How To Build Archery Target: A Simple DIY Guide

Can you build your own archery target? Yes, you absolutely can! Building your own DIY archery target is a cost-effective and satisfying way to improve your archery skills. This guide provides detailed archery target plans and instructions for creating durable and effective targets using homemade target materials. You’ll save money, customize your target, and enjoy the process of target shooting construction.

Image Source: i.ytimg.com

Why Build Your Own Archery Target?

There are several reasons why you might choose to build your own archery target instead of buying one:

• Cost Savings: Pre-made targets can be expensive. Building your own using inexpensive target options significantly reduces the cost.
• Customization: You can tailor the size and density of your target to suit your specific bow and arrow setup.
• Durability: With careful construction and the right materials, a DIY archery target can be just as durable, or even more so, than a store-bought one.
• Satisfaction: Building something yourself is rewarding and allows you to learn new skills.
• Material Accessibility: Using readily available homemade target materials makes the project convenient.

Choosing the Right Archery Target Design

Before you start gathering materials, it’s crucial to decide on an archery target design. Here are a few popular options:

• The Layered Cardboard Target: This is one of the most affordable and easiest targets to build.
• The Wrapped Bale Target: Uses compressed straw or hay and is a good option for traditional bows.
• The Bag Target: Filled with fabric scraps or plastic wrap, offering a soft stop for arrows.

Comparing Different Archery Target Designs

Target Type	Materials Needed	Difficulty	Durability	Cost	Best For
Cardboard Layered	Cardboard, straps or rope	Easy	Medium	Low	Recurve/low poundage bows
Wrapped Bale	Straw/hay bales, baling twine, strapping tape	Medium	High	Medium	Traditional bows
Bag Target	Burlap bag, fabric scraps/plastic wrap	Easy	Medium	Low	All bow types

DIY Archery Target: The Layered Cardboard Target

This archery target design is ideal for beginners due to its simplicity and low cost. It’s effective for archery practice target use with lighter bows.

Materials You’ll Need

• A large quantity of cardboard (from appliance boxes, furniture packaging, etc.)
• Strapping tape or strong rope
• A measuring tape
• A marker or pen
• A sharp utility knife or scissors (optional)

Archery Target Plans: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather and Prepare the Cardboard: Collect as much cardboard as possible. Remove any staples, tape, or plastic.
2. Cut the Cardboard: Cut the cardboard into uniform squares or rectangles. A size of 24″ x 24″ or 36″ x 36″ is a good starting point, but feel free to adjust based on your needs.
3. Stack the Cardboard: Stack the cardboard pieces tightly together. Align the edges as precisely as possible to create a uniform block.
4. Compress the Stack: Use strapping tape or rope to tightly compress the cardboard stack. Wrap the tape or rope around the stack several times, both horizontally and vertically. The tighter you compress the stack, the more effective the target will be.
5. Secure the Layers: For added durability, you can use a ratchet strap to further compress the stack. Ensure the straps are very tight.
6. Finishing Touches: Once secured, you can draw or print a target face and attach it to the front of the cardboard target.

Building a Target Block: Tips for Success

• Uniformity is Key: Cutting the cardboard pieces to the same size ensures an even and consistent target surface.
• Compression Matters: The tighter the cardboard is compressed, the better it will stop arrows.
• Recycle and Reuse: This is an excellent way to recycle old cardboard boxes.
• Consider a Backstop: Even with a good target, always have a backstop behind it for safety.

DIY Archery Target: The Wrapped Bale Target

A wrapped bale target is a traditional and effective choice, especially for those using traditional bows. It relies on the compression of straw or hay. This is one of the most inexpensive target options.

Materials You’ll Need

• Two or three straw or hay bales (depending on desired thickness)
• Baling twine or strong rope
• Strapping tape or heavy-duty packaging tape
• A utility knife

Archery Target Plans: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bales: Stack the straw or hay bales on top of each other. You can orient them vertically or horizontally, depending on your preference and the space you have available.
2. Compress the Bales: Use baling twine or strong rope to tightly compress the bales together. Wrap the twine around the bales several times, both horizontally and vertically.
3. Reinforce the Sides: Use strapping tape or heavy-duty packaging tape to reinforce the sides of the target. This will help to prevent the bales from unraveling.
4. Tighten the Wrap: Periodically check and tighten the twine or rope as needed. Straw and hay can settle over time, so it’s important to maintain the compression.
5. Target Face: Attach a target face to the front of the bale using pins, staples, or tape.

Fathoming the Wrapped Bale Target: Important Considerations

• Bale Quality: Use tightly packed bales of good quality straw or hay for the best results.
• Moisture: Keep the bale target dry to prevent it from rotting or becoming moldy. Store it indoors or cover it with a tarp when not in use.
• Compression: Consistent compression is key to the target’s longevity.
• Arrow Removal: Removing arrows from a bale target can sometimes be difficult. A good arrow puller is recommended.

DIY Archery Target: The Bag Target

A bag target is another popular option, known for being relatively soft and easy on arrows. It’s made by filling a durable bag with soft materials.

