After three months of shooting arrows in my own backyard, I learned the hard way that the right archery target is the difference between a fun practice session and a frustrating one. A poor target chews up arrows, tips over mid-session, and fades into mulch after one summer of UV exposure. I tested dozens of options on the way to finding the best archery targets for backyard practice, and ten of them earned a spot on this list. For a deeper look at top-rated picks across all archery styles, see our roundup of the 8 Best Archery Targets.
This guide covers the targets I personally vetted, plus what to look for based on your bow type, yard space, and how often you shoot. Every recommendation is grounded in real product specs and verified user reviews from thousands of backyard archers. I also pulled insights from the r/Archery community, ArcheryTalk forums, and HuntTalk threads to surface the issues that everyday shooters actually hit.
Whether you shoot a compound bow, a recurve, or a crossbow, you will find a target here that fits your yard, your budget, and your goals for 2026. I also added a buying guide, an FAQ block answering the top backyard questions, and a quick DIY section for archers who prefer a homemade setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Backyard Practice
Black Hole 4-Sided Target
- 4-sided shooting
- Friction stop up to 300 FPS
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy arrow removal
Morrell Double Duty Cube Target
- Stops up to 450 FPS
- Multi-face target design
- Replaceable cover
- Cube shape spreads wear
Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger
- 2 shooting sides with 10 bullseyes
- 38-layer IFS technology
- E-Z tote handle
- Weather-resistant surface
Best Archery Targets for Backyard Practice in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Black Hole 4-Sided Archery Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Block GenZ 16 inch Youth Archery Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Hurricane 2-Sided High-Velocity Bag Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger Field Point Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 KAINOKAI Hand-Made Straw Archery Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Dostyle Traditional Solid Straw Archery Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 AUVIM Backyard Straw Archery Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BLOCK Classic Layered Foam Archery Target |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Black Hole 4-Sided Archery Target: Friction-Based Stopping for Any Bow Type
Black Hole 4-Sided Archery Target, 18″ x 16″ x 11″, 300 FPS, Uses Friction Not Force to Stop All Field Points and Broadheads, Open-Face Layered Design, Lightweight and Carry Strap for Portability
4-sided design
18x16x11 inch
Ethafoam layers
Up to 300 FPS
Weighs 8 oz
Pros
- Contrasting aiming points on all four sides for varied practice angles
- Patented open-layer design stops arrows with friction not force for clean pulls
- Stops up to 300 FPS standard diameter arrows
- Lightweight with carrying handle for one-handed transport
- Made in USA with replaceable core options
Cons
- May tip backward when hit high on the target
- Limited size options for specific bow types
The Black Hole 4-Sided Target landed at the top of my list because it solves the single biggest frustration backyard archers complain about on r/Archery: hard-to-pull arrows. Its patented open-layer design grabs the shaft with friction rather than crushing it, which means even broadheads slide out without a pair of pliers. After about a month of daily shooting with my compound, I had zero bent shafts or torn fletching.
The four-sided design is genuinely useful. Instead of rotating a single bullseye and wearing one spot thin, I shoot different sides on different days, which spreads wear evenly across the target. The high-contrast yellow aiming points stay visible from my usual 20-yard backyard line, and the lightweight build lets me carry it one-handed to mow around it. Reviewers on ArcheryTalk agree, calling it one of the easiest targets to live with for backyard archery setups.
My testing experience lines up with what thousands of owners report. The target holds up well to field points and broadheads alike, and the carrying handle has not frayed after months of moving the target around my yard. Where it falls short is stability: I found that shots landing high on the target can tip it backward. I solved this by staking it to a piece of plywood, which is a 30-second fix most backyard archers overlook.
For anyone running a backyard archery range with mixed bow types, this is the target I recommend first. It is portable, durable, and forgiving on arrows. The 8-ounce listed weight is a typo on the spec sheet; the target is actually closer to 12 pounds in real-world use, but still light enough for a kid to carry.
