Choosing archery targets

A target can carry a speed and point-type rating behind the marketing. Where the maker publishes one, treat it as a limit on what you’re allowed to shoot into that target, not a suggestion — and give it a solid backstop either way.

The short answer

A target’s rating tells you what it’s allowed to stop

Foam, layered fiber, or bag construction

Construction — foam type, layered fiber, bag — determines the intended point. Field points, broadheads, or both aren’t always interchangeable on the same face.

Usable face and shooting area

The usable face is the actual shooting area. Aiming outside it risks a pass-through, or a shot that misses the target’s stopping material entirely.

Speed rating and stopping limit

Where a speed rating is published, it’s a stopping limit tied to your bow’s output, not a general durability claim. Shooting over-rated speeds shortens target life fast and can cause pass-throughs.

Solid backstop behind the target

A solid backstop behind the target protects against exactly that pass-through, and it matters more as arrow speed and broadhead use go up.

What the listings actually show

The current catalog includes 270 targets from 22 brands. Nearly every listing describes target construction, usable face, and speed rating.

Before you buy

Match target and point type before every session, not just the first one.