

• Price Range: $90 - $150

• Why it's a winner: The Delta McKenzie Predator is a perfect entry-level 3D target for a new archer or a hunter who wants a realistic target without a huge investment. It's a solid, durable target with plenty of stopping power for a compound bow or crossbow. It’s available in a variety of animal shapes, and it’s a great way to get started with 3D shooting. While it doesn't have a replaceable core, it is a great value for the price.

6. Morrell High Roller (Foam Block - Portable)

• Price Range: $100 - $130

• Why it's a winner: The Morrell High Roller is a great, portable target that is perfect for a hunter who is on the move. It's made from a self-healing foam that is incredibly durable and lightweight. It’s a great target for a variety of shooting scenarios, and its portability makes it a perfect companion for a hunting trip or a day at the range. It's a simple, no-frills target that gets the job done and is a great value for the price.

7. Big Shot Iron Man 650 (Crossbow Specific)

• Price Range: $150 - $200

• Why it's a winner: If you're a crossbow hunter, you know that you need a target that can handle the high velocity of a crossbow bolt. The Big Shot Iron Man 650 is designed specifically for crossbows and can stop bolts traveling up to 650 FPS. It features a heavy-duty, layered foam that is incredibly durable and allows for easy bolt removal. It's a great target for a crossbow hunter who wants a durable, reliable target that will last for years.

The Final Shot: Your Target, Your Practice

Choosing the right archery target is a decision you should never take lightly. It's a piece of gear that directly impacts your practice, your confidence, and your ability to become a better archer. The right target will stop your arrows without a problem, will last for thousands of shots, and will allow you to pull your arrows out with a gentle, one-handed pull.

So, don't let a small budget force you into a bad decision. The targets we’ve reviewed here prove that you can get top-tier quality without paying top-tier prices. Take the time to choose the right target for your needs, and you’ll have a silent, sturdy partner that will help you be successful for years to come.