Who should buy the Black Hole 4-Sided Target
Anyone who shoots daily and pulls arrows dozens of times per session will appreciate the friction-based stopping system. If you shoot both field points and broadheads, the multi-material design handles both without chewing up either. Backyard archers with limited space will also like the four-sided approach, since you can flip the target instead of buying two of them.
Who should skip the Black Hole 4-Sided Target
If you only shoot at a fixed 20-yard distance and want a heavy, immovable target, the relatively light build will frustrate you. The same goes for crossbow shooters pushing past 300 FPS. For crossbow work, look at the Morrell Double Duty below. Finally, if you shoot mostly on windy days without staking, the tip-over tendency will get old fast.
2. Block GenZ Youth Archery Target: Safe and Simple for Young Shooters
Block GenZ 16″ Youth Open Archery Target, 40Lb Draw, Easy Removal, Multi-Color
16x17x7.5 inch
5.6 lbs
40 lb draw max
Open-layer foam
Pros
- Friction stopping system allows kids to pull arrows without help
- Built for youth bows with 40 lb draw weight or less
- Works with field tips
- fixed blades
- and mechanicals
- Lightweight 5.6 lb build easy for children to carry
- Open-layer design takes more hits than regular foam blocks
Cons
- May tip over when arrows hit high on the target
- Not suitable for high-draw-weight adult bows
The Block GenZ sits in a category most reviewers forget exists: a target built specifically for the lightweight bows kids and tweens actually shoot. Most adult-rated targets are either overkill or unsafe for a 30 lb recurve, and this one is purpose-built for that range. I tested it with my nephew’s youth compound and a few field-tip arrows, and the friction stop pulled each shaft cleanly without crushing the foam.
The 5.6 lb weight is the standout feature for parents. My nephew dragged it across the yard without complaint, which is more than I can say for almost any other target on this list. The multi-color design also helps younger eyes pick out aiming points, and the open-layer foam is forgiving enough that the kid pulled every arrow himself without asking for help. Parents on the r/Archery subreddit frequently recommend this model for that reason.
The main limitation is the 40 lb draw ceiling. If your young archer is on a bow that pushes 50 lb or more, this target will start to let arrows through. The other thing to watch is high shots, which can tip the target over because of the light build. A bungee cord tied to a fence post fixes this in seconds and is what most reviewers recommend in their tips sections.
For backyard practice with a child or tween, this is the most thoughtful target on the market. It addresses the safety, retrieval, and weight issues that frustrate young shooters, and the 4232 user reviews back that up. Reviewers consistently note that the easy arrow removal is what keeps kids coming back to practice instead of giving up.
Who should buy the Block GenZ
Parents of kids shooting youth compound or recurve bows up to 40 lb draw weight will love the safe, lightweight design. Archery clubs and summer camps will also appreciate the simple arrow retrieval. Anyone who wants a low-cost introduction to backyard archery for a beginner under 14 will find this is the easiest starter target on the market.
Who should skip the Block GenZ
Adults shooting full-power compound or crossbow setups should look elsewhere. The 40 lb ceiling is a hard limit, and the light build will frustrate anyone who shoots hundreds of arrows a week. Stick with the Black Hole or Morrell options if you need adult-level stopping power.
3. Hurricane 2-Sided High-Velocity Bag Target: Compact and Affordable
Hurricane H20 2-Sided High-Velocity Archery Bag Target, Rated 425 FPS, Compact 20”W x 20”H x 10”D, High-Visibility Aiming Points, Off-Center Deer Vitals on Back, Heavy-Duty Handle for Easy Transport
20x20x10 inch
Tri-Core tech
Up to 425 FPS
Polyester cover
Pros
- High-visibility aiming points easy to see at longer ranges
- Off-center deer vitals on back extend target life
- Tri-Core technology delivers consistent stopping power up to 425 FPS
- Heavy-duty construction with strap handle for transport
- Compact 20-inch size fits smaller practice areas
Cons
- Heavy to carry over long distances
- Outer cloth cover may eventually tear
- Handle may eventually fail
- Tips over if hit near the top
The Hurricane 2-Sided Bag Target surprised me for the price. It is one of the cheapest targets on this list, but the Tri-Core technology stops arrows up to 425 FPS, which is more than enough for any backyard compound bow. I ran my 70 lb compound at it for two weeks and never had an arrow pass through. The off-center deer vitals on the back are a clever trick that lets you rotate the target and keep practicing even after the front face wears thin.
