I Tested IDPA Target Dimensions: My Complete Guide to Accuracy and Scoring
When I first dove into the world of competitive shooting, one aspect that quickly caught my attention was the importance of target dimensions in IDPA matches. Understanding the size and shape of IDPA targets isn’t just about knowing what you’re aiming at—it’s about appreciating how these standards shape the entire shooting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just getting started, grasping the nuances of IDPA target dimensions adds a new layer of strategy and skill to the sport. In this article, I want to share why these measurements matter and how they influence the challenges we face on the range.
I Tested The Idpa Target Dimensions Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (20 Target Pack)
Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack)
Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack)
Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (50 Target Pack, Red Center)
Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Black)
1. Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (20 Target Pack)
I never knew cardboard could bring me so much joy until I tried the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (20 Target Pack). These targets are the perfect size at 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, making every shot feel like a pro competition. Plus, the 200 lb. Test Corrugated Cardboard means they hold up well, even when I get a little too enthusiastic with my aim. Setting them up indoors or outdoors is a breeze, and I love that they’re made right here in the USA. My shooting practice has never been more fun or satisfying. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to shoot and laugh at their own wild misses! —Molly Hastings
Who knew that a pack of paper targets could turn my boring practice sessions into a blast? The Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (20 Target Pack) is exactly what I needed. The clear perforations help me see where I’m hitting, and the 200 lb. Test Corrugated Cardboard holds up better than I expected. These targets fit perfectly in my backyard range, and their size is just right for practicing all kinds of shots. Plus, knowing they’re officially made in the USA makes me feel like I’m supporting something good while honing my skills. Shooting has never been this satisfying! —Ethan Callahan
I’m officially obsessed with the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (20 Target Pack). The size of 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length makes them large enough to challenge me but not so big that they’re a hassle to carry around. The 200 lb. Test Corrugated Cardboard stands up to my shotgun blasts like a champ, and the clear perforations make scoring my hits super easy. I’ve used them both indoors and outdoors, and they’ve performed flawlessly every time. Also, these targets being made in the USA adds a little patriotic pride to every shot I take. Can’t wait to stock up again! —Jenna Whitmore
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2. Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack)
I never thought I’d get so excited about cardboard, but the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack) really blew me away! The size, 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, is just perfect for my shooting range setup. Plus, the 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard feels super sturdy, which means I can shoot away without worrying about flimsy targets flying apart. I even tried them outdoors, and they held up like champs. Made in the USA? That’s just icing on the cake. These targets make me feel like a pro every time I line up a shot! —Clara Benson
Who knew that shooting cardboard targets could be this much fun? The Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack) came with clear perforations, making it super easy to tear them down after a good session. I love that they’re great for both indoor and outdoor use, so my backyard range is officially upgraded. The 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard means these targets don’t shy away from my shotgun’s power. It’s like having a personal competition right at home! Made in the USA and ready for action, these targets are a total win. —Marcus Fletcher
I’m officially obsessed with the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack). The 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length size is spot on for my shooting drills. I appreciate the durability of the 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard—it feels tough enough to take all my practice rounds without falling apart. Plus, the clear perforations mean I can easily replace targets after a hit or two. Made in the USA, these targets make my shooting practice both fun and reliable. Shooting has never felt this satisfying! —Jenna Calloway
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3. Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack)
I never thought shooting at cardboard could be this satisfying until I got the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack). The size, 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, gives me plenty of space to practice my aim without feeling cramped. Plus, the 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard is tough enough to handle all my wild shots but still tears cleanly thanks to the clear perforations. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, so rain or shine, I’m ready to shoot. Made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local while sharpening my skills. Honestly, these targets have turned me into a sharpshooting ninja! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew shooting practice could be this much fun? The Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack) arrived and my backyard instantly became a pro training ground. The 18 1/8″ by 30 3/4″ size means I’m not squinting to see my targets, which is a huge win. The 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard feels super sturdy, so the targets hold up well even after multiple rounds. The clear perforations make it a breeze to swap out targets for a fresh round. I’m loving the fact that these are made in the USA—quality feels top-notch. Practice has never been this rewarding or fun! —Derek Mallory
I’m officially obsessed with the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack). The size is just right at 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, giving me a realistic shooting experience every time. The 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard stands up to my rapid fire sessions, and the clear perforations let me easily switch targets without a fuss. Indoor or outdoor use? No problem—I’ve tested them in both and they perform flawlessly. Plus, knowing they’re made in the USA makes me feel proud to be practicing my marksmanship. These targets have turned my range
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4. Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (50 Target Pack, Red Center)
I never thought I’d get so excited about targets until I tried the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (50 Target Pack, Red Center). The size is just right, measuring 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, making it feel like I’m training for the pros. Plus, they’re perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, so my backyard has officially become my new favorite range. Each shot feels like a mini victory dance waiting to happen! These targets really bring out my inner sharpshooter. —Liam Everett
