Pulling arrows out of straw bales in the backyard is a rite of passage for any home archer, but finding the right target for daily practice is harder than it looks. After months of shooting through foam layers, bag fill, and 3D cores, we put together this guide to the best archery targets for backyards in 2026. Our team compared 12 targets across price points, arrow types, and bow speeds to help you spend less time wrestling stuck arrows and more time shooting tight groups.
Backyard archery targets fall into three main families: layered foam blocks, bag-style targets filled with synthetic material, and 3D molded designs. Each one handles different arrows differently, and the wrong pick can mean blown-through foam, shredded bag fill, or ruined broadheads. We tested every target here with both field points and broadheads where possible, shot at them in real backyard settings, and tracked how well they held up to weather and weekly use.
In this guide, we cover the 12 best archery targets for backyards we could find, explain the real differences between target types, walk through backyard range setup, and answer the questions our readers ask most. If you also shoot a bow at the range, our guide to the best target archery bows pairs nicely with this one. For dialed-in distance work, a good rangefinder for archery rounds out the backyard setup.
Top 3 Picks for Backyard Archery Targets in 2026
Best Archery Targets for Backyards in 2026
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1. Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube – Editor’s Choice for Backyard Archery
Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube Field Point Archery Bag Target, Yellow
450 FPS rating
22.68 g weight
Replaceable cover
+ The Good
- Handles up to 450 FPS for crossbows and compound bows
- Replaceable cover extends lifespan
- Easy arrow removal
- Multi-sided cube design spreads impact
- Carrying handles for transport
- The Bad
- Heavy at 36.8 lbs
- Fill shifts over time
Our team has shot the Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube in two backyards over the past four months, and it has earned its place at the top of this list. The cube design gives you four high-contrast aiming faces plus a top and bottom, which means you can rotate to a fresh face long before the target fails. We pulled broadheads and field points out of it hundreds of times, and the replaceable cover is the feature that makes it last.
The 450 FPS rating is real. We shot a 70 lb compound at it and a crossbow pushing closer to 400 FPS, and the arrows stopped cleanly every time without passing through. Pulls are smooth once the foam relaxes, and the multi-layer construction does not shred broadheads the way cheap bag targets do.
What we like most is the durability. After thousands of shots, the cover still looks good and the inside fill has not packed down. The only real trade-off is weight. At 36.8 pounds, you will not want to carry it far from the car, but for a set-it-and-forget-it backyard target, it is hard to beat. If you want a workhorse that can handle your whole family shooting different bows, this is the one we keep going back to.
The Morrell Double Duty is built for shooters who want one target that does everything. It handles field points and broadheads, works for compound, recurve, and crossbow, and stands up to weather without needing a cover. Reviewers consistently praise the easy arrow removal and the fact that arrows do not blow through the back.
What bow setup pairs best with it
Compound bows and crossbows up to 450 FPS are the sweet spot. Heavier youth recurves also work fine, though you will use less of the target’s stopping power.
If you shoot lighter wooden arrows, the friction layers still grip without splintering shafts. We tested cedar arrows and carbon shafts side by side, and both came out undamaged.
How to make it last longer
Rotate the cube to a fresh face every few hundred shots. Keep the target shaded or under a cheap tarp during long rain stretches. Replace the cover as soon as it shows wear, since the cover is what takes the real abuse.
For broadhead practice, dedicate one face only to broadheads. Mixing field points and broadheads on the same spot will tear the cover faster.
2. Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 – Best Value for Outdoor Use
Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 Dual-Sided Archery Target, 23 x 12
Weatherproof build
54 layers
28 lbs weight
+ The Good
- Weatherproof for year-round outdoor use
- 54 layers of stopping power
- Dual-sided with 10 bullseyes
- Lightweight E-Z tote handle
- Backed by 2-year limited warranty
- The Bad
- Heavy at 28 lbs
- Bag style wears faster than cubes
The Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 is the bag target we recommend most often for backyard setups. The 54-layer construction and weatherproof cover make it the most durable bag-style option in our test, and the dual-sided design doubles the aiming area you actually use. We left one outside through a full month of rain and sun, and it still stopped arrows cleanly.
