Archery Target: Diy Guide

Building your own archery target is a great way to save money and ensure you have a durable target that will last for years. There are a variety of methods and materials you can use to make a DIY archery target, ranging from simple cardboard boxes to more complex wooden frames.

One of the most popular and cost-effective methods is to use a cardboard box filled with packing materials such as plastic bags, shrink wrap, or insulation foam. This type of target is easy to make and can be sealed with duct tape, making it portable and convenient. However, it may not be suitable for high-powered compound bows or crossbows.

For a more durable option, you can build a wooden frame with a hollow centre and no front or back. This frame can then be stuffed with various materials such as old clothes, rags, or hay, and covered with a canvas or tarp. This type of target typically requires more time and effort to construct but will last longer and can be used with different types of arrows.

Other creative options for DIY archery targets include using old tires, mattresses, puzzle mats, or even compressed straw. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs and skill level.

Building your own archery target can be a fun and rewarding project, allowing you to customise your target to your preferences and improve your accuracy in archery.

Choosing the right materials

Frame Materials:

The frame provides rigidity and balance to your target. While wood is the most popular choice, you can also use PVC pipe, metal, or cardboard. If you opt for a wooden frame, consider using kiln-dried boards and treating them with weather protection for outdoor use. Ensure you have the necessary tools, such as a drill, screws, and nails, to assemble the frame securely.

Backstop Materials:

The backstop is the material that catches your arrows and disperses their momentum. Common backstop materials include hay, straw, cardboard, cloth, carpet, plastic, and foam. When selecting a backstop material, consider its ability to absorb the impact of the arrows and its durability. For example, hay bales are inexpensive but tend to fall apart quickly. Carpet or cloth can be good options, but they may snag on certain arrowheads. Foam, especially Ethofoam, is an excellent choice for its ability to absorb impact, but it can be expensive. Cardboard is cheap and readily available, but it may not withstand constant use.

Target Face:

The target face is where you'll mark your accuracy. You can use a simple paper target with shapes or a more durable material like canvas or tarp. Consider the visibility of the target, especially if you plan to shoot from a distance. Ensure the target face can withstand the impact of arrows and is easy to replace if needed.

Arrowheads:

When choosing materials, consider the type of arrowheads you'll be using. Broadhead arrows are great for hunting but can damage certain targets, especially cardboard and hay. Field points are generally safer for targets and are recommended for target practice.

Portability:

If you plan to move your target around, consider its weight and portability. Some targets, like the compressed straw design, can be very heavy, so adding wheels is advisable. Others, like the cardboard box target, are lightweight and portable.

Building a cardboard box target

Building a cardboard box archery target is a simple and cost-effective way to practice your archery skills. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build one:

Materials:

• Cardboard boxes: You will need a large cardboard box that is at least 12 inches (30 cm) thick to stop the arrows effectively. If you are using high-velocity arrows or high draw weights, it is recommended to use a box that is 18 inches (46 cm) thick. The standard commercial target size is around 18 inches, so aim for a box that is at least this big.
• Packing materials: This includes shrink wrap, plastic bags, insulation foam, old clothes, rags, towels, sheets, or any other soft and absorbent material. You will need enough packing material to fill the cardboard box tightly.
• Tape: Duct tape or packing tape will be used to seal the box securely.
• Target face (optional): You can print out a target face with rings or draw your own directly on the box.

Step 1: Prepare the Cardboard Box

Start by finding a cardboard box that meets the size requirements mentioned above. If you don't have one, you can try asking local furniture stores or recycling bins for cardboard boxes. Cut out a square or rectangle from the cardboard box, which will serve as your guideline for cutting the other pieces. Use this guideline to cut out nine more squares/rectangles of the same size.

Step 2: Assemble the Box

Once you have all ten pieces cut out, stack them on top of each other. Then, take your duct tape and start wrapping it around the stack of cardboard pieces, going from one side to the other. Make sure to wrap the tape tightly and securely. You can also use different colours of duct tape to create a pattern on your target, such as a yellow square in the middle, a red square around that, and so on.

Step 3: Fill the Box with Packing Material

Fill the cardboard box tightly with your chosen packing material. You can use plastic bags, old clothes, rags, towels, sheets, or any other soft and absorbent material. Make sure to pack the material tightly so that there are no gaps. You can also use expanding insulation foam to fill in any small spaces.

Step 4: Seal the Box

Once you have filled the box, seal it shut with more duct tape or packing tape. Make sure that all openings are securely closed.

Step 5: Test the Target

Find an open area where you can test your target safely, away from people or objects that could be accidentally hit. Start by shooting from closer than your usual distance to ensure a margin of safety. If the arrow travels through the target, you may need to use a larger box or pack the filling more tightly. Always use field point arrowheads when target shooting, as broadhead arrows may break upon impact.

Step 6: Draw the Target Rings (Optional)

If you want to add target rings to your cardboard box target, you can do so by drawing them directly on the box with a marker or paint. You can also print out a target face and attach it to the box using tape or staples.

Your cardboard box archery target is now ready to use! Remember to inspect it regularly and replace it if it becomes too worn out or damaged.

