Unlike all of the other arms carried by Highlanders, which were mostly the product of Lowland manufacture, targes were almost exclusively made and used in the Highlands. Historically they date from the 17th and 18th centuries, and are circular in shape. They are made from two thin layers of oak or pine, the grain set cross-ways, much like modern plywood. Generally they are about 20 inches in diameter, and are covered with cowhide and usually richly decorated with brass or iron tacks on the front. The backs are usually covered in deer skin or goat skin, and have a hand grip and a loop for the arm to pass through. They also have a long strap which allows them to be slung over the shoulder and carried on the back when not in use. Some, but not all, have removable spikes that project from the central boss of the targe. The overall decoration was a matter of the artistry of the individual making the targe as no "factories" seem to have existed in the Highlands for this purpose.

The earliest targe known to have survived dates from 1623 although most date from the period of 1680-1750.

Lord Archibald Campbell goes into some detail about targes in his book, HIGHLAND DRESS, ARMS & ORNAMENT if you need more information on the subject.