When I first started hurling bolts downrange with my crossbow, I’ll be honest, I used makeshift targets that barely did the trick. Now, with the wisdom of experience tucked in my quiver, I’ve learned just how critical nailing the perfect target can be. Have you thought about what a good crossbow target could mean for your shooting game?
In this post, I’ll lay out my top picks for best crossbow targets that’ll turn your backyard into a pro-level practice zone, and I assure you, your bolts (and your wallet) will thank you.
Key takeaways
- My top recommendation for target is the SpyderWeb ST18XL Crossbow Target
- Essential for safety, bolt preservation, and accuracy improvement.
- Focus on material durability, stopping power, size, portability, and ease of use.
What makes a good crossbow target and why it matters
A good crossbow target isn’t just about catching bolts—it’s a silent coach for your archery prowess. Regular practice is a sharp-shooting soul’s bread and butter, and an exceptional target turns practice from chore to cheer.
- Safety: A sturdy target absorbs bolts without ricochets or pass-throughs.
- Preservation: It shields your bolts from damage for longer life.
- Accuracy: Consistent and varied shooting surfaces hone your precision.
Let me take you back to those days when I could barely hit the side of a barn from the inside. My haphazard practice sessions with an old hay bale left much to be desired. Once I switched to a dedicated crossbow target, though? Bullseye! It was a game-changer, really giving my bolts the landing pad they deserved and my confidence just the boost it needed.
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II
The best crossbow targets
Let’s dive into the bullseye of this post—the cream of the crop when it comes to targets. From stopping powerhouses to portable pals, these are the champions that’ll see you right through from backyard hobbyist to right on the mark shots with grace.
1. Best for high-speed
Pros
- Exceptional stopping power
- Arrows can be removed single-handedly
- Built to withstand thousands of shots
- Compatible with a range of arrow sizes
Cons
- Heavier than some targets
- Not suitable for broadheads
- Price point higher than other targets
Why I picked it
Alright, let me lay it down as if we were just shootin’ the breeze on my back porch. I’ve kept my ear to the ground to find a target that can take the heat from beasts like the TenPoint Vapor RS470, and the SpyderWeb ST18XL is a true shot. It’s like having a brick wall that pillows your arrows—stopping ’em dead at around 7 inches deep.
No more of that digging around like a dog looking for a bone to get your arrows out. Plus, we’re talking longevity here; the kind where one of these bad boys took on 55,000 shots back in the day—now tell me that ain’t impressive.
I haven’t had the pleasure of owning this titan myself, but my trust in it isn’t just a shot in the dark. It’s got this Spylar facing that’s kind of like Wolverine’s skin—keeps healing up and taking more punishment. It’s a champ in all weather, letting you leave it out there instead of hauling it in every time Mother Nature has a mood swing. And for my fellow precision enthusiasts, it’s field tip exclusive, keeping you on target without the mess of broadheads.
The benefits of owning a SpyderWeb ST18XL are like hitting the bullseye every time. Just check out what it brings to your game:
- Health and happiness go hand in hand with easy arrow removal
- Breakup with the heartbreak of lost or broken arrows
- Keep that back strong and pulling, without needing arrow pullers or lube
Who is it for
Now, if you’re the archer who loves the thrill of high-speed crossbows and you’re really into your backyard shooting sessions, the SpyderWeb ST18XL is waiting for you. It’s perfect for those who’ve got a beefy setup and need a target that won’t flinch when thunder strikes—that is, when your bolt hits home. It’s not too keen on beginners looking for a light target to tote around, but for the seasoned shooter who takes their practice seriously—game on.
What are people saying?
Shooters out there are notching their arrows and singing praises about the SpyderWeb’s stopping power. They’ve got lightning fast crossbows that could punch through lesser targets and keep on truckin’, but this Spyder says, “Nope, that’s as far as you go, buddy.” The bolts stop cozy at a depth that’s a breeze to pluck out. And not just that, the structure integrity of this beast is right on the mark.
But it ain’t all sunshine and rainbows; some folks have a beef with the SpiderWeb meeting up with Rage practice broadheads. Those broadheads get sticky on the way out, clinging on to some of the insides. And let’s have a straight shoot—this ain’t the lightest block of foam you’ll be setting up in your yard. It’s got heft to it, part of why it’s such a stopper, and the price tag can make some wallets a wee bit nervous.
2. Best budget target
Why I picked it
The moment I laid eyes on the Black Hole Crossbow Target, I knew it had a place at the very heart of my roundup. As someone who’s always zeroing in on perfection, whether in the field or at the range, it’s clear this target’s got game. Its versatility is unmatched—with a four-sided design that lets you flip and rotate for longevity, ensuring you’re on target for every practice session. Plus, it’s made to stand its ground against the heaviest hitters out there, stopping bolts zipping over 400fps.
