How to Make Your Archery Targets Last Longer (and Save Your Arrows)

If you’ve spent time practicing, you already know archery targets aren’t a one-and-done purchase. They take a beating, and if they wear out too quickly, you’re not only buying replacements sooner than expected, you’re also risking bent arrows and sloppy practice sessions. 

The good news? A few smart habits can stretch the life of your gear and keep your shooting smooth.

And that’s exactly what we’re talking about today. In this guide, we’ll break down the simple steps you can take to make your archery targets last longer, keep your arrows in better shape, and save yourself money in the long run.

Understand the Purpose You Are Buying the Archery Target For

Every target is designed with a specific use in mind, and pushing it beyond that is the fastest way to wear it out. 

Bag models handle field points really well, while foam blocks are built for both practice tips and broadheads. Then you’ve got 3D designs, which hunters rely on to work on shot placement before heading into the woods. Using each one for its intended purpose is the first step in making sure it holds up over time.

Rotate and Rest Your Target

Once you’ve matched the right type of archery target to your shooting style, the next step is using it in a way that won’t burn it out too quickly. 

The middle might feel like the obvious place to aim, but hammering arrow after arrow into the same spot is the fastest way to wear a hole straight through. Instead, make it a habit to rotate your setup or switch up your aiming points during practice. 

By spreading out the impact, you give the target a chance to hold up longer, and you sharpen your accuracy by training yourself to hit new spots with consistency.

Protect It From Weather Damage

Even if you’re rotating and spreading out your shots, your target won’t last long if it’s left at the mercy of the elements. Rain, snow, and harsh sun can break down the best materials faster than the arrows themselves. Moisture softens the fill, while UV rays make surfaces brittle and weak. That’s why it pays to think about storage just as much as shooting. 

Bringing your target inside after practice or at the very least covering it properly outside can add months, sometimes years, to its life. It’s a small habit that makes a huge difference.

Handle Arrows Properly

Of course, it’s not only the weather that can wear your archery target out, the way you pull your arrows matters just as much. 

After a few good rounds, it’s tempting to grab and yank them out, but that tears into the core and shortens the lifespan of your target. A puller and a steady hand will do the job without adding stress to the material.

It only takes a little extra patience, but it saves you from having to replace both arrows and targets sooner than you’d like.

Regular Checks and Light Maintenance

If you’re already storing your gear properly and handling arrows with care, the next step is to pay attention to wear and tear. 

Over time, even the best targets will show weak spots. Catching them early makes a big difference, especially with foam and 3D models that often have replaceable cores. 

Swapping out a worn center is much cheaper than buying a brand-new setup, and it keeps your practice consistent. A quick check before and after a session is all it takes to spot issues before they get out of hand.

Invest in Quality Upfront

All of these habits help, but the foundation is starting with gear that’s built to last.

Low-cost targets may look like a deal, but they usually break down long before you’ve gotten your money’s worth. A quality target holds up better under regular practice, protects your arrows, and saves you frustration. 

That’s why at Kenco Outfitters, we focus on carrying targets that balance durability with performance, so you can practice hard without worrying about replacing them every season.

Ready to upgrade your setup? 

Explore the full range of archery targets at Kenco Outfitters and find the one that fits your style.