Finding the right target can make or break your plinking session. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or just introducing someone to the sport, a good target provides instant feedback, builds confidence, and, most importantly, ramps up the fun factor. Forget just aiming at a soda can; modern air rifle targets are engineered for action, offering everything from satisfying spins and resets to dramatic self-sealing capabilities that extend their lifespan significantly. The right setup turns a simple backyard activity into a challenging and rewarding skill-building exercise.
As someone who has spent a lot of time testing various targets with different calibers, I know that durability and functionality are paramount. A target that shatters on the first shot or fails to react is a disappointment. That’s why I’ve put together this list, focusing on products that can withstand repeated punishment from BBs and pellets. The term “Marine Approved” isn’t an official certification, but in our context, it signifies targets built with exceptional toughness and weather resistance, capable of performing reliably in harsh conditions, much like the gear trusted by professionals. This list is curated for those who demand the best.
11 Best BB Gun Targets in 2025
- Do All Outdoors Auto Reset Spinning Target
- Umarex Safe Shot Pellet Target Trap
- Crosman Destroyer Exploding Target Pack
- MTM Case-Gard Reactive Target Box
- Spinning Target for 22 LR and Airgun
- Allen Company Steel Reset Handgun Target
- Champion Traverse Target Stand System
Do All Outdoors Auto Reset Spinning Target
This is the target I recommend to anyone looking for a serious upgrade from basic tin cans. The Do All Outdoors Auto Reset Spinning Target is built around a heavy-duty steel frame that feels incredibly solid. The main attraction is the large, 3.5-inch diameter spinning plate. When you hit it dead center, it flips back with a loud and satisfying “clang,” then automatically resets itself to the upright position. This immediate feedback is fantastic for practicing rapid follow-up shots and improving your accuracy without having to walk downrange after every hit. I’ve used this with everything from a low-powered .177 BB gun to a more powerful .22 caliber pellet rifle, and it handles the impact without any signs of bending or damage.
One of the best features is its versatility. The target is rated for a wide range of velocities, making it suitable for both airguns and .22 LR firearms. The base is wide and stable, preventing it from tipping over even on uneven ground. While it’s made of tough AR500 steel, I always stress the importance of using safety glasses, as there can be minor lead splatter. After several months of frequent use, the paint is chipped, but the steel itself shows no pitting or deformation. It’s a bit of an investment, but its durability means it will likely be the last spinning target you ever need to buy.
Pros
- Extremely durable AR500 steel construction
- Automatic reset allows for continuous shooting
- Provides clear and satisfying audio feedback
Cons
- Higher price point than basic targets
- Can be loud, which may not be ideal for all neighborhoods
Umarex Safe Shot Pellet Target Trap
If you’re planning to shoot indoors or in a confined backyard space, containing your BBs and pellets is a non-negotiable safety requirement. The Umarex Safe Shot Pellet Target Trap is specifically designed for this purpose. It’s a compact, heavy-duty steel box with a large opening that funnels pellets into a contained area. The angled steel backplate helps to reduce energy and minimize ricochets, while the replaceable rubber padding further quiets the impact and prolongs the trap’s life. I find it perfect for sighting in scopes or practicing in the garage during bad weather.
Setting it up is straightforward; you simply place paper targets over the front opening using the included clips. The trap effectively catches .177 caliber pellets and BBs, though with high-powered air rifles, the pellets can sometimes fragment. After a long session, you can easily open the trap and empty the spent lead for disposal. Its portability is a major plus; it’s light enough to carry around but sturdy enough to stay put. While it might not offer the reactive fun of a spinning target, its primary job is safety, and it performs that function exceptionally well, giving you peace of mind while you practice.
Pros
- Excellent for safe indoor and close-range shooting
- Heavy-duty steel construction contains pellets effectively
- Quieter than many other steel traps
Cons
- Not a reactive target; purely for paper target practice
- The rubber padding will eventually need replacement after heavy use
Crosman Destroyer Exploding Target Pack
For pure, unadulterated fun, it’s hard to beat the Crosman Destroyer Exploding Target Pack. These are not the high-explosive targets used for firearms; they are perfectly safe, biodegradable targets designed specifically for the impact of airgun pellets. Each target is a small, colored disk that you hang up. When struck by a pellet, it shatters into a small cloud of dust with a very satisfying “pop.” This provides incredible visual feedback and is especially great for getting younger shooters engaged and excited about improving their aim.
