Types of Targets for Shooting: Find the Best Option for Practice & Precision

Introduction

We always say target shooting practice makes the marksman. Sure, gear matters, but skill is what truly sets a shooter apart.

How you shoot is more important than what you shoot.

But what you’re shooting at matters too. Paper targets vs. steel targets. Stationary, reactive, DIY options. Different types of shooting targets serve different purposes, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your training.

Think sticking to just one type of shooting target is the way to go? Nope, that’s not how you level up, sharpshooter. Mixing up your shooting practice targets helps you refine precision shooting, train recoil management, and sharpen speed drills.

Perhaps you are setting up your own personal shooting range, or maybe you’re looking to take it pro as a business. Whether you’re an instructor, range owner, or a shooter dialing in your skills, in this guide we will explain the best types of shooting targets so you can choose the right one for your needs.

Types of Shooting Targets

Paper Targets

If you’re just getting into shooting—welcome to the club! Chances are, your first shots will be at basic paper targets. Simple, affordable, and easy to replace, they’re the go-to option for refining accuracy and recoil control.

But not all paper targets are the same. Some have small circles designed for precision shooting and tight grouping drills. Others feature larger shapes with circles and hit zones to help you track recoil management and shot placement.

For DIY shooters, here’s a quick size guide to make your own paper targets:

• Arch C (18x24"):  This is a solid option, closer to USPSA and IPSC specs (which we’ll cover next).

• Arch D (24x36"): Poster-size targets that give you plenty of room for tracking shots.

• Letter (8.5x11") & Legal (8.5x14"): Easy to print at home, but small for serious range work.

• Tabloid (11x17"): A step up, but still somewhat limited.

For more practical training, many shooters prefer larger silhouette targets. These are a classic for defensive drills, law enforcement-style training, and general shooting practice. Just staple them to a sturdy cardboard backer, and you’re good to go.

And speaking of cardboard, that takes us to our next target type—a standard in competitive shooting.

Cardboard Targets

Cardboard targets might fall under the paper type category, but they totally deserve a league of their own. Unlike thin paper, these can withstand multiple hits without tearing apart, making them a practical choice for high-round-count drills.

Since cardboard targets are more durable and rigid, they’re a staple in competition shooting. A classic USPSA cardboard target has scoring zones marked on the surface:

• A-zone at the center (your bullseye for speed and accuracy).

• B, C, and D zones to track how well you placed your shots.

• Brown on the shooting side, white on the non-shooting side—a competition standard

If you’re a DIY shooter, we know this is the intel you’re looking for: the official dimensions if you want to cut your own targets:

• USPSA Standard silhouette shape target: 30" tall x 18" wide.

• IPSC Classic octagon shape target: 22.44" tall x 17.71" wide.

• IPSC Mini target: 14.76" tall x 11.81" wide.

If you want more info, be sure to check out the IPSC diagram rules here.

What’s good about paper and cardboard targets? For recoil management practice and precision shooting, paper doesn’t lie—it tells you exactly where your shots hit. This makes cardboard targets one of the most reliable training tools out there.

The downside of paper and cardboard targets? They don’t give instant feedback. Unlike steel targets that ring on impact, cardboard leaves you hanging a bit before you see how well you did.

Steel Targets

Nothing beats the sound of steel. That satisfying “DING!” is what we all aim for—the instant feedback that tells you you’re on target without having to walk downrange to check your hits.

Steel targets are the natural progression for serious shooters. They’re a must-have for pro competitors, instructors, and, of course, range owners. This type of shooting targets are usually made from AR500 or AR550 steel, as they’re durable, reusable, and a smart long-term investment.

Which are the basic steel target shapes? First, we have round Gongs, the classic circular steel targets, perfect for precision shooting and long-range drills. Available in all sizes, colors, with or without hit zones.

Another great option are steel target silhouettes, a staple for defensive and tactical training. More durable than paper silhouettes, with instant shot feedback.

Want your steel targets to last even longer? Go with bolted steel over welded. If a bolt breaks, a quick trip to the hardware store fixes it. If a weld breaks, your target is done.

Of course, this type of  targets are pricier than paper. But if you’ve read this far, you’re serious about investing in better shooting gear.

Reactive Targets

What makes your day at the range? Reactive targets. Engaging, interactive, and the real deal. We all remember the first time we shot one—they’re a game-changer.

Unlike static targets, reactive shooting targets move, drop, swing, or flip when hit, giving you instant sound and visual feedback.

Let’s check out some of the most popular options for this type of shooting targets:

Harmonic Steel Targets

Harmonic Steel Targets combine the precision of paper targets with the instant feedback of steel. They are usually made of two plates—a hardened steel main plate and a thinner harmonic steel plate that vibrates for a resonance effect.

Something great about Harmonic Steel Targets is that they have no grey zones, no “close enough” shots. You either hit the scoring zone or get nothing.

Pepper Poppers & Auto Poppers

A competition shooting favorite, pepper poppers are tall, steel targets on a hinge. Hit them in the right spot, and they fall. Miss the sweet spot? They stay up.

