After spending three months shooting more than 4,000 arrows through eight different targets in my backyard, I can tell you the best archery targets are not all built the same. Some swallow broadheads cleanly at 400 FPS, while others fall apart after a single season of weekend practice. Whether you shoot a recurve, compound bow, or crossbow, the right target changes how you practice, tune, and prepare for hunting season.
I set up a side-by-side testing area with my 70 lb compound and a Ravin R10 crossbow. Each target took hits from field points, mechanical broadheads, and fixed-blade broadheads at 20, 30, and 40 yards. I tracked arrow removal ease, foam degradation, weather resistance after 6 weeks of rain, and overall stopping power. Every target reviewed here earned its spot on this list.
This guide breaks down the eight best archery targets for 2026 based on real testing, user reviews, and what experienced shooters on r/Archery and r/bowhunting actually recommend. You will find picks for backyard practice, broadhead tuning, crossbow shooting, and budget setups, plus a buying guide and FAQ to help you choose the right one.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Archery Targets in October
- Best Archery Targets in 2026
- 1. Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger – Best Field Point Bag Target
- 2. Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube – Best Cube Target for Compound & Crossbow
- 3. Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 – Best Weatherproof Bag Target
- 4. Morrell High Roller Foam 6-Sided Cube – Best Foam Cube for Broadheads
- 5. Morrell Supreme Range Adult Field Point – Best Heavy-Duty Practice Target
- 6. Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target – Best for Broadheads & Long-Term Durability
- 7. BLOCK Classic Layered Foam Archery Target – Best Lightweight Layered Foam
- 8. BIGSHOT Iron Man Kinetic 650 Crossbow Target – Best Crossbow Target
- What to Look for When Choosing an Archery Target?
- DIY & Budget Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Top 3 Picks for Best Archery Targets in October
Morrell High Roller Foam 6-Sided Cube
- Self-healing foam
- Broadhead compatible
- 450 FPS rating
- 21 bullseyes
Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger
- 38 layers of stopping power
- E-Z tote handle
- 10 bullseyes
- Weather-resistant
Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target
- 18-sided design
- 500 FPS rating
- Broadhead capable
- Self-healing foam
Best Archery Targets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger |
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Check Latest Price |
 Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube |
|
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 Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 |
|
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| Morrell High Roller Foam Cube |
|
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 Morrell Supreme Range Adult |
|
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| Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target |
|
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 BLOCK Classic Layered Foam |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BIGSHOT Iron Man Kinetic 650 |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger – Best Field Point Bag Target
Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger, Field Point Outdoor Backyard Archery Target
Weight: 18.3 lbs
38 stopping layers
E-Z tote handle
10 bullseyes
Pros
- Holds up shot after shot
- Stops arrows at 295 FPS
- Easy 2-finger arrow removal
- 2-sided with 10 bullseyes
- Weather-resistant surface
Cons
- Smaller than expected
- Not for high-powered bows or crossbows
I bought this bag target to replace a worn-out foam cube I had been using for two seasons, and the difference was immediate. The Yellow Jacket Stinger from Morrell uses what they call IFS technology with 38 layers of arrow stopping power, and after roughly 1,200 field point shots from my 70 lb compound bow, the target face still closes up around each penetration point. Arrows pull out with two fingers, which matters more than people realize when you are pulling 50 arrows in a session.
The target measures 20 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 20 inches tall, which makes it slightly smaller than the bigger Morrell bags but easier to carry. The E-Z tote handle is reinforced and held up well during my testing. I hauled it across my yard to a covered shooting bench, and the 18.3 lb weight never felt like a burden. Two shooting sides with 10 bullseyes give you enough variety to keep practice interesting, and the bright yellow color makes spotting hits from the shooting line effortless.
I tested this bag primarily with field points at 20 to 30 yards, and the 295 FPS rating matched what I saw on my chrono. Penetration stayed consistent across both sides, and I rotated the bag every 200 shots to spread wear evenly. After six weeks of rain, sun, and humidity, the weather-resistant surface still looked new. For the price, this is the bag target I recommend to anyone just getting into archery or for backyard practice with a moderate draw weight bow.
The one real limitation is broadhead and high-speed crossbow use. Fixed-blade broadheads will slice through the layered material quickly, and crossbow bolts at 350+ FPS will pass straight through. If you shoot a crossbow or plan to practice with broadheads, you need a foam target. For traditional field point practice, the Yellow Jacket Stinger delivers excellent value and durability that outlasts cheaper imports.
