How High Up Should the Target Be for Archery?

More than 10,000 field archery competitions take place worldwide each year.

Professional Rules Depend On Event Location

The IFAA estimates more than 20 million archery enthusiasts worldwide.

While archery dates back at least 2,000 years, no firmly established rules exist on factors such as the correct placement of targets. Professional organizations such as the International Field Archery Association advise that each professional archery event have its own rules and guidelines. Another factor centers on whether the event takes place indoors or outdoors. If you attend a professional event, check the official event rules.

Casual Archery

Even the very young can enjoy archery.

No widely accepted guideline exists for the placement of targets for casual archers. However, manufacturers recommend placing targets at about a 15 degree angle with the center of the target located 48 inches off the ground.

Bottom Line

Despite the lack of an industry consensus for the placement of archery targets, the 48-inch height is the most commonly used height. In the end, it all depends on whether you shoot at a professional event or simply practice in your backyard for fun.

References

• International Field Archery Association: Rules of Shoot