Archery is an ancient sport with roots in hunting, warfare, and recreation. Today, it's enjoyed by millions worldwide as a competitive activity, a form of exercise, or simply a relaxing hobby. Whether youre just starting out or are already a seasoned archer, having the right equipment is crucial for success and enjoyment. One key piece of archery gear that can make all the difference is your target. This review focuses on 'Archery Targets', handmade 50cm targets crafted from three layers of straw a popular choice among beginners to advanced archers. We'll explore their design, durability, visibility, functionality, user reviews, and price to help you decide if theyre right for you.
The Archery Targets boast a traditional, classic design that harkens back to the roots of archery. Measuring 50cm (approximately 20 inches) in diameter, these targets are compact enough for indoor use while still offering ample space for multiple arrows at once. The three-layer construction of straw provides a unique and visually appealing look, with varying shades of brown and golden hues that evoke an image of natural archery environments. The target's design also incorporates practical features like a circular center bullseye surrounded by concentric rings marked in different colors to represent scoring zones. This makes it easy to assess your accuracy quickly and efficiently. The outer edge is reinforced with a thicker layer of straw, which helps prevent tearing when arrows are shot close to the periphery. The handmade nature of these targets adds another level of charm and character, as no two are exactly alike. Each target has its own unique pattern and texture, adding to their overall appeal. This also means there may be slight variations in size or color from one target to the next a characteristic that many archers appreciate as it reinforces the handcrafted quality.
Durability is arguably the most important factor when choosing an archery target. After all, you want something that can withstand repeated impacts without quickly falling apart. Archery Targets are designed with durability in mind, using high-quality straw and a layered construction method to maximize their lifespan. The three layers of densely packed straw provide significant cushioning for incoming arrows, minimizing the chances of ricochet or damage. The outer layer is particularly thick, protecting the inner core from wear and tear. While they won't last forever (no target does), Archery Targets are known for being more durable than many other straw targets on the market. However, its important to note that straw targets are susceptible to weather conditions moisture can cause them to deteriorate faster. Therefore, these targets should be stored indoors or under a protective cover when not in use, especially during periods of high humidity or rainfall.
Visibility is another crucial aspect of target design. If you can't easily see your arrows sticking out from the target, it becomes frustrating and time-consuming to retrieve them after each shot. Archery Targets address this issue with a contrasting color scheme that makes arrow visibility excellent. The bullseye is typically bright yellow or orange, while the scoring rings are different shades of blue, red, and green all colors that stand out against the natural brown tones of the straw. The layered design also helps to create pockets within the target where arrows can become lodged securely, making them easier to spot from a distance. This is particularly useful for archers who practice at longer distances or in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal and durability, Archery Targets are designed with functionality in mind. Their compact size makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, while the straw construction provides a forgiving surface thats ideal for beginners to hone their skills on. The target's three-layer design also allows for arrow penetration deeper into the core than single-layer targets, which can help reduce bounce back and increase safety. The reinforced outer edge prevents tearing even when arrows are shot close to the periphery, extending the life of the target. One potential drawback is that straw targets tend to absorb moisture over time, which can make them heavier and less pliable. This may require occasional brushing or shaking to remove excess dirt or debris. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the benefits these targets offer in terms of durability and arrow visibility.
User reviews for Archery Targets are overwhelmingly positive, with many archers praising their quality, affordability, and performance. Heres what some users have said:
Archery Targets offer excellent value for money. They typically cost between $30-$50 depending on the vendor and any additional accessories included. Considering their handmade quality, durability, and performance, this is a very reasonable price point compared to other straw targets on the market. Many users have noted that Archery Targets last much longer than cheaper alternatives, making them an even more cost-effective option in the long run.
If youre looking for a durable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing archery target, Archery Targets are definitely worth considering. Their classic design, high-quality construction, excellent arrow visibility, and positive user reviews make them a top choice among archers of all skill levels. While they require occasional maintenance to prevent moisture damage, the overall benefits far outweigh any minor inconveniences. Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced archer looking for a reliable target for practice sessions, Archery Targets are a great investment that will provide hours of fun and enjoyment.
