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Games & Training

All of our targets are designed to be enjoyed competitively and for fun to help our customers improve as shooters. There are several games that you can play as a group or individually. 

 

Games can be structured as time-based, ammunition-based, points-based, or from your own interpretation of Cofata’s recommendations.

Unlimited Ammunition / Unlimited Time

For a competitive game, each shooter uses the same target model to establish the difficulty level. If you choose the unlimited options, then you will decide a winner by either who clears the target with the fewest rounds of ammunition or in the least amount of time. Participants should agree upon the conditions to win in advance of the game.

 

For individual training, set a measurable goal for yourself. Under this condition, the concern is not ammunition or time but rather observed performance. Some points of reflection when practicing with unlimited ammunition and time might include: did you maintain consistent shot technique and hold; were you consistent with your breathing for each shot taken; was your stance consistent throughout each shot; did you maintain focus throughout the entire target; were you relaxed while shooting; and did you control your emotions while shooting. Don’t forget to keep a log in a shooter’s journal to document your reflections.

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Limited Ammunition / Unlimited Time

For a competitive game, each shooter uses the same target model to establish the difficulty level. Each competitor is limited to an agreed upon number of bullets. Everyone has as long as they need to be as accurate as possible with each shot. We recommend starting out with an average of three or four (3 - 4) bullets per tab on a target’s design. For beginners and novices, consider starting with six to seven (6 - 7) rounds of ammunition per tab. The person that clears the target with the least amount of ammunition wins. If no one completes the target’s design, then a least remaining tab count method will be used to determine the winner.

 

For individual training, the objective is to practice on similar targets across training sessions. When starting out, consider limiting yourself to four or five (4 - 5) rounds of ammunition per tab. Think of your limited ammunition count as a “par” score in golf. After clearing a target’s design, did you have rounds left over and score below par or did you need to get additional rounds to finish and score above par? Don’t stop if you run out of ammo! Document how many extra shots were needed to clear a target. As you improve, reduce your ammunition limitation with each new game. For each training session, document in a journal how many rounds of ammunition are needed to clear a target. 

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Limited Ammunition / Limited Time 

For a competitive game, each shooter uses the same target model to establish the difficulty level. Each shooter is limited to an agreed upon number of bullets and a time limit. Use your time and ammo wisely within the constraints that are agreed upon. The person that uses the least amount of ammunition and time to clear their target within the set parameters is declared the winner. If no one eliminates the target’s design under the constraints, then a least remaining tab count method will be used to determine the winner.

 

For individual training, the objective is to add pressure to your training session. The structure of this game is only recommended after you have some experience with other rulesets. Don’t stop the game if you run out of time or ammunition! Take notes in your journal after each game to measure your improvement over time. At the end of your session, log in your journal whether you cleared the target and/or whether you ran out of time or ammunition.

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Unlimited Ammunition / Limited Time

For a competitive game, each shooter uses the same target model to establish the difficulty level. Each shooter has as much ammunition as they want, but everyone is limited by time. You need to shoot as fast as possible to clear the target. The person that clears the target first, no matter the amount of ammunition needed, is declared the winner. If no one eliminates the target’s design within the time constraint, then a least remaining tab count method will be used to determine the winner.

 

For individual training, the objective is speed on a similar target across each training session. How well can you maintain the consistency of each shot taken under the pressure of a time constraint? Did you clear the target within the time limit? At the end of your session, log in your journal if you cleared the target or needed additional time. Don’t stop the game if the timer runs out! Log how much time you needed and measure any improvement across future games. Consider including reflections to your journal entry to keep track of whether you observed yourself maintaining a consistent hold and shot technique while under a time crunch.

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Team Games 

Color Coded Tabs (shared target)

Use assorted color markers as an accessory to code the tabs in a pattern on a shared target. Split up in teams by color. Each shooter only eliminates their team’s tab colors. For targets with multiple rings of tabs, safely switch shooters between rings after clearing each team’s color tab. If your range has a limited number of lanes, designate a team firearm and safely switch between shooters on the line. For ranges with plenty of lanes, arrange teammates on neighboring lanes to communicate between each zone of the target. The team that eliminates their tabs with the least amount of ammunition or time wins. 

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1 Shot at a Time

A game where teams can share a target or use separate targets. Take turns as each team takes one shot at a time. The pressure is on… everyone is watching! If you share a target, then the team that clears the most tabs or sections first is declared the winner. If you use separate targets, then the team that clears their target with the fewest rounds is declared the winner.

For Instructors 

Most target models can be split into zones. Students can be guided to clear tabs in a specific zone of a target before moving on. This exercise can help shooters learn to focus on a small area rather than the entire target. Additionally, shooters are able to practice and understand why the sequencing of shots for a target is important for competition.

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Most of our targets don’t have a specific order they must be used in. The BKOT, EKOT, and the IKOT do have a recommended order to follow for clearing a target. Start with the innermost circle of tabs to eliminate the bullseye, then work your way out eliminating each ring as you go.

Beginner knockout target with labeled zones
Beginner target with tabs labeled by number for a shooting order
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