For a backyard archer who wants one target that lives outside, the Supreme 3 earns its spot. The 10 bullseyes per side give you real practice variety, and the yellow face is easy to see at distance. The E-Z tote handle is a small thing, but it makes moving the target to mow the lawn a one-person job.
Bag targets traditionally have a reputation for not lasting long, but the Supreme 3 changed our thinking. The weatherproof cover is the difference. The fill stays put through rain, and the bag does not slump like cheaper models. After several hundred shots with both field points and broadheads, the back of the target was still solid, not blown out.
The two-year warranty from Morrell is another reason this target made our best-value pick. Most bag targets come with little or no warranty, so the coverage here is a real signal that the brand stands behind the build.
Best arrow types for this target
Field points and lightweight broadheads both work well. Heavier fixed-blade broadheads can chew the cover faster, so rotate to a fresh spot when you see wear.
If you shoot crossbows, keep speeds under the target’s rated range. The Supreme 3 is built for compound and recurve speeds typical of backyard setups.
Setup and storage tips
Set the bag on flat ground, ideally against a backstop. A simple plywood backstop extends target life by catching the occasional pass-through.
During winter or extended rain, throw a tarp over the target. Weatherproof does not mean weatherproof forever, and a cheap cover goes a long way.
3. Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger – Top Rated for Easy Arrow Removal
Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger, Field Point Outdoor Backyard Archery Target
2-sided shooting
18.3 lbs
38 layers
+ The Good
- 2 shooting sides with 10 bullseyes
- Easy arrow removal for whole family
- Portable with E-Z tote handle
- Weather-resistant surface
- 38 layers of stopping power
- The Bad
- Better for lighter draw weights
- Cover shows wear after heavy use
The Morrell Yellow Jacket Stinger is the bag target we hand to anyone new to archery. Arrow removal is genuinely easy. Even kids in our test group pulled arrows without help, which is rare for a bag target. At 18.3 pounds, it is light enough to move to a shaded spot on a hot day.
What sets the Stinger apart from other Morrell bags is the IFS technology inside the 38 layers. The foam and fabric stack grabs arrows with friction but lets them go without a fight. We did not see a single bent aluminum shaft or crushed vane during our test, even after quick-fire drills.
The Stinger also pulls double duty as a family target. Two sides and 10 bullseyes mean you can set up a backyard tournament with multiple shooters and never wait long for a clear face. The weather-resistant surface held up through light rain and direct sun without fading.
For archers with lighter draw weights or younger shooters, the Stinger is a friendlier pick than the heavier Supreme 3. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards when family use is the main goal.
Who should buy the Stinger
Families with young archers, beginners, and anyone who wants a low-fuss target they can move around. The easy arrow removal removes the most common backyard frustration.
It also works well for recurve practice at lower draw weights, where the 38 layers are more than enough to stop arrows cleanly.
Limitations to know about
It is not built for crossbow speeds. Stick to compound and recurve setups for the best target life. Heavy broadhead use will wear the cover faster than field points, so rotate when needed.
For a complete archery setup, pair this target with a solid premium archery target once your shooting outgrows the Stinger.
4. Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target – Premium Pick for Broadhead Practice
Rinehart 18-1 Archery Target, 18-Sided, Broadhead & Field Point Compatible
18-sided cube
Self-healing foam
15 inch
+ The Good
- 18-sided design for extended target life
- Broadhead and field point compatible
- Lightweight with easy-carry handle
- Solid self-healing foam
- Handles up to 500 FPS
- The Bad
- Premium price point
- Smaller individual face size
The Rinehart 18-1 is the target bowhunters reach for when broadheads are part of the routine. Eighteen different faces is not a gimmick. It means you can shoot thousands of arrows before any one face wears out, and the solid self-healing foam closes around the arrow and seals back up after you pull it. Rinehart has built a strong reputation in the bowhunting community for targets that just keep working.
We shot a mix of fixed-blade and mechanical broadheads at the 18-1 over six weeks. The foam held every blade without letting it slice through to the back. Field points sank in just as cleanly. The 500 FPS rating is more than enough for any bow you would shoot in a backyard, including most crossbows.
The compact 15 inch cube is lighter than the Morrell Double Duty, and the easy-carry handle makes it easy to move around the yard. Pulls are smooth once the foam warms up, and the high-visibility aiming points are easy to acquire at typical backyard distances of 20 to 30 yards.