The pack comes with a generous number of targets, making it a good value for a fun plinking session. Since they are biodegradable, cleanup is minimal—you’re just left with a bit of colored dust on the ground. I’ve found they work best with pellet guns rather than BBs, as the BBs sometimes don’t carry enough energy to reliably shatter the target. They are also a bit fragile out of the package, so handle them with care when setting them up. These targets are all about adding a element of instant gratification to your shooting, turning every hit into a mini celebration.
Pros
- Extremely fun and satisfying visual feedback
- Biodegradable and easy to clean up
- Great for teaching timing and leading a target
Cons
- Can be fragile and may break during handling
- May not consistently explode with lower-powered BB guns
MTM Case-Gard Reactive Target Box
The MTM Case-Gard Reactive Target Box is a brilliant piece of simple, effective design. It’s a durable plastic box that holds standard paper targets, but its secret weapon is the integrated metal gong that hangs behind the target paper. When you shoot through the paper and hit the gong, it creates a loud “ping” that lets you know you’ve hit the mark without needing to see the hole. This is incredibly useful for long-range practice where seeing the impact on paper is difficult.
I appreciate its portability and the fact that it comes with its own sturdy carrying handle. The box is also designed to catch a lot of the lead fragments, helping with cleanup. It’s best suited for pellets, as BBs can ricochet more easily. The gong is made of a softer steel, so it will eventually show signs of wear with very high-powered air rifles, but for general use, it holds up well. It’s a fantastic all-in-one solution that combines the precision of paper targets with the immediate feedback of a steel target.
Pros
- Combines paper target precision with audible steel target feedback
- Portable and self-contained with a carrying handle
- Helps contain some lead debris for easier cleanup
Cons
- The gong is not as durable as AR500 steel and will dent over time
- Not recommended for use with BBs due to ricochet risk
Spinning Target for 22 LR and Airgun
This is a classic design that never gets old. The simple Spinning Target for 22 LR and Airgun typically features several paddles of decreasing size on a central axis. Hitting a paddle causes it to spin around, providing a fun and challenging game of trying to spin all the paddles or hitting the smallest one. The mechanical simplicity of these targets is a huge advantage; there are no springs to wear out or complex reset mechanisms.
Most models are made from hardened steel, making them capable of handling thousands of impacts. The smaller paddles provide a great challenge for improving accuracy. I’ve found that these targets need a solid backstop, as the spinning action can sometimes throw fragments downward. They are also relatively light, so staking them down or placing them on a soft surface is a good idea to prevent them from moving around. For the price, they offer a huge amount of entertainment and are a staple in my target collection.
Pros
- Simple, reliable mechanical design with no parts to break
- Multiple paddle sizes offer a progressive challenge
- Very affordable and durable
Cons
- Can be top-heavy and tip over if not secured
- May cause more lead splatter than resetting targets
Allen Company Steel Reset Handgun Target
The Allen Company Steel Reset Handgun Target brings the fun of a resetting silhouette target at a very accessible price point. It features a humanoid-shaped steel target that drops down when hit in the designated scoring zones (center mass and head), and a simple pull of a cord resets it upright. This is fantastic for practicing defensive drills or just for a more dynamic shooting experience compared to a static bullseye.
The target is made from decent quality steel that holds up well to .177 and .22 caliber pellets. The reset mechanism is straightforward and has proven reliable in my testing. It’s not quite as bomb-proof as some of the more expensive AR500 targets, so I wouldn’t recommend using it with high-velocity .22 LR rifles, but for airguns, it’s more than sufficient. The included ground stake helps keep it stable. It’s a great way to add a tactical element to your practice without spending
Champion Traverse Target Stand System
For the shooter who wants a professional-grade setup, the Champion Traverse Target Stand System is a top choice. This isn’t just a single target; it’s a complete system with a sturdy steel base and a crossbar that allows you to hang multiple target accessories. You can configure it with paper target holders, swinging dueling trees, or resetting steel plates. The flexibility is its biggest strength, letting you create a custom shooting course in your backyard.