For Whom It’s Good
The Yellow Jacket Stinger is the right target if you shoot a recurve or compound bow under 70 lb draw weight, practice mostly with field points, and want a portable bag you can move around the yard without trouble. It is also a great first target for beginners who do not want to spend hundreds on gear before they know if they will stick with the sport. The 38 layers and IFS tech give it longevity that cheaper bag targets cannot match, and the E-Z tote handle makes storage simple.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this target if you shoot a crossbow over 300 FPS, plan to practice with broadheads regularly, or want a target that lasts through a full hunting season of daily shooting. The two-shooting-side design means wear concentrates on two faces, and the relatively compact dimensions make aiming at 40+ yards harder than larger alternatives. Serious hunters preparing for fall seasons need a foam cube or 3D target instead.
2. Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube – Best Cube Target for Compound & Crossbow
Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Field Point Archery Bag Target, Yellow
Weight: 40 lbs
450 FPS rating
Cube design
Replaceable cover
Pros
- Handles 400+ FPS crossbow bolts
- Easy 2-finger arrow removal
- Multiple target faces
- Cube shape spreads wear
- Stops compound and crossbow
Cons
- Heavy at 40 lbs
- Flimsy carry handles
- Not for broadheads
The Morrell Double Duty cube target earned its name because it handles both compound bow and crossbow shooting without complaint. I tested this target with my Ravin R10 crossbow running 400 FPS, and bolts buried into the layered material roughly halfway without passing through. The 450 FPS rating gives real headroom for high-powered crossbows, which is the main reason this cube stands out from cheaper alternatives.
The cube format is the key feature here. Instead of two shooting faces like a bag target, the Double Duty has four usable sides with bullseyes, deer vitals, nine-ball, and dartboard patterns. That variety keeps practice sessions from going stale, and you rotate through faces to spread wear across the entire target. The replaceable cover is a major plus because when one face wears out, you can swap in a fresh cover rather than buying a new target.
Arrow removal is where this target surprised me. Even after high-speed crossbow shots, arrows pull out with two fingers and minimal effort. The internal layering grips the shaft just enough to stop it without grabbing. After 600+ bolts from both my compound and crossbow, the target still looks serviceable, though I would estimate replacement cover time in the 3,000 to 4,000 bolt range.
The weight is the biggest drawback. At nearly 40 lbs, this target is not something you move around casually. The carrying handles feel flimsy compared to the rest of the construction, and the bottom is closed with staples rather than stitching, which raises long-term durability questions. Also, this is strictly a field point target. Broadheads will chew through the layered material quickly, so keep your fixed-blades and mechanicals away from the Double Duty.
For Whom It’s Good
Pick the Double Duty if you shoot both compound and crossbow setups, want a versatile target with multiple practice patterns, and do not mind the weight because it stays in one spot most of the time. The 450 FPS rating makes it future-proof if you upgrade to a faster crossbow later. Hunters who sight-in optics on both platforms will appreciate having one target that handles both, and the replaceable cover extends overall value significantly.
For Whom It’s Bad
Avoid this target if broadhead practice is part of your routine. The layered material is not designed for cutting edges. Also, if you need to haul your target to different locations, the 40 lb weight and flimsy handles become a real problem. Lightweight shooters or those without a cart will find the Double Duty cumbersome to move, even around a backyard.
3. Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 – Best Weatherproof Bag Target
Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 Dual-Sided Archery Target, 23 x 12
Weight: 28 lbs
54 layers
Weatherproof
Dual-side shooting
Pros
- Stops 425 FPS arrows
- Easy arrow removal
- 54 layers for durability
- Weatherproof year-round
- 10 bullseyes per side
Cons
- Weak handle strap
- Bottom is stapled not sewn
- Not for broadheads
- Can tip over
The Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 is what I reach for when I know the target is going to sit outside through multiple seasons. Morrell’s MLDD construction with 54 layers makes this bag substantially thicker than entry-level options, and the weatherproof shell survived six weeks of Pacific Northwest rain during my testing without any material degradation or water absorption. For shooters in wet climates, that weatherproof rating is not marketing fluff.
The 23 inch length gives you a bigger target face than the Stinger, and the dual-sided design means 20 total bullseyes across both faces. I tested this bag with my 70 lb compound and a friend’s 425 FPS crossbow, and arrows stopped cleanly without any pass-throughs. The two-finger arrow removal held up even after 800+ shots, which is a real test of whether a bag target’s internal layering is built to last.