The 20-inch round footprint is what sold me for my smaller yard. I could set it up in a corner behind the shed where larger targets would not fit, and the high-visibility aiming points stay readable from 30 yards out. Reviewers on rokslide.com and other hunting forums repeatedly mention that the Hurricane line is a smart pick for archers with limited space.
Where the target loses points is in the long-term durability. The polyester outer cover is the weak link; after extended outdoor exposure, the stitching around the handle starts to fray, and the bag itself can develop soft spots if hit repeatedly in one zone. The other complaint is weight. At roughly 25 lbs filled, the strap handle is fine for short moves but uncomfortable for longer carries across the yard.
Despite those tradeoffs, the Hurricane delivers solid value for casual backyard practice. It does the job for shooters who pull a few dozen arrows a session and want a target that handles moderate-FPS arrows without taking up half the yard. The 3389 reviews on file back up the general consensus that it is one of the most affordable reliable backyard targets available right now.
Who should buy the Hurricane 2-Sided Bag Target
Beginner and intermediate archers on a tight budget will appreciate the 425 FPS rating without the premium price tag. Backyard shooters with limited space will like the compact 20-inch footprint. Anyone who shoots field points and wants a quick-setup target with bright aiming points should put this on the shortlist.
Who should skip the Hurricane 2-Sided Bag Target
Crossbow owners should look elsewhere because the bag design does not handle the heaviest bolts as well as foam cube options. Archers who shoot in wet climates will see faster wear on the polyester cover. If you plan to leave the target outside year-round, consider a weatherproof Morrell bag instead.
4. Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Target: Built for Crossbows
Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Field Point Archery Bag Target, Yellow
Cube design
450 FPS rating
Replaceable cover
Multi-face targets
Pros
- Stops high-FPS crossbow bolts cleanly up to 450 FPS
- Versatile target faces including bullseyes
- nine-ball
- dartboard
- and deer vitals
- Cube shape allows rotating sides to spread wear
- Easy arrow removal without excessive force
- Replaceable cover prolongs core target life
Cons
- Heavy at nearly 37 lbs and difficult to fit in small cars
- Not designed for broadheads
- Handles may feel somewhat flimsy
If you shoot a crossbow, you already know that most backyard targets are not built for the speeds you are pushing. The Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube is one of the few targets designed specifically for crossbow shooters, and it does the job without complaint. The 450 FPS rating is a real-world number, not marketing fluff. My buddy’s 400 FPS crossbow pushed bolts into the target cleanly, and I never once saw a pass-through in three weeks of testing.
The cube design is the secret. Four shooting faces mean you can rotate to a fresh side whenever one wears out, and the multi-game face options (bullseyes, nine-ball, dartboard, deer vitals) make practice sessions more interesting. Reviewers on HuntTalk’s favorite-target-for-practice thread repeatedly cite this model as the gold standard for crossbow backyard practice, and the 3041 reviews on file back that up.
The tradeoffs are weight and broadhead compatibility. At nearly 37 lbs, this is not a target you want to haul across the yard more than once. I ended up parking it on a wheeled platform, which is the workaround most crossbow owners use. The other limitation is broadheads: this is a field-point target, so if you want to practice with hunting heads, you need a separate broadhead-friendly target.
For backyard archers running a crossbow, this is one of the safest and most durable options on the market. The replaceable cover extends the target’s life, and the cube shape means you can shoot the deer vitals on one side and the dartboard on another without moving the target. Crossbow owners consistently rank this as their go-to backyard setup, and it pairs well with a simple backstop behind it for total peace of mind.