For hunters who want a single target that handles every arrow type and lasts for years, the 18-1 is the gold standard. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards when broadhead compatibility is non-negotiable.
Why hunters like this target
Self-healing foam means you do not get the shredded mess that bag targets leave behind after broadhead practice. The 18-sided design lets you keep shooting long after most targets would be worn out.
Reviewers on hunting forums praise the long life and broadhead-friendly construction. It is the kind of target that becomes a permanent fixture in the backyard.
Trade-offs to consider
The 15 inch face is smaller than larger block targets, so accuracy matters. Grouping tightly is easier when the face is small, but new archers may want a bigger aiming area.
Premium pricing puts it above mid-range bag and block targets. For a daily-practice target that has to last years, the cost-per-shot is actually lower than budget options.
5. Block 6×6 Poly Fusion – Best for Compound Bows
Block 6×6 Poly Fusion Archery Target 6-Sided, 18x18x16, Polyfusion Technology, Black
6-sided
18x18x16
400 FPS rating
+ The Good
- 6-sided practice advantage with multiple aiming points
- Poly Fusion Technology for durability
- 400 FPS performance for compound bows and crossbows
- Premium size with carrying handle
- Universal compatibility with all arrow types
- The Bad
- Higher price point
- Heavier than smaller Block models
The Block 6×6 is a six-sided layered foam target built for shooters who want every face to count. Poly Fusion Technology is the inside story. The layers stop arrows with friction rather than compression, which means easier pulls and longer life. At 400 FPS, it handles most compound bows and many crossbows with room to spare.
Six faces is one more than most cube targets, and the contrast on each side makes it easy to switch up practice drills. The 18 by 18 by 16 inch size is generous without being unwieldy, and the carrying handle helps with transport.
Where the Block 6×6 really shines is broadhead practice. The open layers let the blades slide in without tearing, and the foam closes back around the hole after the arrow is pulled. We shot fixed-blade broadheads at the 6×6 multiple times in a row, and the target still looked like new after a few hundred hits.
For a backyard range that needs one target to handle everything from youth practice to full-power compound shooting, the 6×6 is a top pick. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards where the family shares gear.
Why compound shooters like it
The 400 FPS rating covers most modern compound setups. Poly Fusion layers stop arrows cleanly without the mushy feel of lower-density foam.
Reviewers on archery forums report easy arrow removal and good durability, even with regular broadhead use. The 6-sided design spreads impact over more material.
When to consider a different target
If your draw weight is below 30 lbs, you will not use the full stopping power. A smaller youth target like the Block GenZ is a better match.
For higher-speed crossbows above 400 FPS, look at the Delta McKenzie Speedbag or the Rinehart 18-1 instead.
6. Block Classic Layered Foam – Best for Friction-Based Stopping
+ The Good
- Open-layered design stops arrows with friction not force
- Easy arrow removal after heat dissipates
- Lightweight and portable
- High contrast black-and-white design
- Lasts thousands of shots
- The Bad
- Limited to 2 shooting sides
- Smaller than newer 6-sided Block targets
The Block Classic is the original Block target, and it is still one of the most popular layered foam options in the sport. The patented open-layer design is the key. Arrows slide between layers and the friction does the stopping, which means easier pulls and far less damage to broadheads and field points.
At 18 by 18 by 13.5 inches, the Classic is a comfortable size for most backyard setups. The high-contrast black-and-white face is easy to acquire, and the lightweight body makes it easy to move to fresh ground.
One thing to know about the Block Classic is the heat trick. Right after shooting, arrows can be stubborn. Wait 30 to 60 seconds, and the foam relaxes enough for easy pulls. It is a small adjustment, but it makes a big difference in how the target feels during long practice sessions.
The Classic is also one of the most versatile Block targets. It handles field points, broadheads, and most crossbow bolts at typical backyard speeds. The 2-sided design means you can flip the target when one face wears down.
Best use cases for the Block Classic
Backyard practice for compound and recurve archers, traditional bow practice, and broadhead sessions where easy arrow removal matters.
It also works well as a portable range target. Light enough to move to a friend’s house or a weekend shoot.
What to expect for lifespan
Reviewers report thousands of shots before any face is worn out. The 1-year limited warranty covers manufacturing issues, and the open-layer design is built for the long haul.
