It doesn´t matter if you are shooting in your backyard or the basement. You will most likely need a backstop. Firstly, for safety reasons and second because you don´t want to ruin your arrows.
There are ready-made backstops available on the market and homemade ones that you can build from scratch.
I will show you different kinds of archery backstops that fit any archer no matter where they shoot their bow!
Backstop Netting Comparison Chart
- Sizes: 6'x6',10'x6', 10'x10', 20'x10', 10'x30'
- Two Colors
- Brass Eyelets
- Mesh Nylon
- Sizes: 2'x2' 3'x4' 4'x6' 5'x6' 6'x6' 6'x7' 6'x8' 6'x9' 6'x10' 6'x11' 6'x12' 6'x13' 6'x14'
- Arrows up to 370fps
- Easy Arrow Removal
- Sizes: 5'x5', 5'x6', 5'x8', 5'x10'
- Grommets at Top and Bottom
- Easy Arrow Removal
- Sizes: 6'x6',10'x6', 10'x10', 20'x10', 10'x30'
- Two Colors
- Brass Eyelets
- Mesh Nylon
- Sizes: 2'x2' 3'x4' 4'x6' 5'x6' 6'x6' 6'x7' 6'x8' 6'x9' 6'x10' 6'x11' 6'x12' 6'x13' 6'x14'
- Arrows up to 370fps
- Easy Arrow Removal
- Sizes: 5'x5', 5'x6', 5'x8', 5'x10'
- Grommets at Top and Bottom
- Easy Arrow Removal
So What is the Best Archery Backstop?
Which backstop is best for you depends on the shooting that you’re doing. The answer depends on the shooting space you have available.
Why? Well, if you´re shooting in your basement, you already have some “backstop” – most likely, there is a wall behind your target. It is more about protecting your arrows – not so much about protecting others.
And if you are shooting outside, it is a question of safety for others from any stray arrows. Not so much you ruining your arrows.
The best type of backstop for you depends on what kind of shooting practice you wish to undertake.
Shooting in Your Basement?
When you are shooting in your basement, block targets or bag targets will probably be your choice of target.
You still need some kind of backstop – other than the concrete wall…
Here are some DIY ideas:
- If you are shooting at a 3D target, put a bag target behind
- Rigid foam insulation duct-taped together could do the job
- Fill burlap sacks with hay, place them behind the target
- Hang a bunch of old quilts from the ceiling
Or you buy a special hanging backstop. They are easy to install and are not too expensive either.
Shooting in Your Backyard?
Now, things are getting more interesting. If you are shooting in your backyard, there is a great chance that the backstop could be something natural.
And of course, when you are practicing in your backyard, then it´s not just about protecting arrows from being broken or ruined by hitting trees and branches. Make sure you have an emergency stop to prevent stray arrows from becoming a hazard.
Place the target in front of your backstop, or move it up as long as it is high enough to catch an arrow.
The best natural archery backstops for an outdoor archer:
- A dirt pile, berm, or earthen bank
- Place your target in front of a barn
- You can use hay bales as well
One note: Hay bales will do the trick, but if you use a compound bow that shoots over 300 FPS, you will penetrate the bale pretty deeply. You could have a hard time finding your arrow or pulling it out…
Different Kinds Of Backstops
Professional Archery Back Stop Netting
Professional Back Stop Netting
Stop worrying about shooting a neighbor’s bird. Stop the arrows from tearing up your property with this professional archery backstop netting!
Specs:
- 5 sizes; 6′ x 6′, 10′ x 6v, 10′ x 10′, 20′ x 10′ & 10′ x 30′
- 2 colors (green/white)
- premium brass eyelets located every 3ft
- high-grade close mesh nylon
This high-quality nylon mesh will do the trick and is weather-resistant, so you don’t have to be concerned about rain or sun spoiling your purchase.
What we liked
- different sizes available
- premium brass eyelets
- weather-resistant nylon mesh
What we didn’t like
- White might not be the best color
Also, durable and with reinforced hems for all archers, including shooters at novice levels through an elite professional, it fits just about everyone’s needs.
Tip: Always remove arrows using an arrow-puller, no matter the material. An arrow pulled cleanly or with an arrow puller will not break if it becomes stuck. If you try to yank it out, you could break it.
CZZK Archery Backstop
CZZK Target BackStop
“The Ultimate Archery Target BackStop” from CZZK is one of the best ways to stop arrows, especially if you want something more durable than what’s currently on the market today.
It stops carbon, aluminum, and wood arrows(field tips only). You can choose from many sizes, it’s easy to remove your arrows, and it survives hundreds of shots without breaking down as other products do!
This product is tested up to 370 fps with field tips only (no broadheads)
Specs:
- 13 sizes; 2’x2′ 3’x4′ 4’x6′ 5’x6′ 6’x6′ 6’x7′ 6’x8′ 6’x9′ 6’x10′ 6’x11′ 6’x12′ 6’x13′ 6’x14′
What we liked
- Many sizes available
- Easy arrow removal
- Tested up to 370 fps
What we didn’t like
- Heavy Duty Version only available in 4’x6’
It’s made with high-density material, which makes it very durable and strong enough to handle many types of arrows.
You can also choose from different sizes depending on how much space you have available in your backyard or range area.
If you plan to shoot Crossbow, VAP, or other tips that are larger than the arrow shaft – There is an Extra Heavy Duty version available too!
Aoneky 2mm Archery Backstop
Aoneky Backstop up to 45 pounds Draw Weight
It’s hard to find a good backstop for archery. Many of them are too small, they break easily, or the arrow removal is difficult.
The Aoneky 2mm Archery Backstop solves all these problems and more!
The heavy-duty backstop is made from high-density polyethylene, making it durable enough for even the most active users.
Specs:
- 4 sizes; 5’x5′, 5’x6′, 5’x8′, 5’x10′
What we liked
- Grommets at top and bottom
- Easy arrow removal
What we didn’t like
- 45 lbs or less
- max. 5’x10′
The bottom border has grommets that make hanging easy and allow you to keep arrows in place while removing others with ease.
There’s also plenty of space on our backstop so that you can shoot safely without worrying about damaging your walls or furniture. And best of all, it stops carbon, aluminum, and wood arrows up to 45 lbs draw weight!
If you’re ready to stop wasting time looking for great archery backstops, then get yourself an Aoneky 2mm Archery Backstop today!
Of course, if you shoot at an archery range, it is up to the facility what they use for a backstop.
Other Types of Backstops Available
- Foam Block Backstop
- Freestanding Backstop
- PVC Freestanding Backstop
- Wooden Frame Freestanding Backstop
- Fence Post Freestanding Backstop
- Fence Backstop
Backstop Inspirations
Here are some pictures I found of archery backstops.
Summary
The type of backstop stop you use is up to your preference and the archery range or backyard shooting space you have.
Whatever type, size, material, etc., make sure it is in place before you shoot!
