Shooting targets come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its own set of applications. The right targets should provide feedback, improve accuracy, and, in cases of self-defense, help simulate real-world shooting scenarios. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of shooting targets, from classic paper formats to fancy, interactive targets.

Pregame Targets

Pregame targets are designed to warm up your shooting skills before moving into more advanced drills. These often feature multiple aiming points or realistic layouts to help shooters get dialed in, such as target areas on a specific animal (2D format). They’re great for practicing fundamentals and making tweaks to sights/optics. They are also a good starting point for beginners to help build confidence and familiarity. 

Paper Shooting Targets

Paper shooting targets are one of the most common and versatile options available. They’re affordable, easy to replace, and come in a wide range of designs. They’re perfect for beginners learning fundamentals, but they’re just as good for competition practice and improving your accuracy in a cost-effective way. 

Paper targets also allow shooters to visualize their groupings clearly, which is very useful in improving precision. You can clearly track your progress by keeping your paper targets and comparing them from start to finish in your training. 

Rigid Shooting Targets

A rigid target is for those who want a little more durability and stability than a classic paper target. These shooting targets are made from tougher materials (like tagwood) that hold their shape and position over time. They’re great for everyday practice, but can withstand high volume as well. They can be mounted on stands and resist tearing and bending. A lot of shooters use them as the base for other styles (i.e. mounting paper targets over a rigid target).

Steel Shooting Targets

Steel shooting targets are a go-to choice for many experienced shooters. They’re made from hardened steel, which means they are not only durable; they also provide immediate audible feedback with  a satisfying “ping” when hit. 

However, steel shooting targets must be used safely with proper distance and appropriate ammunition to avoid ricochet risks. This is why they are better suited to long-distance practice. 

Visual Feedback Shooting Targets

A Visicolor target is a type of reactive paper shooting target that changes color when struck. This makes it easy to see hits from a distance without walking downrange, which reduces downtime between rounds. 

A Visishot target is another reactive option similar to Visicolor designs. These targets highlight bullet impacts with bright, contrasting colors. 

Similarly, a Big Burst target is a highly visible reactive target that produces a bright “burst” effect when hit. 

All three shooting targets offer that immediate feedback (visual as opposed to audio) that steel targets have, but without the limitations and risks of ricocheting. 

Resetting Shooting Targets

A resetting target is a favorite for shooters who want a more interactive experience than a rigid or paper target. These targets typically feature multiple plates or paddles that fall when hit and automatically reset after struck. They’re especially useful for practicing speed and accuracy and improving target acquisition. Plus, they add a fun, dynamic element to training. 

Resetting targets are also often made out of steel, which means they’re super durable and can last a long time.

3D Targets

Any type of target is valuable for real-world scenarios, but you can’t deny the added value (and fun) of 3D targets when it comes to IRL simulation. 3D targets are shaped like objects or figures, such as a human torso or animal figure. They’re made of durable materials that last a long time, and they allow for angled shots that are impossible with 2D targets. This makes them incomparable when it comes to tactical training, hunting prep, or IDPA training. Basically, 3D targets help improve spatial awareness and shot placement in more complex situations.

Find the Right Shooting Targets at Our Omaha Range

At The Marksman Indoor Shooting Range, we utilize exclusively paper targets. They are cost effective and offer the most value, in our opinion, when it comes to improving your accuracy. However, we are more than happy to discuss other options for your training outside our range, and you’ll find a wide selection of targets in our online shop. No matter your skill level or training goal, having the right target can elevate your shooting experience and help you improve faster. Shop online or visit us today to explore your options and take your practice to the next level. 

The Marksman Indoor Range

The Marksman is Omaha's top indoor shooting range. Our instructors have been shooting and teaching for decades and look foward to helping you improve your skill, whether you are a novice or a seasoned shooter. Stop by or book a class online today!

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