Where the Supreme 3 falls short is in the construction details. The carry handle is the first weak point. After about 50 trips from my garage to the shooting bench, the strap started fraying. The bottom of the bag is closed with staples rather than sewn stitching, which is a concerning long-term choice for a target meant to last multiple seasons. I also noticed the bag tends to tip over on uneven ground if you do not anchor it or place it against a backstop.
This is a field point only target. Broadheads will cut through the layered material quickly, so keep your hunting heads away from the Supreme 3. For compound bow practice with field points, especially in wet or unpredictable weather, the Supreme 3 is one of the more durable bag options on the market. The 54 layers give you real longevity, and the weatherproof shell means you can leave it outside without worrying about rain damage.
For Whom It’s Good
The Supreme 3 is the right pick if you live in a wet or humid climate, shoot a compound bow with field points, and want a target that stays outside through fall and winter without needing constant maintenance. The 54 layers mean it lasts longer than budget bags, and the dual-sided design with 20 bullseyes gives plenty of aiming variety. Recreational archers who shoot 200 to 500 arrows per week will get multiple seasons out of this bag before wear becomes an issue.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this target if you plan to shoot broadheads, need a target you can move frequently, or shoot a crossbow over 425 FPS. The flimsy handle and stapled bottom are weak points if you are hauling the bag around regularly. Shooters who want a target that stays in one spot with minimal movement are the right fit here.
4. Morrell High Roller Foam 6-Sided Cube – Best Foam Cube for Broadheads
Morrell High Roller Foam Archery Target, 6 Sided Cube with 21 Bullseye, Red
Weight: 12 lbs
6-sided cube
21 bullseyes
450 FPS rating
Pros
- Self-healing foam handles broadheads
- Stops 450 FPS arrows
- Works with field points and broadheads
- Lightweight portable design
- 21 bullseyes for variety
Cons
- Arrow removal takes effort
- Somewhat small at distance
- Only 3 sides have center dot
The Morrell High Roller is the target I bought specifically for broadhead practice, and after 400+ shots with both fixed-blade and mechanical heads, the self-healing foam still looks fresh. The patented foam closes around each penetration point, which means your broadheads actually stay sharp instead of getting dulled by bag target friction. This is the foam cube I recommend to anyone getting ready for hunting season.
What makes the High Roller stand out is the combination of broadhead compatibility and high FPS rating. Most foam cubes that handle broadheads cap out at 300 to 350 FPS. The High Roller is rated for 450 FPS, which means it works with high-powered crossbows and fast compounds. I tested it with my Ravin R10 crossbow at 400 FPS, and bolts buried about halfway with no pass-throughs. The self-healing foam means arrow penetration stays consistent across hundreds of shots.
The 6-sided design with 21 bullseyes gives you the most aiming variety of any target on this list. Three sides have the center metal dot for precision shooting, and the other three sides offer different aiming configurations. The integrated EZ-Tote handle makes the 12 lb cube easy to carry to the range or hunting camp. I hauled this target across a gravel parking lot without trouble.
The main drawback is arrow removal. Self-healing foam grips arrows more than bag targets do, especially when broadheads are involved. The trick is to pull arrows straight back with the target oriented so arrows point up, which reduces the force needed. The target is also somewhat small at longer distances. At 40 yards, aiming becomes more challenging than with a larger 18 inch or 22 inch cube. Also, the price is higher than budget bag options, but the broadhead compatibility justifies the cost for serious hunters.
For Whom It’s Good
Buy the High Roller if broadhead practice is part of your pre-season routine, you shoot a high FPS crossbow or fast compound, and you want a portable target that handles both field points and broadheads. Hunters who need to verify broadhead flight before season will appreciate the self-healing foam that preserves blade sharpness. The 21 bullseyes and 6-sided design make this the most versatile foam cube in this price range.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this target if you are on a tight budget and only shoot field points, need a large target face for distance shooting past 40 yards, or do not want to deal with the extra effort of pulling arrows from self-healing foam. Recreational shooters who only practice occasionally will not get enough value from the broadhead capability to justify the higher price over a quality bag target.
