DIY Archery Target: Build Yours for Less, Make It Last

Are you looking for ways to create your own archery target? Yes, you can build your own target that is durable and saves money. This guide shows you how to make an archery target that will last and not break the bank. We’ll explore different DIY archery target options and the best archery target materials to use. Whether you want a homemade target for archery or want to learn how to build your own target, this article provides step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for making a top-notch archery practice target.

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Why Build Your Own Archery Target?

Building your own target offers several advantages:

• Cost Savings: Store-bought targets can be expensive. Making your own budget archery target is far cheaper.
• Customization: You can tailor the size and density to your specific bow and arrows.
• Durability: With the right materials and techniques, your arrow stopping target can last a long time.
• Satisfaction: There’s a rewarding feeling that comes from creating something yourself.

Types of DIY Archery Targets

There are several popular types of homemade archery targets, each with its own set of pros and cons. This section explores some of the most common ones, to help you decide which is best for you:

1. Layered Foam Target

• Description: This target uses multiple layers of foam stacked and compressed together.
• Pros: Excellent stopping power, long-lasting, field point and broadhead compatible.
• Cons: Can be more expensive depending on the foam you choose, requires more effort to assemble.

2. Burlap Archery Target (Filled Bag Target)

• Description: A large burlap bag filled with soft materials like old clothes, rags, or plastic wrap.
• Pros: Very affordable, easy to make, uses recycled materials.
• Cons: Less durable than foam, not suitable for high poundage bows, may require frequent refilling.

3. Cardboard Box Target

• Description: A cardboard box filled with tightly packed cardboard.
• Pros: Very cheap, uses readily available materials, easy to assemble.
• Cons: Least durable option, not suitable for high poundage bows, requires frequent rebuilding.

4. Pallet Wrap Target

• Description: Tightly wrapped layers of stretch film (pallet wrap).
• Pros: Good arrow stopping power, decent durability, economical.
• Cons: Can be challenging to compress the wrap tightly, may require a specialized frame.

Making a Layered Foam Archery Target: A Step-by-Step Guide

A layered foam target provides the best combination of stopping power, durability, and ease of arrow removal. Here’s how to make one:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Here’s a list of what you need:

• Foam Sheets: EVA foam, closed-cell foam, or archery target foam are all good choices. You’ll need multiple sheets, usually 1-2 inches thick. The number of sheets will depend on your desired target thickness and bow poundage. Consider repurposing foam mats from gyms or play areas.
• Compression Straps: Heavy-duty ratchet straps to compress the foam layers.
• Plywood or OSB (Optional): For creating a front and back panel to further compress and protect the foam.
• Hardware (Optional): Screws or bolts to secure the plywood/OSB panels.
• Target Face for Archery: Paper or printed target faces.
• Spray Adhesive (Optional): To hold the foam layers together during assembly.

Material	Description	Quantity
Foam Sheets	Closed-cell foam, EVA foam, or archery target foam (1-2 inches thick)	Varies, based on size
Compression Straps	Heavy-duty ratchet straps	2-4
Plywood/OSB	(Optional) For front and back panels	2 sheets
Hardware	(Optional) Screws or bolts to attach plywood/OSB	As needed
Target Face	Paper or printed target faces	As needed
Spray Adhesive	(Optional) To hold foam layers together	1 can

Step 2: Prepare the Foam

1. Cut the Foam: Cut all the foam sheets to the same size. A common size is 24×24 inches, but adjust to your preference. Use a utility knife or a saw for cleaner cuts.
2. Stack the Foam: Stack the foam sheets neatly on top of each other. If using spray adhesive, apply a light coat between each layer to help them stay in place.

Step 3: Compress the Foam

1. Apply Compression Straps: Wrap the compression straps tightly around the stack of foam. Start with one strap horizontally and another vertically.
2. Tighten the Straps: Gradually tighten the straps, compressing the foam as much as possible. The tighter the compression, the better the stopping power.
3. (Optional) Add Plywood/OSB: Place a sheet of plywood or OSB on the front and back of the compressed foam stack. Secure them with screws or bolts, further compressing the foam.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Secure the Straps: Once the foam is fully compressed, ensure the straps are securely fastened.
2. Attach a Target Face: Affix a target face for archery to the front of the target using tape, staples, or adhesive. You can print these out or buy them.
3. Test Your Target: Start by shooting from a safe distance with a lower poundage bow to ensure the target is stopping arrows effectively.

