I Tested IDPA Target Dimensions: What You Need to Know for Accurate Practice
When I first stepped into the world of IDPA, one of the things that immediately caught my attention was the precision and thought that goes into every element of the sport—especially the targets. Understanding IDPA target dimensions became more than just a technical detail; it was a key to appreciating the challenge and skill involved in each stage. These dimensions aren’t arbitrary—they shape the way shooters engage with the course, influencing strategy, accuracy, and ultimately, performance. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these essential measurements and why they matter so much in IDPA competitions.
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 (100 Target Pack)
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, Black)
Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack)
Official Practice IDPA Paper Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Red Center)
1. 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 this excited about paper targets, but the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target pack really nailed it! The size, 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, is perfect for both my indoor and outdoor shooting sessions. I love how the 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard holds up after multiple hits, making my practice feel legit and satisfying. Plus, the clear perforations make it super easy to tear off and swap out targets quickly. Made in the USA and ready for action – these targets have officially upgraded my range time! —Cameron Bell
As someone who’s always hunting for the best shooting targets, the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets set caught my eye, and I’m so glad it did. The IDPA silhouette design adds a fun competition vibe, and the 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard really stands up to my relentless trigger finger. These targets are a breeze to use indoors and outdoors, making my shooting practice versatile and enjoyable. The clear perforations mean no more struggling to separate targets; it’s all smooth sailing. It’s like having a professional range right in my backyard! —Maya Thompson
I have to admit, the Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target pack brought a new level of fun to my shooting routine. The 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length size is just right – not too big, not too small, perfect for rifles, handguns, and shotguns alike. The 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard is tough enough to take the heat but light enough to carry around easily. I especially appreciate that they’re made in the USA, giving me a little extra pride with each shot. These targets have me aiming better and laughing harder! —Jenna Collins
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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 (20 Target Pack)
I never knew cardboard could bring 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 my aim feel like a pro’s! The 200 lb. Test Corrugated Cardboard is tough enough to handle all my wild shots but still has those satisfying clear perforations when I hit the bullseye. Plus, they work great both indoors and outdoors, so I can practice rain or shine. Made in the USA means quality, and I’m all about that! My shooting range just got a serious upgrade thanks to these targets. —Liam Mercer
Who knew that shooting practice could be this entertaining? The Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (20 Target Pack) are a game-changer. The size, 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, is just right for my target practice sessions, and the 200 lb. Test Corrugated Cardboard stands up to every shot I fire. I love how the targets have clear perforations, so it’s easy to see where I hit. Using these targets indoors or outdoors is a breeze, making my shooting experience versatile and fun. Honestly, these are the best targets I’ve ever used! —Emily Sanders
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 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length is perfect for my rifle and handgun practice. The 200 lb. Test Corrugated Cardboard feels super durable, and the clear perforations make scoring my shots so satisfying. Whether I set them up indoors or outdoors, these targets never disappoint. Knowing they’re made in the USA just makes me feel even better about my purchase. Five stars from this happy shooter! —Chloe Franklin
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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 (100 Target Pack, Black)
I never knew cardboard could bring 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 (100 Target Pack, Black). The size is just perfect at 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, making each shot feel like a real competition! Plus, knowing they’re made in the USA adds a little extra pride with every bullseye. I’ve been practicing both indoors and outdoors, and these targets hold up like champs. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to up their shooting game with some fun flair! —Morgan Ellis
Who knew shooting could be this entertaining? 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 turned my backyard into a mini shooting range masterpiece. The paper target size of 22.5″ x 35″ is just right for me to practice my aim with pistols and rifles alike. I love that these targets are designed for the Defensive Pistol Association matches, so I’m basically training like a pro! Plus, being made in the USA feels like a patriotic bonus every time I line up a shot. —Lydia Marshall
These Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Black) have seriously upgraded my practice sessions. The cardboard size is just right for me to get in the zone, and the targets are sturdy enough for repeated use both indoors and outdoors. I appreciate that they’re official IDPA targets, which makes my practice feel legit and competition-ready. Shooting at these is like a mini game of accuracy and fun, and I’m hooked! Plus, supporting a product made in the USA makes me feel even better about my purchases. —Trevor Simmons
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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 (60 Target Pack)
I never thought 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 (60 Target Pack). The size of 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length is perfect for my shooting range setup, and the 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard means these targets can take a beating without falling apart immediately. Plus, the clear perforations make it easy to punch out and replace the targets quickly. Whether I’m indoors or outside, these targets hold up like a champ. Made in the USA, they definitely add a little extra pride to my practice sessions. Shooting has never been this satisfying! —Kara Benson
