How to Select the Best Shooting Targets for Beginners? And Top 5 Shooting Targets
Since 2020, the number of new gun owners has drastically increased. From an industry insider, this is super exciting, but it’s important to realize that’s just the first step. Now, you need to get out and actually shoot your firearm. Becoming proficient in manipulating your platform and understanding how it works is vital. There’s nothing worse than finding out you don’t know how to use something when you actually need to use it. Making basic assumptions, you may be in the population of new gun owners who are looking to take this next step. Let’s get into it.
Being fellow gun guys/gals, shooting target aficionados, and training sticklers, we want to people to be informed and make the most of their time on the range. All our, specially designed, products are made just for people like you. However, choosing the right blend of Shooting range targets is very important. I’m sure you did your research on YouTube and Google, but that is simply not enough. It is not rocket science, but you definitely need someone (or a team) with prior experience in this avenue to help you. That’s exactly what we intend to do from this article. We want to help you understand the basics and choose your shooting targets wisely. Maximizing training, fun, and of course use of ammo.
So, what’s important to start your shooting training journey? Honestly, it depends on a lot of factors. The journey is different for each person. For some it’s for fun and relaxation, for some it is rigorous training and skill development. But, the intent is important. Well, intent and which platforms you are using…
Basic Types of Firearms
While we could spend HOURS on this, brass tacks is that there are a few different types of guns available for beginners to become familar with. Although it looks cool, we don’t recommend you start your training with the ones Arnold used in Terminator. Start with the ones that are pertinent to what you are training for, and then treat yourself to more advanced platforms as your skill improves. Following are the basic types of firearms and some suggestions on how to begin your training.
Handguns
Handguns are incredibly popular amogst first time gunowners. The ease of use, size, and comfortablilty to handle lends to their use worldwide. Don’t take them lightly because of their size, developing the groundwork for handguns can take alot of practice. These are the best and go-to kind of firearm for everyday carrying. They can be quick, lightweight, and can be the difference maker in a number of situations.
Additionally, they are the most practical way to start your training as a first time gun buyer, due to ease of acquiring ammo, size, and price point. Most handguns are around 6 to 7 inches long and weigh around 18 to 22oz. They are easy to conceal/deploy and are apt for short range encounters. Handguns like the Glock 19 (my personal favorite), 1911 style firearms (two world wars), Springfield XD, and Smith & Wesson M&P have alot of aspects that are great for new shooters.
Rifles
Rifles are a classic and popular among gun lovers. There are different kinds of rifles and it can be super exciting (and intimidating) your first time using one. As a beginner, contrary to what most people believe, we suggest trying AR style platforms. They are best suited for beginners. In the present gun market, they are available in different varieties, price points, and features. The best part is you can customize them to fit any of your needs.
Suggestion From Jeffrey King: You can check out BRO-SPEC15 from Black Rain Ordnance. It's one of my personal favorites. I’ve taken it with me to the range for training and demo days time in and out. The weight, trigger, and design are bar none. The best part is it’s perfect for beginners all the way to experts.
Shotguns
Scatter guns, boom sticks, or shotguns? Differnet names, same great platform. This very popular firearm is a favorite amonst hunters, home defense, and recreational sport shooting. While choosing a shotgun, check its weight, recoil, capacity, price, and action type. You can choose Remington 870 express, Mossberg Model 500, and Benelli Nova to kick off your introduction into shotguns.
Shooting Range Products for Beginners
Training can be fun with the right safety gear. But, you know whats not fun? Racking your firearm, looking around to make sure everyone knows the range is hot, and sending a round downrange followed by a very lound ringing sensation because you forgot your ear pro was around your leg. Often overlooked by beginners, because they are not thinking about the safety gear surrounding shooting, but this is an aspect of the gun world that is exteremly important. Following are some shooting range gear you must have before you start your training.
Eye protection- It is mandatory. Don’t compromise. Period. Get Shooting range protective eyewear of the best quality. Check the products for their quality and certifications to ensure that they are safe and durable. You get what you pay for. Protect your eyes.
Ear protection- These help in protecting your eardrums from the high dBs generated while shooting. It is necessary to have high-quality ear protection in the shooting range to protect your hearing. My recommendation is get an electronic noise canceling pair, that you can leave on while not shooting at the range. That way you are not yelling the entire day and can hear the people around you.
Range Bag - Get the best range bags for your need. Make sure that your range bag has good room for your firearms, ammo, ear and eye pro, cleaning kits, etc. When it comes to firearm training in the range, a shooting range bag is absolutely essential.
Types of Shooting Range Targets for Beginners
Feeling comfortable with your firearm,You need to practice, practice, and practice. But, before that, you need to choose the right targets for your guns and calibers. Selecting the top shooting range target for beginners involves multiple factors. Some of the factors are discussed below,
Material
There are four basic materials when it comes to shooting targets:
Paper Targets
Clay Targets
Polymer Targets
Steel Targets
Each material is suitable for a particular task. As a beginner, you should select the right material for your Shooting training targets based on what you are wanting to do!
Paper Targets
Paper targets for Shooting are popular and versatile options. Here are the pros and cons
Pros
Easy to track the shot groups
It's better when you need to zero
Best suitable for competition to tally scores
Cons
At a distance, it is tough to check the shots with a naked eye
Clay Targets
Clay targets are best suitable for sport practivce, like trap and skeet. These brittle targets are a fun element in the shooting range and break up into a cloud of dust. It is best suited for single-time use. But, they can also bee a fun addition to a rifle or handgun range day.
Polymer Targets
Polymer targets have minimal damage and a higher lifespan. In most of the shooting ranges, they are used as ground targets. These target are a little more fun and unpredictable, as they tend to bounce when they’re shot.
Steel Targets
Steel targets are the stars of this present Era. They have major popularity among shooters. In comparison with other materials, this is highly durable and has a greater lifetime. You hear the distinct