Making a durable target

Building a durable archery target requires a bit more effort and money, but it will last longer and save you the hassle of constantly replacing it. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a durable archery target:

Plan the lumber frame

The frame should be hollow, without a front or back, and made of 2x12 lumber (38x286mm) to ensure the target is deep enough to stop most arrows. Decide on the height and width, but keep the shooting area portable by not going larger than 3 x 3 ft (0.9x0.9m). For extended outdoor use, use kiln-dried boards or treat them with weather protection. You can also extend the sides of the frame below the shooting area to make the target more portable by raising it or attaching casters.

Cut a hole for stuffing

Cut a large hole in the board that will form the top of the frame. This hole will be used to stuff the target after assembly.

Assemble the frame

Use wood screws that are at least 3.5" (9cm) long to screw the lumber together. For an extra sturdy frame, thread the sides with all-thread and tighten them with an oversized washer, an ordinary washer, and a nut, in that order. Remember to tighten again after the first test shoot, as the frame may shift.

Attach chicken wire

Cover the front and back openings of the frame with chicken wire to hold the stuffing. Wrap the wire around the sides and staple it securely to the frame. To reduce the amount of repacking required due to bulging, reinforce the chicken wire with three or four tie-wires on the interior. Alternatively, some people prefer using nylon window screen material for this step.

Gather and compress the stuffing

You'll need a large amount of stuffing material to stop an average arrow. Some common options include shrink wrap, foam, plastic bags, old carpet, blankets, feed bags, burlap sacks, shredded rubber, and clothing (after removing any metal objects). Pack the chosen stuffing tightly into the frame, using a sledgehammer or ratchet strap to compress it periodically.

Cover the shooting surface

Add a cover to the target, which can be replaced as it gets worn out. Some options include weed barrier or ground cloth. Avoid using tarps, as they may be noisy and stain the arrows.

Using the right type of arrows

Arrow Shaft Material

Arrows can be made from different materials such as wood, aluminum, carbon, or a combination of these. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Wood arrows are cost-effective but don't last long, while carbon arrows are stiff and suitable for heavier bows. Aluminum arrows are versatile and used for target archery and hunting, whereas carbon/aluminum hybrid arrows are lightweight, stiff, and perform well in windy conditions.

Arrow Length

The length of your arrows is crucial for safety reasons. Arrows that are too short can fall off the arrow rest and be dangerous. For beginners, it's recommended to use arrows that are about 2 inches longer than your draw length. As you gain experience, you can switch to arrows that are about 1 inch longer than your draw length.

Arrow Diameter

The diameter of the arrow affects its flight characteristics. Thicker arrows are preferred for target archery as they are more likely to connect with the target lines and score higher. On the other hand, outdoor archers and hunters typically use thinner arrows as they are less affected by wind resistance and provide better penetration.

Arrow Spine

The spine refers to the stiffness or bendability of the arrow. Arrows with the correct spine will bend around the bow but still fly straight and hit the target accurately. A weak arrow (high spine) will bend too much, while a stiff arrow (low spine) won't bend enough. The spine is influenced by factors such as the weight of the bow, length of the arrow, weight of the arrowhead, and the material of the arrow.

Arrowheads

There are different types of arrowheads or points available, each serving a specific purpose. Bullet points and field points are commonly used for target practice, while blunt points and judo points are used for small game hunting. Broadheads, with their razor-sharp blades, are specifically designed for hunting larger game.

Screw-in vs. Glue-on Points

Screw-in points are versatile and allow archers to quickly change points for different purposes. They are a good choice for recreational archers, bowhunters, and 3D archers. Glue-on points, on the other hand, are glued into hollow carbon or aluminum shafts and are favored by competitive target archers as they offer a wide range of options for different shaft diameters.

When choosing arrows, it's important to consider the type of bow you're using, the draw weight, and the intended purpose, whether it's target practice or hunting. Always prioritize safety and follow the guidelines provided by archery organizations.

How to test your target

Testing your target is an important step in the process of building an archery target. Here are some detailed instructions on how to test your target:

Firstly, choose an open area with no bystanders to ensure safety during the test. Move closer to the target than you usually would to ensure a margin of safety. This way, if the arrow shoots through the target or misses the target entirely, no one will be at risk of injury.

Now, shoot an arrow at the target. If the arrow travels through the target and out the other side, you will need to make some adjustments. Try using a larger box and ensure that the stuffing is tightly packed. You can also try using a thicker cardboard box, especially if you are using high-velocity arrows or high draw weights. It is recommended to use a box that is at least 12 inches (30 cm) thick for standard arrows, and 18 inches (46 cm) thick for high-velocity arrows or high draw weights.

Additionally, always use field point arrowheads when testing your target, as broadhead arrows may break upon impact.

If your arrow does not penetrate the target, and the stuffing is able to stop the arrow, your target is likely ready for use! However, it is important to note that micro-diameter arrows may pass completely through the target, even a durable version.

For those seeking an even more durable target, there are additional steps you can take. You can construct a lumber frame and staple chicken wire over the front and back openings to hold the stuffing. This will add extra strength to your target and improve its longevity.

In conclusion, testing your archery target is crucial to ensure safety and the effectiveness of your target. By following these steps and making any necessary adjustments, you can create a safe and durable target for your archery practice.

Frequently asked questions