Best Archery Targets for Backyard Practice: Safe Home Setup Guide 🎯

Archery is a fun and rewarding sport, and practicing at home is easier than you might think. With the right archery targets for backyard practice, you can sharpen your aim without leaving the house. In fact, experts say that “practice makes perfect” if you can shoot regularly. A dedicated backyard range means more practice time: one guide notes it “creates many opportunities for archery practice” when safety rules are followed. In this article we’ll explain the rules, materials, and top targets you need for safe backyard archery. We also answer common questions like “Can I practice archery at home?” and “How much space do I need?” with tips you can trust from archery experts.

Can I set up an archery target at home? 🏡

Yes – in most places it’s allowed if you follow safety rules. In the UK, for example, archery clubs point out that it’s “completely legal to practice within your own home, as long as you do so safely”archeryguide.co.uk. In the US and other countries, legality can vary by local laws. One home-ranges guide warns that “depending on where you live, it may not be legal” to shoot at home without checking rules or telling the police firsthomeadvisor.com. The key is to protect people and property. Always inform your neighbors or property owners, obey any town or condo rules, and make sure there are no public roads or structures downrange. Never shoot in public parks or on city sidewalks – archery is meant for private land.

Importantly, you usually don’t need a special license to own a bow or shoot targets. (Laws differ for bowhunting, but simple backyard target practice generally has no license requirement.) For example, in England and Wales bows are not regulated by license or age limits. Just remember: safety first. Avoid shooting from inside a garage or through windows. If you set up a target in your yard, always face it away from houses and people. In short, yes, you can practice archery at home, but treat it like any sport: follow rules and stay safearchershub.com.

How can I practice archery at home safely? 🔒

Plan and prepare. Always pick a clear area with a proper backstop and no traffic behind. One archery guide recommends scanning “400 yards in every direction” around your target to ensure nothing is in danger. That may sound extreme, but it’s a reminder: check behind, to the sides, and above. Do not skydraw arrows. Keep your bow pointed downrange (toward the target) at all times.

• Choose a safe zone. Ideally a fenced backyard or open field. If you have a high fence or wall behind your target, it will catch stray arrows. If not, build or buy a thick backstop (see below).
• Inform others. Tell family members or neighbors before you start. The ArchersHub advises giving a “heads up to neighbors” about practice times. Don’t surprise anyone.
• Don’t practice indoors or in rainstorms. Garages and living rooms are too tight – even a short miss can cause damage. In the rain, bows and strings can get slippery or rustyarcheryboss.com, and your target might get waterlogged. If it drizzles lightly, you can shoot, but be sure to dry your gear thoroughly afterward. Heavy rain makes arrows heavier and can throw off your aim, so it’s not recommended.
• Distance and equipment. Beginners usually start at very close range (10–20 yards) and move back as they improve60xcustomstrings.com. Use the same broadhead-tipped or field-point arrows you intend to practice with. Never try a new arrow type (like hunting broadheads) without testing it safely first. (See below on broadheads.)
• Check gear after each session. Look for arrow damage and straighten any bent pins. Keep your bow and arrows stored dry and waxed.

In short: treat your backyard range like a mini shooting range. Follow the golden rule of archery practice – cover everything behind the target and never let an arrow fly without a solid backstop.

What materials make a good archery backstop? 🛡️

A backstop stops any arrows that miss or pass through the target. Good backstops are thick, soft materials that catch and hold arrows without letting them bounce or go through. Archery experts say it should be “a spongey material that is thick enough to hold the arrow in place without damaging it”. Here are safe backstop ideas:

• Straw or hay bales. Stacked straw bales are the classic DIY backstop. They easily absorb arrows and are cheap. Experts note straw “stops arrows dead” and is a “great dead stop”. (It can get messy, and after heavy use you’ll need fresh bales.)
• Rubber or foam mats. Thick gym mats or commercial rubber matting can work as a backstop behind a target. You may need several layers or a large mat to fully stop arrows.
• Plywood/wood layers (with padding). Solid wood alone is not ideal – arrows can bounce off or get damaged. If you use plywood, put foam or carpeting over it. For example, many target setups have plywood frames behind foam to hold arrows.
• Netting or fencing. Archery netting (like a softball batting cage net) is sometimes used behind targets. It won’t stop arrows like foam, but it prevents them from flying far. A simple cargo net or even a taut garden net can catch drifting arrows for easy pickup.

