How To Make A Target For Archery: Save Money and Shoot Safe

Do you want to make an archery target at home to save money? Yes, you can! This guide provides simple DIY archery target plans and teaches you how to build your own target, select the best materials, and construct a safe archery backstop. Target shooting at home can be fun and affordable, but safety should always be your top priority.

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Why Build Your Own Archery Target?

Making your own archery target offers many benefits, including:

• Cost Savings: Store-bought targets can be expensive. Making your own is much cheaper.
• Customization: You can tailor the size and density of your target to your bow’s draw weight and your shooting distance.
• Convenience: You can build a target whenever you need one without having to visit a store.
• Sustainability: Using recycled materials helps reduce waste and is better for the environment.

Choosing the Right Design: DIY Archery Target Plans

Several archery target design options are available, each with its pros and cons. Here are a few popular choices:

1. The Compressed Clothes Target

This is one of the most inexpensive archery target options and easiest to make. It works best for light to medium draw weight bows.

• Materials:
  • Old Clothes (lots!)
  • Duct Tape
  • Burlap Sack or Heavy-Duty Cardboard Box
• Construction:
  1. Stuff the burlap sack or cardboard box tightly with old clothes. Pack them in as densely as possible.
  2. Once filled, seal the sack or box securely with duct tape.
  3. Add more layers of duct tape for extra durability.
• Pros: Very inexpensive, uses recycled materials.
• Cons: Not suitable for high-poundage bows, can degrade quickly with heavy use.

2. The Pallet Wrap Target

This target utilizes the natural compression of pallet wrap to create a dense target.

• Materials:
  • Pallet Wrap (heavy-duty)
  • Cardboard (for backing, optional)
  • Rope or Straps
• Construction:
  1. Create a cylinder shape of desired diameter with the pallet wrap, around 2-3 feet.
  2. Tightly wrap the pallet wrap around itself, compressing it as much as possible. The tighter, the better.
  3. Secure the compressed roll with rope or straps to prevent unraveling.
  4. Consider adding a cardboard backing for extra support and to prevent arrows from passing through.
• Pros: Relatively inexpensive, durable.
• Cons: Requires a lot of pallet wrap, can be challenging to compress tightly.

3. The Foam Layer Target

This build-your-own target offers better stopping power and longevity than the clothes target, but it is more costly.

• Materials:
  • Foam Sheets (e.g., EVA foam, closed-cell foam)
  • Plywood or Cardboard (for backing)
  • Straps or Rope
• Construction:
  1. Cut the foam sheets into uniform sizes.
  2. Stack the foam sheets together and compress them tightly.
  3. Secure the stack with straps or rope. A frame made from plywood will provide additional support.
  4. Attach a cardboard or plywood backing.
• Pros: Good stopping power, long-lasting.
• Cons: More expensive than other options, requires precise cutting.

4. The Straw Bale Target

A traditional and inexpensive choice, straw bale targets are well-suited for beginners and lower-poundage bows.

• Materials:
  • Straw Bales (untreated)
  • Rope or Straps
• Construction:
  1. Stack the straw bales tightly together.
  2. Compress the bales with rope or straps.
  3. Replace the bales as they become damaged from use.
• Pros: Inexpensive, easy to construct.
• Cons: Not suitable for high-poundage bows, degrades quickly in wet weather.

5. The Bag Target

Bag targets are easy to build and can withstand a lot of use.

• Materials:
  • Heavy-Duty Woven Polypropylene Bag (feed sacks work well)
  • Old Clothes, Rags, or Plastic Wrap
  • Duct Tape or Heavy-Duty Thread
• Construction:
  1. Stuff the bag tightly with your chosen fill material.
  2. Sew or tape the bag closed securely.
  3. Compress the filled bag for better stopping power.
• Pros: Durable, easy to build, portable.
• Cons: Can be heavy, might need refilling over time.

