Jun 08, 2026 · 4 min read
A4 or A3? Pick the right paper for your distance
A4 is fine for pistol work and close rifle. A3 starts to matter past 50 yards. A short guide so you stop guessing at the printer.
Every TargetVault PDF comes in A4 or A3. The two are not interchangeable. Pick the size that matches your distance and discipline, otherwise you end up shooting a circle that is either too small to see or too big to be meaningful.
The short version
- A4, 210 by 297 mm. Handgun work up to 15 yards. Rifle at 25 yards.
- A3, 297 by 420 mm. Rifle from 50 yards out. Shotgun patterning. Silhouette work.
Why size matters more than you think
A target needs to subtend enough visual angle that you can aim at it, but small enough that your group is actually telling you something. A 4 inch bullseye at 5 yards is enormous and forgiving. The same 4 inch bullseye at 100 yards is roughly minute of angle, perfect for a sight in check, useless for a brand new shooter learning to press a trigger.
No A3 at home? Not a problem
Most home printers stop at A4 and that is fine. A3 sheets at a copy shop cost cents. Grab a stack the next time you are out and store them flat.
Paper, briefly
Standard 80 gsm copy paper handles everything inside 50 yards. For windy outdoor ranges, jump to 120 gsm or laminate the corners so the sheet does not flap. Heavy card stock is overkill unless you are running steel core ammo, which is its own conversation.
Browse formats in the library.
Print it, shoot it.
Free printable targets in A4 or A3, ready for the range.
FAQ
Can I shrink an A3 target onto A4?
Are US Letter and A4 the same?