No matter what, aim your target so the backstop is higher and wider than the target itself. This catches high or low shots. And always tie up pets and keep kids well away while shooting.

DIY target materials: You asked about cardboard, hay, wood, etc. Cardboard is thin and full of glue – not ideal. A clean cardboard box might block a few arrows, but it won’t self-heal and may dull your tips. One archer notes cardboard “won’t last as long as foam targets”forums.bowhunting.com, and it can foul heads. Wooden logs or boards can stop arrows, but wood will quickly wear down arrow tips and cause ricochets without padding.

In short: for your target backstop, stick to soft, thick materials (straw bales, thick foam, multi-layer fabric, etc.) to safely catch arrows.

How far and how high should the target be? 📏

For backyard practice, you can start at very short distances: even 5–10 yards is fine for beginners to build confidence. In general, new archers often begin around 18–20 yards (about 55–60 feet). That distance is safe and lets you hit the target reliably. Indoor official ranges use 18 meters (about 20 yards) for most archery clubshattila.com.

As you improve, move further back. In competition, adult recurve archers shoot from 70 meters away (which requires a full-size 122cm target). Compound bow users often shoot 50 meters or less. But you don’t need Olympic range in your yard – backyard archery is about skill-building, not distance records.

Target height: Set the bullseye at chest height. The World Archery rulebook says the center of a target face should be about 130 cm (about 4′3″) above groundarcherycanada.ca. In simpler terms, put your target so the middle is roughly at your shoulder or chest level. That way you draw and aim naturally. On uneven ground, measure from the shooter’s shoulder height too. This height keeps your form consistent.

Which are the best archery targets for backyard practice? 🏆

Not all targets are created equal. The type of target you choose depends on your goals: some are designed for broadheads, others for field tips or 3D practice. Below we review four top backyard targets (all under $150) with Amazon links. Each target is durable and affordable for home use. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

† Each face measures 18×18×12″; the 18-1 target is an 18-sided cube.

1. Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3

The Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 is our top pick for durability and power. It’s a compact cube (23″x23″) made of 46 layers of dense foam. This multi-layer density design (MLDD) stops arrows quickly. Inside, an Internal Frame System (IFS) and a central “nucleus” of foam help absorb even hard shots without pass-through. Morrell proudly advertises it as “weather-resistant”, so it can stay outdoors in sun or light rain (though we still recommend covering it). It has ten bullseye spots and is double-sided, giving you 20 aiming points.

Why we like it: It even stops broadheads (sharp hunting tips) cleanly, thanks to the IFS tech. The built-in handle makes it easy to carry. The foam is soft enough for easy arrow removal, and Morrell’s design keeps arrows from passing through. This target is heavy-duty – you can expect it to last many practice sessions without breaking down.

Pros: Very durable multi-layer foam, broadhead-rated, compact, easy to extract arrows (2 sides & bullseyes). Weatherproof carry handle. Cons: Heavier (27 lbs), so not super portable. On the pricey side (around $129). Not as large as full-size square blocks – more of a “portable bag” style.

Buy on Amazon: Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 Archery Bag Target.

2. Hurricane H-28 Archery Bag Target

The Hurricane H-28 is a budget-friendly bag target (28″×28″×12″). It weighs about 34 lbs and is made of special tri-core foam. In tests, Hurricane’s tri-core material is rated to stop arrows up to 400+ FPS (feet per second) – that covers most hunting and target bows. The front has high-visibility two large aiming spots on a bright background. There’s a sturdy nylon handle for transport or hanging.

Why we like it: It offers excellent value. At under $70, you get a large target that still stops broadheads. The tri-core foam gives it long life, even after thousands of shots. If you need a target that can take many arrows and still work, the Hurricane is a strong choice.

Pros: Very affordable, durable Tri-Core foam (broadhead-safe), large size, easy arrow removal, carry handle. Cons: Made of softer bag material, so if left in sun or rain constantly it can weather (though Hurricane claims “built to weather the storm”). It’s heavy and may tear if dragged roughly, so it’s not as rugged as solid foam.