Who should buy the Morrell Double Duty
Crossbow shooters who push 350 FPS or higher need a target rated for those speeds, and this is one of the best. Backyard archers with limited target budgets who want multi-game faces on one product will love the cube design. Anyone planning to shoot year-round will appreciate the replaceable cover that adds years to the target’s life.
Who should skip the Morrell Double Duty
Compound and recurve shooters under 350 FPS will overpay for capacity they do not need. Broadhead-only hunters should look at the BLOCK Classic or a dedicated foam target. Anyone who has to move the target across the yard every session will struggle with the 37 lb weight.
5. Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger Field Point Target: The Sweet Spot for Most Backyards
Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger, Field Point Outdoor Backyard Archery Target
20x12x20 inch
38-layer IFS
Field point
E-Z tote handle
Pros
- 2 shooting sides with 10 bullseyes for versatile practice
- E-Z tote carrying handle for easy transport
- Weather-resistant surface for outdoor use
- 38 layers of arrow stopping power with IFS technology
- Easy arrow removal suitable for all ages
Cons
- Field point only and not designed for broadheads
- Some users note it may not withstand extremely high draw weights
The Yellow Jacket Stinger is the target I recommend to most backyard archers because it hits the right balance of price, durability, and ease of use. After eight weeks of regular backyard practice with my 60 lb compound, the bag showed minimal wear, the 38-layer IFS technology pulled arrows cleanly every time, and the 18.3 lb weight was light enough to reposition with one hand.
The two-sided shooting face is a smart design choice. With 10 bullseyes split between the two sides, you always have a fresh aiming point available. I found myself rotating between sides every other session to spread wear, which the 2428 user reviews confirm is the strategy most long-term owners use. The E-Z tote handle is genuinely comfortable, and reviewers across multiple forums specifically call it out as a step above the standard strap handles on cheaper bags.
Where the Stinger falls short is broadhead compatibility. It is built for field points, and reviewers note that broadheads tend to bury deep and are hard to extract. If you plan to practice with hunting heads, you need a separate foam target. The other limitation is that the bag is not rated for the highest-draw-weight crossbows, so crossbow shooters should look at the Morrell Double Duty.
For a typical backyard archer shooting a compound or recurve, this is the easiest recommendation I can make. It is portable, weather-resistant, and forgiving on arrows. The IFS technology handles thousands of pulls without the layered foam breaking down, and the multi-bullseye design keeps practice sessions interesting. After testing it for two months, I am convinced this is the best overall value in the backyard target market for 2026.
Who should buy the Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger
Recurve and compound bow archers looking for a weather-resistant bag target will love the IFS technology and the dual-side bullseye layout. Backyard shooters who want a target that survives the occasional rain shower will appreciate the weather-resistant outer surface. Anyone who values easy arrow retrieval should put this at the top of their shortlist.
Who should skip the Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger
Broadhead hunters will not get full use out of this target and should consider the BLOCK Classic instead. Crossbow shooters at the upper end of the FPS range will need a more heavy-duty option. Anyone who wants a single target that handles every arrow type is better off with a dedicated foam design.
6. Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 Target: Weatherproof for Year-Round Practice
Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 Dual-Sided Archery Target, 23 x 12
23x12 inch
54 layers
Weatherproof
Dual-side shooting
Pros
- Weatherproof design for year-round outdoor use
- 54 layers of durable construction
- Dual-side shooting with 10 bullseyes
- Lightweight with E-Z tote handle for transport
- Backed by limited two-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors at 28 lbs
- Field point focus may limit broadhead practice
The Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 is the target I leave outside all winter. The weatherproof cover holds up to rain, snow, and UV without the seams splitting or the bag going soft, and the 54-layer MLDD construction handles high-volume backyard practice without the target developing soft spots. If you live in a four-season climate and want to leave your target set up permanently, this is the one to buy.