Materials Matter: Selecting the Best Materials for Your Target

The type of materials you use will significantly affect your target’s performance and longevity. Consider these factors when choosing materials:

• Stopping Power: The material should be dense enough to stop arrows without allowing them to pass through completely.
• Durability: Choose materials that can withstand repeated impacts without tearing or breaking down quickly.
• Weather Resistance: If you plan to use your target outdoors, select materials that can withstand rain, sun, and temperature changes.
• Cost: Balance the performance and durability of the materials with your budget.
• Availability: Choose materials that are readily available in your area.
• Arrow Removal: The material should allow for relatively easy arrow removal without damaging the arrows.

Here’s a table summarizing the best materials for each target type:

Target Type	Fill Material	Outer Material	Pros	Cons
Clothes Target	Old Clothes, Rags, Textiles	Burlap Sack, Cardboard Box	Very inexpensive, uses recycled materials	Not suitable for high-poundage bows, can degrade quickly
Pallet Wrap Target	Pallet Wrap	Pallet Wrap	Relatively inexpensive, durable	Requires a lot of pallet wrap, can be challenging to compress tightly
Foam Layer Target	EVA Foam, Closed-Cell Foam	Plywood, Cardboard	Good stopping power, long-lasting	More expensive, requires precise cutting
Straw Bale Target	Straw Bales	Rope, Straps	Inexpensive, easy to construct	Not suitable for high-poundage bows, degrades quickly in wet weather
Bag Target	Old Clothes, Rags, Plastic Wrap	Heavy-Duty Woven Polypropylene Bag	Durable, easy to build, portable	Can be heavy, might need refilling over time

Step-by-Step Target Construction for Archery: A Detailed Guide

Let’s walk through the construction of one of the most popular DIY targets: the compressed clothes target. This provides a detailed example that you can adapt to other designs.

Building a Compressed Clothes Target: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Your Materials: Collect a large burlap sack or a sturdy cardboard box, a mountain of old clothes (the more, the better), and a roll of duct tape.
2. Prepare the Container: If using a cardboard box, reinforce the bottom and sides with duct tape. This will help prevent the box from tearing under the pressure of the compressed clothes.
3. Start Stuffing: Begin filling the sack or box with old clothes. Focus on packing them in as tightly as possible. Use your hands or feet to compress the clothes into the corners and edges of the container.
4. Maximize Compression: Periodically, stop and use your weight to compress the clothes further. The denser the fill, the better the target will stop arrows.
5. Seal the Container: Once the container is completely filled, seal it securely with duct tape. Overlap the tape generously to create a strong seal. For a burlap sack, you can also sew the opening closed with heavy-duty thread or wire.
6. Reinforce the Exterior: Wrap the entire target with multiple layers of duct tape. This will provide additional support and help prevent the target from tearing or splitting.
7. Add a Target Face: Print out or draw a target face and attach it to the front of the target. You can use tape, glue, or staples.
8. Test Your Target: Before using your target extensively, test it with a few arrows from a short distance. Adjust the density of the fill or add more layers of reinforcement if needed.

Shooting Safe: Constructing an Archery Backstop

Even with a well-made target, stray arrows can pose a safety risk. Constructing an archery backstop is essential, especially when target shooting at home.

What is an Archery Backstop?

An archery backstop is a barrier placed behind your target to stop arrows that miss or pass through the target. It is a crucial safety measure to protect people, animals, and property.

Building a Simple Archery Backstop

Here’s a simple and effective way to build an archery backstop:

• Materials:
  • Heavy-Duty Tarpaulin or Netting
  • Wooden Posts or Metal Stakes
  • Rope or Cable
• Construction:
  1. Set up the wooden posts or metal stakes behind your target, spaced wide enough to cover the target area.
  2. Attach the tarpaulin or netting to the posts or stakes, creating a barrier behind the target.
  3. Ensure the backstop is tall and wide enough to catch any stray arrows.
  4. Regularly inspect the backstop for damage and repair it as needed.

Archery Backstop Material: Choosing the Right Option

Several materials can be used for an archery backstop. Here are some common choices:

• Heavy-Duty Tarpaulin: Affordable and readily available, but may tear over time.
• Archery Netting: Specifically designed to stop arrows, more durable than tarpaulin.
• Wood Fence: Provides a solid barrier, but arrows can damage the wood.
• Earth Berm: A mound of earth can be an effective backstop, but requires space and proper construction.

