The Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100 and What It Taught Me
As someone who has spent over a decade pushing gear to its limits across a spectrum of demanding environments—from the precision required in a lab to the ruggedness needed in the field—I approached the Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100 with a practiced, critical eye. This pack of 100 paper targets, designed in collaboration with the A Girl & A Gun Women’s Shooting League, offers a unique blend of standard silhouette training with added elements for skill development. My recent need for a reliable, cost-effective training aid for my regular range sessions led me to this specific pack.
The decision to try these targets wasn’t born out of a single dramatic failure, but rather a gradual realization that my current supply was either too basic or too expensive for consistent practice. I’d been using generic silhouette targets that lacked any additional training cues, and while functional, they weren’t pushing my skills forward. I briefly considered a higher-end, reusable option but found the upfront cost prohibitive for the volume of practice I engage in. My initial impression upon handling the Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100 was one of practicality; the paper felt substantial enough to hold up to reasonable abuse without being overly heavy or difficult to handle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100 to the Test
My testing grounds for these targets were primarily two locations: my local indoor shooting range, which offers a controlled environment with good lighting and ventilation, and an outdoor range, providing a more dynamic setting with variable weather and lighting conditions. I focused on typical handgun drills, including static target practice, drawing from a holster, and speed drills, all aiming to assess the targets’ ability to provide clear feedback.
First Use Experience
The first time I stapled these targets to my backer boards, I appreciated the clear printing. The distinct scoring zones and additional aiming points were easily visible against the green background of the main silhouette. Their performance in both controlled indoor lighting and the harsher, variable light of an outdoor range remained consistent; the printed lines and zones never seemed to wash out or become indistinct, even at extended distances.
Ease of use was immediate. There was no complicated setup or learning curve; they function precisely as expected from a paper target. The only minor surprise was the subtle tactile difference between the scoring zones and the rest of the target, which I’ll elaborate on later.
Extended Use & Reliability
After weeks of consistent range use, these targets have held up admirably. I’ve put hundreds of rounds into them, and while they do eventually show signs of wear, the critical scoring zones and silhouette remain clearly defined for a significant duration. Durability is excellent for a paper target; even with multiple hits in close proximity, the paper doesn’t disintegrate prematurely, which is a common issue with thinner stock targets.
Maintenance is, of course, non-existent beyond the simple act of replacing them when they’ve served their purpose, or when a particular area becomes too dense with bullet holes to provide clear feedback. Compared to some of the cheaper, thinner paper targets I’ve used, these offer a far superior lifespan and clearer visual feedback for each shot placed. They don’t require special care; just proper mounting.
Breaking Down the Features of Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100
Specifications
The Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100 comes with a generous 100-pack bulk quantity, making it a cost-effective choice for regular shooters. Each target measures 23 inches in height and 35 inches in length, providing a substantial surface area. The material is a sturdy paper, designed to withstand numerous impacts without immediate tearing or shredding.
These dimensions are ideal for standard handgun training, offering a larger silhouette than many smaller, competition-specific targets, but still manageable for transport and mounting. The inclusion of an IDPA and USPSA style silhouette is a significant feature, providing a familiar and practical aiming point for those who participate in or train for these popular shooting sports. The added skill drill areas offer further utility, encouraging focused practice on specific shooting techniques beyond just center mass hits.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a training target is to provide clear feedback on shot placement, and this pack excels at that. The contrast between the colored zones and the paper itself, coupled with crisp printing, means that every hit is easily identifiable. Even with rapid fire, the resulting holes are distinct enough to assess accuracy.
A key strength is the inclusion of the additional skill drill areas. These aren’t just gratuitous additions; they are thoughtfully designed to encourage specific skills like precise headshots or tactical transitions. The only minor weakness is that the paper, while durable, can sometimes feel a tiny bit slicker in the scoring zones compared to the rest of the target, which can lead to lead splattering slightly more than I’d prefer on very close-range engagements. However, this is a minimal observation.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these targets is a clear win. The collaboration with A Girl & A Gun Women’s Shooting League has resulted in a target that is both functional and appealing. The familiar silhouette provides a solid foundation, while the integrated skill drills add depth to training sessions.
The build quality of the paper stock is noticeably better than many generic targets. It feels robust, not flimsy, and holds up well against staples or tacks. The printing is sharp and clear across the entire surface, ensuring no ambiguity in shot placement.
Durability & Maintenance
For a paper target, the durability is quite good. I’ve had targets that, after being peppered with dozens of rounds in the central mass area, still retained visible scoring zones on the periphery. This means you get more training value out of each sheet than you might expect.
There’s no real maintenance beyond proper storage to prevent creasing or moisture damage before use. Their disposable nature means no cleaning is required, which is always a plus for range consumables. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points.
Accessories and Customization Options
These targets are designed to be used as-is, and the pack includes the targets themselves. However, their utility can be significantly enhanced with standard shooting accessories.
- Staple Gun/Tacks: Essential for mounting these targets to cardboard backers or wooden frames.
- Cardboard Backing: Provides a firm surface for the targets, reducing flyers and ensuring consistent shot impact.
- Clamps: A quicker alternative to staples or tacks, especially for temporary setups.
- Target Stands: For outdoor use, a robust target stand is crucial to keep them upright and visible.
There are no specific customization options for the targets themselves, but their design integrates well with many shooting drills and equipment.
Pros and Cons of Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100
Pros
- Generous 100-pack bulk quantity: Offers excellent value for frequent shooters.
- Ample size (23″ x 35″): Provides a large, visible training surface suitable for most handgun disciplines.
- IDPA/USPSA silhouette: Familiar and practical aiming point for competitive shooters.
- Integrated skill drill zones: Adds significant training value beyond basic target practice.
- Durable paper stock: Resists tearing and holds up well to multiple hits.
- Clear, high-contrast printing: Ensures easy shot identification in various lighting conditions.
Cons
- Minor slickness in scoring zones can cause slight lead splatter at very close range.
- As with all paper targets, they are single-use and subject to wear.
Who Should Buy Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100?
This pack is an outstanding choice for recreational shooters, competitive handgun enthusiasts, and instructors who engage in regular training sessions. Anyone who participates in or practices for IDPA or USPSA disciplines will find the silhouette particularly useful. It’s also great for individuals looking to improve their pistol marksmanship with varied drills beyond simple center-mass shooting.
Those who require sterile, multi-use targets for medical or specific laboratory applications should look elsewhere, as these are designed for firearms training. Similarly, individuals who prioritize ultra-compact or highly specialized training targets might find these a bit standard. However, for sheer volume, practicality, and added training features at a great price, these are hard to beat. A good set of clamps or a staple gun would be a worthwhile complementary purchase.
Conclusion on Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100
The Action Target A Girl & A Gun Training Target, Pack of 100 delivers exceptional value and practical utility for anyone serious about improving their handgun skills. The combination of a familiar silhouette with thoughtfully designed skill drills, all printed on durable paper in a convenient 100-pack bulk offering, makes these an easy recommendation. They perform reliably, offer clear feedback, and provide more training opportunities than a basic target ever could.
For the price point, the quality and sheer volume of targets you receive are impressive. If you’re looking for a solid, reliable, and versatile training target that won’t break the bank, this pack is an excellent investment. I can confidently say these targets have become a staple in my range bag, and I would readily recommend them to fellow shooters.