Archery targets are essential equipment for practicing archery, providing a safe and defined surface to aim at with your arrows. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials depending on the type of bow used and the intended purpose whether it's recreational shooting or serious training. Our 50cm handmade straw bale targets are designed specifically for target practice using compound bows, recurve bows, longbows, and crossbows.
Our three-layered construction offers superior durability compared to single-layer targets. The multiple layers absorb arrow impact more effectively, extending the lifespan of your target significantly. This makes them a cost-effective choice for both beginners and experienced archers who frequently practice their shot.
Yes! Our straw bale archery targets are safe for use by children and adults alike. They're lightweight and easy to set up, making them ideal for family fun or serious training sessions. Always supervise children when using any type of archery equipment.
These targets are versatile and compatible with a wide range of bows including compound bows, recurve bows, longbows, and crossbows. They're designed to handle the impact from arrows fired at various draw weights. However, we recommend testing your arrow speed on a lower setting before increasing intensity to prevent damage.
Our 3-layer straw bale targets offer excellent durability. The tightly woven layers of high-quality straw provide a robust surface that can withstand repeated use without tearing or breaking down quickly. Proper care and storage (keeping them dry and out of direct sunlight) will further extend their lifespan.
Setting up is simple! Just find a level, stable ground surface, place the target on top, and you're ready to shoot. Ensure there are no obstacles behind or around the target area for arrow retrieval purposes. You might consider using a target stand for added stability and safety.
Regular maintenance will help your target last longer. After each use, remove any embedded arrows and shake out loose straw. Store the target in a dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent mold or mildew growth. If necessary, replace damaged layers with fresh straw bales.
These targets are designed for standard sized arrows. We recommend using arrows between 24-30 inches long and with a maximum diameter of around 7/8 inch. Using oversized or undersized arrows may damage the target or increase the risk of injury.
We strongly advise against using broadheads or other sharp arrow points (field tips included) as they can easily tear and damage the straw bale material. These targets are designed for practice with blunt training arrows only. Using broadheads may also compromise their durability.
The appropriate distance depends on your skill level, bow type, and intended purpose. Beginners should start at shorter distances (10-20 yards) to build accuracy and confidence before moving further back. As you progress, you can gradually increase the distance up to 50 or even 70+ yards depending on your archery style.
While our targets are designed to handle a range of arrow speeds, we recommend starting with lower draw weights and slower arrow speeds when practicing. This helps preserve the target's integrity and reduces the risk of damaging it prematurely. Gradually increase your draw weight and arrow speed as you become more comfortable and proficient.
No, these targets are not designed for broadhead shooting or simulating game animal penetration. They should only be used with blunt training arrows to ensure safety and extend their lifespan. For hunting practice, we recommend using a dedicated broadhead target made from materials specifically engineered to withstand sharp arrow points.
While our straw bale targets are relatively water-resistant, prolonged exposure to rain or moisture can damage them. We advise storing the target indoors when not in use and avoiding shooting during wet conditions. Keeping your archery gear dry is essential for maintaining its quality and performance.
Replacement straw bales are readily available at most farm supply stores, hardware stores, or online retailers specializing in agricultural products. You can also consider purchasing larger bundles of straw to ensure you have enough on hand when it's time to replace the target layers.
The lifespan of a straw bale archery target depends on several factors including frequency of use, arrow speed, and environmental conditions. With proper care and maintenance, our 3-layer targets can typically last for 6 months to a year before needing replacement. Regular inspection and timely repairs (replacing damaged layers) will help extend their longevity.
Our products are backed by a satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, please contact us for assistance within 30 days of receiving the item. We strive to provide exceptional customer service and ensure that our customers have a positive experience shopping with us.
Yes! We offer hassle-free returns within 30 days of purchase, provided the target is in good condition and has not been used extensively. Simply contact us for instructions on how to proceed with your return request. Return shipping fees may apply depending on the reason for the return.
Always prioritize safety during archery practice! Wear proper eye protection (archery glasses or a face mask) at all times, and ensure that everyone in the area is aware of your shooting activity. Never shoot towards people or animals, and always double-check to make sure there are no obstructions behind the target before releasing an arrow.