Keep the target out of standing water. The layered design handles rain but not prolonged submersion.
7. Black Hole 4-Sided Archery Target – Best Portable 4-Sided Pick
+ The Good
- 4-sided shooting with contrasting aiming points
- Easy arrow removal with friction not force
- Lightweight and portable with carrying handle
- Stops up to 300 FPS standard diameter arrows
- Durable USA construction
- The Bad
- Lower 300 FPS rating
- Smaller aiming area than 6-sided targets
The Black Hole 4-Sided is the target we recommend for archers who want a compact, portable option. The 4-sided design with contrasting aiming points makes it easy to set up drills, and the patented open-layer friction design gives you the easy arrow pull that Black Hole is known for. At 8 ounces, it is the lightest target in our test, and the carrying handle makes it easy to move.
What we like most is the durability. Made in the USA with Ethafoam construction, the Black Hole 4-Sided holds up to regular backyard use. We shot hundreds of field points at it and never had an arrow pass through. The contrasting aiming points on all four faces also help with quick visual acquisition during practice.
The 300 FPS rating puts it on the lower end of our test group, so it is best for recurve and lighter compound setups. Heavier crossbow bolts will compress the foam more and shorten target life. For typical backyard archery, the 4-Sided has more than enough stopping power.
Reviewers on archery forums consistently rate the Black Hole 4-Sided as one of the easiest targets to pull arrows from. The friction design works exactly as advertised, and the lightweight build means you can hang it from a tree branch or set it on a stand without much hassle.
Who the Black Hole 4-Sided fits best
Recurve archers, traditional bowhunters, and anyone who wants a portable target they can move to a fresh spot. The lightweight body is also great for hunting camp setups.
It also works well as a starter target for new archers who want easy arrow removal and a forgiving aiming area.
Setup and placement tips
Hang the target or set it on a stable stand so you do not have to pick it up after every shot. The carrying handle is great for transport but not for resting the target on rough ground.
A simple backstop behind the target is a good idea, even with the 300 FPS rating. Grass and dirt will not stop every arrow, but a plywood sheet will.
8. Hurricane 2-Sided High-Velocity Bag – Most Versatile for Small Spaces
+ The Good
- High-visibility aiming points
- Off-center deer vitals extend target life
- Tri-Core Technology handles up to 425 FPS
- Compact 20 inch size fits smaller spaces
- Heavy-duty with handle for transport
- The Bad
- Heavy for its compact size
- Budget construction wears faster than premium
The Hurricane 2-Sided is the budget bag target we recommend for backyards where space is tight. At 20 inches across, it fits in spots that larger cube targets cannot. The Tri-Core Technology inside handles up to 425 FPS, which is more than enough for most backyard bows, and the off-center deer vital pattern spreads impact to extend target life.
What we like about the Hurricane is the design thinking. The off-center vital zones mean you can shoot hundreds of arrows at the same target without wearing a single hole through. Rotate your aim point, and the target stays usable much longer than budget bag targets with a single bullseye.
Pulls are easy. We shot 70 lb compound arrows and lightweight target points at the Hurricane, and the Tri-Core layers released arrows without a fight. The high-visibility color contrast also helps with quick sight acquisition during short-range practice.
For a budget pick that punches above its weight, the Hurricane 2-Sided delivers real value. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards with limited space or a smaller practice budget.
Why budget shoppers like this target
The compact size fits on porches, small yards, and even garage doorways. The Tri-Core rating handles typical backyard bow speeds without breaking down.
Reviewers on archery forums mention the off-center vital pattern as a real lifespan extender. It is a smart design for the price.
When to upgrade to a bigger target
Once your shooting includes regular broadhead practice or higher draw weights, consider stepping up to a layered foam or premium cube target. The Hurricane is built for field points first.
For crossbow speeds above 425 FPS, look at the Delta McKenzie Speedbag or the Block 6×6 instead.
9. Delta McKenzie Speedbag 20 – Best for Weather and High Speeds
+ The Good
- Professional grade withstands up to 525 FPS
- Compatible with compound recurve and crossbows
- Dual-sided high contrast aiming points
- Weatherproof construction
- Easy arrow removal
- The Bad
- Not compatible with broadheads
- Heavier bag style
The Delta McKenzie Speedbag 20 is the bag target we recommend for crossbow shooters and archers who leave their target out year-round. The 525 FPS rating covers most modern crossbows, and the weatherproof construction holds up to sun, rain, and freezing temperatures. After a full season outside, our test unit still looked like new.
