· shooting targets · 16 min read

Shotgun Targets

Discover the best shotgun targets for practice and competition, as we round up top-rated options to improve your accuracy and make shooting more enjoyable. Read our product roundup and find the perfect target for your needs.

Discover the best shotgun targets for practice and competition, as we round up top-rated options to improve your accuracy and make shooting more enjoyable. Read our product roundup and find the perfect target for your needs.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on shotgun targets. If you’re looking to improve your accuracy or just want a fun challenge, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore various types of shotgun targets, their benefits, and provide suggestions on how to use them effectively at the range. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, buckle up and get ready to enhance your target practice skills with our ultimate roundup of shotgun targets.

This article will help you choose the right target that best suits your needs and skill level. Our goal is to present an engaging guide that will keep you informed and entertained while navigating through the vast world of shotgun targets. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the necessary knowledge to make the most out of your target practice sessions.

The Top 8 Best Shotgun Targets

  1. Durable Handgun Reset Target for Outdoor Practice - Experience the perfect shot with the durable and reliable Handgun Auto Reset Target from Do-All Outdoors, equipped with stabilizing ground spikes and powder-coated paint for enhanced visibility and longevity.

  2. Guide Gear Steel Spinning Shooting Targets - Guide Gear’s .22 Rimfire Reactive Shooting Target Set provides a fun and affordable way to create your own private shooting gallery, offering endless hours of plinking enjoyment without the need to constantly reset or walk downrange.

  3. Stylish Multi-Functional Single Sleeper Chair with Linen Fabric - Birchwood Casey Dueling Tree Shooting Target: Test Your Aim with this Durable, Tool-Free, 48.5” H x 28.5” W Target for Centerfire Handguns and 9mm to .45ACP Pistols, with 6-Paddle Design and Included Hard Molded Carry Case.

  4. High-Intensity 1 lb Exploding Rifle Target - Enhance your training accuracy with the Sonic Boom 1-pound exploding rifle target, an easy-to-use, non-hazardous and non-toxic canister type aiming tool for rifle enthusiasts. Available in single quantity and ideal for both beginners and advanced users.

  5. DIY Shooting Gallery Target System - Experience the excitement of building and customizing your own shooting gallery with the EZ Aim Shooting Gallery Target Shooting System Kit by Allen, delivering a dynamic and engaging practice experience for marksmanship enthusiasts.

  6. Efficient and Durable Reactive Shooting Target - Elevate your shooting skills with the rugged steel-built Do All Outdoors .22 Auto Reset Pro-Style Target, offering easy re-set and contrast-colored, highly visible target discs that lock into place for effective shooting training.

  7. Large, Red Shotgun Patterning Target Pack - Thompson’s XL 19x25 Shotgun Targets provide a clear and large field of view for accurate shot placement with both kill zone and clay bird scoring areas, making them ideal for shotgun precision practice at 25-35 yards.

  8. Do-All Outdoors Jr. 22 Auto Reset Target with Durable Weather-Resistant Steel - The .22 Auto Reset Target Jr. by Do All Traps offers a durable and hands-free shooting practice solution, perfect for .17 or .22 caliber rifles and pistols, combining automatic resetting and target spinning for quick and continuous use.

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Reviews

Durable Handgun Reset Target for Outdoor Practice

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I recently got my hands on the Do-All Outdoors Handgun Auto Reset Target and let me tell you, it’s been an exciting journey with this little guy! This product stands out for its durable steel construction and powder-coated paint, making it as robust as it is visually appealing.

One of the standout features of this target is its stabilizing ground spikes, which ensure that even on windy days or rough terrains, your practice session doesn’t take a hit. The forward-leaning design not only adds to the visual enhancement but also ensures downward bullet deflection, offering increased safety while you’re at it.

However, just like any product, there are pros and cons to consider. While the high visibility targets make shooting fun and exciting, the spacing between them can be a bit challenging for beginners. Also, the pins holding the plates can get shot off with frequent use and may need replacement.

Despite these minor hiccups, overall, my experience with the Do-All Outdoors Handgun Auto Reset Target has been positive. It’s a well-built, sturdy target that enhances your shooting practice, and I believe it’s worth every penny. So whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned shooter looking to improve your skills, this target is definitely worth considering!

