Picture this: you’re at the shooting range, focused, locked in, and firing off round after round. But after a few magazines, you squint downrange and realize—you can’t quite tell where your last shots landed. Is that new hole yours, or did you punch it earlier? That’s the moment you know it’s time to swap out your paper target.
But here’s the real question—how often should you replace a paper target during practice? If you change it too often, you waste money and time. Wait too long, and you lose accuracy feedback, making your training less effective.
In this article, we’ll break down the signs that it’s time to replace your target, how different drills and calibers affect target longevity, and why using high-quality targets like those from Axle Targets can make all the difference.
Why Paper Targets Matter in Firearm Training
Paper targets aren’t just throwaway range accessories—they’re vital feedback tools. A good paper target helps you:
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Track your shot placement with clarity
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Measure accuracy, grouping, and progress over time
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Run different drills designed for both fundamentals and advanced shooting
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Keep your practice sessions efficient and realistic
If your target is so torn up that you can’t read your hits, you’re not training—you’re just sending lead downrange.
That’s why replacing paper targets at the right intervals matters just as much as what firearm you’re shooting.
Key Factors That Determine When to Replace a Paper Target
1. Shot Visibility
The main reason to replace a paper target is simple—you can’t see your hits anymore. If multiple holes overlap or the paper is torn, you lose the visual confirmation needed to adjust your aim.
2. Training Goals
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Precision training (e.g., zeroing an optic): Replace targets more frequently for clean, visible groups.
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Speed and transition drills: You may keep a target up longer since precise hole measurement isn’t as critical.
3. Firearm Caliber
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Handguns (9mm, .40, .45, etc.): Holes are larger, so they tear paper more quickly. Expect to replace targets sooner.
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Rifles (.223, .308, etc.): Smaller holes are easier to spot at distance, but high volume shooting will wear targets fast.
4. Distance & Optics
At 25 yards, you may spot hits easily. At 50–100 yards, paper wear and overlapping holes make shot calls harder without replacing the target.
5. Personal Preference
Some shooters like a fresh target every magazine, while others stretch one out until it’s Swiss cheese. There’s no one-size-fits-all—but clarity is key.
Best Practices: How Often Should You Replace a Target?
While every shooter has their own style, here are practical guidelines:
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Every 50–75 rounds for pistol shooting, especially if you’re grouping in a central area.
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Every 25–40 rounds when zeroing a rifle optic, since precision requires clean visibility.
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At the end of each drill or training block, especially for structured range sessions.
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Whenever you lose shot accountability—if you can’t confidently call your hits, swap it out.
👉 Think of it this way: replacing a paper target is like resetting your scorecard. You want clean data to track improvement.
Product Spotlights: Axle Targets Paper Targets
The paper target you choose plays a massive role in how often you need to replace it. Low-quality, thin paper rips fast and forces you to change more often. Axle Targets solves this problem by offering durable, well-designed paper targets that maximize visibility and usability. Let’s look at three standouts:
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🔥 Red Skeleton Target👉 Red Skeleton Target (Shop Now) This fan-favorite blends function with a bit of edge. The Red Skeleton Target features:
Perfect for shooters who want clear visual reference points and a striking design, the Red Skeleton Target is durable enough to last longer—meaning fewer replacements during a session. |
⚡ Modern Samurai Project Target👉 Modern Samurai Project Target (Shop Now) Developed in collaboration with Modern Samurai Project, this target is built for speed and accuracy drills. Key features include:
Because it’s versatile, you can use it longer before replacement—just move your aim point around the different scoring zones. |
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🎯 Sage Dynamics Target👉 Sage Dynamics Target (Shop Now) The Sage Dynamics Target was designed with defensive training in mind. It offers:
This target shines in accountability training—you’ll know immediately if your shots are landing where they count. Its structured design means you may get more drills per target, reducing waste. |
Expert Tips for Maximizing Your Paper Targets
Want to get more life out of every target while keeping your training sharp? Try these pro tips:
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Shoot different quadrants: Break the target into sections, focusing on different areas each drill.
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Use pasters or stickers: Cover old holes with small adhesive dots to extend target life.
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Bring a spotting scope or binoculars: Helps you track shots further away without swapping targets as often.
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Rotate between drills: For example, use one side for accuracy, another side for speed.
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Invest in premium targets (like Axle’s): Better paper quality resists tearing, letting you train longer.
Wrapping It Up: Fresh Targets = Better Training
So, how often should you replace a paper target during practice? The answer comes down to clarity and accountability. If you can’t call your shots or measure your progress, it’s time for a fresh one.
On average, expect to replace your target every 50–75 pistol rounds, every 25–40 rifle rounds, or whenever your training drill demands it.
And here’s the kicker—using high-quality paper targets from Axle Targets means you’ll replace less often while getting cleaner, more accurate feedback. Whether it’s the Red Skeleton, Modern Samurai Project, or Sage Dynamics Target, each is designed to give you more value per sheet.
👉 Ready to sharpen your training with durable, professional-grade paper targets? Explore Axle Targets and upgrade your range sessions today.