Train Smarter with Scaled Targets for Dry-Fire Practice
Ammunition is expensive, range access is limited, and consistency wins matches. That’s why dry-fire training—using realistic scaled targets—is the foundation of serious skill development. With the right setup, you can recreate real-world match distances in your home or garage and refine your fundamentals safely and effectively.
Why Scaled Targets Work
Scaled targets recreate the same sight picture and scoring zone you’d see on a full-size USPSA, IPSC, or IDPA target—but at a reduced scale and shorter distance.
-
¼-scale targets simulate full-size targets viewed from 4× farther away.
-
⅕-scale targets simulate full-size targets viewed from 5× farther away.
That means you can train for a 25-yard shot using a ¼-scale target just over 6 feet away, or a ⅕-scale target only 5 feet away.
Distance Conversion Table — ¼-Scale and ⅕-Scale Targets
Use this chart to find the correct placement distance (in feet) to replicate full-scale target distances in dry-fire practice.
| Full-Size Target Distance (yards) | ¼-Scale Target Distance (feet) | ⅕-Scale Target Distance (feet) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 yd | 3.75 ft | 3 ft |
| 7 yd | 5.25 ft | 4.2 ft |
| 10 yd | 7.5 ft | 6 ft |
| 12 yd | 9 ft | 7.2 ft |
| 15 yd | 11.25 ft | 9 ft |
Quick formula:
-
For ¼-scale → divide the full-size yard distance by 4, then multiply by 3 to convert to feet.
-
For ⅕-scale → divide the full-size yard distance by 5, then multiply by 3 to convert to feet.
(Example: 20 yd ÷ 5 = 4 yd × 3 = 12 ft placement for ⅕-scale.)
How to Get the Most from Dry-Fire
-
Pick the correct scale for your available space—¼-scale for garages and larger rooms, ⅕-scale for tighter setups.
-
Mount targets using tape, magnets, or stands at realistic sight heights (around chest level).
-
Start slow, focusing on sight movement and trigger press.
-
Track your progress—count stable draws, quick transitions, and clean trigger breaks over time.
-
Incorporate reloads, movement, and transitions once consistency is built.
Why Layered Ballistics Scaled Targets Are Different
-
Competition-accurate geometry modeled on USPSA/IPSC and IDPA standards.
-
Durable premium-stock materials built for thousands of repetitions.
-
High-contrast scoring zones for crisp sight alignment with laser trainers.
-
Made in the USA by a competitive shooter who designs for function, not gimmicks.
Whether you’re training for club matches or national competition, these scaled targets bring realism and focus to your dry-fire sessions.
Pro Tip: Layer Your Training Setup
Pair your dry-fire scaled targets with:
-
Paster Gun Holsters for quick patching between drills.
-
Magnet Holsters (for magazines) for smooth reloads.
-
Holster Adapters to maintain consistent draw angle and retention.
Consistency in your gear setup makes every rep count.
Train Anywhere. Build Precision Everywhere.
Dry-fire is where champions are made. Scaled targets let you train realistically, refine visual processing, and engrain perfect mechanics—all without leaving home.
Train smarter. Dry-fire daily. Scaled targets by Layered Ballistics make every rep matter.