Guide Gear Steel Spinning Shooting Targets

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I recently got my hands on the Guide Gear Rimfire Reactive Shooting Target Set, and I must say, it has added a whole new level of excitement to my casual shooting sessions. This budget-friendly target set lets you set up your own private shooting range in your backyard or at the cabin, saving you the cost of frequent visits to the local gun range.

One thing that really impressed me was the ease of assembly and portability. The rugged construction makes them easy to set up and store, and I love that I don’t have to walk down range or pull cords to reset the targets. This is particularly beneficial when I want to focus on honing my shooting skills without any interruptions.

However, there are some issues that I encountered with these targets. The first is the leg length. As one reviewer pointed out, the legs are quite short, making it difficult to stabilize the target in certain terrains, especially during the winter months when the soil tends to be saturated. Additionally, the targets are quite small, requiring a decent level of accuracy or good optics for effective use.

Despite these cons, the Guide Gear Rimfire Reactive Shooting Target Set has been a welcome addition to my outdoor entertainment options. If you’re looking for an affordable way to create your own private shooting range, this target set is definitely worth considering, especially if you have some DIY modifications in mind to address the minor issues.

Stylish Multi-Functional Single Sleeper Chair with Linen Fabric

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I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Birchwood Casey Dueling Tree Shooting Target. As a shooting enthusiast, I was excited to see how this product would perform. The first thing that stood out to me was its portability, as it comes with a sturdy carry case and is fairly lightweight for a dueling tree.

The assembly process was a breeze - no tools required and it all came together seamlessly. The 6-inch steel paddles are made from high-quality AR500 steel, making them durable and resistant to damage even after multiple shots. This was certainly a positive aspect of the product.

However, there were some cons as well. One reviewer mentioned that the base of the tree was thin and flimsy, which can lead to issues if you’re shooting at closer ranges or using heavier calibers. Additionally, while the hard molded carry case is a nice touch, another reviewer pointed out that it might not last as long as the rest of the product.

Overall, I would recommend the Birchwood Casey Dueling Tree Shooting Target to anyone looking for an enjoyable and challenging way to practice their aim. Its portability, ease of assembly, and high-quality paddles make it a solid choice, though potential buyers should be aware of the potential base issues and the quality of the carry case.

High-Intensity 1 lb Exploding Rifle Target

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The Sonic Boom exploding rifle target is a game-changer for firearms enthusiasts. I’ve been using this 1-pound target for quite some time now and it’s become my go-to for enhancing my training scenarios. The canister type design makes it easy to handle and store, plus the blaze orange jar ensures high visibility.

One of the things I love about this target is that it only works with rifle projectiles at least 40 gr. and 2200 fps. This means that it’s not only challenging but also safe, reducing the risk of accidents at the range. The two-part mixture is easy to mix and I’ve found it to be non-hazardous, non-toxic, and stable.

However, there are some cons to consider. Some users reported that their targets didn’t explode as expected or even fizzled with little sparks. It’s important to note that this could be due to improper mixing or incorrect firing techniques. I’ve personally had no issues with the target not exploding when shot accurately and with the proper force.

Overall, the Sonic Boom exploding rifle target has been a fun addition to my shooting practice. Its portability, visibility, and satisfying explosion upon impact make it worthwhile for anyone looking to enhance their target practice or simply add a bit of excitement to their time at the range.

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I recently purchased the EZ Aim Shooting Gallery Target Shooting System Kit by Allen, and let me tell you, it has been an exciting addition to my shooting practice. Assembling it was quite straightforward; all I needed was a wooden 2x4 and steel gong target to complete the kit. It’s fascinating how the brackets can accommodate all Allen Company spinner targets, allowing me to create a customized shooting gallery.

One of the standout features of this kit is the self-healing polymer spinners. They’re incredibly durable, and no matter how many shots I take, they keep spinning without any issues. However, there’s no denying that this kit lacks stability. The lack of instructions meant I had to figure it out on my own, which wasn’t too difficult but may be a deterrent for some.

