Foam Targets

Foam Targets

Layered foam targets are what most serious archers end up buying once they get tired of destroying bag targets every few months.

The foam is compression-molded in layers – that’s what stops your arrows and lets you pull them back out without needing a truck and a tow strap. Good foam targets handle field points and broadheads without falling apart. Cheaper ones separate and tear after a season. The expensive ones (Rinehart, Block, Morrell) last for years if you don’t shoot the same spot 500 times.

Block targets are simple cubes or rectangles with different aiming points on each side. Rotate when one side gets worn out. These work great in the backyard for repetitive practice. Not realistic, but that’s not the point – you’re building muscle memory and working on form.

3D foam targets are shaped like deer, elk, turkeys, whatever. The vitals are marked with scoring rings. These help you practice shot placement on actual animal shapes instead of just punching dots. Western hunters shooting at mule deer or elk from weird angles – this is your practice tool.

Some foam targets are rated for high-speed bows (over 300 fps), others aren’t. Check before you shoot your 400-grain arrow at 330 fps into a target designed for traditional bows. It’ll blow right through and you’ll be out $150.

Foam costs more upfront than bags, but you’ll replace it less. That’s the trade.