Let’s Talk About American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target
The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target promises a portable and effective solution for archers and crossbow enthusiasts alike. American Whitetail Targets claims this target can handle the velocity of modern crossbows, all while remaining easy to transport and reuse. This review will explore whether this target lives up to the hype, based on my years of experience in outdoor and tactical gear.
What led me to seek out the Hornet Tagalong was the need for a target that could withstand repeated crossbow shots without breaking the bank or my back. I’ve struggled with heavier, more cumbersome targets in the past, especially when setting up temporary ranges or practicing in remote locations. This target offered the promise of portability, which I desperately needed.
Unboxing the American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target revealed a compact, black, soft-sided target. It felt lighter than expected, which initially raised concerns about its ability to stop high-velocity bolts. The materials seemed robust enough for a soft target, but I was eager to put it to the test.
Compared to other portable targets I’ve used, like the Block Classic and the Morrell Yellow Jacket, the Hornet Tagalong stood out due to its lighter weight and promise of water saturation for increased durability. I chose this one because of its potential for customization and the promise of easy transport. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – the portability was a definite win, but the real test would be its performance against a crossbow.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target was at my local archery range. I set it up at 20 yards and started shooting with my Barnett Whitetail Pro STR crossbow, which shoots around 400 FPS. The target stopped the bolts effectively, but I immediately noticed significant compression where the bolts hit.
The conditions were dry and sunny, ideal for testing the target in its unmodified state. The ease of use was exceptional – simply set it down and start shooting. However, the compression was concerning, as I worried about its long-term durability.
After about 10 shots, I did not experience any pass-throughs. But, I noticed a large indent at the bullseye.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target showed significant wear. While it still stopped the bolts, the impact points became noticeably softer and less resilient. I tried saturating it with water as American Whitetail Targets suggested, which did improve its stopping power temporarily.
The durability, even with water saturation, was not as impressive as I had hoped. Cleaning was not really an issue, as it’s a sealed target. However, the impact points remained compressed and visibly damaged. Compared to my experience with layered foam targets, this one deteriorated much faster.
Breaking Down the Features of American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target
Specifications
- The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target is designed as a soft target, intended to absorb the impact of arrows and crossbow bolts.
- It is rated for velocities up to 400 FPS, making it suitable for many modern crossbows and high-poundage bows. Its dimensions are approximately 15 inches wide by 10 inches tall.
The Manufacturer: American Whitetail Targets explicitly states it is rated to 400 fps, meaning the user shouldn’t use a bow or crossbow that sends projectiles faster. This rating matters because exceeding it could lead to pass-throughs, damaging your bolts or even causing a safety hazard.
Performance & Functionality
The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target performs adequately in stopping arrows and bolts within its rated velocity. Initially, it provides good stopping power. However, its performance degrades over time as the material compresses and loses its density.
Its primary strength is its portability. The weakness lies in its relatively short lifespan compared to more durable targets. It meets the basic expectation of stopping projectiles, but falls short in terms of long-term resilience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornet Tagalong features a simple, black rectangular design. The build quality feels adequate for a soft target at this price point. It is lightweight and easy to carry, making it very user-friendly.
There’s virtually no learning curve – just set it up and shoot. The lightweight design makes it ideal for archers who need a portable target. The black color could blend in well in some outdoor environments, but it offers no advanced ergonomic features.
Durability & Maintenance
The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target is not designed for extreme longevity. With consistent use, expect to replace it more frequently than a layered foam or solid block target. Maintenance is minimal; just keep it dry when not in use and avoid exceeding the recommended velocity.
Repair is not really an option – once the material is heavily compressed, the target’s performance suffers significantly. Its lifespan can be extended by saturating it with water. However, this comes with the inconvenience of needing to dry it out to prevent mildew.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target comes with no accessories. There aren’t any customization options, such as replaceable cores or different cover materials. Because of this, you get what you get. The black color cannot be changed.
It is compatible with any standard target stands or hanging systems. However, due to its size and weight, it is easy to prop up against a solid object or even rest on the ground. The lack of accessory compatibility is a drawback for archers who like to tweak and customize their equipment.
Pros and Cons of American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target
Pros
- Excellent portability: The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry to and from the range or into the field.
- Affordable price: At $55.99, it’s a budget-friendly option for archers who need a temporary or backup target.
- Easy to use: Requires no setup or assembly – just place it and start shooting.
- Stops arrows and bolts effectively: Within its rated velocity, it reliably stops projectiles without pass-throughs, initially.
- Can be saturated with water to increase durability: This extends its lifespan, albeit with some inconvenience.
Cons
- Limited durability: The material compresses quickly with repeated use, reducing its stopping power over time.
- No customization options: Lacks features like replaceable cores or different cover materials to extend its life.
- Requires regular saturation to extend durability: Without regular water saturation, the target is likely to wear out after a few uses.
Who Should Buy American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target?
The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target is perfect for archers who need a highly portable and affordable target for occasional use. It is ideal for beginners, recreational shooters, and anyone setting up temporary ranges. Hunters who need a lightweight target for sighting in their bows in the field will also benefit.
Those who should skip this product are archers who shoot frequently or use high-powered bows exceeding 400 FPS. This target is also not suitable for those who need a durable, long-lasting solution. Competitive shooters or anyone requiring consistent performance over an extended period should invest in a more robust target. A must-have addition would be a durable, weatherproof cover.
Conclusion on American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target
The American Whitetail Targets Hornet Tagalong Target offers a compelling value proposition for archers prioritizing portability and affordability. While it lacks the durability of more expensive targets, its lightweight design and ease of use make it a practical option for occasional shooting. The price is justified for what it offers.
I would recommend it to beginners and recreational shooters who need a temporary or backup target. Just be aware of its limitations and be prepared to replace it more frequently than a higher-end target. If you value portability over longevity, the Hornet Tagalong is a solid choice. Pick one up today and get out there and start shooting.