Overall, the EZ Aim Shooting Gallery Target Shooting System Kit by Allen offers a fun and customizable way to enhance your shooting practice. While it may require some extra effort to set up and lacks stability, the durability of the targets more than makes up for it. I’m eager to see how long this kit will last, and I’m confident that it will continue to serve its purpose exceptionally well.

Efficient and Durable Reactive Shooting Target

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I recently received “Do All Outdoors. 22 Auto Reset Pro-Style Target” as a gift, and it’s been an exciting addition to my shooting practice. The target is made from heavy-duty steel and features a re-set function, making it easy to use and quite effective for shooting training. The bright colors of the target discs provide excellent visibility, even in the daylight, allowing me to stay focused and improve my accuracy.

One of the standout features for me is the special re-set function. After hitting the target, I swiveled and locked it, ready for the next round. I found the entire setup process easy, and the target seemed sturdy and well-constructed. However, I did encounter a problem while trying to assemble it using the instructions provided; the package contained the incorrect size of bolts. Instead of the requested 7/16in bolts, I received 10mm bolts which were quite similar in size but not compatible with my wrench. Thankfully, I had a 10mm wrench on hand, but a more precise instruction would have been helpful.

In terms of performance, this target has delivered consistent results. It responds effectively when hit by a bullet, spinning up and locking in place. It’s worth mentioning that the stickers on the targets don’t last long, and they are likely to get damaged or fall off after multiple shots. But this can easily be rectified by painting or using tape.

I appreciate the fact that this target can be used with a variety of rifles and airguns, as long as the appropriate shooting distance is maintained. It has definitely made shooting more enjoyable and competitive for me and my family, as we constantly try to improve our aim and efficiency.

In conclusion, “Do All Outdoors. 22 Auto Reset Pro-Style Target” is a well-constructed, easy-to-use, and enjoyable product for shooting enthusiasts. It is a quality target that delivers excellent performance and adds a new level of excitement to your practice sessions. However, it’s worth noting that some users may experience issues with the provided bolts, which could be easily resolved by providing more accurate instructions. Overall, I am quite satisfied with this product and would recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their shooting skills.

Large, Red Shotgun Patterning Target Pack

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As an avid hunter, I recently discovered the Thompson Shotgun Patterning Targets 19x25 100 Pack Red Extra Large, and I must say, they’ve enhanced my practice sessions tremendously.

One of the standout features of this target is its life-sized turkey and clay bird design. It offers a clear field of view that makes aligning my iron sights and scopes significantly easier. Additionally, the target includes both kill zone and clay bird scoring areas, which has allowed me to quickly identify where my shots are landing.

Another aspect that I appreciate about these targets is their size. The XL format gives me ample space to work with, providing a large, easy-to-see target. The bright red and white colors also make them easy to spot, even at a distance.

However, there’s one minor drawback that I’ve noticed. The materials used in the target make it slightly difficult to remove the shots once they’ve been fired. Nonetheless, this is a small issue considering the overall effectiveness of these targets.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Thompson Shotgun Patterning Targets to anyone looking to improve their shotgun accuracy. These targets offer an excellent blend of visibility, clarity, and size, and they’ve definitely made a positive difference in my practice sessions.

Do-All Outdoors Jr. 22 Auto Reset Target with Durable Weather-Resistant Steel

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I recently purchased the. 22 Auto Reset Target Jr. from Do All Traps for my backyard shooting range. This compact target has been a game-changer for my daily practice sessions with my. 22 caliber pistols and rifles. I love how it spins and locks into place with each bullet hit, making it easy to see where I need to adjust my aim. Plus, its center reset feature means I can keep firing without needing to reset the target myself.

The best part about this target is its durability. Made with weather-resistant materials, it withstands all sorts of weather conditions, making it perfect for year-round use. However, one downside I’ve noticed is that it tends to wobble after a few shots, especially if you’re using a. 22 long rifle. Overall, I’m happy with my purchase and would recommend this target for anyone looking to improve their accuracy and have some fun at the same time!

