Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target Review

Getting Started with the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target

Archery practice, for me, has always been about more than just hitting the bullseye; it’s a ritual, a moment of focus that requires the right tools. I’d been looking for a compact, durable target face that could withstand repeated arrow impacts without breaking the bank, especially for casual backyard practice and quick range sessions. My previous target faces, often flimsy paper or basic foam, had a tendency to degrade quickly, leading to frustration and increased replacement costs. That’s when I stumbled upon the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target.

This target face, with its distinct alien head design, immediately caught my eye. The promise of 5/8″ premium self-healing foam and its hand-painted detail suggested a step up from the usual offerings. First impressions upon unboxing were positive; it felt surprisingly robust for its size, and the painted detail, while simplistic, was clear and well-applied. I’d briefly considered some larger, more expensive block targets, but their bulk and cost weren’t ideal for my current needs, making this smaller, more affordable option quite appealing. My initial reaction was one of quiet curiosity, hoping this little alien head would prove to be more than just a novelty.

Real-World Testing: Putting Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target in my backyard range, set up against a standard archery backstop for safety. My setup involves a compound bow with a draw weight of 50 pounds, firing carbon arrows with field points. The initial setup was straightforward; it easily attached to my existing target stand using simple zip ties, a method that felt secure enough for my needs.

Conditions varied during testing, including dry, sunny afternoons and one session with light, intermittent drizzle. The target face handled these conditions remarkably well, showing no signs of the foam softening or the paint bleeding, even after a few hours exposed to the elements. Ease of use was definitely a strong point; there was no learning curve involved, just a simple matter of drawing and shooting.

My only minor surprise was how well the self-healing properties worked. Even with some fairly direct hits from my arrows, the puncture marks were significantly less pronounced than I’d expected, suggesting a good lifespan.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, approximately three to four practice sessions per week, the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target has held up admirably. I estimate it’s sustained well over a hundred arrow impacts, with the central scoring rings still remarkably intact. There are no visible cracks or stiffness developing in the foam, and it maintains its shape effectively.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent, which is a huge plus. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dirt or debris, and it stores easily without taking up much space. Compared to previous paper targets that would tear and shred after just a few dozen shots, or cheaper foam targets that would develop deep, permanent gashes, this model definitely punches above its weight class.

Breaking Down the Features of Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target

Specifications

The Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target is constructed from 5/8″ premium self-healing foam, a material chosen for its ability to absorb arrow energy and then return to its original shape. This thickness provides a good balance between stopping power and portability. The target measures 7.5 inches in width and has a depth/thickness of 0.6 inches, making it compact and lightweight.

Its length is also listed as 0.6 inches, which aligns with its generally flat profile. The target face is hand painted in a grey/black color scheme, designed to be visible at typical archery distances. The inclusion of Universal Score Rings is a practical feature, allowing for traditional scoring. The manufacturer, Oncore Targets, clearly designed this for ease of use and durability.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job – stopping arrows – the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target performs very well for its size and price point. The self-healing foam effectively absorbs arrow impacts, and the scoring rings provide a clear target area. I found that the center score ring, as advertised, sustains a remarkable number of shots before showing significant degradation.

The combined rings, according to the manufacturer, can handle over a thousand shots, and while I haven’t reached that threshold, the wear so far supports this claim. A key strength is its durability; it doesn’t feel like it will easily splinter or fall apart. The main limitation is its size; while excellent for practice, it’s not designed for high-poundage bows at very close distances where larger, denser targets might be preferred for maximum longevity. It meets expectations for a compact, durable practice target.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target is simple yet effective. The alien head graphic is distinctive and provides a clear visual focus. The hand-painted detail, while not museum quality, is functional and durable. The overall build quality feels solid, with the 5/8″ premium self-healing foam providing a satisfying density upon impact.

Ergonomically, there isn’t much to speak of in terms of handling, as it’s designed to be mounted rather than held. However, its light weight and manageable dimensions make it easy to attach to various backstops or stands. The markings for the Universal Score Rings are clear and do not interfere with the target’s functionality.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target offers excellent durability for its intended use. The self-healing foam is the star here, minimizing permanent damage from arrow impacts. I haven’t encountered any material fatigue or breakdown issues.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward; a simple wipe-down is usually sufficient. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about. Potential failure points might include extreme weather exposure over extended periods (though it’s proven resistant to light rain) or exceptionally high-poundage bows consistently hitting the exact same spot. However, for standard practice with compound or recurve bows, it seems built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target itself is a single accessory designed to be attached to a larger backstop. It comes ready to use with its hand-painted scoring rings. While there are no included accessories in the traditional sense, its primary feature is its compatibility. It attaches to any safe backstop, allowing users to integrate it into their existing target setup.

There aren’t any specific customization options for the target face itself, beyond its hand-painted design. However, the inclusion of Universal Score Rings means it integrates well with standard archery scoring practices. Its lightweight nature also means it can be easily mounted using various methods like zip ties, bungee cords, or specialized clips.

Pros and Cons of Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target

Who Should Buy Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target?

The Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target is an excellent choice for recreational archers, beginners, and intermediate shooters who are looking for a cost-effective and durable practice target. It’s perfect for backyard archery setups, small indoor ranges, or for taking to an outdoor range for quick practice sessions. Anyone who values durability and ease of use over a massive target face will find this model highly suitable.

Those who require a target capable of withstanding hundreds of arrow impacts from high-poundage bows at very close distances might want to consider larger, more robust block targets. However, for general practice, field point shooting, and skill development, this compact target excels. A recommended accessory would be heavy-duty zip ties or bungee cords for secure mounting, ensuring it stays put during intense shooting sessions.

Conclusion on Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target

The Oncore Targets Alien Head Archery Target is a surprisingly capable and resilient practice target, especially considering its modest price. Its 5/8″ premium self-healing foam construction delivers on its promise of durability, absorbing arrow impacts effectively and minimizing permanent damage. For its $6.99 price tag, the value proposition is exceptional, offering a reliable and long-lasting option for casual archers.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this target face to anyone looking for an affordable, durable, and easy-to-use addition to their archery practice routine. It’s not the biggest or the most elaborate target on the market, but it performs its core function exceptionally well, making it a solid choice for backyard plinking or honing your skills without breaking the bank.