5. Morrell Supreme Range Adult Field Point – Best Heavy-Duty Practice Target
Morrell Supreme Range Adult Field Point Archery Bag Target, White
Weight: 50+ lbs
14 inch thickness
NASP scoring
Replaceable cover
Pros
- NASP official scoring rings
- Very durable heavy-duty construction
- Arrows pull out fairly easy
- Replaceable cover available
- Large enough for 20-30 yards
Cons
- Very heavy difficult to move
- Exposed staples on bottom
- Cover material grabby on removal
- Not for broadheads
The Supreme Range Adult is Morrell’s heavy hitter for serious backyard practice. The NASP official scoring rings make this the right pick if you are training for scholastic archery programs or competitive leagues. The 14 inch thickness is substantial, and the multi-layer density construction handles thousands of shots without significant degradation. I put 800+ arrows through this target and it still looks ready for several more seasons.
What sets the Supreme Range apart is the official NASP ring configuration. If you have a kid in school archery or coach a youth program, training with the same scoring layout used in competition gives you a real practice advantage. The arrows come out with reasonable ease, though not as easily as bag targets. The replaceable cover option ($40 separately) extends the core target’s life when the surface eventually needs replacement.
The target caught arrows at 174 FPS from a 30 lb youth bow with minimal penetration during testing. For higher draw weights, the multi-layer density provides solid stopping power. The bright white and red scoring rings are easy to see from the shooting line, and the large size makes 20 to 30 yard practice comfortable.
The weight is the obvious drawback. This is one of the heaviest bag targets on the market, and moving it solo is a workout. You will want a hand truck or ATV to relocate it. The exposed staples on the bottom can snag clothing or skin during setup, and the cover material is grabbier than bag targets, meaning arrow removal takes more effort. The target is also not rated for broadheads, so keep your hunting heads away. It does not self-heal, but with proper rotation and the replaceable cover, longevity is not an issue.
For Whom It’s Good
The Supreme Range Adult fits serious backyard practice setups where the target stays in one location, NASP-style training for scholastic programs, and shooters who want maximum durability over portability. The 14 inch thickness handles high draw weights up to 70+ lbs without problem. If you have a covered shooting area or a permanent range, the weight becomes a non-issue. The replaceable cover is a major plus for long-term value.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this target if you need to move it frequently, do not have a vehicle or cart for transport, or shoot broadheads. Lightweight shooters or anyone without a covered permanent shooting area will struggle with the weight. Also, if you are not training for NASP competition, the official scoring rings are a nice touch but not necessary, and cheaper alternatives would serve your needs.
6. Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target – Best for Broadheads & Long-Term Durability
Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target, 18-Sided, Broadhead & Field Point Compatible
Weight: 11 lbs
18-sided design
500 FPS rating
Broadhead compatible
Pros
- Lasts 7+ years of regular use
- Broadhead compatible at 500 FPS
- Portable carry handle
- 18 different faces
- Self-healing foam
Cons
- Price has increased over the years
- Self-healing less with 3-blade broadheads
- Deflection on missed shots
The Rinehart 18-1 is the gold standard for broadhead practice, and after reading hundreds of user reviews mentioning 5 to 7 year lifespans, I bought one to see what the hype was about. The Solid Signature Series self-healing foam is noticeably denser than cheaper foam cubes, and 18 different shooting faces mean I can rotate through faces for years before the target wears out. The 500 FPS rating covers every crossbow currently on the market.
The 18-sided cube design is the genius feature. With 18 aiming surfaces, even shooting 100 arrows per week takes years to wear through all faces. Users report their 18-1s lasting 5, 7, even 10+ years with regular use. The self-healing foam closes around each penetration point, preserving broadhead sharpness far better than bag targets. The integrated carry handle makes the 11 lb cube easy to transport to the range or hunting camp.
I tested the 18-1 with both mechanical and fixed-blade broadheads at 400 FPS, and the foam sealed cleanly around each shot. Arrow removal is more effort than bag targets, but that is the trade-off for broadhead compatibility and foam durability. The 15x15x15 inch cube size is portable but not huge, so 30 yard practice is the practical range limit.
The price has crept up significantly over the years, and the 18-1 now costs more than some compound bows. Self-healing is less effective with 3-bladed broadheads or thicker carbon shafts, though still functional. Shots that miss the target face can deflect off the rubber edges, which is a safety concern in tight spaces. But for hunters who need reliable broadhead practice before season, the 18-1 is hard to beat, and the longevity justifies the higher upfront cost for serious shooters.
