Which Targets Are Best for Timer-Based Drills?

If you’ve ever hit the shooting range with a shot timer in hand, you know how quickly the game changes. Suddenly, it’s not just about accuracy—it’s about accuracy under pressure. Timer-based drills test your speed, reaction time, and ability to make solid hits when seconds count. But here’s the kicker: the target you choose can make or break the quality of your training session.

In this article, we’ll break down what makes a target ideal for timer-based drills, explore the top paper targets from Axle Targets, and share expert tips on squeezing the most value out of your time at the range. By the end, you’ll know exactly which targets to use—and why they’ll give you a serious edge.

Why Timer-Based Drills Are Game-Changers

When it comes to firearm training, speed without accuracy is just noise. Timer-based drills force shooters to balance both. They build:

• Stress management – That beep simulates the stress of real-life decision-making.

• Muscle memory – Repeated reps under time pressure create automatic responses.

• Efficient mechanics – Timed shooting reveals flaws in your draw, reloads, and transitions.

• Practical accuracy – You’re not just hitting the bullseye—you’re hitting it fast.

And the right target? Well, it’s your silent coach, giving you instant feedback on performance.

What Makes a Target Ideal for Timer-Based Drills?

Not all paper targets are created equal. For time-based training, you want:

1. Clear scoring zones – Quick, visible feedback to measure progress.

2. Realistic shapes – Human silhouettes or vital zone targets help bridge the gap between practice and real-world scenarios.

3. Versatility – A single target that works for multiple drills means less hassle at the range.

4. Compact options – Smaller targets help you refine precision under stress.

Let’s dive into three paper targets from Axle Targets that check all those boxes.

Product Spotlight: Axle Targets for Timer-Based Drills

🎯 B27 Reverse Target 👉 Check it out here The B27 Reverse Target is a staple in law enforcement and civilian defensive training. Designed with bold scoring zones, this silhouette forces shooters to place accurate shots quickly. Why it’s perfect for timers: Large enough to track multiple strings of fire. Reverse color scheme makes shot placement stand out instantly. Great for draw-and-fire or reload speed drills. If your goal is to replicate defensive scenarios with timed stress, the B27 Reverse is a must-have.

🎯 FBI QIT 99 Target 👉 See details here The FBI QIT 99 Target is specifically engineered for time-sensitive shooting exercises. Used by federal agencies, it blends accuracy training with realistic dimensions. Why it stands out: Narrow scoring zones push you to tighten shot placement. Ideal for transition drills (shifting between targets under the clock). Reinforces accuracy under stress rather than just spraying lead fast. This target keeps shooters honest—if you’re sloppy with your shots, it’ll show immediately.

🎯 2” Drill Target 👉 Grab it here Looking to fine-tune your precision? The 2” Drill Target is deceptively challenging. With small scoring circles, it’s designed to push accuracy beyond comfort zones. Perfect for: Warm-up drills to sharpen fundamentals before longer sessions. Advanced shooters who want tighter groups under time pressure. Building confidence—if you can nail 2-inch circles on the clock, larger targets feel easy. This one’s small but mighty—it turns every drill into a test of discipline.

Best Timer-Based Drills with Paper Targets

Ready to put these targets into action? Here are some tried-and-true drills you can run at the range:

1. The Bill Drill

• Start from the holster.

• On the timer beep, fire 6 rounds into the center zone of your B27 Reverse Target.

• Goal: Balance speed with consistent center-mass hits.

2. Transition Challenge

• Set up 3 FBI QIT 99 Targets side by side.

• On the beep, fire 2 shots into each target as fast as possible.

• Goal: Smooth target transitions under pressure.

3. Precision Sprint

• Use the 2” Drill Target.

• From low ready, put 1 round in each small circle under time constraints.

• Goal: Develop precision while managing time stress.

Expert Tips for Smarter Training

• Track your times: Keep a logbook. Seeing progress is motivating.

• Mix it up: Rotate between different target styles to avoid comfort zones.

• Focus on mechanics first: Don’t chase speed until your draw and grip are consistent.

• Use par times: Set your timer to a goal time and push toward it gradually.

• Quality over quantity: Fewer rounds with focused drills beat blasting away without structure.

Wrapping It Up

Timer-based drills bring out the best—and worst—in shooters. They highlight weak spots, build speed, and push accuracy under pressure. But the target you choose is just as important as the drill itself.

• The B27 Reverse Target gives you real-world defensive application.

• The FBI QIT 99 Target demands precision and discipline.

• The 2” Drill Target sharpens fundamentals like nothing else.

If you’re serious about becoming a sharper, faster, and more confident shooter, these Axle Targets options are a no-brainer.

👉 Explore the full range of paper shooting targets at Axle Targets and take your next range session to the next level.