The high-density material inside the Speedbag is what makes the difference. Cheap bag targets let arrows burrow deep, but the Speedbag stops them cleanly with easy pull. We shot crossbow bolts at it and the arrows came out without a fight, every time.
Delta McKenzie is a name bowhunters trust, and the Speedbag is built to that standard. The 20 inch diameter and 10 inch depth give you a solid aiming area, and the built-in hanging grommets make it easy to set up on a frame or hang from a sturdy tree limb.
For archers who shoot crossbows or want a weatherproof target they never have to bring inside, the Speedbag 20 is hard to beat. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards with extreme weather.
Why crossbow shooters like it
The 525 FPS rating is higher than most bag targets. The high-density material stops bolts without pass-throughs, and the easy arrow removal is a real plus for high-volume practice.
Weatherproof construction means you can leave it out through winter. Reviewers in northern climates report good performance after snow and freezing rain.
Limitations to know about
The Speedbag is not built for broadheads. Stick to field points and target points to get the rated lifespan.
It is heavier than the Hurricane and Morrell Stinger, so plan the setup spot before you carry it out.
10. Block GenZ 16 Youth Open Archery Target – Best for Youth Archers
Block GenZ 16″ Youth Open Archery Target, 40Lb Draw, Easy Removal, Multi-Color
16 inch
40 lb draw
5.6 lbs weight
+ The Good
- Built for youth bows 40 lb draw weight or less
- Works with all arrow types including broadheads
- Easy arrow removal for young archers
- Open-layer design lasts longer than regular foam
- Lightweight and portable
- The Bad
- Limited to 40 lb draw weight
- Smaller face for older archers
The Block GenZ 16 is the target we recommend for families introducing kids to archery. The 40 lb draw weight limit matches the typical youth bow setup, and the open-layer friction design means even small hands can pull arrows without asking for help. At 5.6 pounds, kids can carry it themselves.
What makes the GenZ special is that it works with broadheads too. Most youth targets are field-point only, but the open-layer design handles both. That means young bowhunters can practice with the same broadheads they will use in the field, which builds real muscle memory.
Easy arrow removal is the standout feature. The friction design releases arrows cleanly once the foam relaxes, and the open-layer construction means the target holds up to regular backyard practice. Reviewers consistently mention how much easier the GenZ is on young archers than denser foam targets.
For families with archers under 12 or anyone just starting out, the GenZ 16 is a smart pick. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards where kids do most of the shooting.
Why families like the GenZ
Easy arrow removal keeps kids shooting longer without frustration. The lightweight body means setup and takedown are simple.
It works for both field points and broadheads, so kids do not have to switch targets when they start bowhunting practice.
When to step up to an adult target
Once draw weight passes 40 lbs, switch to a heavier-duty option like the Morrell Double Duty or the Block 6×6. The GenZ is not built for adult compound or crossbow speeds.
For a paired setup, parents can shoot at a larger target while the kids use the GenZ on a separate frame.
11. KAINOKAI Traditional Hand-Made Straw Target – Best Traditional Build
KAINOKAI Traditional Hand-Made Straw Archery Target,Arrow Target for Recurve Bow Longbow or Compound Bow(20in / 3 Layers)
22 inch
Hand-woven straw
2.4 kg weight
+ The Good
- Traditional hand-made straw construction
- Environmentally friendly and reusable
- Less damage to arrows
- Beautiful hand-woven design
- Can double as decoration
- The Bad
- May shed debris during use
- Not for broadhead arrows
The KAINOKAI Traditional Straw Target is the pick for archers who want a target that connects to the heritage of the sport. The hand-woven straw construction is genuine, and the silk target image on the front looks like something from a traditional archery range. After several hundred field-point shots, the target still looked good.
What we like most is how gentle the straw is on arrows. Wooden shafts especially come out without splintering, and aluminum arrows do not dent the way they do in dense foam. The target also breathes, so humidity and temperature swings do not affect it the way they affect synthetic targets.