Buyer’s Guide

Important Features of Shotgun Targets

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When choosing shotgun targets, there are several important features to consider. The first is material type. Shotgun targets can be made from paper, steel, or clay, each offering its own benefits and drawbacks. Paper targets are affordable, but may not last as long as other options. Steel targets are durable and reusable, but can be more expensive. Clay targets provide instant feedback upon impact and are ideal for skeet or trap shooting.

Another feature to consider is target size. Smaller targets can be more challenging but may be too difficult for beginning shooters. Larger targets are easier to hit, but may not offer as much of a challenge.

Finally, consider durability. Some targets are designed for heavy use, while others are more fragile and may not hold up under repeated firing.

Considerations for Choosing Shotgun Targets

Before making a purchase, consider your intended use for the targets. Will you be focusing on accuracy or practicing for a specific event like skeet shooting? This can help guide your decision on what type of target to buy and its size.

Also think about where you’ll be shooting. If you’re on a private range, you may have more flexibility in terms of noise and cleanup. If you’re shooting on public lands or in an area with close neighbors, you may need to opt for quieter options like paper or steel targets over clay.

General Advice for Using Shotgun Targets

Make sure to follow all safety guidelines when using shotgun targets. Always wear eye and ear protection, keep bystanders and animals a safe distance away, and never shoot towards buildings or roads.

Clean up any fragments or debris after your shooting session to prevent litter and potential injury to wildlife, domestic pets, or other people.

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FAQ

What are shotgun targets?

Shotgun targets are materials designed to simulate game animals or other objects that shotgun users aim and shoot at during practice sessions or hunting trips. These targets help improve shooting accuracy and technique.

What types of shotgun targets are available?

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There are several types of shotgun targets, including:

  • Clay pigeons (skeet, trap, and sporting targets)

  • Steel targets

  • Paper targets

  • 3D targets (animals, birds, and other shapes)

How do clay pigeon targets differ from trap and sporting targets?

Clay pigeon targets are small disks made from clay or other breakable materials that simulate the movement and appearance of flying or ground-based game animals. There are three primary types of clay pigeon targets:

  • Skeet targets (108mm in diameter)

  • Trap targets (110mm in diameter)

  • Sporting targets (110mm in diameter) that mimic the flight path of game birds

What is a steel target?

A steel target is a solid metal plate or shape designed for shotgun practice. Steel targets can be hung or placed on a stand and are usually painted to provide a visible aiming point. They are popular for their durability and resistance to damage from airguns, shotguns, and rifles.

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How do paper targets work for shotgun practice?

Paper targets are large sheets of paper printed with aiming points or graphics that simulate game animals or other objects. Shooters can place these targets at various distances and angles to practice their accuracy and technique. Paper targets are inexpensive and easy to replace.

What are 3D targets?

3D shotgun targets are life-sized, three-dimensional replicas of game animals or other shapes that simulate the appearance and movement of the real subject. These targets are popular for enhancing the realism of practice sessions or hunting simulations. 3D targets can be made from various materials, including foam, rubber, or self-healing materials.

How do I choose the right shotgun target for my practice needs?

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Consider factors such as:

  • Purpose: Are you practicing for hunting or improving accuracy at different ranges?

  • Material: Do you need a target that can withstand heavy use or one that simulates game animals?

  • Availability: Are you looking for a specific type of target or one that is readily available in your area?

How do I properly set up and use shotgun targets?

Follow these steps:

  1. Choose a safe shooting area and target location.

  2. Set up your targets according to the manufacturer’s instructions and your intended shooting distances and angles.

  3. Ensure that all bystanders and non-shooters are at a safe distance and aware of the shooting area.

  4. Visually inspect your targets and ensure they are securely fastened.

  5. Load your shotgun with appropriate ammunition and safely handle your firearm while pointing it at your target.

  6. Fire carefully and assess your accuracy before reloading and firing again.

Are there any safety guidelines I should follow while using shotgun targets?

Always follow these essential safety guidelines:

  • Ensure that you have a safe shooting area and all bystanders and non-shooters are at a safe distance.

  • Wear appropriate eye and ear protection.

  • Handle your shotgun with care, keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.

  • Ensure that your targets are securely fastened and do not pose any safety hazards.

  • Always follow proper loading, unloading, and firing procedures for your shotgun.

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