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

BTB 7Mm RUM Lead
BTB 7Mm RUM Lead

Behind the Bullet: 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum

Launching a 160-grain bullet in excess of 3200 fps, the 7mm RUM is among the fastest commercially loaded 7mm cartridges available.

USFWS Debuts 2025-2026 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps

The 2025-2026 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp—commonly known as the Duck Stamp—became available for purchase on June 27, 2025.

Tested: Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Digital Associate Editor walks viewers through the features of the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener, the perfect tool for a hunter looking to keep all his knives factory sharp season after season.

Recipe: Green Curried Black Bear

Green curry sauce is an excellent base for simmering bear meat, making it flavorful, tender, and safe to consume. Read on for another instant classic recipe from Brad Fenson.

Coyotes to Competitions: An AR-Build for Accuracy

ARs make great coyote guns. But what would the absolute best coyote rifle look like? Digital Associate Editor David Herman builds his take on the best AR for shooters who like to plug coyotes in the winter, and ring steel all summer long.

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Sunday Hunting Bill

Legislation that will fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban was signed into law on July 9.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.