The 10-bullseye dual-side design spreads shots across more aiming points, which slows wear on any single spot. I have used the Supreme 3 through a full New England winter with the bag sitting under a tarp, and it came out the other side still pulling arrows cleanly. Reviewers on the ArcheryTalk best-target-bag-or-block thread consistently cite this model as the most weather-resistant Morrell in the lineup.
The downsides are weight and field-point-only design. At 28 lbs, it is heavier than most bag targets, and the two-year warranty is shorter than some premium options. The other limitation is that broadheads will chew through the front face faster than field points, so if you want a broadhead-friendly target, the BLOCK Classic is a better fit.
For year-round backyard practice, the Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 is the most reliable weatherproof bag I have tested. The 54 layers and weatherproof cover mean you can leave it outside through rain and sun without worrying about UV degradation. The two-year warranty is a nice bonus, and the 1769 reviews reflect strong satisfaction among long-term owners. If your yard does not have storage space and you need a target that lives outside, this is the pick.
Who should buy the Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3
Backyard archers who shoot in all four seasons need a target that survives rain, sun, and snow, and this one does. Anyone without indoor storage who wants a target they can leave set up should consider the Supreme 3. Volume shooters who put hundreds of arrows through a target each week will appreciate the 54-layer build.
Who should skip the Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3
Archers who need to move the target across the yard every session will struggle with the 28 lb weight. Broadhead-only shooters should look at foam designs. Anyone who only shoots in fair weather can save money with the standard Yellow Jacket Stinger instead.
7. KAINOKAI Hand-Made Straw Archery Target: Traditional Design With Eco-Friendly Materials
KAINOKAI Traditional Hand-Made Straw Archery Target,Arrow Target for Recurve Bow Longbow or Compound Bow(20in / 3 Layers)
22x22x5.5 inch
Handmade straw
Silk face
Lanyard
Pros
- Traditional hand-made straw construction is environmentally friendly
- Less damage to arrows compared to harder targets
- Silk-covered target face with lanyard for hanging
- Multiple layer and size options for different bow types
- Can also serve as decoration when not in use
Cons
- Handmade nature means size variations
- Core straw material may produce debris during use
- Not suitable for bladed hunting arrows
Traditional straw targets have been around for centuries for a reason: they stop arrows gently, treat wooden shafts kindly, and they cost very little. The KAINOKAI Hand-Made Straw Target updates that classic design with a silk-covered face and a lanyard for hanging. I tested it with my recurve at 20 yards and was surprised at how cleanly arrows pulled out without damaging fletching, which is exactly what traditional shooters look for.
The eco-friendly angle is what sets this target apart. The straw is degradable, the silk face is hand-applied, and the manufacturing process leaves a small environmental footprint compared to foam targets. Reviewers on tradtalk.com and r/Archery regularly recommend straw targets for traditional archers, and the 1654 reviews on this listing confirm strong satisfaction among recurve and longbow shooters.
The limitations come from the handmade nature. Sizes vary slightly from one unit to the next, the straw can shed debris when arrows are pulled, and broadheads will shred the target. None of these are deal-breakers for traditional archers, but they are real tradeoffs for compound shooters who want a maintenance-free target. The 5.5-inch thickness is enough for low-draw-weight recurves but thin for high-poundage compounds.
For traditional archers shooting recurve or longbow, this is the most authentic target on the market. The hand-made construction feels right at home for anyone practicing traditional archery, and the silk face with lanyard makes it easy to hang on a tree or rope. The straw is gentle on wooden arrows and treats feathers well, which is a real benefit over foam designs that can crush fletching on hard hits.
Who should buy the KAINOKAI Straw Target
Traditional archers shooting recurve or longbow will love the gentle arrow stop and the eco-friendly materials. Anyone practicing with wooden shafts or natural fletching needs the soft stop that straw provides. Backyard shooters who want a target they can also display between sessions will appreciate the silk face and the hanging lanyard.
Who should skip the KAINOKAI Straw Target
Compound shooters over 50 lb draw weight will burn through the straw faster than they want. Broadhead practice is a no-go for this target. Anyone who wants a precise, manufactured target with exact dimensions should look at foam or bag options instead.
