Don’t try this method if you’re firing high-powered crossbows or compound bows.
Always use field point arrowheads when target shooting. Broad head arrows may break on impact.
For a longer outdoor lifespan, use kiln dried boards, and/or treat them with weather protection. [1] X Research source Use longer boards than necessary for the sides, extending them below the shooting area. This lets you raise the target or attach casters to make it more portable.
For an extra-sturdy frame, run all-thread through the left and right sides of the frame. Tighten with an oversized washer, ordinary washer, and nut in that order. tighten again after your first test shoot, as the frame can jolt out of place.
The chicken wire will bulge over time from the force of the arrows. To reduce the amount of re-packing, you can reinforce with three or four tie-wires on the interior of the chicken wire. This can be the weakest point in the target. Some people prefer using nylon window screen material. [3] X Research source If you’ll be using shrink wrap or other stuffing that can come out the mesh reinforce the chicken wire with several layers of thick cardboard.
Shrink wrap, foam, plastic bags, or other compressible packing material. Old carpet, cut into strips the depth of the frame Blankets, feed bags, burlap sack, and other spare fabric Shredded rubber (from a landscaping store) Clothing, after removing all buttons, zippers, metal objects, screen-printed fabric, and anything else that might chip the arrow or melt. [4] X Research source Denim, other fabric, or double-layer material (e. g. pockets) may make the arrow stick in the target; avoid it or place it at corners where arrows are unlikely to hit. [5] X Research source
Weed barrier / ground cloth Tyvek Tarps (may be noisy and stain the arrows)[7] X Research source
