What exactly is a Crossbow Target?
A Crossbow Target is a tool being used when you’re practicing crossbow before your hunt. This tool is specifically designed and manufactured to stop the bolts and to easily release them from your crossbow target you are using. Basically, it comes in a square box just like a bag.
What are the types of Crossbow Targets?
Crossbow Targets are primarily available in three types including the Foam Block Targets, Bag Targets, and the 3D Practice Targets. Let’s inspect the pros and cons of each of these crossbow targets.
#1 Foam Block Targets
These block targets are portable, durable, and work efficiently with light bows. To stop the arrow, their layered foam uses friction preventing the tips to break although broadheads may be stuck and rip your target. Heavy draw-weighted bows can be too powerful for lightweight targets as arrows may be buried in the foam. Note the importance of your shooting angle as it can be a big factor in increasing the life of your block target. Also, consider its draw weight and possible issues that will make arrow removal difficult.
#2 Bag Targets
Filled bags are characterized by some of the most basic and common archery targets. It is expected that nearly all compound bow owners have practiced with a bag target at least once. Beginning archers are highly recommended to use the large surface area of the bag targets. Bag Targets can effectively stop the bolt and easily removes the arrows when the target is already hit. On the other note, these targets are not advisable for outdoor use since they are heavy-weight.
#3 3D Practice Targets
Get ready for a hunting activity using a compound bow by practicing with a 3D target. Oftentimes, 3D foam practice targets clearly marked the vital organs outside guiding you where to aim when you are in the field. This will give you clearer idea where to hit with specific stance and the better understanding of the right point system for competitive shooting. However, 3D Targets’ foam may wear out as time passes.
What is a Crossbow Target made of?
A Crossbow Target is typically manufactured using tightly compacted straw or foam. There are also targets made from recycled foam. They are mostly made up of foam for a specific purpose during hunting or archery. The foam actually serves as a stopper of the bow’s bolts.
Why should you get a Crossbow Target?
As mentioned earlier, crossbow targets are manufactured for specific purposes in hunting or archery. They are actually of great help for bowhunters in allowing them to have an easy, longer hunt with accuracy. Here are some of the benefits why getting a Crossbow Target is a must for hunters and/or archers.
- Crossbow targets can be used in the backyard of your home. It does not require much time before setting it up.
- You can use these targets for hunting practice before you actually use it in the field.
- They are very effective as a stopper of the bolts and easily release them from the target.
- If you are still new to hunting, the targets will serve as your practicing tool before going to the field for the real sports. These targets will guide you in sighting your aim or target.
- Targets are specially made to make your hunting or archery a lot easier. This will actually prepare you for the next level of the game.
What are the most popular brands of Crossbow Target?
Knowing which among the crossbow targets in the market is the best for hunting is imperative as arrows can be costly. Among the remarkable crossbow target brands are Morrell, Delta McKenzie, Rinehart, Field Logic, HME Products, Hurricane, etc. These targets are keen on addressing the issue of consistent shooting without any damage.
What is the average price of Crossbow Target?
Just like the other outdoor gear or equipment, the prices of crossbow targets vary depending on several factors. Prices of the targets may vary from their sizes and types. The block targets usually cost from $30 to $180, which is considered just enough for its great work, weight and good size. 3D targets cost higher at the price range from $60 to $500 considering their durability and effectiveness in hunting.
Meanwhile, bag targets typically have the lowest price ranging from $20 to $120. There are also other factors you need to consider when choosing or purchasing the crossbow target for your next visit of the wild for hunting.
How to choose a good Crossbow Target?
The success of your hunting can sometimes, if not almost always dependent on the performance of your crossbow target. This makes the right choice of a target imperative. Below are some of the factors to consider when selecting your target:
#1 Target Density
Keep in mind that not all crossbow targets are designed for use along with all kinds of bows. There are targets made for low draw weight bows. Make sure that your chosen target is made for handling the bow you are shooting notwithstanding the kind of target you are seeking for.
#2 Target Size
Hunters and/or archers are advised to have the target with the biggest size. There is more room for error.
#3 Bag Targets
Bag targets are filled with many kinds of stuff intended to stop arrows. Typically, they are made to hang them up or set them on the ground. Several target bags come with built-in handles for easy hauling.
#4 Foam Targets
These crossbow targets provide various opportunities for shooting. However, some of them are specifically designed for field points, while the others are able to handle both broadheads and field points.
#5 Lightweight
It would be a lot easy to manage your shooting if your crossbow target is lightweight. This will also help you aim your target for hunting.
#6 Clear print of crossbow target design and target points
Make sure that you choose the crossbow target that has clear printing so it will not be difficult for you to shoot on hunting.
#7 Crossbow Broadheads
Fixed-blade and mechanicals broadheads are significant tools for serious hunters. This should not be an understatement in hunting since it can have a great effect on your hunting.
How to make a simple Crossbow Target at home?
If you want to make your crossbow target customized of personal, just make one at home. Follow the steps herein and you’ll make things different here:
- First is to find a huge cardboard box with at least 30 cm thick to stop the arrows or 46 cm thick if you prefer to use high draw weights or high-velocity arrows.
- Next is to stuff with plastic bags or shrink wrap. Pack these items into the box as much as you can.