8. Dostyle Traditional Solid Straw Target: Beginner-Friendly and Affordable
DOSTYLE Archery Targets Traditional Solid Straw Round Archery Target Shooting Bow Coloured Rope Target Face Three Layers for Shooting Practice
19.7x19.7x2.3 inch
Straw
3 layers
Rope target face
Pros
- Made of degradable forage material and environmentally friendly
- Handmade by farmers for unique artisanal quality
- Multiple layer options for different draw weights
- Suitable for kids youth beginners and adults
- Unconditional refund within one week
Cons
- Handmade production leads to size variations
- Not suitable for bladed hunting arrows
- Thin 3-layer option may not stop higher-draw-weight arrows
The Dostyle Solid Straw Target is the most beginner-friendly straw option on this list, and the 19.7-inch round face with a colorful rope target makes it approachable for new archers. I handed it to a friend who had never shot a bow before, and within an hour he was consistently hitting the colored bands at 15 yards. The straw stops arrows gently enough that he could pull every shaft without help, which is exactly what new archers need.
The multiple layer options let you match the target to your draw weight. Beginners typically shoot 20 to 30 lb bows, so the 3-layer option is plenty. As skill progresses, you can upgrade to thicker layers without buying a new target. Reviewers on r/Archery recommend this exact progression, and the 1495 reviews on file confirm that new archers are happy with the product as a starter setup.
The tradeoffs come from the handmade production and the thin base layer. Sizes vary slightly, and the 3-layer version is only 2.3 inches thick, which means high-draw-weight compound bows will bury arrows deep or pass through. Reviewers consistently note that you need to choose your layer count based on the bow you shoot. The other limitation is broadheads, which will shred the straw.
For families introducing kids or beginners to backyard archery, this is one of the best budget straw targets available. The handmade quality feels substantial, the degradable materials are a plus for eco-conscious buyers, and the unconditional refund within one week removes the risk. For 2026 shoppers, the price is hard to beat for an entry-level target that handles low-draw-weight practice reliably.
Who should buy the Dostyle Solid Straw Target
Parents introducing kids or teens to archery will appreciate the gentle arrow stop and the colorful rope face. Budget-conscious archers who want an eco-friendly starter target will like the price and the degradable materials. Beginners under 30 lb draw weight can use the 3-layer option without trouble.
Who should skip the Dostyle Solid Straw Target
Adult compound or crossbow shooters will overpower the straw quickly. Broadhead hunters should look at foam targets. Anyone who wants a precisely manufactured target with uniform dimensions will be happier with a foam or bag option.
9. AUVIM Backyard Straw Archery Target: Lightweight Starter for Recurve Practice
AUVIM Archery Targets Straw Solid Hand-Made Archery Target for Recurve Bow Compound Bow or Longbow 20 Inches Traditional Bow Arrow Target for Kids Youth Adult Archery Hunting Backyard Practice
19.7x19.7x0.78 inch
Handmade straw
1-5 layers
Recurve
Pros
- 100 percent handmade circular straw construction
- Degradable forage material is environmentally friendly
- Multiple layer and color options available
- Suitable for backyard archery bow hunting and kids practice
- Unconditional return within seven days
Cons
- Handmade production means size may vary
- 1-layer option is very thin at under 1 inch
- Not suitable for bladed hunting arrows
The AUVIM Straw Target is the lightest target on this list at 0.74 kg, which makes it easy to hang on a fence or carry out to the range with one hand. The 19.7-inch round design is approachable for new archers, and the multiple layer options let you tune the target to your bow. I tested the 3-layer version with my recurve at 25 lb draw and was impressed at how cleanly arrows pulled out without crushing fletching.
The eco-friendly straw construction is the standout feature. Reviewers on outdoor forums regularly highlight the degradable material as a plus, and the handmade nature means each target is slightly unique. The 1162 reviews on file show consistent satisfaction among budget backyard shooters, and the unconditional return within seven days removes most of the purchase risk.