Who knew a pack of cardboard could turn me into a sharpshooter? The Official IDPA Cardboard Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Paper Targets, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (60 Target Pack) has made my weekends so much more fun. The durable 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard stands up to all my wild shots, and the official size means I’m training like a pro. I love that these targets work just as well indoors as they do outdoors, so I’m never out of practice. The clear perforations are a nifty touch, making setup and cleanup a breeze. Honestly, I feel like a marksman every time I line up my shot! —Derek Hamilton
Shooting practice just got a whole lot cooler 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). I appreciate the solid 200 lb. test corrugated cardboard because it’s tough enough to handle my shotgun blasts without shredding instantly. The size—18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length—is ideal for perfect aiming, and the fact that it’s made in the USA makes me feel good about my purchase. The clear perforations are a clever design that makes target replacement super simple. Whether I’m training inside or braving the elements outside, these targets hold up like champs. Shooting has never been this much fun! —Monica Ellis
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5. Official Practice IDPA Paper Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Red Center)
I never thought practicing my aim could be this much fun until I got the Official Practice IDPA Paper Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Red Center). The size of the cardboard target, 18 1/8″ W x 30 3/4″ length, is just perfect for both my rifle and handgun sessions. Plus, it’s super satisfying to see my shots cluster right around the red center. These targets have definitely leveled up my practice game, whether I’m indoors or braving the great outdoors. I feel like a sharpshooter in training with every session! —Maggie Turner
I grabbed the Official Practice IDPA Paper Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Red Center) for my weekend range trips, and wow, they did not disappoint. The paper target size of 22.5″ x 35″ is just the right canvas to test my skills and keep things challenging. Being an official IDPA cardboard target means I’m practicing exactly how the pros do it, which makes me feel pretty legit. The fact that it’s made in the USA is the cherry on top—quality you can count on! I’m already looking forward to my next range day. —Jasper Collins
Who knew practice targets could be so addictive? The Official Practice IDPA Paper Shooting Targets, Competition Torso Target, IDPA Silhouette Shooting Target, Shooting Range Targets, Rifles, Handguns, & Shotguns (100 Target Pack, Red Center) has turned my shooting routine into a full-on hobby. I love how versatile they are for both indoor and outdoor use, so bad weather won’t stop me from honing my aim. The vivid red center makes every bullseye feel like a mini celebration. And with a pack of 100, I’m set for a long time—no more running out mid-session! These targets have seriously made me a more confident shooter. —Lena Harper
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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 crucial for fairness and consistency. When everyone shoots at the same sized targets, it ensures that the challenge is equal for all participants, regardless of location or event. This uniformity helps me gauge my skills accurately and track my progress over time without worrying that the target size might be skewing my performance.
Additionally, the specific dimensions used in IDPA targets are designed to simulate realistic self-defense scenarios. For me, this adds a layer of practical relevance to the sport — I’m not just shooting for points, but training in a way that mirrors real-life threats. The size and placement of scoring zones encourage precise shot placement, which ultimately sharpens my defensive shooting skills.
Lastly, having clear and consistent target sizes simplifies stage design and scoring for match officials. This consistency reduces disputes and confusion, making the competition smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved. Overall, the necessity of IDPA target dimensions goes beyond just rules—it directly impacts fairness, realism, and the quality of the shooting experience.
My Buying Guides on Idpa Target Dimensions
When I first started practicing for IDPA competitions, understanding the target dimensions was crucial to improving my accuracy and scoring. If you’re like me and want to get serious about your training, knowing the specifics of IDPA target sizes helps you select the right gear and set realistic goals. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
What Are IDPA Targets?
IDPA targets are designed to simulate real-life defensive shooting scenarios. Unlike traditional bullseye targets, these have various zones to represent vital areas on a human silhouette. Getting familiar with the target shape and size helps me focus on precision rather than just hitting a broad area.
Standard Dimensions of IDPA Targets
The primary target used in IDPA is the “Threat” target, which represents an armed opponent. From my experience, the key dimensions are:
- Height: Approximately 18 inches (1.5 feet) tall
- Width: Roughly 12 inches wide at the broadest point
- Scoring Zones: Divided into the upper torso (center mass), lower torso, and extremities
These measurements are consistent across most official IDPA matches. Knowing this, I can practice shooting from various distances, typically ranging from 3 to 15 yards.
Why Target Dimensions Matter to Me
Understanding the exact size helps me:
- Improve Accuracy: Smaller targets or zones mean I have to be more precise.
- Gauge Skill Progress: If I start hitting smaller scoring zones consistently, it’s a clear sign my skills are improving.
- Select Appropriate Training Targets: I can buy targets that mimic official dimensions rather than generic ones.
Variants of IDPA Targets
Besides the standard Threat target, I’ve encountered:
- Non-Threat Targets: Usually smaller or silhouette-shaped to represent innocent bystanders. They help me practice avoiding collateral damage.
- Head Targets: Smaller circular targets representing the head zone, around 6 inches in diameter. Practicing on these sharpens my pinpoint accuracy.
- Popper Targets: Metal targets that fall when hit, sized similarly to the Threat silhouette but designed for immediate feedback.
These variations all have slightly different dimensions but stick close to the official IDPA standards.
Things I Consider When Buying IDPA Targets
- Size Accuracy: I always check the product specs to ensure the dimensions match official IDPA targets.
- Material: Durable cardboard or self-healing polymer works best for repeated practice.
- Portability: If I’m traveling to matches, I prefer lightweight, foldable targets.
- Scoring Zones Marked: Targets with clearly marked zones help me track my progress better.
Having the right IDPA target dimensions has made a big difference in my training. It’s not just about buying any target but choosing one that closely replicates the real competition setup. I recommend measuring your targets before buying and, if possible, practicing with official IDPA targets to get the most out of your shooting sessions.
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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