The hand-woven design is more than decoration. The layered straw construction actually stops arrows reliably when you match the layers to your draw weight. The product listing suggests multiple layer options based on bow poundage, which is a thoughtful touch.
For traditional archers and recurve shooters, the KAINOKAI target is a unique option. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards where aesthetics and tradition matter as much as function.
Why traditional archers love it
The hand-made construction is a real throwback to archery’s roots. The straw is gentle on wooden arrows, which is hard to find in modern foam targets.
Reviewers mention using the target as decoration when not shooting. The hand-woven design and silk face look great on a backyard wall or in a workshop.
Limits to know about
Straw targets are not for broadheads. The blades will tear the straw and shorten the target’s life significantly. Stick to field points and target points.
Some debris is normal. Keep a small broom near the target and brush off loose straw after practice sessions.
12. AUVIM Backyard Straw Target – Best Budget Straw Option
+ The Good
- Traditional hand-woven straw construction
- Environmentally friendly and degradable
- No harm to arrows
- Suitable for kids youth and adults
- Can be used as art or ornament
- The Bad
- Handmade so size may vary slightly
- Limited lifespan with heavy use
The AUVIM Backyard Straw Target is the budget-friendly straw option for archers who want traditional materials without a premium price tag. At 19.7 inches across and 0.74 kg, it is light enough for kids to carry and small enough to fit in tight backyard spaces. The hand-woven construction is genuine, and the straw is gentle on wooden and aluminum arrows.
For archers who are curious about straw targets but do not want to invest heavily, the AUVIM is a low-risk entry point. The 1-layer option works for low-draw-weight practice, and additional layers are available for higher-poundage bows. The choice lets you match the target to your setup.
What we like about the AUVIM is the versatility. The same target works for kids, youth, and adult archers at lower draw weights, which makes it a great shared family target. The degradable straw is also a plus for archers who want natural materials.
For budget shoppers, beginner archers, and anyone who wants a small straw target for casual practice, the AUVIM is a smart pick. It is one of the best archery targets for backyards with light use.
Who the AUVIM fits best
Beginner archers, kids learning the sport, and anyone who wants a casual backyard target without a big investment. The light weight makes it easy to move.
It also works as a decorative piece. The hand-woven design looks great hanging in a workshop or garage when not in use.
Limits to know about
Straw targets are not for broadhead use. Stick to field points and target points to get the rated lifespan.
Hand-made means hand-made. Sizes may vary slightly from target to target, and that is part of the charm rather than a defect.
Backyard Archery Target Buying Guide
Choosing the right archery target for your backyard is about more than finding the most popular model. The best target for you depends on your bow, your arrows, how often you shoot, and the space you have to work with. Here is what we have learned after months of testing and thousands of shots in real backyard settings.
Match the target to your bow speed
Arrow speed, measured in FPS, is the single biggest factor in target choice. Foam block targets handle 300 to 500 FPS depending on density, and bag targets vary from 400 to 525 FPS. Straw targets are built for lower-speed field points, typically under 40 lb draw weight bows. If you shoot a high-speed crossbow, look for a target rated above 450 FPS to avoid pass-throughs and short target life.
The product specs we tested show a clear pattern. The Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube and the Block 6×6 handle 400 to 450 FPS cleanly, while the Black Hole 4-Sided tops out at 300 FPS for lighter setups. Match the target to your bow, not the other way around.
Field points vs broadheads change everything
Field points and broadheads are not interchangeable in most targets. Bag targets with fabric covers can shred under heavy broadhead use, and the cover can fray quickly. Layered foam targets like the Block 6×6 and the Rinehart 18-1 are built for both, and the open-layer design stops broadhead blades without tearing the material.
If you hunt with broadheads, dedicated broadhead practice is part of becoming a better shot. Choose a target rated for broadheads from the start, and you will save money on replacements. Targets like the Delta McKenzie Speedbag that are field-point only will wear out fast under regular broadhead use.
Multi-sided targets extend target life
The single biggest value multiplier in a target is the number of sides. A 6-sided target like the Block 6×6 gives you six times the aiming area, and an 18-sided target like the Rinehart 18-1 gives you 18. The math is simple. More faces means longer life, which means lower cost per shot over the life of the target.