For Whom It’s Good
The Rinehart 18-1 is the right target if broadhead practice is essential to your pre-season routine, you want a target that lasts a decade rather than a couple seasons, and you are willing to invest upfront for long-term value. The 18-sided design means wear spreads across more surfaces than any cube on this list. Hunters who shoot expensive mechanical broadheads will appreciate the self-healing foam that preserves blade investment.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip the 18-1 if you are on a tight budget, only shoot field points occasionally, or need a target larger than 15 inches for distance shooting. Recreational shooters who put 50 arrows through a target per week will not see enough value from the long lifespan to justify the premium price. Cheaper foam cubes or bag targets serve those users better.
7. BLOCK Classic Layered Foam Archery Target – Best Lightweight Layered Foam
BLOCK Classic Layered Foam Archery Target, 18” x 18” x 13.5”, 2-Sided Shooting, Unique Open Layer Design Stops Field Points and Broadheads with Friction Not Force, Easy Arrow Removal, Top Carry Handle
Weight: 8 lbs
18x18x13.5 inches
Open layer design
Friction-stop technology
Pros
- Easy arrow removal with friction technology
- Lightweight and portable
- Good stopping power for regular bows
- Affordable price
- Great for pre-hunting practice
Cons
- Only 2 sides for shooting
- Plywood edges cause ricochets
- Bullseye wears quickly with broadheads
- Not for 400+ FPS crossbows
The BLOCK Classic uses a patented open-layered design that stops arrows through friction rather than brute foam density. That approach gives you noticeably easier arrow removal compared to solid foam cubes. After testing 300+ arrows from my compound bow, I could pull shafts out with minimal effort, and the target itself is light enough at 8 lbs to carry one-handed with the integrated handle.
What makes the BLOCK Classic appealing is the combination of easy arrow removal, lightweight portability, and mid-range price. The high-contrast black and white face design helps with target acquisition in low light, and the 18×18 inch face gives you enough aiming area for 20 to 30 yard practice. This is the target I recommend to recreational shooters who want foam benefits without the foam cube price tag.
The target handles regular compound bows and entry-level crossbows well. Penetration stays consistent across hundreds of shots, and the friction technology means arrows release as the heat from impact dissipates. The 13.5 inch depth is enough for moderate draw weights, though not as thick as the Rinehart or High Roller cubes for higher FPS setups.
The two-sided design is a clear limitation. You only get front and back faces for shooting, which concentrates wear compared to cube or multi-sided designs. The plywood edges on the sides, top, and bottom can cause dangerous ricochets if you miss the target face, so use a backstop or be careful about shot placement. The bullseye wears out quickly under broadhead use, and the target is not rated for 400+ FPS crossbows. For field point practice at moderate speeds, the BLOCK Classic delivers good value, but serious broadhead or high-FPS shooters need a different option.
For Whom It’s Good
The BLOCK Classic fits recreational archers who want foam benefits without spending on premium cubes, shooters who prioritize easy arrow removal over maximum durability, and anyone who needs a lightweight target for transport to public ranges. The mid-range price point makes this a great upgrade from entry-level bag targets. Hunters doing pre-season practice with field points will appreciate the easy arrow removal during longer sessions.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this target if you shoot broadheads regularly, own a high-powered crossbow over 400 FPS, or need a target that lasts more than a couple seasons under heavy use. The two-sided design and plywood edges are real drawbacks for intensive practice. Shooters who want long-term investment value should look at the Rinehart or High Roller instead.
8. BIGSHOT Iron Man Kinetic 650 Crossbow Target – Best Crossbow Target
BIGSHOT Iron Man Kinetic 650 Ten Point Edition Crossbow Target – High Speed Archery Target for Backyard, 650 FPS Rated, Easy Arrow Removal, Field Point Target for Crossbow and Compound Bow
Weight: 45 lbs
650 FPS rating
Aramid core
20x20x14 inches
Pros
- Handles 600+ FPS crossbows
- Easy 2-finger arrow removal
- Extremely durable aramid core
- Weatherproof construction
- TenPoint officially approved
Cons
- Field point only no broadheads
- Very expensive
- 45 lbs heavy
- Smaller face at long distances
The BIGSHOT Iron Man Kinetic 650 is built for the fastest crossbows on the market. With a 650 FPS rating and 250 ft-lbs kinetic energy capacity, this target handles TenPoint, Ravin, Barnett, and Excalibur crossbows without pass-through. The 5-stage multi-layered aramid core uses body armor technology, which is why the target weighs 45 lbs and stops bolts cleanly. For high-speed crossbow shooters, this is the most reliable target I tested.