- Secure the box by taping it to shut. Make sure that the box is properly taped for its security.
- Try to draw a shape or target points on the box. Be creative in drawing either the target points or shape.
- Put your homemade target into a test. Once everything is properly set and secured, try the target so you will know if it really works according to your expectations.
How to remove crossbow bolts from target?
Always be mindful of the use of the proper technique when removing the arrows from the target butt to prevent damage to the arrows and target face and to lessen fatigue. This technique only requires the incorporation of the natural levers and weight.
Just place your hand flat against the crossbow target ensuring that the shaft is placed between your index finger and your thumb. This will support that target butt as you withdraw the arrow shaft. Grip the shaft with your other hand close to the entry point into the target. Now, use your dominant hand in order to pull back the bolt.
What are top 5 Crossbow Target reviews in 2022 ?
#1 Morrell Yellow Jacket YJ-350 Field Point Bag Archery Target
Morrell Yellow Jacket YJ-350 is specifically designed for field point that is compound and crossbow approved. This archery target is designed to prevent speeds of 350 FPS. It comes with 10 bullseyes, 2 shooting sides, E-Z tote carrying handle, X-Tended life target, multi-layered density design, and IFS technology.
The primary observation here is the perfect work of its filed points and its ideal for backyard use as it sits upright on the ground. Its interesting color combination makes it very appealing, which is why with the other archery supplies.
The problem here is that its broadheads will rip off.
#2 Delta McKenzie Targets Crossbow Discharge Bag Target
Delta McKenzie Targets Crossbow has striking orange and black contrast that makes it very visible. The target is equipped with four-sided targets useful in practicing from different angles. It has the capability crossbow bolt speeds for as much as 400 feet per second. It is can work great in dismantled crossbow bolts and bows as well as in compound bows and arrows. What makes it selective is the fact that it is very portable anywhere you would want to go next.
Meanwhile, some users of this target note its incapability for lasting archery or hunting since its fabric does not re-seal.
#3 Block Black Crossbow 4-Sided Archery Target
With its high-density layered foam, the Block Black Crossbow 4-Sided Archery Target is referred as the crossbow target in the market today. Such target is available in 2 sizes and with stops in field tips and broadsheets. Its high-density core is specially made to stop its crossbow bolt’s excessive speed. Black sides of this target are manufactured for field points and broadheads; while its white sides are designed for field tips.
Its built-in carrying handle makes its transportation very easy. The shooting faces of this target guarantee closer, long, precise and real shoot. It also highlights a patented open layer design that stops the arrows with the right friction for easy arrow removal.
However, those who have used this target observe its weakness as it fails to stop arrows and that its light weight compromises its stability when hit. There are also those who are saying that it tends to destroy the arrows. No worry since the positive performance of this tool still dominates over its failures. Most hunters still prefer to purchase it.
#4 Block Invasion 4-Sided Archery Target
The 4-sided shooting offer of the Block Invasion 4-Sided Archery Target is intended for the increase of its life. Block Invasion 4-Sided Archery is considered as a revolutionized product that seems to change and set the practice mode of archers. Some of its features include polypropylene wrapped sides, with three sizes, and a handle made for easy transportation. The open-layered design of its front and back stops the arrows with friction.
The arrow penetration-generated heat with friction allows you to grab the arrow shaft and makes its removal very easy. The target has contrast graphics that serves as an aid for its visibility, longer distance shooting, and its various aiming spots for extended target life. Moreover, its front and back are designed for expandable or fixed broadhead and field tips.
The downside of this target, however, is that its plywood at the bottom, on top, left and right sides of its target ricochet arrows. It can only shot the back and front of hunting activity. Another negative feature of the target is that arrows tend to pass right through after several shots with the compound. You just need to use the field tips so the target will last longer.
#5 GlenDel Buck 3D Archery Target
Basically, GlenDel Buck 3D Archery Target is equipped with a 200lb body size, comparable 3D deer target insert-shooting surface, and live weight deer. GlenDel Buck 3D Archery Target has an open layered poly fusion technology. It offers an easy arrow removal. It fuses the internal layers to the inner target wall resulting in uniform layer compression.
This makes the arrow removal a lot easier, which signifies less shooter fatigue for more and better practice. Its poly fusion material offers a little longer target life mainly because its layers are fused in place and hold their position. The arrows look for their position and way just in between its layers. It also comes with a replaceable insert for it to have a longer target life.
However, the attachment of its plastic legs to the foam is projected to fail when a unit is taken. There are also complaints with regards to the necessity of placing the target’s legs back in place every after you shoot. Some also find it difficult to remove the arrow, but it is manageable though. Other pitfalls experienced by users are the poor quality and weak durability of this target when shooting in wide fields.
Final thoughts
Whether you are a hunter or an archer, practice makes things near to perfection as it helps to sharpen your accuracy and aim. The best thing of having the right archery is that you will hone your skills and practice more as well as engage in competitive sessions with your family and friends. You will surely find the crossbow target that satisfies your shooting needs and matches your expectations considering the available targets in the market.
Durable construction, easy arrow removal without damaging the target, and excellent arrow stopping are the factors that matter most in a good archery target. However, it is still recommended to compare the best targets before making a sound decision. A few checks of the quality and affordability would be great as well.
Leave a Reply