The high contrast on each side? That’s just gravy, making it easier to scope out where my shots hit from a stone’s throw away.
Now, I’ve heard some folks have had to huff and puff a bit to pry their arrows loose. But that’s where the open-layered tech works a treat. The heat and friction from the bolt digging in? It grips that sucker tight. Give it a heartbeat, and that heat vanishes, making the bolt a breeze to pluck out. No muss, no fuss.
If you’re out to hone your skills with a range of tips, this target is definitely on point. And hey, it’s gentle on the wallet too, giving you more bang for your buck.
Surefire benefits of adding the Black Hole Crossbow Target to your arsenal:
- Get those groups tighter than ever, with professional-grade stopping power.
- Practice makes perfect, and this target is built to last through countless sessions.
- No backbreaking lugging. This lightweight marvel is as portable as they come.
Who is it for
So you’re packing some serious firepower, eh? The hunter or competitive archer with a 400fps+ crossbow who’s not too keen on buying new targets every month is going to find a true friend in the Black Hole Crossbow Target. Whether you’re just getting your feet wet or you’ve been in the game long enough to have a quiver full of trophies, you’ll find this target’s a valuable addition to your practice setup.
It’s about as essential as a steady hand and a keen eye for those among us sending broadheads and field points downrange on the regular, whether you using a recurve or compound bow.
What are people saying?
I’m telling you, word around the campfire is that this target is the talk of the town. One guy I know bought the Black Hole Target right along with his first 400 fps reverse-draw crossbow and was downright jubilant about the way it stopped those bolts dead before the fletching could so much as whisper to the other side. True, this fellow spotted a smidgen of an arrow tip peeking through from a broadhead, but we’re talking half an inch—nothing to write home about.
Of course, there’s always a thorn among the roses. Another shooter, a big guy with hands like bear traps, found wrenching arrows out tougher than trying to out-wrestle a bull. But before you start thinking you’ll need the jaws of life, hear this: a clever archer found that plain old rubber jar openers—thin, floppy little miracles—made tugging arrows out easier than popping the top off a cold one. Give it a good twist and yank, and you’re back in business, quick as a wink.
3. Best for realistic practice
Pros
- Solid longevity: can handle repeated shots without wearing down quickly.
- Impenetrable: effectively stops arrows from penetrating through.
- Ease of Setup: sets up quickly and without hassle.
- Made in the USA: Quality craftsmanship you can trust.
Cons
- Sturdiness issues: Some parts like the antlers have been known to come loose.
- Craftsmanship: Fit and finish of some parts may not be up to snuff for everyone.
- Parts Breakage: There have been reports of leg inserts breaking.
- Difficulty in arrow removal, particularly with bolts from high-powered crossbows.
Why I picked it:
When it’s time to hunker down and get some archery practice in before the season kicks off, you need a target that won’t shy away from a challenge. That’s why the Field Logic Big Shooter Crossbow Buck made the list. A behemoth of a target, this bad boy can take a hit and stay standing – talk about getting your money’s worth. Plus, it looks like the real deal, making those backyard sessions feel more like the real thing. You want practice to mimic a true hunt, don’t you?
That’s what this gives you, with scoring rings right where you want them for that extra touch of realism. But it’s not just about the looks; durability is king here. Crossbow bolts zoomin’ through the sky will find their nemesis in the high-density core of this target, which means you can keep shooting longer without worrying about a major breakdown. The only hitch might be a bit of muscle needed to reclaim your bolts, but chisel those out and you’re in the clear.
It’s a top pick for a reason – because when you’re prepping for the big game, this target stands up to the task, time and time again.
As a hunter, what gets my heartbeat thumping is gear that delivers on its promise, and this target does just that. There’s nothing worse than a flimsy target flopping over after a few shots, which is why the stability of this one, complete with ground stakes, hits the sweet spot. It’s weather-resistant too, so feel free to leave it out in the great outdoors without fretting.
The foam isn’t just tough; it’s smarter than a fox in a hen house, soaking up shots in stride. To top it off, the replaceable core means down the line, you’re sorted for an easy refresh.
Sharpshooters and weekend warriors, here’s why you’ll be over the moon about this target:
- Lifelike practice ups your game for when it counts.
- Extended target life from replaceable cores—less replacement, more shooting.
- Built tough so that weather won’t put a damper on your aim or your spirit.
- Large size makes sure you can’t miss it – and when you do hit, you’ll know where to adjust.
Who is it for:
Whether you’re a seasoned archer with eyes like a hawk or a greenhorn just cutting your teeth, the Field Logic Big Shooter Crossbow Buck stands as a steadfast partner, ready for a serious practice session. If you’re the type to rise with the dawn, step out into the dew-laden grass, and loose some bolts into a target that gives as good as it gets, then this target is for you.
