The Morrell NASP Youth Target Made a Bold First Impression
The Morrell NASP Youth Target is a bag target explicitly designed for young archers participating in the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) or those using bows with a draw weight of 30 lbs or less. Morrell promises easy arrow removal and a durable Internal Frame System in a lightweight, portable package ideal for at-home training. It seemed the perfect solution to keep my kids practicing safely in our backyard.
My daughters recently joined the local NASP program, and consistent practice is crucial for improvement. I needed a safe, reliable target that could withstand repeated use without damaging their arrows, and something easy enough to move around. The Morrell NASP Youth Target, with its focus on youth archery and easy arrow removal, seemed like the ideal choice.
Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the target’s size and apparent sturdiness. The 28″x28″x10″ dimensions felt substantial enough to provide a good aiming surface. While the 18 lbs weight was heavier than some other youth targets I considered, it still felt manageable for moving it in and out of the garage. The stitching appeared solid, and the material felt durable, suggesting it could withstand plenty of use.
I considered other targets like the Field Logic Block Youth Archery Target and the Rinehart 18-1 Target. The Field Logic Block was appealing due to its layered foam construction, but I worried about arrow penetration with repeated use and potential arrow damage. The Rinehart 18-1 was smaller and more expensive, and the Morrell NASP Youth Target seemed a better value for the money considering its size and features.
My initial impression was positive. The Morrell NASP Youth Target looked like a well-built, purpose-driven target that would provide a safe and effective training tool for my young archers. I was excited to see how it performed in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Morrell NASP Youth Target to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Morrell NASP Youth Target in my backyard during a sunny afternoon with my two daughters. We set it up at various distances, ranging from the standard 10 meters used in NASP competitions to closer ranges for beginners. The target was placed on a slight incline, mimicking various shooting scenarios.
The target performed admirably. Arrows penetrated easily and consistently, and removal was as simple as Morrell promised. Even after repeated shots, there was minimal wear and tear on the target face. My daughters were able to focus on their form without struggling to pull arrows from the target, which was a huge plus.
There were no real issues after the first use. The target remained stable, even with slightly off-center shots. The bright colors made it easy to see from a distance, even in varying lighting conditions. It felt like a solid investment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Morrell NASP Youth Target has held up surprisingly well. We’ve used it almost daily, putting hundreds of arrows into it. The target face shows some signs of wear, but it’s still perfectly functional.
The durability has been impressive. Despite being left outside in the occasional light rain and sun, the target has shown no significant signs of fading or damage. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. I have experienced no maintenance issues.
Compared to cheaper bag targets I’ve used in the past, the Morrell NASP Youth Target is in a different class. Those other targets quickly lost their shape and became difficult to remove arrows from. This target, so far, has maintained its integrity and continues to offer easy arrow removal. It definitely outperforms my previous experiences.
Breaking Down the Features of Morrell NASP Youth Target
Specifications
- Dimensions: The target measures 28″x28″x10″. This provides a large, visible aiming surface, important for young archers.
- Weight: It weighs 18 lbs. While not the lightest option, this provides stability and prevents the target from easily tipping over.
- Bow Weight Limit: Designed for bows 30 lbs and under. This ensures optimal arrow penetration and prevents damage to the target.
- Internal Frame System: Morrell’s proprietary frame system is designed to maintain the target’s shape and integrity. This contributes to its overall durability.
- Easy Arrow Removal: One of the key selling points, this feature allows for effortless arrow retrieval, saving time and energy.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the target’s performance and suitability for youth archers. The size ensures visibility, the weight provides stability, and the bow weight limit prevents over-penetration and damage. Easy arrow removal is particularly crucial for younger archers, as it reduces frustration and promotes longer practice sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The Morrell NASP Youth Target performs its primary job – stopping arrows safely and providing easy removal – exceptionally well. Accuracy is obviously dependent on the archer, but the large target face provides a forgiving aiming point. Reliability has been excellent; there have been no issues with the target shifting, tearing, or failing to stop arrows.
Its main strength is easy arrow removal. This feature greatly improves the shooting experience. The only weakness is the target face material which will eventually wear down.
The Morrell NASP Youth Target meets and exceeds expectations. It’s a well-designed and durable target that makes archery practice more enjoyable for young archers.
Design & Ergonomics
The Morrell NASP Youth Target boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, contributing to the target’s longevity. Its weight provides a good balance of portability and stability.
It is very user-friendly. There’s essentially no learning curve. Simply place it down and start shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Morrell NASP Youth Target should last for several seasons with proper care. The outer material seems resilient to weather and UV exposure, which will reduce degradation.
Maintenance is minimal. Periodic inspection for tears or damage is recommended, but otherwise, no special care is required. Simple maintenance promotes longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Morrell NASP Youth Target does not come with any specific accessories. It’s a standalone target designed to be used as-is.
There are no specific customization options. The target is designed for its intended purpose and doesn’t require any modifications. It’s compatible with standard target stands, if desired, and can be easily moved for varying practice distances.
Pros and Cons of Morrell NASP Youth Target
Pros
- Easy arrow removal minimizes fatigue and frustration for young archers.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Large target face provides a forgiving aiming area, boosting confidence.
- Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to transport and set up.
- Excellent value for the price compared to similar youth archery targets.
Cons
- Designed for bows 30 lbs and under only. It is not suitable for higher draw weights.
- No included stand or carrying case. These must be purchased separately.
Who Should Buy Morrell NASP Youth Target?
Perfect for: Parents or coaches of young archers participating in NASP or other youth archery programs. Ideal for at-home practice and skill development. Those seeking a durable, reliable target for light draw weight bows will find it well-suited.
Who should skip this product? Archers using bows with draw weights exceeding 30 lbs should look for a target designed for higher poundage. Those seeking a multi-faceted target with different aiming points or integrated scoring might find other options more appealing.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A target stand can enhance stability and prevent the target from sinking into soft ground. A carrying case can make transportation easier, especially for tournaments or travel.
Conclusion on Morrell NASP Youth Target
The Morrell NASP Youth Target is a well-designed, durable, and effective training tool for young archers. Its ease of use and reliability make it a valuable asset for any aspiring archer. Morrell has clearly focused on the needs of youth archers in designing this product.
The price is justified by the quality and performance offered. Given its longevity and ability to withstand repeated use, the Morrell NASP Youth Target is a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend this target to anyone looking for a safe and effective way to help their children improve their archery skills. It’s a fantastic product that delivers on its promises and makes archery practice more enjoyable for everyone involved. Invest in your young archer’s future, grab the Morrell NASP Youth Target and watch their skills soar!