Tips for Layered Foam Targets

• Mix Foam Types: Using different types of foam can improve the target’s overall performance. Alternate between softer and denser foams.
• Replace Worn Layers: Over time, the front layers of foam will wear out. You can replace these layers to extend the life of your target.
• Waterproof: If the target will be used outdoors, consider applying a waterproof sealant to protect the foam from moisture.

Making a Burlap Archery Target: A Simple and Affordable Option

A burlap target is a great budget archery target for beginners or those who want a quick and easy option.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Burlap Bag: A large, heavy-duty burlap bag. Feed sacks or sandbags work well. Double bag for added strength.
• Filling Material: Old clothes, rags, plastic wrap, or packing peanuts. Avoid using materials that can rot or attract pests.
• Duct Tape: For reinforcing the bag.
• Target Face: Paper or printed target faces.

Material	Description	Quantity
Burlap Bag	Large, heavy-duty burlap bag (feed sack or sandbag)	1-2
Filling	Old clothes, rags, plastic wrap, packing peanuts	As needed
Duct Tape	For reinforcing the bag	1 roll
Target Face	Paper or printed target faces	As needed

Step 2: Fill the Burlap Bag

1. Pack Tightly: Fill the burlap bag with your chosen filling material, packing it as tightly as possible. The tighter the packing, the better the arrow stopping power.
2. Layer Materials: If using a mix of materials, alternate layers for even distribution.

Step 3: Secure the Bag

1. Close the Bag: Fold the top of the burlap bag over and secure it tightly with duct tape.
2. Reinforce: Wrap duct tape around the entire bag, especially the seams, to reinforce it and prevent it from bursting.

Step 4: Add a Target Face

1. Attach a Target Face: Attach a target face to the front of the bag using tape or staples.

Tips for Burlap Targets

• Use a Stand: Hang the burlap target from a sturdy stand or suspend it from a tree to prevent it from dragging on the ground.
• Refill Regularly: The filling material will compress over time, reducing the target’s stopping power. Refill the bag as needed.
• Protect from Weather: Burlap is susceptible to moisture. Keep the target covered or store it indoors when not in use.

Making a Cardboard Box Archery Target: The Simplest Choice

For an incredibly cheap and easy temporary archery practice target, a cardboard box filled with cardboard is the best option.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Cardboard Box: A large, sturdy cardboard box.
• Cardboard: Lots of cardboard sheets, cut into similar sizes.
• Packing Tape: To secure the box and cardboard.
• Target Face: Paper or printed target faces.

Material	Description	Quantity
Cardboard Box	Large, sturdy cardboard box	1
Cardboard	Cardboard sheets, cut to similar sizes	As needed
Packing Tape	To secure the box and cardboard	1 roll
Target Face	Paper or printed target faces	As needed

Step 2: Fill the Box

1. Fold Cardboard: Fold the cardboard sheets to fit snugly inside the box.
2. Pack Tightly: Pack the folded cardboard tightly into the box, filling all the space. The more tightly packed, the better the stopping power.

Step 3: Secure the Box

1. Close the Box: Close the box and secure it with packing tape.
2. Reinforce: Wrap packing tape around the entire box to reinforce it.

Step 4: Add a Target Face

1. Attach a Target Face: Attach a target face to the front of the box using tape or staples.

Tips for Cardboard Box Targets

• Use Dense Cardboard: Look for thicker, denser cardboard for better stopping power.
• Replace Often: Cardboard targets degrade quickly, especially with frequent use. Be prepared to replace them regularly.
• Avoid Wet Conditions: Cardboard gets soggy and loses its stopping power when wet. Keep the target dry.

Making a Pallet Wrap Archery Target

A pallet wrap archery target offers a good balance between stopping power, durability, and cost.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Pallet Wrap: A large roll of stretch film (pallet wrap).
• Frame (Optional): A wooden frame or stand to support the target.
• Compression Straps (Optional): To further compress the wrap.
• Duct Tape: To secure the wrap.
• Target Face: Paper or printed target faces.

