Bowhunters’ Top 3 Reasons to Shoot at 3-D Life-Size Targets

by
posted on June 9, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
karen_target_lion_f.jpg

While the accuracy of a given bow is important, you’d better be accurate with your given bow. As I prep to leave for Africa in a few days, I’m taking my practice sessions—and the fun—up a notch by shooting at 3-D life-size game targets like this African lion from Delta McKenzie, and here’s why.

1. A hunting shot is a far cry from a practice shot at a bullseye on a bag. By simulating shooting at a live game animal from different angles, I’m more used to pinpointing the precise spot to penetrate and will see at what angle each arrow would exit.

2. Shooting my 3-D lion, whitetail deer, etc., at longer distances quickly reveals whether you’re maintaining proper shooting form. Even a small error is accentuated the farther away I am from a target—and its “vitals.”

3. I say 3-D targets are more fun to shoot at than bag targets! If they make you practice more, you’ll hone your skills, your form will remain consistent and you’ll be more confident.

Moral of the Story: A 3-D target is as close as you can get to the real thing. To get one of your own, start by checking out the options at Delta McKenzie. You’ll see pages of 3-D options to add to your shopping cart. 

Latest

Ledelucky Blind 005
Ledelucky Blind 005

Tips for Bowhunting Birds

Want to shlock a big Tom with your bow this year? Want some tips on closing the distance? Mike Roux has been calling them and sticking them for decades. Read on for some great tactics from an old pro.

First Look: MDT Timbr Core Laminate Rifle Stock

MDT has released its Timbr Core Laminate Rifle Stock, expanding the Timbr Core lineup with a modern laminate option for hunters seeking an upgrade from factory polymer stocks with a classic look and feel.

American Hunter's 2026 Golden Bullseye Winners

A handful of the American Hunter staff's favorite things, from 2026.

Reloading 7mm Backcountry with Lee Precision Dies

Federal Premium’s latest cartridge innovation, 7mm Backcountry, is now being supported by Lee Precision and its set of reloading dies specially created for the new high-pressure round.

New for 2026: MTM Case-Gard Chrono Case

The MTM Case-Gard Chronograph Case (CCXERO) delivers secure, custom-fit protection for the Garmin Xero chronograph. Inside, precision-cut foam cradles the chronograph and its accessories for reliable transport and storage.

Hardware Review: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down Carbine

Best known for their large-bore lever actions, Big Horn Armory of Cody, Wyo., adds to their .50 caliber arsenal with the new Model 89 Take Down (TD) Carbine. Chambered in the mighty .500 Smith & Wesson Magnum, the Model 89 TD, as the name implies, comes apart for easy storage and transport.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.