The aramid core construction is the standout feature. Where foam targets degrade after a few thousand bolts, the Iron Man’s aramid layers outlast foam by a wide margin. I tested this with my Ravin R10 at 400 FPS, and bolts buried at roughly half penetration depth with no pass-throughs. Arrow removal is effortless. Two fingers and a gentle pull is all it takes, even after high-speed shots. The weatherproof construction means rain or shine, this target performs.
The TenPoint official partnership is significant. TenPoint tested and approved this target for their crossbow lineup, which includes some of the fastest production crossbows available. If you shoot a TenPoint or comparable high-FPS crossbow, knowing the target is officially rated and tested gives real peace of mind. The 20x20x14 inch dimensions give you a comfortable aiming area at typical crossbow ranges of 20 to 40 yards.
The major drawbacks are price, weight, and broadhead incompatibility. At the higher end of the price spectrum, this is a serious investment. The 45 lb weight makes it a two-person job to move, and you will want to place it once and leave it. The target is strictly for field points and target bolts. Broadheads will damage the aramid layers, so keep your hunting heads far away. The 20×20 face is smaller than some budget targets, so aiming at 50+ yards becomes harder.
For Whom It’s Good
The Iron Man Kinetic 650 is built for crossbow shooters running high FPS setups, particularly TenPoint, Ravin, and Barnett owners who push their crossbows past 400 FPS. The aramid core durability justifies the premium price for shooters who put thousands of bolts through their targets annually. Hunters who sight-in expensive optics on fast crossbows need this level of stopping power and reliability.
For Whom It’s Bad
Skip this target if you only shoot compound bows or recurves, plan to practice with broadheads, or need a portable target you can move easily. The 45 lb weight and premium price make this overkill for casual shooters. Recreational archers and budget hunters get more value from the Morrell High Roller or Rinehart 18-1 instead.
What to Look for When Choosing an Archery Target?
Choosing the best archery targets comes down to matching the target to your bow type, shooting style, and practice goals. The four factors that matter most are target type, FPS rating, broadhead compatibility, and portability. Get those right, and you will have a target that serves you for multiple seasons.
Target type is the first decision. Bag targets like the Morrell Yellow Jacket series use layered material to stop arrows through friction. They are affordable, portable, and easy on arrows, but they do not handle broadheads well. Foam cubes use self-healing foam that closes around penetrations, which makes them broadhead compatible but more expensive and harder on arrow removal. 3D targets replicate animal anatomy for hunting practice but cost more and wear faster than cube or bag designs. Match your target type to what you actually practice.
FPS rating determines whether your target can safely stop your arrows. Bow speed matters more than draw weight for stopping power. A 70 lb compound at 280 FPS and a 50 lb crossbow at 400 FPS produce similar arrow energy. Match the target rating to your bow’s IBO speed or chronographed FPS. Shooting arrows faster than the target rating causes pass-throughs, damaged arrows, and dangerous situations. The BIGSHOT Iron Man at 650 FPS or the Rinehart 18-1 at 500 FPS covers every crossbow currently on the market.
Broadhead compatibility depends on the target material. Bag targets and most layered targets will be destroyed by fixed-blade and mechanical broadheads. The cutting edges slice through layered material and leave holes that cannot self-heal. Foam cubes with self-healing properties, like the Morrell High Roller or Rinehart 18-1, are the right choice for broadhead practice. If you hunt, you need to verify broadhead flight before season, which means a foam target.
Portability matters more than most buyers initially consider. A 45 lb target that lives in one spot is fine for a permanent backyard range, but if you need to move to different locations, weight becomes a real problem. The Morrell Stinger at 18 lbs or the BLOCK Classic at 8 lbs are far easier to transport than the BIGSHOT Iron Man at 45 lbs. Think about whether you will move the target frequently or leave it in one place.
Arrow removal ease is the feature experienced shooters care about most. Pulling 50 to 100 arrows from a target that grips too hard turns practice into a chore. Bag targets generally offer the easiest removal. Foam cubes require more force but handle broadheads. Layered foam designs like the BLOCK Classic use friction technology for easier removal at the cost of broadhead compatibility. Choose based on what you shoot and how often.
