Shooting sports, whether for recreation or training, are an investment. The costs associated with shooting outdoors can quickly add up, especially when you consider the price of ammunition, range fees, and targets.
While each type of target—self-healing rubber, steel, and paper—has its own benefits, Infinity Targets stand out for their durability and long-term cost savings.
In this post, we’ll break down the costs associated with shooting outdoors and explain why Infinity Targets are the most economical choice for avid shooters.
The Costs of Shooting Outdoors
Paper Targets
Paper targets are the most common choice for many shooters due to their low upfront cost. On average, a pack of 20 paper targets costs around $20. However, paper targets are single-use items. Here’s a cost breakdown for a typical year of outdoor shooting if you visit the range twice a month and use 5 targets per visit:
- Cost per target: $1.00
- Targets per visit: 5
- Cost per cardboard backer: $2.00
- Cardboard backer per visit: 1
- Visits per year: 24
- Annual cost: (($1 x 5) + $2) x 24 = $168
Steel Targets
Steel targets are popular for their durability and immediate feedback. A standard AR500 steel target costs about $300. Steel targets can last for years with proper maintenance, but they require initial investment and occasional repainting or minor repairs. Assuming minimal maintenance costs, let’s calculate the annual cost spread over three years:
- Initial cost: $300
- Maintenance (paint): $10 per year
- Annual cost: ($300 / 3) + $10 = $110
Self-Healing Rubber Targets (Infinity Targets)
Self-healing rubber targets, like those from Infinity Targets, offer a unique blend of durability and minimal maintenance. A typical Infinity Target costs around $150 and can withstand thousands of rounds before needing replacement. Here’s the cost breakdown assuming a two-year lifespan:
- Initial cost: $150
- Maintenance (paint): $10 per year
- Annual cost: ($150 / 2) + $10 = $85
Comparative Cost Analysis
When comparing the annual costs of different target types, Infinity Targets offer significant savings due to their longevity and low maintenance requirements. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Paper targets: $168 per year
- Steel targets: $110 per year
- Infinity Targets: $85 per year
While the durability of steel and Infinity Targets are similar, Infinity Targets have lower upfront costs, lighter weight, and the added benefit of compatibility with standard target stands, making them a more convenient option.
Conclusion
When you factor in the initial investment, durability, and minimal maintenance costs, Infinity Targets emerge as the most cost-effective option for outdoor shooting enthusiasts.
Infinity Targets not only save money but also provide a more sustainable and consistent shooting experience. Choose Infinity Targets and see the savings for yourself.
For more financial insights and advice on managing your shooting range, White Collar Combat provides expert guidance for the firearms industry.