Materials You’ll Need

• A durable bag (burlap, heavy-duty canvas, or even a repurposed feed bag)
• Fabric scraps (old clothes, blankets, towels, etc.) or plastic wrap
• Strong thread or twine
• A sewing machine or needle and thread

Archery Target Plans: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bag: If using a repurposed bag, make sure it’s clean and free of any sharp objects.
2. Sew the Bag: If necessary, sew the bag shut, leaving a small opening for filling. If you’re using an existing bag, ensure all seams are strong and reinforced.
3. Fill the Bag: Fill the bag tightly with fabric scraps or plastic wrap. Pack the materials as densely as possible to create a firm target.
4. Close the Bag: Once the bag is filled, sew the opening shut securely.
5. Compress the Bag: Compress the bag by stepping on it or using your body weight. If necessary, add more filling to ensure it’s tightly packed.
6. Reinforce the Bag: Reinforce the bag with strapping tape or additional layers of fabric if needed.
7. Attach a Target Face: Attach a target face to the front of the bag using pins, staples, or tape.

Building a Target Block: Essential Tips

• Material Choice: Fabric scraps are generally a better choice than plastic wrap, as they provide more consistent stopping power.
• Bag Durability: Use the most durable bag you can find to prevent tearing.
• Even Filling: Ensure the bag is filled evenly to create a uniform target surface.
• Weight Distribution: Consider the weight of the filled bag when choosing a location to place it.
• Best Archery Target Material: For bag targets, tightly packed fabric scraps generally perform the best.

Creating an Archery Target Stand

An archery target stand is essential for safely supporting your target. You can buy one, but building your own is another cost-effective option.

Simple Wooden Stand

• Materials:
  • Two 4×4 posts (approximately 4 feet long)
  • One 4×4 beam (length depends on target size)
  • Screws or nails
  • Drill or hammer
• Instructions:
  1. Dig two holes in the ground, spaced apart according to the length of your beam.
  2. Insert the 4×4 posts into the holes and secure them with concrete or packed soil.
  3. Attach the 4×4 beam to the top of the posts using screws or nails.
  4. Lean the target against the beam.

A-Frame Stand

• Materials:
  • Four 2×4 boards (approximately 6 feet long)
  • Two 2×4 boards (length depends on target size)
  • Hinges
  • Screws or nails
  • Drill or hammer
• Instructions:
  1. Create two A-frames by joining two 2×4 boards at the top with a hinge.
  2. Connect the A-frames with the other two 2×4 boards, creating a stable base.
  3. Lean the target against the A-frame.

Best Archery Target Material: A Deeper Dive

Choosing the right best archery target material is crucial for the target’s performance and longevity. Here’s a more in-depth look:

• Cardboard: Excellent for low-poundage bows and beginners. Cost-effective and readily available. Requires significant compression.
• Straw/Hay: Suitable for traditional bows. Requires consistent compression and protection from moisture.
• Fabric Scraps: A good all-around choice for bag targets. Provides good stopping power and is relatively easy on arrows.
• Plastic Wrap: Can be used in bag targets, but not as effective as fabric scraps.
• Foam: Commercial foam targets are generally more durable and effective, but can be expensive.
• Combination: Sometimes, a combination of materials works best. For example, a cardboard core wrapped in fabric scraps can provide both stopping power and arrow-friendliness.

Factors Affecting Material Choice

• Bow Type and Draw Weight: Higher draw weights require denser materials.
• Arrow Type: Broadheads require more durable targets than field points.
• Budget: Some materials are more expensive than others.
• Availability: Choose materials that are readily available in your area.

Maintaining Your Archery Target

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your archery practice target:

• Regular Inspection: Check for signs of wear and tear, such as tears, holes, or loose materials.
• Repairs: Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Rotation: Rotate the target regularly to distribute wear evenly.
• Storage: Store the target in a dry place when not in use.
• Compression: Maintain consistent compression in cardboard and bale targets.
• Replacement: Eventually, even the best-maintained target will need to be replaced.

Safety Precautions for Target Shooting Construction and Usage

• Always have a safe backstop: Ensure there is a clear and safe area behind your target.
• Never aim at people or animals: Treat your bow and arrow with respect.
• Check your arrows for damage: Damaged arrows can be dangerous.
• Use appropriate safety gear: Consider wearing an armguard and finger tab or release.
• Supervise children: Never allow children to use archery equipment unsupervised.

Interpreting the Cost-Effectiveness of DIY Targets

Compared to commercially produced targets, building your own is often significantly cheaper. While a high-end commercial target can cost hundreds of dollars, a DIY target can be made for a fraction of that price, especially if you use recycled materials. The exact savings will depend on the materials you choose and the size of the target.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best material for an archery target? The best archery target material depends on your bow type and draw weight, but fabric scraps and compressed cardboard are good all-around choices.
• Can I use broadheads on a homemade target? Yes, but you’ll need a very durable target made of tightly compressed materials. Consider a commercial broadhead target for best results.
• How long will a DIY archery target last? The lifespan depends on the materials used and how well it’s maintained, but a well-built target can last for several months or even years.
• What if my arrows are passing through the target? Increase the density of the target by adding more material or compressing it further.
• Who is this DIY guide for? This guide is for anyone interested in saving money, learning new skills, and customizing their archery practice.
• What are the most inexpensive target options? Cardboard layered and bag targets are the most inexpensive options.

By following these archery target plans, you can create a safe, effective, and affordable target for archery practice. Remember to prioritize safety and enjoy the process of building a target block that meets your specific needs.