DIY Shooting Targets: Build or Buy? A Tactical Guide for Every Enthusiast

Marc Orlin
DIY Shooting Targets: Build or Buy? A Tactical Guide for Every Enthusiast

Why Make Your Own Shooting Targets?

DIY paper targets are:

  • Budget-friendly (like, dirt cheap)

  • Easy to replace

  • Customizable for drills and training

  • Super portable and lightweight

They’re ideal for:

  • Pistol practice

  • Rifle zeroing

  • Tactical shooting drills

  • Backyard plinking

And honestly, it’s just satisfying to build your own gear.

1. Printable Paper Targets (Simple & Fast)

Let’s start with the easiest method.

🔧 What You’ll Need:

  • Printer (inkjet or laser)

  • 8.5” x 11” printer paper or card stock

  • Staple gun or tape

  • Cardboard backer or wooden frame

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Find a Design:
    Go online and search for “free printable shooting targets.” Popular types include:

  2. Print It Out:
    Use regular paper or card stock for better durability.

  3. Mount the Target:

    • Staple it to a piece of cardboard, foam board, or plywood.

    • Or clip it onto a DIY stand (we’ll build that below).

  4. Shoot Away:
    Replace when it’s shot up or tape over holes to extend use.

🎯 Pro Tip: Print multiple copies before range day to save time.

2. Custom Targets (Made from Scratch)

Want something personalized? Make your own target layout.

🔧 What You’ll Need:

  • Graphic design software (Canva, PowerPoint, or Google Docs works fine)

  • Printer and paper/card stock

  • Ruler (optional for alignment)

  • Markers (for hand-drawn options)

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Create the Layout:

    • Use circles, rectangles, or silhouettes.

    • Add scoring zones, headshots, or timer spaces.

  2. Print or Draw:
    Print at home or hand-draw with markers for a DIY feel.

  3. Mount It Up:
    Same as above—use cardboard, plywood, or a clip stand.

  4. Customize Each Session:

    • One day could be precision training

    • Another day, tactical transitions or hostage drills

This method lets you evolve your training with your skills.

3. Wooden Target Stand (Strong & Reusable)

Perfect for outdoor setups and serious range sessions.

🔧 Materials List:

  • Two 2x2” wooden stakes (4 feet long)

  • One 1x2” horizontal beam (3–4 feet wide)

  • Screws or nails

  • Drill or hammer

  • Cardboard backer or plywood

  • Staple gun or clips

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Build the Frame:

    • Lay two vertical 2x2s on the ground, 3 feet apart

    • Place the 1x2 across the top

    • Drill or nail it together to form a large “H” or rectangle

  2. Add Legs (Optional):
    For stability, screw on small angled wood braces at the bottom.

  3. Mount Your Target:
    Staple paper targets directly to the crossbeam or clip them to a piece of cardboard fixed to the frame.

  4. Transport & Store:
    This can disassemble easily with screws for easy transport.

Ideal for repeated use in all weather conditions.

4. PVC Pipe Target Stand (Light & Portable)

A great alternative to wood—perfect for travel or temporary use.

🔧 Materials List:

  • Four 3-foot sections of 1” PVC pipe

  • Two elbow connectors

  • Two T-connectors

  • PVC cement (optional)

  • Clips or zip ties

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Build the Base:

    • Connect two T-joints to two base pipes to make a “T” shape

    • Attach vertical pipes to the top of each T

  2. Connect the Top Crossbar:
    Use two elbow connectors to join the vertical pipes to a 3-foot crossbar.

  3. Mount the Target:

    • Tape or clip the paper to a cardboard sheet

    • Use zip ties or binder clips to secure it to the top bar

  4. Break It Down:
    This stand is super easy to transport and reassemble.

🎯 Light enough to carry with your range bag.

5. Quick-Setup Cardboard Stand (No Tools Needed)

For when you're in a rush or want a temporary backyard session.

🔧 Materials List:

  • Large cardboard box or sheet

  • Binder clips or heavy-duty tape

  • Table, stool, fence, or easel

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prop Up the Cardboard:
    Use a table, box, or outdoor furniture to hold the cardboard upright.

  2. Attach the Target:

    • Clip the paper to the cardboard

    • Or tape the corners

  3. Secure the Base:
    Place rocks or sandbags around the base to prevent wind from knocking it over.

🎯 You can even fold the cardboard and slide it under your car seat.

Looking for a Ready-Made Option? Go with Axle Targets

DIY isn’t always convenient, especially when time or weather’s working against you. That’s why Axle Targets is a solid bet.

Why Axle Targets?

  • Clean, crisp high-contrast prints

  • Bulk packs at a reasonable price

  • Designs optimized for training

  • Paper and cardboard options available

  • Ships quickly—no printer hassle needed

👉 Check them out here: Axle Targets Official Website

Whether you're training for real-world scenarios or just shooting for fun, their targets help you stay sharp without the DIY headache.

Safety First: Never Skip These Steps

  • Use a proper backstop—dirt berm, rubber trap, or thick plywood

  • Always know what’s behind your target

  • Secure your frame to avoid tipping

  • Wear eye and ear protection

  • Pick up your trash—including spent targets and casings

FAQs

🧾 Can I laminate my paper targets?

Yes! Great for repeated use with airsoft or dry-fire training. Not ideal for live ammo.

🪵 Which stand is better—wood or PVC?

Wood is sturdier, but PVC is lighter and easier to carry. Depends on your shooting spot.

📦 Can I recycle shot-up paper targets?

You bet. Just toss them in with your mixed recycling (if local laws allow).

Final Shots: Build It or Buy It—Just Get Shooting

DIY paper targets are the unsung heroes of training days. They're cheap, easy, and fully customizable. With the right setup, you can build an entire training range in your backyard for less than $20. But if you want clean, consistent quality and zero fuss, Axle Targets is the way to go.

Whether you're a prepper, a weekend warrior, or a tactical enthusiast—there's a target system here with your name on it.