DIY Wooden Archery Target Stand: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 31/05/2025

Archery is a rewarding hobby, demanding precision, focus, and consistent practice. A crucial element of any archer's setup is a sturdy and reliable target stand, capable of withstanding repeated impacts from arrows. While commercially available stands exist, building your own offers a unique opportunity to customize size, design, and material to perfectly suit your needs and budget. The satisfaction of crafting your own target stand from readily available materials, like wood, is a rewarding experience in itself.

This DIY project allows you to construct a robust wooden archery target stand that will last for years. The step-by-step guide below will walk you through each stage of construction, from selecting the necessary materials and tools to assembling and finishing your personalized target stand, ensuring you have a safe and effective place to hone your archery skills.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Wood (2x4s)
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Screws
  • Measuring Tape
  • Framing Square
  • Pencil
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear appropriate eye protection when shooting arrows. Even seemingly minor ricochets can cause serious eye injuries.
  • Ensure the target stand is securely anchored to the ground to prevent tipping or movement during use. Use heavy-duty stakes or weights as needed.
  • Never shoot at a target unless there is a clear and safe backstop behind it. Make sure no one is in the line of fire.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Base Supports

    • Cut two 2-foot sections from 2x4s.
    • Locate the center of the base supports and mark it.
    Locate the center of the base supports and mark it.Locate the center of the base supports and mark it.
    Prepare Base Supports

  2. Prepare Uprights

    • Cut two 4-foot uprights from 2x4s.
    Cut two 4-foot uprights from 2x4s.
    Prepare Uprights

  3. Assemble Frame

    • Center the uprights on the base supports and attach them using screws. Use a framing square to ensure the uprights are perpendicular to the base.
    Center the uprights on the base supports and attach them using screws. Use a framing square to ensure the uprights are perpendicular to the base.
    Assemble Frame

  4. Prepare and Attach Top Support

    • Measure the width of the target and cut a top piece of wood to match (slightly larger for better fit).
    • Attach the top piece to the uprights, ensuring it's level. Pre-drill pilot holes for easier screwing.
    • Check the angles of the uprights using a framing square and adjust if needed.
    Check the angles of the uprights using a framing square and adjust if needed.Check the angles of the uprights using a framing square and adjust if needed.Check the angles of the uprights using a framing square and adjust if needed.
    Prepare and Attach Top Support

  5. Test Fit and Adjust

    • Make the top piece slightly wider for easier insertion)
    Test fit the target to ensure it fits snugly. (Tip: Make the top piece slightly wider for easier insertion)
    Test Fit and Adjust

  6. Add Bottom Support

    • Add a bottom support piece for extra rigidity.
    • Attach the bottom support piece.
    Attach the bottom support piece.Attach the bottom support piece.
    Add Bottom Support

  7. Final Touches

    • Install eye bolts at the top for hanging the target.
    Install eye bolts at the top for hanging the target.
    Final Touches

Read more: Crafting a Biodegradable Woodsman's Whistle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting when screwing.
  • Use a framing square to ensure perpendicular angles between the uprights and base.
  • Make the top piece slightly larger than the target's width for easier fit.
  • Prop up the stand on a 2x4 during construction to ensure evenness and prevent warping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficiently Sturdy Base

Reason: Using too thin or small pieces of wood for the base, leading to instability and tipping over when arrows hit the target.
Solution: Use thicker and wider wood for the base, or add bracing for extra support.

2. Incorrect Target Height

Reason: Setting the target too high or too low, resulting in uncomfortable shooting posture and inaccurate shots.
Solution: Adjust the stand height to match the archer's height and ensure a comfortable shooting position.

3. Neglecting Ground Conditions

Reason: Ignoring uneven or soft ground, leading to instability and potential damage to the stand.
Solution: Level the ground before placing the stand, or use stakes or a larger base to increase stability.

FAQs

What type of wood is best for building an archery target stand?
Hardwoods like oak or maple are ideal for their durability and resistance to arrow impacts. Pressure-treated lumber is also a good option for outdoor use and weather resistance, but ensure it's completely dry before construction to prevent warping.
How far should the target stand be from the shooting line?
The distance depends on your archery skill level and the type of arrows you're using. A safe starting point is at least 10 yards (30 feet) for beginners, increasing as your skill improves. Always prioritize safety and ensure sufficient space behind the target.