Where To Start

Every good shooter is built on targets. The right target shows exactly where each round lands, makes practice fun enough to keep doing, and tells the truth about a zero, a load or a trigger press. Picking one comes down to four things. Work through these steps and the right target becomes obvious.

Four steps to the right target

Step 1: Set the goal

A rifle zero needs a fine aiming point and a clean grid. Defensive drills need a silhouette and scoring zones. A fun afternoon needs instant feedback. Decide what the trip is for before buying anything. Choosing Shooting Targets covers the details.

Step 2: Pick the type

Paper and cardboard targets record every hole. Steel Targets ring on a hit and last for years. Reactive Targets splatter, spin or fall so hits show from a distance. Realistic Targets add photo-real threats and no-shoot zones, and Training Targets cover scoring and drill targets.

Step 3: Match the gun

Steel must be rated for the caliber and velocity it will take, and shot from a safe minimum distance. Paper and cardboard work with anything. Always follow the target maker’s ratings and the range rules.

Step 4: Hold it up

A target is only as good as what holds it. Target Stands covers portable frames, steel stands and simple DIY options that stay put in the wind.

Finish it off

Common questions are answered in the Target F.A.Q. Compare the brands on Target Manufacturers, and see how shooting targets developed on the Target Timeline. New videos and write-ups land in the Target Blog.