Let’s Talk About Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target
The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target is a simple, budget-friendly archery target designed for recreational shooting. Made by Oncore Targets, it boasts self-healing foam construction and a hand-painted ram target face. For archers seeking an affordable and portable practice target, this could be an option worth exploring.
As someone who’s spent years honing my skills with a bow, I’m always on the lookout for effective and durable targets. My current setup for backyard practice was showing its age, riddled with holes and starting to crumble. I needed a replacement that wouldn’t break the bank but could still withstand consistent use.
Upon unboxing the Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target, I was immediately struck by its lightweight design. The hand-painted ram looked decent, although I did notice some slight imperfections in the paint job. The 5/8″ foam felt reasonably firm, but I was curious to see how well it would actually “self-heal.”
Compared to layered foam targets like the Block Classic or bag targets like the Morrell Yellow Jacket, the Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target is significantly thinner and less expensive. I chose this product because of its appealing low price and the self-healing claim, hoping it would provide a decent practice target without the bulk and cost of more elaborate options. My layered foam target was heavy and cumbersome; I was ready for something lighter.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the target felt a little flimsy, its portability and affordability were definitely appealing. The real test would be how well it held up to repeated shots and whether the self-healing properties lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target at my usual backyard practice range. The conditions were sunny and mild, perfect for an afternoon of shooting. I set the target up against a sturdy wooden fence to provide a safe backstop.
Initially, the target seemed to perform reasonably well. Arrows penetrated easily and were relatively easy to remove. There were no immediate signs of significant damage, and the “self-healing” foam seemed to close up the holes to some extent after each shot.
After about an hour of shooting, however, I started to notice some issues. The areas around the center of the target were becoming noticeably softer, and some arrows were beginning to pass through the target completely. Also, several arrows were difficult to pull, pulling out chunks of foam with them.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of consistent use (approximately 3-4 sessions per week), the Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target showed significant wear and tear. The center scoring ring was essentially destroyed, with large holes and chunks of missing foam. The surrounding rings also showed considerable damage, with arrows frequently passing through or tearing the foam.
The target’s durability proved to be its biggest weakness. While the self-healing foam initially seemed promising, it quickly degraded under repeated impacts, particularly in the high-traffic areas.
Maintenance was relatively simple, as there wasn’t much to do besides occasionally picking up loose pieces of foam. Cleaning wasn’t necessary. Compared to my previous layered foam target, the Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target was far less durable and required replacement much sooner. The claim of “100’s of shots” to the center ring proved to be greatly exaggerated in my testing.
Breaking Down the Features of Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Oncore Targets produces archery targets, including this ram model.
- Width: 36 inches provides a reasonably sized target face.
- Depth/Thickness: 0.6 inches makes the target very thin and lightweight.
- Material: Made from 5/8″ premium self-healing foam. The foam is supposed to offer durability and self-healing properties.
- Target Face: Hand-painted ram target. This offers a visual aiming point for archers.
- Mounting: Attaches to any safe backstop. This allows for flexible placement options.
These specifications translate to a target that is easy to transport and set up but may lack the stopping power and longevity of thicker, denser targets. The thin profile might be suitable for low-poundage bows, but it may not be adequate for higher draw weights.
Performance & Functionality
The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target functions primarily as a visual aiming point. However, its stopping power and durability are limited.
Its biggest strength is its portability and low cost. The primary weakness is its poor durability and limited stopping power, particularly with higher draw weight bows.
The target does not meet expectations for longevity and resistance to arrow penetration. The self-healing properties are also not as effective as advertised.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point, but the materials used are not particularly robust. The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target‘s light weight makes it easy to handle, but the thin profile compromises its durability.
The design is simple and straightforward. However, a thicker profile and denser foam would significantly improve its performance. There is virtually no learning curve; setting it up and using it is as easy as it gets.
Durability & Maintenance
The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target‘s lifespan is relatively short, especially with frequent use. I estimate that with regular practice, the target will likely need to be replaced within a few months.
Maintenance is minimal, as there are no moving parts or intricate components. Simply pick up any loose foam debris. However, the target is not repairable once the foam begins to degrade significantly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available, such as interchangeable target faces or adjustable stands.
The target is a standalone product designed for basic archery practice. Its lack of compatibility with aftermarket accessories reflects its budget-friendly nature.
Pros and Cons of Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target
Pros
- Lightweight and portable for easy transport and setup.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious archers.
- Hand-painted target face provides a clear aiming point.
- The target face is visually appealing.
- Simple and easy to use, with no assembly required.
Cons
- Poor durability and limited lifespan, particularly with frequent use and higher draw weights.
- The self-healing foam degrades quickly, especially in high-impact areas.
- Arrows can easily pass through the target, posing a safety risk if the backstop is inadequate.
- The claim of “100’s of shots” to the center ring is greatly exaggerated in real-world use.
Who Should Buy Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target?
The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target is perfect for recreational archers with low-poundage bows who are looking for an inexpensive and portable practice target. It’s suitable for beginners or casual shooters who don’t require a high-performance or long-lasting target.
This product is not ideal for serious archers, those with high-draw-weight bows, or anyone seeking a durable and reliable target for frequent practice. Individuals looking for a target that can withstand thousands of shots should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory for this target is a robust backstop. Given the target’s limited stopping power, a sturdy fence, wall, or net is essential to prevent arrows from traveling beyond the target area.
Conclusion on Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target
The Oncore Targets Ram Self-Healing Archery Target offers a budget-friendly entry point into archery target practice. Its lightweight design and hand-painted target face are appealing, but its poor durability and limited stopping power are significant drawbacks.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is low, the target’s short lifespan means that it may be more cost-effective to invest in a more durable target in the long run.
I would only cautiously recommend this product to casual archers with low-poundage bows who are aware of its limitations. Serious archers or those seeking a long-lasting target should definitely explore other options. This target is a temporary solution at best, suitable for occasional recreational use. Consider investing in a higher-quality target for better performance and durability if you plan to shoot frequently.