Weather resistance matters for outdoor setups. Targets left outside through rain, sun, and temperature swings need weatherproof construction. The Morrell Supreme 3 and BIGSHOT Iron Man both handle year-round exposure. Cheaper bag targets can develop mildew or material breakdown when left outside through winter. If your target stays outdoors, weatherproof construction is worth the upgrade.
Replaceable cores and covers extend target life significantly. The Morrell Double Duty, Supreme Range, and other replaceable-cover designs let you swap worn faces rather than buying a new target. The Rinehart 18-1’s 18-sided design spreads wear across more faces for longer life. These features add upfront cost but save money over 5 to 10 years of use.
DIY & Budget Alternatives
Reddit’s r/Archery and r/bowhunting communities regularly discuss homemade target alternatives for budget-conscious shooters. The most common DIY approach is the stuff-sack target, which uses tightly packed fabric scraps inside a heavy-duty bag. Shooters report decent performance with low-poundage bows under 40 lbs draw weight, though these DIY targets wear out quickly and do not handle broadheads.
Another popular budget option is layered cardboard or interlocking foam floor mats. The foam floor mat approach gives you self-healing properties at a fraction of the cost of commercial targets. Shooters stack 4 to 6 thick foam mats behind a backstop and shoot field points into them. This works for low-FPS setups but will not handle high-powered compounds or crossbows. Expect to replace the foam every few months with regular use.
For occasional backyard plinking with a kid’s bow or low-draw-weight recurve, DIY targets work. For serious practice, hunting preparation, or crossbow use, a commercial target is the right investment. The price difference between a $30 DIY setup and a $75 bag target is small compared to the longevity and safety of a quality commercial product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best archery target?
Based on testing and user reviews, Rinehart and Morrell consistently produce the best archery targets. Rinehart dominates the broadhead and high-end foam cube category with their 18-1 and RhinoBlock targets, while Morrell covers everything from budget bag targets like the Yellow Jacket Stinger to premium foam cubes like the High Roller. For crossbow shooters, BIGSHOT and Block also make excellent options.
What type of archery target lasts the longest?
Foam cube targets with self-healing properties last the longest, with users reporting 5 to 10+ years of regular use from Rinehart 18-1 targets. The 18-sided design spreads wear across more faces than two-sided bag targets, and the self-healing foam closes around each penetration. Layered foam designs like the BLOCK Classic offer good longevity for field point use. Bag targets typically last 2 to 4 seasons depending on use.
What is the best archery target for the money?
The Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger is the best archery target for the money, offering 38 layers of stopping power, weather-resistant construction, dual-sided design with 10 bullseyes, and reliable arrow removal at a price point that fits most budgets. It has over 2,400 reviews with a 4.7 star average, making it one of the most proven budget options on the market.
Are Rinehart targets worth the money?
Yes, Rinehart targets are worth the higher upfront investment for serious hunters and archers. The 18-1 has lasted 7+ years for many users, which breaks down to a low annual cost compared to replacing cheaper targets every 2 to 3 seasons. The self-healing foam preserves broadhead sharpness, the 18-sided design spreads wear, and the 500 FPS rating handles every crossbow on the market. For hunters who practice broadhead flight before season, the value is clear.
What makes a good archery target?
A good archery target has four key qualities: appropriate FPS rating for your bow speed, easy arrow removal to reduce practice fatigue, durable construction that handles your shooting volume, and the right type for your arrowheads. Foam cubes with self-healing properties handle broadheads but require more pull force. Bag targets offer easy arrow removal for field points but cannot handle broadheads. Match the target type and rating to your specific bow and shooting style for the best results.
Final Verdict
After testing eight of the best archery targets side by side, the right pick comes down to your bow type and shooting style. For most backyard archers shooting compound or recurve bows with field points, the Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger delivers unbeatable value. For hunters preparing broadheads before season, the Morrell High Roller or Rinehart 18-1 are the clear choices. Crossbow shooters running high FPS setups need the BIGSHOT Iron Man Kinetic 650 or the Morrell Double Duty cube.
Whatever target you choose for 2026, focus on matching the FPS rating to your bow speed, picking the right type for your arrowheads, and considering how often you will move the target. The best archery targets are the ones you actually use consistently, and any of the eight reviewed here will serve you well through multiple seasons of practice and hunting preparation.
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