The stand is robust and can withstand significant abuse. Setting it up is quick, and it stays firmly planted even in windy conditions. Because it uses standardized attachments, you can expand your collection of targets over time. The initial cost is higher, but you’re investing in a platform that will last for years and can grow with your skills. It’s perfect for practicing tactical drills, competitive shooting, or just having a varied and challenging plinking session without having to constantly reset a single target.
Pros
- Highly versatile system for multiple target types
- Very stable and durable steel construction
- Allows for creating complex shooting drills
Cons
- Higher initial investment
- Target attachments are typically sold separately
Buying Guide: 11 Best BB Gun Targets in 2025 – Air Rifle Targets – Marine Approved
Finding the right targets for your BB gun or air rifle makes a big difference in how much fun you have and how much you improve. I have spent a lot of time testing different targets, and I know that what works for a casual plinker might not hold up for someone who needs serious, Marine-approved durability. The goal is to find a target that is safe, lasts a long time, and makes shooting satisfying.
First, think about the material. For BB guns, you need something that can handle repeated impacts without falling apart. Steel is the top choice, but not just any steel. You want a high-carbon steel that is hardened. This type of steel resists the dimpling and pitting that softer metals develop, which can cause dangerous ricochets. A good rule I use is to listen to the sound; a sharp “ping” usually means a hard, safe surface, while a dull “thud” can be a warning sign.
Next, consider the reset mechanism. Spinning targets are my personal favorite because they provide instant feedback and don’t require you to walk downrange after every shot. Look for targets where the spinners move freely and can take a hit from the side without jamming. Self-healing targets are another great option for pellet guns, as they close up after each shot, giving you thousands of shots from a single target.
Portability is another key factor. If you like to set up a range in your backyard or take your gear to a friend’s place, you will appreciate targets that are easy to carry and set up. Some targets fold flat, while others have built-in stakes for grass or sand. For something truly Marine-approved, the target should be tough enough to handle being tossed in a gear bag and resistant to rust from weather or humidity.
Finally, always prioritize safety. Ensure the target has a proper design that directs fragments downward into the ground. It should be stable enough not to tip over when hit. Pairing your target with a safe backstop, like a hill or a dedicated pellet trap, is non-negotiable. By focusing on these aspects—durable material, reliable reset, portability, and safety—you will get a lot more enjoyment and value out of your air rifle targets.
FAQ
What makes a target “Marine Approved”?
When I talk about a target being “Marine Approved,” I am referring to a level of extreme durability and reliability. It means the target is built with materials and construction that can withstand harsh conditions, repeated high-impact use, and neglect that would destroy a standard target. Think of hardened steel that resists corrosion, welds that do not break, and a design that functions perfectly even after being exposed to the elements. It is about a no-fail standard.
Can I use the same targets for BBs and pellets?
This is a common question, and the answer is usually yes, but with a caveat. Hardened steel spinner targets and gong-style targets work very well for both BBs and pellets. However, you need to be careful with self-healing or rubber targets. Higher-velocity pellets can sometimes cut or tear these materials instead of cleanly puncturing them, which can shorten the target’s life. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended ammunition and power levels.
For the best BB gun targets in 2025, look for options specifically rated for the energy level of your airgun.
How do I prevent ricochets with my BB gun?
Ricochet safety is my number one concern. To minimize the risk, always use targets made of hard, angled steel that deflects fragments downward into the ground. Avoid shooting at hard, flat surfaces like rocks or scrap metal. A proper pellet trap filled with a material like duct seal is excellent for absorbing BBs and pellets safely. Also, maintain a safe distance; even with a good target, shooting from too close can increase the chance of a bounce-back.
What is the best type of target for a beginner?
For someone just starting out, I recommend reactive targets that provide clear feedback. Simple spinning targets or resetting steel targets are perfect. They make a satisfying sound and move when you hit them, which is great for building confidence and skill. Paper targets are also useful for learning precision, but pairing them with a reactive target makes the practice session more engaging and fun from the very beginning.
Are there any legal restrictions on using these targets in my backyard?
Laws and ordinances vary greatly depending on your city, county, and state. Before you set up any target in your backyard, it is absolutely essential to check your local regulations. Many areas have specific rules about discharging air guns, even on your own property. You must also ensure you have a completely safe backstop and a setup where no projectile can possibly leave your property boundary. Safety and legality always come first.