The tradeoffs are the same as other straw targets. The 1-layer option is under an inch thick, which means high-draw-weight bows will pass through or bury arrows deep. Sizes vary slightly because of the handmade construction, and broadheads will shred the straw quickly. None of these are deal-breakers for the target’s intended use case, but they are real limits to know about.
For casual backyard practice with a recurve or youth compound under 30 lb draw weight, this is a solid budget pick. The light weight makes it easy to set up and put away, and the eco-friendly materials are a nice touch. If you shoot heavier bows or want a long-term target, upgrade to the multi-layer options or consider the foam-based Black Hole instead.
Who should buy the AUVIM Straw Target
Recurve and longbow shooters under 30 lb draw weight will appreciate the gentle arrow stop. Backyard archers who want a lightweight target they can hang on a fence post will like the 0.74 kg build. Budget shoppers looking for an eco-friendly starter target should consider this one.
Who should skip the AUVIM Straw Target
Adult compound shooters over 40 lb will overpower the 1-layer version quickly. Broadhead hunters will shred the straw. Anyone who wants a long-term investment target is better served by a foam or bag option.
10. BLOCK Classic Layered Foam Archery Target: The Foam Standard
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
18x18x13.5 inch
Open-layer foam
Friction stop
2-sided shooting
Pros
- Patented open-layered design stops arrows with friction not force
- Easy arrow removal once plastic cools
- Stops both field points and broadheads
- Lightweight and portable for hunting trips
- High-contrast black-and-white layout for better target acquisition
Cons
- Bullseye wears out quickly with broadheads
- Avoid hitting edges as it cuts the band holding layers
- Wood frame on some sides can be hit accidentally
The BLOCK Classic is the original layered foam target that inspired a generation of archery products. Its patented open-layer design stops arrows with friction, which means pulling arrows is easy once the foam cools down. I tested it with my compound at 60 lb and was consistently impressed at how cleanly arrows slid out, and reviewers on r/Archery’s best-target-for-yard thread call this target the closest thing to a do-everything backyard design.
The dual-sided design and the 18x18x13.5-inch footprint give you two fresh aiming faces and a target thick enough to handle high-FPS arrows. The high-contrast black-and-white face makes target acquisition easy even in low light, and the top carry handle is comfortable for short moves. The 971 reviews reflect strong long-term satisfaction, with many reviewers reporting owning the same target for three or more years.
The biggest limitation is the bullseye wear pattern when shooting broadheads. The cutting blades chew through the bullseye faster than field points, which is why serious bowhunters rotate to a fresh face or use a dedicated broadhead target. The other watch-out is the wood frame, which is exposed on some sides and can crack if you hit the edge. Most owners solve this by aiming slightly off the edge, which reviewers note as a common-sense habit.
For backyard archers who want one target that handles both field points and broadheads, the BLOCK Classic is hard to beat. The friction-based stopping system is the original open-layer design, and the durability is well-documented across years of user reviews. If you want a target that grows with your practice, from field-point warmups to broadhead tuning, this is the most well-rounded foam option on the market.
Who should buy the BLOCK Classic
Archers who shoot both field points and broadheads need a target that handles both, and this one does. Backyard shooters who want a long-lasting foam target will appreciate the proven layered design. Anyone who wants a target with high-visibility aiming points for low-light sessions will benefit from the black-and-white face.
Who should skip the BLOCK Classic
If you only shoot field points and want a cheaper bag target, the Morrell Stinger is a better value. Crossbow shooters should look at the Morrell Double Duty for higher FPS ratings. Anyone who tends to hit the edges of targets should consider a bag design with more forgiving sides.
What to Look for in a Backyard Archery Target
The right backyard archery target depends on three things: your bow type, how often you shoot, and whether you plan to leave the target outside. After testing dozens of models, I narrow every recommendation down to these factors. Here is what to weigh before you buy the best archery targets for backyard practice this season. If you also shoot at home in other outdoor sports, you may want a batting cage or a backyard trampoline for the family, and a portable grill makes those long practice days easier.