It’s perfect for those who crave realism in their practice, so when the moment of truth arrives in the woods, you’re as sharp as the broadheads in your quiver.
What are people saying?
Now listen in, ’cause it’s not just my voice you should be hearing. Other hunters are chiming in, and, by golly, they sing some praises with a few dischords, too. A common thread in these tales is the one about sturdiness and quality, with some folks facing off with broken bits right out of the gate. Antlers dropping off the head, back legs giving up the ghost sooner than you’d like – these are the tales that make the rounds.
Still, most are quick to proclaim it’s a “damn good target”, even with its quirks and fixable foibles. And yeah, the core can be tougher than a two-dollar steak when it comes to arrow retrieval, but there’re tips and tricks to make it easier – it ain’t rocket science, after all.
Then there are the whispers of the targets showing up with bruises – ears broken off, cores sticking out like sore thumbs. Sure, doesn’t stop it from being a target, but it’s the principle. Craftsmanship should mean something, right? Yet, for every squawk, there’s a hoot about how this beastly target stops bolts dead in their tracks, proving its merit where it matters most. And price-wise? Hunters with an eye for value hoot that it’s “hard to beat”, especially when deals are afoot.
A word to the wise: should you wrangle one of these beasts for yourself, know it’s a bit of a mixed bag. But if you’ve got the resolve and reason to look past its quirks, you’ve got yourself a target that’ll serve you as faithfully as a hound on the hunt. Keep those expectations level, and your aim true, ’cause at the end of the day, it’s the arrow that does the talking, and this target listens well.
Things to consider when buying a crossbow target
Choosing the right target is like picking a dance partner—it’s got to meet your pace and stick around for the long haul.
- Material Durability: Durability is key. Look for self-healing foam or robust woven materials that can take hit after hit without crumbling—your bolts will thank you, and so will your future self when you’re not shelling out cash for replacements way too early.
- Stopping Power: If your bolts tear through the back of the target, it’s game over for safety and any nearby objects. Ensure the target is rated for your crossbow’s bolt speed and is capable of stopping your heaviest fire.
- Target Size: Size does matter—in this case, anyway. You need a good backdrop for misses (hey, we all have our days) and ample space to keep your aiming points varied. Remember, a bigger target can mean more practice opportunities and angles.
- Portability and Ease of Use: Unless you fancy being bogged down with something akin to a medieval siege weapon, opt for a target that packs a portability punch. Handles, lighter weight, and a design that won’t have you wrestling every time you pull out a bolt are real back-savers.
Dos and donts of crossbow target practice
Hitting the spot with crossbow target practice, even when using a scope, is a concoction of know-how and common sense. But just as there’s a bullseye, there are also ring-outs. To keep your shots straight and true, it’s key to understand the dos and the don’ts of this thrilling pastime.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Regularly inspect targets for wear | Use targets not designed for crossbow use |
| Practice at varying distances and angles | Leave bolts in the target for extended periods |
| Maintain consistency with bolt and broadhead choices | Neglect safety checks on equipment before use |
Additional crossbow target practice tips
Stepping up your crossbow game isn’t just about plunking down cash for the best target. It’s about practice, ingenuity, and a few savvy insider tips.
- Keep a shooting diary: Jot down each practice to track progress.
- Vary your practice: Change distances, angles, and target types.
- Stay disciplined: It’s not just about quantity of practice, but quality.
- Follow a maintenance routine: Take care of both your crossbow and targets.
If you are more of a visual learner, here is a relevant video for more information.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What’s the best way to preserve my crossbow target’s lifespan?
The longevity of your target hinges on how you handle it. Keep it out of harsh weather when not in use, avoid using it with unsuitable ammunition, and spread your shots across the target’s surface.
Can I make a crossbow target at home?
Yes, and it can be a cost-effective choice. DIY targets can be made from layered foam, old clothes, or carpet. But do ensure it can safely stop bolts without causing damage.
Is there any gear that helps improve crossbow target practice?
Absolutely. Consider using a rangefinder for accurate distance measurements, or invest in a variety of broadheads to simulate different hunting scenarios.
Final thoughts
From nocking an arrow to hearing the thud as it meets its mark, crossbow target practice might seem straightforward, but believe me, there’s more to it than meets the eye. I once thought any old hay bale would suffice. Boy, was I mistaken. These days, slinging bolts without a sound target feels like driving with a blindfold—it just doesn’t end well. It’s just my two cents, of course. I’ve learned the hard way so that you don’t have to.
Did I cover everything you wanted to know? I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on crossbow target practice. Thanks for reading, and here’s to straight shooting and true hits.