Buy on Amazon: Hurricane H-28 Archery Bag Target.

3. Rinehart 18-1 Broadhead Target

The Rinehart 18-1 is a unique 18-sided foam block target (each face is 18″ square). It’s made of solid self-healing foam that closes up after shots. Rinehart even guarantees it for a full year of use: shoot out one face and just flip to the next – you get 18 faces! This target is famous among bowhunters for testing broadheads and field points. It has concentric scoring rings on each side for accuracy training.

Why we like it: The Rinehart 18-1 stops broadheads extremely well and hardly ever needs to be “repaired” thanks to the self-healing foam. The replaceable core means you can buy a new foam center cheaply rather than a whole target. It’s compact (18×18×12 per face) but heavy enough to stay put.

Pros: 18 practice faces (long life). Guaranteed 1-year; replaceable foam core. Solid self-healing foam for field points and broadheads. Broadhead-safe by design. Cons: Smaller size (faces are 18″). Expensive (around $150). Block shape means you’ll be shooting from only 2-3 orientations at a time; rotating it takes practice.

Buy on Amazon: Rinehart 18-1 Broadhead Archery Target.

4. Delta McKenzie Black Bear 3D Target

For more fun, try a 3D foam target like the Delta McKenzie Aim Rite Black Bear. This life-like bear shape is 28″ tall, 45″ long, and weighs ~25 lbs. It’s made of solid polyurethane foam. The front and sides have printed vitals and scoring rings. It’s intended for backyard use (the label even says “For Backyard Use, field points or broadheads”). The foam is fairly thick (there’s even a replaceable core), so arrows slow down gradually.

Why we like it: Shooting at a 3D animal target adds realism. The Black Bear target stands on its own and looks fun. It can handle broadheads (the manufacturer explicitly says so). With a broad profile, it gives a large aiming area and simulates hunting practice.

Pros: Cool 3D shape, fun to shoot. Broadhead-friendly solid foam. Replaceable core for long life. Lightweight enough to move around (25 lbs). Cons: Only one aiming side (the face of the bear). The profile size is big, but it’s not as easy to score as a flat target. At 25 lbs, it can tip over if hit hard (especially a crossbow). It’s also bulkier to store.

Buy on Amazon: Delta McKenzie Aim Rite Black Bear 3D Archery Target.

Setup Tips and Safety Checklist ✅

• Height & Alignment: Set the target center about shoulder height (130 cm or so above ground). This way you shoot level. Make sure the target stands firmly – use a stand or simple wooden frame.
• Distance: Beginners ~10–20 yards (9–18m) to start. Move back slowly only if you’re hitting consistently. Even at short range, focus on form, not just power.
• Protective Gear: Always shoot from behind a line. Use an arm guard and finger tab to avoid bruises. Inspect your arrows each session for cracks or bends.
• Backstop Setup: Place your backstop material (straw bales, mat, net) directly behind the target. It should be at least as wide as the target plus 1–2 feet each side. A good rule is to have twice the target’s width in safety zone behind and to sides.
• Check Surroundings: Before you nock an arrow, make sure no people, pets, or movement in your shooting corridor. Avoid practicing when others are around unless they’re also shooting with permission.
• Arrow Removal: Pull arrows straight out; never yank at an angle, which can bend fletchings or blades. For the Delta Bear, for example, you may need to pull out broken broadheads from back.
• Never Dry-Fire: Don’t shoot a bow without an arrow – it can damage the bow.
• Legal Note: Shooting in public spaces (parks, streets) is generally illegal. If neighbors or passersby ask, explain you have a safe setup or pause shooting.

By following these tips and using a proper backstop, you can practice archery in your backyard safely and productively.

Frequently Asked Questions ❓

What materials make a good archery target face? Commercial targets use dense foam (like EVA or polyethylene). These foams are thick yet soft enough for arrows to penetrate and hold. For example, a foam supplier notes targets often use Minicell or extruded polyethylene foam, which are “weatherproof” and “designed to resist all types of arrows”foamforyou.com. Such foam self-heals around arrow holes. In contrast, cardboard or thin plastic are NOT ideal. Cardboard is cheap for a quick DIY, but it wears out fast and can dull arrow tips.