Tips for a Long-Lasting Target

To extend the life of your DIY archery target, consider these tips:

• Rotate the Target Face: Regularly rotate the target face to distribute wear evenly.
• Store the Target Properly: When not in use, store your target in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
• Repair Damage Promptly: Repair any tears or holes in the target as soon as they appear.
• Compress Regularly: For targets filled with compressible materials, compress the fill periodically to maintain density.
• Use a Target Stand: Elevate your target off the ground to prevent moisture damage and make it easier to shoot at.
• Shoot at Varying Spots: Avoid shooting at the exact same spot repeatedly, which can cause premature wear.

Cost-Effective Solutions: Inexpensive Archery Target Options

If you’re on a tight budget, here are some inexpensive archery target options:

• Cardboard Boxes: Collect sturdy cardboard boxes from local stores and fill them with old newspapers or packing peanuts.
• Old Tires: Stack old tires and fill them with dirt or sand.
• Foam Packaging: Use foam packaging materials from electronics or appliance purchases.
• Hay Bales: Hay bales are similar to straw bales but may be more readily available in some areas.
• Recycled Carpet: Roll up old carpet tightly and secure it with rope or straps.

Maintaining Your Target: Keeping It in Top Shape

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your DIY archery target in good condition and ensuring its longevity.

• Inspection: Regularly inspect your target for any signs of wear and tear, such as tears, holes, or loose fill.
• Repair: Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening. Use duct tape, heavy-duty thread, or other appropriate materials to patch holes and reinforce weak areas.
• Compression: Periodically compress the fill material to maintain the target’s density and stopping power.
• Cleaning: Clean your target regularly to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. Use a brush, vacuum cleaner, or damp cloth.
• Storage: Store your target in a dry, sheltered location when not in use to protect it from the elements.

Fathoming Draw Weight and Target Selection

The draw weight of your bow plays a crucial role in selecting the right target. Higher draw weights require denser and more robust targets to ensure safe arrow stopping.

• Low Draw Weight (Under 30 lbs): Clothes targets, straw bales, and cardboard boxes are suitable options.
• Medium Draw Weight (30-50 lbs): Bag targets, foam layer targets, and tightly compressed clothes targets are recommended.
• High Draw Weight (Over 50 lbs): High-density foam targets, layered carpet targets, or professionally made targets are necessary.

Safety First: Essential Precautions for Target Shooting

Safety should always be your top priority when target shooting. Follow these essential precautions:

• Clear Shooting Area: Ensure the area behind your target is clear of people, animals, and obstacles.
• Backstop: Always use a backstop to stop stray arrows.
• Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or shooting glasses to protect your eyes.
• Proper Form: Use proper archery form to minimize the risk of injury.
• Arrow Inspection: Inspect your arrows regularly for damage and replace any that are cracked or broken.
• Never Dry Fire: Never draw and release your bow without an arrow, as this can damage the bow and cause injury.
• Supervision: Supervise children and inexperienced archers closely.

FAQ: Making Your Own Archery Target

• What is the best material for an archery target? The best material depends on your bow’s draw weight and your budget. Foam, tightly packed clothes, and heavy-duty woven polypropylene bags are all good options.
• Can I use a pillow as an archery target? No, pillows are not dense enough to stop arrows safely and can damage your arrows.
• How do I make a target for arrows that won’t damage them? Use soft materials like old clothes, rags, or foam, and ensure the target is dense enough to stop the arrows without causing them to bend or break.
• What is the best size for an archery target? The best size depends on your shooting distance and skill level. A good starting size is 24 inches by 24 inches.
• How long will a homemade archery target last? The lifespan of a homemade target depends on the materials used and the frequency of use. With proper maintenance, a well-made target can last for several months or even years.
• Is it safe to shoot arrows at a tree? No, shooting arrows at a tree is not safe. The arrows can ricochet off the tree or become embedded in the bark, making them difficult to remove.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can safely and affordably make your own archery target and enjoy the sport of archery at home. Remember to prioritize safety and maintain your target regularly for optimal performance and longevity.