Shooting at the range is one thing. Knowing exactly how to measure your performance? That’s a whole other ballgame. The B-8 bullseye target is one of the most widely used scoring targets in the shooting world, but many shooters—new and seasoned alike—don’t fully understand how to score it correctly. Whether you’re prepping for a match, tracking personal progress, or just want to sharpen your accuracy, learning to properly score the B-8 is a must.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the B-8 target: its design, how to calculate scores, why it matters for training, and how Axle Targets’ B8 Cluster Target, IDPA Target, and Green Ops Target can take your range sessions to the next level.
What is a B-8 Bullseye Target?
If you’ve ever shot at a classic black-and-white paper target with concentric scoring rings, chances are you’ve encountered the B-8 bullseye. Originally designed for precision pistol competitions, this target has become a gold standard in both competitive shooting and firearms training.
Here’s what makes the B-8 unique:
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Size & Layout: The standard B-8 has a black bullseye center, with white scoring rings extending outward.
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Scoring Zones: Rings are numbered from 10 (center) down to 7 on the outer edge. Shots outside the 7-ring count as a miss (0 points).
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X-Ring: At the very center of the bullseye is the X-ring. It’s still worth 10 points but is used to break ties in competition.
This target’s simplicity and precision make it a powerful training tool—whether you’re focused on bullseye shooting, tactical accuracy, or simply measuring progress at the range.
How to Score a B-8 Bullseye Target Correctly
Scoring the B-8 isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency. Here’s a step-by-step process:
1. Identify the Ring Placement
Each ring on the B-8 is worth a specific point value:
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X-Ring (smallest circle): 10 points (marked as “X” for tie-breaking)
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10-Ring: 10 points
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9-Ring: 9 points
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8-Ring: 8 points
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7-Ring: 7 points
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Outside the 7-ring: 0 points
2. Count Each Shot
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A bullet that touches the line between two rings scores the higher point value.
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Example: If a shot breaks the line between 8 and 9, it counts as 9.
3. Tally the Total Score
Most B-8 courses of fire involve 10 rounds, so your maximum score is 100 points. If you’re tracking X’s, they’re marked separately—like 97-4X (97 points with four shots in the X-ring).
4. Use Consistent Standards
If you’re practicing for a competition, use the same rules they do. If you’re training personally, decide whether you’ll track X’s or just the point values. The key is to stay consistent from one session to the next.
Why Scoring Matters in Training
Some shooters brush off scoring, thinking “I know if I hit center or not.” But here’s the deal—scoring gives you measurable data. Without it, improvement is tough to track.
Benefits of Proper Scoring:
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Objective Feedback: Removes guesswork about your performance.
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Progress Tracking: Helps you see improvement over time.
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Motivation: Watching your scores climb is rewarding.
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Match Prep: If you’re competing, this is exactly how your shooting will be judged.
By scoring consistently, you not only sharpen accuracy but also develop discipline in your practice.
Product Spotlights: Elevate Your Training with Axle Targets
Scoring is one piece of the puzzle. The right target makes the process smoother and more effective. At Axle Targets, the lineup of paper targets is built to improve precision, adaptability, and fun at the range.
🔹 1. B8 Cluster TargetIf you want to score multiple strings of fire on a single sheet, the B8 Cluster Target is a game changer. Instead of swapping targets after every 10 shots, you get several B-8 centers on one sheet. Benefits:
For shooters serious about tracking performance, this is one of Axle Targets’ best-sellers—and for good reason. |
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🔹 2. IDPA TargetWhile the B-8 focuses on precision, the IDPA Target adds a defensive shooting element. It mirrors the silhouette and scoring zones used in International Defensive Pistol Association matches. Why pair it with the B-8?
This target is ideal for shooters who want to expand beyond bullseye accuracy into tactical proficiency. |
🔹 3. Green Ops TargetThe Green Ops Target is designed in partnership with elite firearms instructors, blending precision and real-world training needs. Key Features:
It’s a fantastic progression after you’ve mastered scoring the B-8—allowing you to apply your accuracy in more dynamic drills. |
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Tips & Expert Insights for Better B-8 Training
Want to squeeze the most out of your bullseye practice? Here are some pro tips:
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Log Your Scores: Keep a notebook or use a range app. Record the date, conditions, and final score. Over time, you’ll see patterns in your shooting.
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Drill with Purpose: Try the “10 shots in 10 minutes” B-8 drill—a classic precision exercise.
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Analyze Your Groups: Don’t just look at scores. Study group placement (low-left? high-right?). This reveals technique issues like trigger pull or grip.
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Mix in Variety: Alternate between B-8s and silhouettes like the IDPA Target to stay sharp across disciplines.
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Push Beyond Comfort: If you’re consistently shooting in the 90s, move the target farther back or tighten your time constraints.
Remember, scoring is just the baseline—using it strategically is what builds real skill.
Final Thoughts: Master the B-8, Master Your Accuracy
The B-8 bullseye target isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a proven tool to refine accuracy, discipline, and competitive skill. Once you understand how to score it correctly, you unlock a whole new level of feedback that drives improvement.
Pair that with the right training tools—like Axle Targets’ B8 Cluster Target, IDPA Target, and Green Ops Target—and you’ve got everything you need for smarter, more effective practice.
So next time you hit the range, bring a stack of paper targets from Axle Targets, sharpen your pencil, and track your performance like a pro. Because progress isn’t just about hitting the bullseye—it’s about knowing exactly how well you did it.