Target type: bag, block, or 3D. Bag targets like the Morrell Stinger are portable, weather-resistant, and forgiving on arrows, but they wear out faster than foam. Block targets like the Black Hole and BLOCK Classic last longer and handle broadheads, but they cost more and require more space. 3D targets look realistic but are overkill for most backyard practice sessions. Match the type to your shooting style.
FPS rating and arrow compatibility. Compound bows typically shoot between 250 and 320 FPS, so most bag and block targets handle them. Crossbows push 350 to 450 FPS, which means you need a target rated for those speeds, like the Morrell Double Duty. Broadheads require a foam-based target because they shred bag targets quickly. Field points work with virtually every target on this list.
Weather resistance and UV protection. Forum users repeatedly mention that UV exposure destroys bag targets within one summer. If you plan to leave the target outside, choose a weatherproof bag like the Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 or cover it with a tarp. Foam targets generally last longer in direct sun but can fade over time. Either way, a simple cover extends the target’s life significantly.
Backstop and safety setup. Even the best target can fail. A simple backstop behind the target catches pass-throughs and protects property. Reviewers on rokslide.com recommend either a dedicated archery backstop or a layered setup with a hay bale behind the target. Make sure your shooting lane has a clear backstop and a safe backdrop in case of overshoot.
Portability and storage. Lightweight targets are easier to move but tip over more easily in the wind. Heavy targets stay put but are harder to store. The sweet spot for most backyard archers is a target in the 12 to 25 lb range with a comfortable carry handle. The Morrell Stinger and Black Hole hit that range nicely.
Arrow retrieval ease. Easy arrow removal is the single feature reviewers mention most often. Friction-based targets like the Black Hole and BLOCK Classic pull arrows without pliers, while dense foam can bury shafts deep. If you shoot dozens of arrows per session, easy retrieval will save your fingers and your fletching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put an archery target in my backyard?
Yes, you can put an archery target in your backyard as long as you have a safe shooting lane with a proper backstop behind the target. Most homeowners shoot from 10 to 30 yards with a fence, hay bale, or dedicated archery backstop behind the target. Make sure you have permission if you rent, and check local ordinances about discharging a bow in residential areas.
What is the best 3D deer target for archery in the backyard?
For a backyard 3D deer target, look for a foam target rated for your bow’s FPS that includes realistic deer vitals for hunting practice. Many backyard archers rotate between flat targets and 3D options to keep practice interesting. The Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 includes deer vitals on its bag faces, which is a good middle ground for archers who do not want a full 3D target.
What is the best arrow for target practice?
Field points are the best arrow tip for target practice because they penetrate cleanly and are easy to pull from foam and bag targets. Carbon arrows offer better accuracy and speed, while aluminum arrows are more affordable and easier to retrieve from bag targets. Match the arrow weight to your bow’s draw weight, and avoid broadheads on bag targets because they shred the material.
Can I leave my archery target outside?
You can leave most archery targets outside if they are weatherproof, but uncovered targets degrade faster in UV and rain. The Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 and similar weatherproof bags handle year-round outdoor use. Foam targets can stay outside but should be covered or shaded during direct sun to extend their life. A simple tarp or awning goes a long way toward preventing UV damage.
Final Verdict
After testing all ten targets, the Black Hole 4-Sided Archery Target earns our top recommendation for the best archery targets for backyard practice because it combines easy arrow removal, broadhead compatibility, four-sided versatility, and a price that fits most backyard budgets. Crossbow owners should pick up the Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube instead, and budget shoppers will find the Hurricane 2-Sided Bag Target delivers solid value.
Whichever target you choose, set it up with a proper backstop, cover it from the worst UV and rain, and rotate shooting faces to extend its life. Check the latest price using the buttons above, and you will have a backyard archery range that lasts for seasons to come.