Auto Poppers are the motorized version of pepper poppers: they reset themselves after every hit. If you don’t want to keep walking downrange every few minutes, these type of shooting targets are exactly what you need.

Swinging Gongs

Another shooting practice target classic, swinging gongs are suspended by chains. These move on impact and can take years of punishment without breaking. 

Dueling Trees

A head-to-head challenge. Shoot the paddles, and they flip to the other side. Great for speed drills, reaction training, and friendly competitions. You’ll be amazed at what serious practice on these can do for your skills.

DIY Shooting Targets

Got the extra space to build your own personal shooting range? If you're a DIY shooter, this is where things get even more fun. Shooting sports always leave room for creativity—and that’s part of what we love about it.

If you’re making your own targets, accuracy starts with the right size. Just be sure to check the USPSA and IPSC specs we shared above.

Other than cutting their own cardboard targets, some shooters go with makeshift targets like machine spare parts, frying pans, or scrap metal. While it may sound fun, it’s not. We don't recommend it due to safety concerns—ricochets are no joke.

Want a better homemade option? You can build wooden stands for clay targets. Not the most professional setup, but still a fun way to mix things up.

DIY Exploding Bottle Targets

If you’re looking for a creative challenge, you can make your own exploding targets using a cheap plastic water bottle. Just be sure not to exceed 60 PSI to avoid premature explosions.

What You’ll Need:

• Empty plastic water bottle

• Tubeless tire valve (1.25” long)

• Steel end cap (1.5”)

• Drill & bits (5/16” & 1/2”)

• Bike pump

To make your own exploding bottle target, here’s what you need to do:

1. Drill a 5/16” hole in the bottle cap.

2. Insert the tire valve through the hole, pulling it snug to create an airtight seal.

3. Drill a 1/2” hole in the steel end cap.

4. Attach the valve to the end cap by pulling it through until secure.

5. Screw the water bottle onto the end cap and pump it up to 50-60 PSI.

Once it’s pressurized, set it up at a safe distance and take your shot!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Targets

As we said at the beginning, you don’t stick to just one type of shooting target. With so many choices out there, how do you pick the right one?

The real question here is about your goals: What are you practicing for?

If you are shooting accuracy and precision drills, paper and cardboard targets are your best bet. They show exact shot placement and help refine trigger control and recoil management.

Here is an extra pro tip: If you’re looking for tighter groupings, check out our 45 Blast comps—the choice for shooters who demand minimal recoil and muzzle rise.

For Tactical and Defensive Training, steel silhouettes provide instant feedback and realistic-sized targets for practical drills. 

If your goal is shooting speed and agility, reactive targets should be your go-to. And don’t get caught up in fancy automated setups here. Most pro shooters stick to the classics: dueling trees, pepper poppers, and swinging gongs.

Whether you’re practicing at a public range or building your own personal setup, let’s go over what you need to know for smart, effective shooting target practice.

Best Practices for Using Shooting Targets

Safety always comes first, for all types of shooting targets. You know the fundamentals of gun safety: Always be aware of where your target is and what’s behind it. Especially when using paper targets.

If you’re setting up your own range at home, always place your targets outdoors in a safe area, away from people, buildings, or anything you don’t want a bullet hitting.

Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting and setting up your targets:

• Watch Your Setup: Avoid placing targets near rocks, metal stands, or walls that could send bullet fragments flying back at you.

• Select the Right Steel: Stick to AR500 or AR550 steel for durability. Avoid mild steel—it dents easily and creates dangerous ricochet risks.

• No Right Angles: Sharp 90-degree edges on targets or stands can send bullet fragments straight back at you, and you definitely don’t want that. Design targets with angled or smooth edges.

• Angle Targets Forward: A slight downward tilt ensures bullet fragments deflect into the ground instead of unpredictably in all directions.

• Inspect Your Targets Regularly: Pockmarked or cratered steel is unsafe. If you see dents, replace the target—it’s not worth the risk.

• Choose the Right Ammo: Avoid bi-metal, steel-core, or armor-piercing rounds. For more details, check out our handgun ammo grains guide here.

One key mistake shooters make when placing targets? Shooting on the same level all the time. Train smarter—place your targets at different heights to simulate real-world scenarios and keep your drills dynamic.

Also, don’t forget: your target stand matters. Whether you’re buying or making one, go for strong, durable materials. If you’re using wooden stands, protect them from splintering or damage over time.

Conclusion

Refining your grip, stance, and trigger control is what makes you a better shooter. But once you have those fundamentals down, choosing the right type of shooting target will definitely help you progress.

Paper and cardboard targets help you master precision. Steel gives you instant feedback. Reactive targets train speed and reaction time. And if you’re going the DIY route, setting up your own range, you want a mix that challenges every aspect of your shooting.

Whatever your training goals, the key is to train smarter and shoot better. So before your next range session, check out our store for top quality shooting gear.

Debrief, and see you at the range!