Field Tested: Morrell Yellow Jacket Kinetic 1.0

Although it may have been hard to imagine even just five or six years ago, a number of crossbows today now launch bolts well over 400 fps.

In fact, two horizontal bow manufacturers — Ravin Crossbows and TenPoint Crossbow Technologies — actually make models that send bolts flying more than 500 fps, a speed that was once unthinkable.

As bow and especially crossbow technology and speeds have advanced, so has the need for high-quality practice targets capable of withstanding repeated assault from ultra-fast, hard-hitting arrows and bolts. Backyard targets that were once capable of handling shots from any compound or crossbow may no longer be up to the task, especially when they’re stacked against a high-end horizontal bow.

That’s why Morrell Targets’ Yellow Jacket Kinetic 1.0 caught my eye. New for 2022, this heavy-duty, incredibly sturdy bag target is advertised as having no fps maximum. Essentially, it’s designed to handle the impact of any arrow or bolt, even bolts traveling 500-plus fps.

We recently put the Kinetic 1.0 through a workout, testing the target against several different bows and crossbows, and it stopped every shot with ease, including micro-diameter bolts. As a matter of fact, in most instances, the arrows and bolts were only embedded a few inches into the target, an impressive feat to say the least.

Bag targets are, of course, known for allowing easy retrieval of arrows and bolts and the Kinetic 1.0 is no exception, with every projectile sliding out easily using just one hand.

The secret to the Kinetic 1.0’s incredible stopping power is in its rock-solid construction and base. Measuring 20 inches tall by 20 inches wide and 15 inches deep, the cube-like target features an impressive foundation and it is hand-stuffed with nearly 65 pounds of premium fill, making it more than capable of withstanding the energy and force of high-velocity arrows and bolts.

As far as what you’ll see when you’re aiming, the Kinetic 1.0 features high-contrast graphics on both its front and back faces, making it easy to focus on the bull’s-eye and other aim points. The target is also weather-resistant, with a tough polypropylene cover. And, in the event the bag cover wears out from repeated use, or it fades due to prolonged exposure to the sun and elements, Morrell also sells a replacement cover for $28.99.

If you are in the market for a new target, there are a few important points about the Kinetic 1.0 worth noting. First off, the target isn’t designed to handle broadheads, so all practice should be done with fieldpoints. Second, using outserts or fieldpoints that are larger than the arrow or bolt shaft is not recommended and will make retrieval difficult.

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Although the Kinetic 1.0 checks in at just over 65 pounds, don’t let that weight fool you. The target is actually fairly easy to move short distances, or carry indoors if you prefer to keep it out of the elements between practice sessions, thanks to the carrying straps on its sides.

If you practice year-round, or you regularly shoot a high-speed bow or crossbow, the Kinetic 1.0 is a target that needs to be on your radar. In fact, no matter what you send its way, this is one arrow- and bolt-stopper that’s guaranteed to stand up to the task. — Associate Editor Mark Demko