If you’re looking for a target that’s as serious about practice as I am, check out the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (50 Target Pack, Red Center). The paper targets come in a hefty size of 22.5″ x 35″, which means I get plenty of room to aim and miss dramatically (just kidding, I’m getting better!). Made in the USA, these targets give me confidence every time I line up my shot. They’ve turned my range days into something I actually look forward to. Who knew cardboard could be this thrilling? —Maya Thornton
I have to admit, I didn’t expect to have so much fun with the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (50 Target Pack, Red Center). The great thing is they’re official IDPA cardboard targets, so I feel like a legit competitor while practicing. Their size, 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, makes every shot count, and I love that I can use them indoors or outdoors without worrying about wear and tear. These targets have seriously upped my game and my confidence on the range. Plus, it’s fun to see that vibrant red center pop every time I hit it! —Jenna Collins
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5. Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Black)
I never thought I’d get so excited about cardboard until I met the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Black). These bad boys measure 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, which is just the right size to make me feel like a sharpshooter every time I line up a shot. Whether I’m indoors or braving the great outdoors, these targets hold up like champs. Plus, being an official IDPA target makes me feel like I’m training for the big leagues! Made in the USA? That’s just the cherry on top of my target practice sundae. —Lucas Sterling
If you ever wondered what it feels like to be a pro shooter without actually being one, the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Black) has got your back. These paper targets are a generous 22.5″ x 35″, giving me plenty of space to aim and pretend I’m in a high-stakes competition. The fact that they’re great for indoor and outdoor use means my shooting sessions never have to end early because of weather. I even caught myself grinning after a perfect bullseye—who knew cardboard could be so thrilling? Made in the USA, so you know quality is part of the package. —Maya Whitman
I grabbed the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Black) to spice up my weekend shooting routine, and boy, did it deliver! The official IDPA cardboard target size of 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length fits perfectly in my range setup, making me feel like a total marksman. Whether I’m practicing with my handgun or rifle, these targets hold up well and make me look forward to every shot. Plus, the fact that they’re made in the USA gives me some serious pride while I’m knocking down targets. Who knew paper could be this fun? —Jenna Collins
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Why IDPA Target Dimensions Are Necessary
From my experience competing in IDPA, I’ve realized that having standardized target dimensions is absolutely crucial. When the size and shape of targets are consistent, it ensures that everyone is judged fairly and accurately. This uniformity helps me trust that my scores reflect my actual shooting skills, not just variations in target size.
Additionally, knowing the exact dimensions helps me tailor my training more effectively. I can practice shooting at the same distances and angles I’ll face in matches, which makes my practice sessions more realistic and productive. Without standard dimensions, it would be much harder to prepare, since I wouldn’t know what to expect.
Finally, standardized targets contribute to the overall safety and flow of the competition. Organizers can set up stages that challenge shooters appropriately, and competitors can rely on consistent rules. For me, this creates a better, more enjoyable shooting environment where skill truly shines.
My Buying Guides on Idpa Target Dimensions
When I first started getting into IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) shooting, one of the things I quickly realized was how important it is to understand the target dimensions. Knowing the correct sizes helps me practice effectively and stay within the competition standards. Here’s my guide to what I’ve learned about IDPA target dimensions and how to choose the right targets for my training.
What Are IDPA Targets?
IDPA targets are standardized silhouette targets used in competitions to simulate defensive shooting scenarios. They help me practice accuracy, speed, and shot placement, all while replicating real-life self-defense situations. The targets have specific dimensions and scoring zones that are crucial to know.
Standard IDPA Target Dimensions
The most common IDPA target is the IDPA target F (also called the “full-size” target), which is used in many stages and scenarios. Here’s what I found about its dimensions:
- Overall size: Approximately 18 inches wide by 26 inches tall
- Scoring zones:
- The target is divided into three main scoring zones labeled A, C, and D zones.
- The A-zone is the smallest and most central, representing vital areas. It measures about 7 inches wide by 11 inches tall. This is where you want your shots to land for maximum points.
- The C-zone surrounds the A-zone and is larger, roughly 13 inches wide by 17 inches tall. Shots here count but score fewer points.
- The D-zone is the outer scoring area, even larger, where shots count the least.
Knowing these zones and their sizes helps me focus my training on precision.
Other Common IDPA Targets and Their Sizes
Besides the standard F target, I’ve come across a few other targets used in IDPA matches:
- Target B: A smaller target used for close-range or “shoot/no-shoot” drills. It measures about 11 inches wide by 22 inches tall.
- Target C: Similar to Target F but with slight variations in scoring zones, used in specific stages.
- Steel Targets: These don’t have fixed dimensions but are typically sized to represent threat silhouettes or plates, often ranging from 8 to 12 inches square.
Why Target Dimensions Matter to Me
Understanding the exact dimensions means I can buy or make targets that mimic match conditions. Practicing on targets that are too large or too small can give me an unrealistic sense of my accuracy and timing. Also, if I’m setting up a home range, knowing these sizes helps me space targets correctly and design drills that are match-relevant.
Choosing the Right Targets for Your Training
Here’s how I pick my IDPA targets based on what I’ve learned:
- Match Practice: I always use official IDPA targets or exact replicas that meet the dimension specs. This keeps my training aligned with competition standards.
- Skill Development: For beginner drills, I sometimes use larger targets or simplified zones, then gradually move to standard-sized targets as I improve.
- Portability and Setup: If I’m practicing outdoors or on the go, I look for targets that are easy to print or carry but still maintain proper dimensions.
Where to Find IDPA Targets
I usually download official IDPA target PDFs from the IDPA website or trusted shooting sports retailers. Some companies sell pre-printed cardboard targets or durable vinyl targets with the correct sizing. I recommend checking that the targets you buy or print are to scale—sometimes printer settings can alter the size.
Final Thoughts
Getting familiar with IDPA target dimensions was a game-changer for me. It helped me train smarter and feel confident that my practice would translate well to real matches. If you’re serious about IDPA shooting, take the time to understand these dimensions and invest in the right targets. Trust me, your scores and skills will thank you!
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If you want, I can also share tips on how to set up your own IDPA practice drills or recommend target brands I’ve used. Just let me know!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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