A wooden target constructed with the wood fibers oriented perpendicular to the face presents a safer and more durable surface for impacting projectiles. This orientation allows the axe to penetrate between the fibers, reducing the force of impact and minimizing bounce-back. An example would be a circular target made from stacked, short sections of logs.
This construction offers several advantages. The target suffers less damage compared to traditional edge-grain targets, leading to a longer lifespan. Reduced axe bounce-back creates a safer throwing environment. Furthermore, this method of construction allows for self-healing as the wood fibers close around the axe head. Historically, this orientation has been preferred for chopping blocks for similar reasons, demonstrating a practical application of wood properties understood and utilized for generations.
