How to Get More Value Out of One Target System

If you’re setting up the same drill every time, you’re leaving training value on the table.

One well-designed target system can do far more than most shooters realize. Whether you’re law enforcement or a civilian who takes training seriously, the difference between “good range time” and “great range time” usually isn’t more gear. It’s how you use what you already have.

Here’s how to stretch one target system further and get more out of every session.

Stop Treating the Target Like a Prop

A lot of shooters treat targets as something to shoot at, not something to train with. The mindset shift is simple: the target isn’t the goal, the decision is.

Instead of running the same exposure over and over:

• Change when the target appears

• Change how long it stays visible

• Change whether the shot is allowed at all

  
  

Even small changes force your brain to stay engaged instead of running on autopilot.

Change Roles Without Changing Gear

The same target system can support very different goals depending on how it’s run.

For example:

• Instructor-controlled drills using live joystick movement

• Testing using recorded movement patterns

• Solo practice with preset modes and delayed exposure

  
  

This keeps training fresh without resetting the range or swapping equipment.

Limit Ammo to Increase Focus

It sounds backwards, but fewer rounds often lead to better training.

Set rules like:

• One round per exposure

• No makeup shots

• Misses count, even if the target reappears

  
  

When shooters know they don’t get endless retries, shot discipline improves fast.

Train the Shot You Don’t Take

Some of the most valuable reps involve not firing at all.

Build in scenarios where:

• The target never clears

• The hostage never fully disappears

• The window is intentionally bad

  
  

Learning to withhold a shot under pressure is just as important as learning when to take one.

One System, Endless Scenarios

A good target system should grow with the shooter. When used creatively, one setup can support skill development, testing, and realistic scenario training without becoming predictable or boring.

Check out our Hostage Rescue Target and see how one system can make your training more realistic and enjoyable.