Material	Description	Quantity
Pallet Wrap	Large roll of stretch film (pallet wrap)	1
Frame	(Optional) Wooden frame or stand	1
Compression Straps	(Optional) To further compress the wrap	2-4
Duct Tape	To secure the wrap	1 roll
Target Face	Paper or printed target faces	As needed

Step 2: Wrap the Target

1. Start Wrapping: Begin wrapping the pallet wrap tightly around itself, forming a compact block. If using a frame, wrap the film around the frame.
2. Compress Tightly: As you wrap, pull the film taut to compress it as much as possible. The tighter the compression, the better the stopping power.
3. Continue Wrapping: Continue wrapping until you have a target of the desired size and thickness.

Step 3: Secure the Target

1. Secure the Wrap: Once you’ve finished wrapping, secure the end of the film with duct tape.
2. Reinforce: Wrap duct tape around the entire target to reinforce it and prevent it from unraveling.
3. Add Compression Straps (Optional): Use compression straps to further compress the wrap.

Step 4: Add a Target Face

1. Attach a Target Face: Attach a target face to the front of the target using tape or staples.

Tips for Pallet Wrap Targets

• Use a Dispenser: A pallet wrap dispenser can make the wrapping process easier and more efficient.
• Compress Tightly: Tight compression is crucial for good stopping power.
• Store Indoors: Pallet wrap can degrade in sunlight. Store the target indoors when not in use.

Choosing the Right Archery Target Materials

The choice of materials greatly affects the durability and effectiveness of your target. Here’s a breakdown of common materials:

• Foam: Closed-cell foam, EVA foam, and archery target foam are excellent for their stopping power and durability.
• Burlap: A cost-effective option, but less durable and suitable for lower poundage bows.
• Cardboard: The cheapest option, but the least durable and only suitable for low-poundage practice.
• Pallet Wrap: Provides a good balance of stopping power and affordability, but requires tight compression.
• Filling Materials: Old clothes, rags, and plastic wrap are great for burlap targets, but avoid materials that can rot or attract pests.

Maintaining Your Archery Target

Proper maintenance extends the life of your archery practice target:

• Regular Inspection: Check for wear and tear, such as tears or compressions.
• Replace Worn Areas: Replace worn-out sections to maintain stopping power.
• Keep it Dry: Protect your target from moisture to prevent degradation.
• Remove Arrows Carefully: Avoid twisting or bending arrows when removing them. Use an arrow puller if necessary.
• Store Properly: Store your target indoors or under a cover when not in use.

What Safety Measures Should I Take?

Safety is paramount when using archery equipment. Here are some key measures:

• Safe Backstop: Ensure there’s a safe backstop behind your target to stop stray arrows.
• Clear Range: Make sure the area around the target is clear of people and obstacles.
• Proper Equipment: Use arrows that are matched to your bow’s poundage.
• Arrow Inspection: Check arrows for damage before each use.
• Supervision: Supervise children and inexperienced archers.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about making archery targets:

What is the best material for an archery target?
Closed-cell foam or layered foam is generally considered the best for stopping power, durability, and ease of arrow removal.

Can I use broadheads on a homemade archery target?
Yes, if you build a layered foam target with sufficient thickness and density. Burlap and cardboard targets are not suitable for broadheads.

How long will a DIY archery target last?
The lifespan depends on the materials used and the frequency of use. A well-made layered foam target can last for several years, while a cardboard target might only last a few weeks.

What size should my archery target be?
The ideal size depends on your skill level and the distance you’re shooting from. A 24×24 inch target is a good starting point.

Can I make an archery target for a high poundage bow?
Yes, but you’ll need to use denser materials and ensure the target is thick enough to stop the arrows effectively. Layered foam targets are best for higher poundage bows.

How do I make a target face for archery?
You can print target faces from the internet or purchase them from archery suppliers. You can also draw your own using markers.

What is the best filling for a burlap archery target?
Old clothes, rags, plastic wrap, or packing peanuts are all good options. Avoid materials that can rot or attract pests.

Is it cheaper to make or buy an archery target?
Making your own target is typically cheaper, especially if you use recycled materials.

Forge your own path to archery mastery with a DIY target that’s both budget-friendly and deeply satisfying. With a keen eye for materials and a knack for following instructions, you’ll craft a practice companion built to endure countless arrow impacts. From robust layered foam to humble burlap or even a resourceful cardboard setup, each option promises significant savings and a more intimate bond with your passion. Just remember to keep safety paramount and maintain your creation for years of target-rich adventures. Let the arrows fly!