Can I shoot broadheads in a backyard target? Yes – but only in targets built for them. Broadheads will shred paper targets and wear out foam quickly. Use a broadhead-rated target (like the Rinehart 18-1 or Morrell Yellow Jacket) or shoot into the bare backstop with a high-power foam block behind. A guide cautions to “select a range with a large backstop” for broadheadswasparchery.com. In other words, missed missed broadheads won’t escape your range.

Can I use hay bales or foam blocks I already have? Hay/straw bales can indeed serve as makeshift targets or backstops. Archers say straw provides a “dead stop” for arrows. However, straw is messy and needs frequent replacement as it breaks down. Foam blocks (like old camping mats or dense carpet rolls) can also stop arrows if thick enough. The key is that arrows must not punch through. If using an old foam or carpet, stack or double it up.

Can I shoot in the rain or leave targets outside? You can shoot lightly in rain, but keep gear dry. Rain doesn’t ruin modern bows (most are water-resistant), but wet strings can stretch slightly and make arrows deviate. After shooting in the rain, dry your bow and arrows before storing to prevent rust or mold. As for targets, many are not UV-proof. The Morrell Yellow Jacket, for instance, is labeled weather-resistant, but any foam target will last longer if kept covered or indoors. Do not leave foam targets in direct sunlight for days – the colors and foam will fade or warp. If the manufacturer says “weatherproof”, you can leave it out occasionally, but it’s best to store targets dry when not in use.

How much space do I need? More than you think. The absolute minimum is enough length for your shooting distance plus extra buffer. For example, if you shoot 20 yards, have at least another 20 yards of cleared space behind the target (to catch misses or arrow drop). Safety guides recommend checking at least a 400-yard radius around your target for hazards – obviously this is not practical in every backyard, but it drives home the point: think big. The key is that if you miss, the arrow should land in harmless open ground. In practice, many backyard ranges have 30-50 yards to spare. If your lot is shorter, shoot from closer and use bigger backstops.

Is cardboard a good archery target? Cardboard can be used in a pinch, but it’s not great for frequent practice. Clean cardboard won’t damage arrows, but holes won’t close up and the material tears easily. It’s fine for a quick backyard play shoot or a beginner’s DIY project, but expect to replace it often.

Can I build my own archery target? Yes. A common DIY approach is layering old carpet or foam pieces into a block, or stuffing a large cardboard box with clothing and taping it shut. This homemade butt can work as long as it stops arrows. Another idea is hay bales tied together. However, store-bought targets are engineered for longevity and ease of use. For example, the Hurricane Bag has built-in handles and arrow-targeted graphics. If you build your own, be sure it’s dense and thick.

How long do targets last? It depends on use. A high-quality bag target might last months or years of heavy shooting. Budget block foam targets may degrade in a season. A good practice is to rotate targets: use all sides of a multi-sided target before replacing the face. If a target says it’s “broadhead safe” and has a core you can replace (like the Rinehart or Delta Bear), it can last for years. Keep targets dry and store them when not in use to extend life. If you leave targets outside and they sit in wet grass or sun for long periods, they’ll mold or crack sooner.

Is archery a good form of exercise? Yes – though it’s often seen as a skill sport, shooting correctly uses muscles in your shoulders, arms, core and back. Holding and drawing a 20–30 lb bow for many shots is a decent workout, especially on upper body. Plus, archery practice improves focus and coordination. It’s low-impact, so it’s gentle on joints while still engaging your muscles.

Final Tips: Always keep safety your top priority. Archery is enjoyable when done responsibly. Follow the steps above, use a sturdy backstop, and pick a legal location. Then you’ll be free to enjoy targets day or night (and even in gentle rain), improving your accuracy shot by shot. With the right setup and one of these recommended targets, backyard archery practice can be fun, effective, and completely safe. Happy shooting!

Sources: Advice and data in this article come from archery experts and manufacturers, as cited above, to ensure accurate, trustworthy guidance.