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

W H2026 06 Africa Photo Aug 17 2025, 11 30 46 AM
W H2026 06 Africa Photo Aug 17 2025, 11 30 46 AM

An Account of Africa

Our man traveled to South Africa with a Bergara rifle bent on business.

New for 2026: Leupold BX-2 Timberline HD Binocular

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has launched the BX-2 Timberline HD. This rugged bino sports a roof prism design for a detailed image, while the compact design wrapped in rubberized armor provides purchase and durability.

Grants to Help Address Mallard Production in Great Lakes Regions

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Conservation Commission recently granted Ducks Unlimited (DU) and numerous partners $9 million in North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) funds.

Head to Head: 6.5 Weatherby RPM vs. 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum

Which 6.5 will come out on top? The 6.5 Weatherby RPM, or the 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum? Find out in this week's installment of Head to Head.

New for 2026: Warne Maxima Horizontal QD Rings

Warne has introduced Maxima Horizontal Quick Detach Rings, expanding the Maxima product family with a fast and reliable quick-detach mounting solution.

First Look: Federal Suppressor Case

Federal Ammunition is now shipping its Suppressor Case, designed to keep suppressors safe and secure when not in use.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.