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joe9838
Oct 15, 20244 min read

Shooting Targets: Paper, Reactive, and More

Updated: Dec 24, 2024


Choosing the right shooting target can have a significant impact on your practice sessions, whether you're sighting in a rifle, honing your skills with a pistol, or engaging in tactical drills. From simple paper targets to advanced reactive targets, this guide covers the most common types of shooting targets, including their pros, cons, and best use cases.


Paper Targets: Simple, Cost-Effective, and Versatile

Paper targets are the most basic and cost-effective option for shooters. They come in a variety of designs, including bullseyes, silhouettes, and grid patterns, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your shooting goals.

Pros:

  • Affordable: Paper targets are inexpensive and can be purchased in bulk.

  • Customizable: They are available in a wide range of designs, from standard bullseye targets to more detailed grid targets for precision shooting.

  • Ideal for Rifles and Pistols: Paper targets can be used with both rifles and pistols for short- and long-range shooting.

Cons:

  • No Immediate Feedback: Unless you’re using a spotting scope or shooting at close range, it can be hard to see your hits, especially at longer distances.

Best Use Cases:

  • Precision Shooting: Grid paper targets are excellent for sighting in rifles and testing accuracy.

  • Practice Rounds: Bullseye or silhouette paper targets are ideal for general practice with handguns and rifles.


Reactive Targets: Instant Feedback for Improved Shooting

Reactive targets offer instant feedback when hit, helping shooters understand shot placement more easily. These targets include color-changing paper targets, steel targets, and even more interactive designs like rubber targets that move when struck.

Color-Changing Targets

Color-changing paper targets are similar to traditional paper targets but feature a special coating that changes color where the bullet impacts. This makes it easier to spot your hits without a spotting scope or walking up to the target.

  • Pros:

    • Immediate Feedback: Hits are easier to see thanks to the color contrast, even at longer distances.

    • Cost-Effective: These are slightly more expensive than standard paper targets but still affordable.

  • Best Use Cases:

    • Mid-Range Rifle Practice: Excellent for 100-200 yard shooting with rifles.

    • Handgun Training: Ideal for indoor or outdoor handgun ranges.

Steel Targets

Steel targets are popular for their durability and the satisfying "ping" sound they make when struck. These targets are made from hardened steel, typically AR500 grade, making them resistant to bullet impacts from both handguns and rifles.

  • Pros:

    • Durable: Steel targets can be used repeatedly without breaking or tearing.

    • Immediate Feedback: The sound of the impact provides instant confirmation of a hit.

    • Versatile: Steel targets can be used for handguns, rifles, and even shotguns.

  • Cons:

    • Expensive: Steel targets are more expensive than paper targets but can last for years if properly maintained.

    • Safety Considerations: Shooters must maintain safe distances (at least 10-15 yards for handguns and 100 yards for rifles) to avoid ricochet hazards.

  • Best Use Cases:

    • Tactical Training: Steel targets are excellent for drills where quick target acquisition and feedback are important.

    • Long-Range Shooting: Large steel plates are ideal for long-range rifle shooting (300+ yards), where immediate visual feedback is critical.

Rubber Reactive Targets

Rubber reactive targets are lightweight, durable, and designed to move or bounce when struck. They come in a variety of shapes, from balls and cubes to animal silhouettes, adding an element of challenge and fun to shooting practice.

  • Pros:

    • Durable: Rubber targets can withstand hundreds of hits without breaking or losing shape.

    • Interactive: The movement of the target after being hit adds an extra challenge for shooters.

  • Best Use Cases:

    • Handgun and Shotgun Practice: These targets are perfect for close-range shooting, especially for handguns and shotguns where the shooter wants to engage multiple moving targets.


Specialty Targets: Creative and Fun Alternatives

Specialty targets offer more creative and engaging ways to practice shooting. These include targets designed for specific calibers or shooting styles, and can add variety to your practice sessions.

Clay Targets

Clay targets, often used for trap or skeet shooting, are designed to break apart when hit. They are the go-to choice for shotgun enthusiasts looking to practice hitting moving targets.

  • Best Use Case: Clay targets are ideal for shotgun practice, especially for sports like trap, skeet, or sporting clays.

Exploding Targets

Exploding or binary targets, such as Tannerite, are designed to create a small explosion when struck by a high-velocity round. These targets are typically used for long-range shooting or special events.

  • Best Use Case: Long-range rifle practice or shooting events where a visual and auditory impact is desired.


Rifle vs. Pistol-Specific Targets

When choosing targets, it’s important to consider the type of firearm you’re using:

  • Rifle-Specific Targets: Paper targets with small bullseyes or precision grids are excellent for sighting in and fine-tuning rifle accuracy. Steel targets for rifles should be placed at least 100 yards away due to the higher velocity of rifle rounds.

  • Pistol-Specific Targets: Large silhouette targets or color-changing targets work well for pistols, as they provide a clear visual of shot placement at shorter distances (7-25 yards). Steel targets for pistols can be used at closer distances (10-15 yards), making them ideal for tactical drills.


Targets Suitable for Both Rifle and Pistol Practice

If you’re looking for a target that works well for both rifle and pistol shooting, consider steel targets or color-changing paper targets that provide instant feedback. Reactive rubber targets can also work for both, adding variety to your training.


Whether you’re a precision rifle shooter, a pistol enthusiast, or a shotgun expert, selecting the right target will enhance your practice sessions. Paper targets are affordable and versatile, while reactive targets like steel and color-changing targets provide immediate feedback that can help improve your skills. Adding specialty targets like clays or rubber reactive targets can make practice more fun and engaging.


Looking for the right targets for your next range session? Browse our selection of paper, reactive, and specialty targets to fit your shooting needs. Explore our inventory here.


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