Target Block

What is a Target Block?

A Target Block is a Redstone component in Minecraft that detects projectile hits and emits a Redstone signal. It is primarily used in archery practice, Redstone circuits, and automated contraptions, allowing players to create interactive challenges, traps, and complex Redstone systems. The closer a projectile hits to the center of the Target Block, the stronger the Redstone signal it produces.

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Where Can Target Blocks Be Found?

Target Blocks do not generate naturally and must be crafted by players. To craft one, players need four Redstone Dust and one Hay Bale, placing the Hay Bale in the center and surrounding it with Redstone Dust inside a Crafting Table. Since Hay Bales are obtained from Wheat and Redstone is common underground, crafting a Target Block is easy in both early and late-game survival.

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What Can Players Do with a Target Block?

The Target Block functions as a Redstone-powered target that activates when hit by arrows, tridents, snowballs, eggs, potions, and other projectiles. The closer the hit is to the center, the stronger the Redstone signal emitted (from 1 to 15 strength), making it useful for precision-based Redstone mechanics.

Players use Target Blocks for:

• Archery practice, as hitting the bullseye improves aim.
• Secret door triggers, where only accurate shots open hidden passages.
• Redstone mini-games, where players must hit targets to activate mechanisms.
• Trap activation, where hitting a Target Block activates TNT or opens a pitfall.

Target Blocks are a unique way to interact with Redstone, providing a fun and skill-based alternative to standard pressure plates or levers.

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The History of Target Blocks in Minecraft

Target Blocks were introduced in Minecraft Java Edition 1.16, as part of the “Nether Update.” This update expanded Redstone mechanics, adding new blocks like the Target Block and Crying Obsidian, which improved player interaction with Redstone contraptions.

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Interesting Fact or Real-Life Connection

Target Blocks are inspired by real-world archery targets, which have concentric rings that determine scoring based on accuracy. Just like in Minecraft, hitting closer to the center in real-world archery yields a higher score, making precision and aim essential skills in both sports and Redstone-based challenges.

For more details on Target Blocks and Redstone mechanics, visit the Rusty Ingot knowledge base to explore the Redstone Components Guide.