What is the purpose of a backstop in archery?

The purpose of a backstop in archery is primarily to catch arrows that miss the target. This is critical for ensuring safety during shooting sessions, as it prevents arrows from continuing beyond the designated shooting area and potentially harming spectators, equipment, or property. The backstop effectively absorbs the arrows' momentum and stops them, serving as a safety barrier.

Having a reliable backstop in place allows archers to focus on their technique and performance without the worry of where the arrows may land if they stray off course. It fulfills an essential safety role in any archery range or setup, particularly in environments where there may be people or objects beyond the target area. Adequate backstops are also vital for range maintenance and for minimizing the loss of arrows, which can be costly and inconvenient for archers.

In contrast, other choices pertain to different aspects of archery that are not the main function of a backstop. Holding the target in place, measuring arrow distance, and adjusting arrow trajectory are all elements of archery practice and equipment setup but do not involve the primary role of the backstop.