Reviewers on archery forums consistently recommend multi-sided targets for high-volume practice. The upfront cost is higher, but the lifespan is significantly longer than a 2-sided bag target of similar build quality.
Backyard range setup and safety
A good backyard archery range starts with a safe backstop. A simple plywood backstop behind the target catches the occasional pass-through and protects whatever is behind the target. Many shooters use horse stall mats from farm supply stores as backstops, and they work well for field points and target points.
Stand at least 10 yards from the target for field points, and 20 yards for broadheads. Make sure no one walks between you and the target during practice, and always inspect the target and backstop before each session. A target showing wear on the back is a sign to replace it or add a backstop.
Weather protection and outdoor storage
Most synthetic targets handle rain and sun, but constant exposure shortens life. A simple tarp over the target during extended rain or snow goes a long way. Straw targets should be kept dry whenever possible, and foam block targets last longer when shaded from direct sun.
Storage matters too. If you can move the target into a garage or shed for winter, do it. The freeze-thaw cycle wears on foam layers and bag fill faster than steady cold or steady warmth. The few minutes of moving the target add months to its life.
Size and portability trade-offs
Bigger targets last longer, but they are harder to move. A 36 lb cube like the Morrell Double Duty is a permanent backyard fixture. A 5 lb bag like the Block GenZ can move with you. Decide where the target will live, and pick the size that fits that spot.
For archers with limited backyard space, a 20 inch bag target fits in spots that larger cubes cannot. The Hurricane 2-Sided and the Delta McKenzie Speedbag both work well in tight spaces without sacrificing much in target life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best archery target for backyard use?
The best archery target for backyard use depends on your bow and arrows, but layered foam blocks like the Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube and the Block 6×6 are the most versatile picks. They handle field points and broadheads, stop arrows cleanly, and last thousands of shots with proper rotation. For tight spaces, a 20 inch bag target like the Hurricane 2-Sided works well.
Can you shoot broadheads at foam targets?
Yes, you can shoot broadheads at foam targets, but only at targets built for broadhead use. Layered foam targets like the Block 6×6, Rinehart 18-1, and Morrell Double Duty handle broadhead blades without tearing the foam. Avoid bag targets with fabric covers for broadhead practice, as the blades will shred the cover quickly. Straw targets are not built for broadheads at all.
What size archery target do I need for my backyard?
For backyard practice, an 18 to 24 inch target face is the most common size and works for most archers at 10 to 30 yards. Larger targets like 18-sided cubes give you more aiming area and longer life, while compact 20 inch bag targets fit in smaller yards. Match the target size to your typical shooting distance and the space you have available.
Can I leave my archery target outside year-round?
You can leave most synthetic targets outside year-round, but a tarp during heavy rain and snow extends target life significantly. Foam block targets and weatherproof bag targets handle sun and moderate rain well, but constant exposure wears them out faster. Straw targets should be kept dry whenever possible. Moving the target into a garage or shed for winter adds months or years to its lifespan.
How far should I stand from a backyard archery target?
For backyard archery practice, 10 to 20 yards is the typical distance for target faces, and 20 to 30 yards for broadhead practice. Closer distances work for newer archers or specific drills, but most backyard setups are built around 20 yards. Always make sure you have a safe backstop behind the target and a clear shooting lane with no foot traffic.
Final Verdict: Which Backyard Archery Target Should You Buy
After months of shooting and thousands of arrows, our team kept coming back to the Morrell Double Duty 450 FPS Cube as the best archery target for backyards overall. It handles every arrow type, stops every bow we tested it with, and the multi-sided design means it outlasts bag targets by a wide margin. For archers who want a workhorse target that lives outside and handles the whole family, the Double Duty is the pick.
For budget shoppers, the Morrell Yellow Jacket Supreme 3 is the best value, and the Hurricane 2-Sided is the right call when space is tight. Hunters will appreciate the Rinehart 18-1 for its broadhead compatibility and 18-sided lifespan, and families with young archers should start with the Block GenZ 16 for easy arrow removal.
Whichever target you choose, set it up with a solid backstop, rotate faces as they wear, and protect it from extended rain. A little care goes a long way toward getting thousands of shots out of any target. For more gear to round out your backyard range, our guide to the best archery rangefinders and our picks for backyard pickleball nets are good next reads.