Chapter 4 · Range Equipment · p.24
4.2Approved Targets – Cardboard
There are two types of cardboard targets approved for use in USPSA matches, USPSA and IPSC targets (see Appendix B1). These types must not be included together in any stage. This includes using one type as scoring and the other as a no-shoot.
Half-sized targets of either type are approved at all match levels and may be used together with full-size targets of same type on a . Half-sized USPSA targets can be covered with hard cover or no-shoots as long as 50% or more of the lower A-zone is visible. Half-sized IPSC targets can be covered with hard cover or no-shoots as long as 50% or more of the A-zone is visible (see Appendix B1). Half-sized targets may not be mounted onto full- sized no-shoot targets or used as no-shoots on full-sized scoring targets. Restrictions on angle of placement still apply for IPSC targets.
Cardboard targets must have scoring lines and non-scoring borders clearly marked on the face of the target. The scoring zones reward power in USPSA matches.
The face of cardboard no-shoots must include a sufficiently distinguishable non-scoring border. In the absence of perforations or other suitable markings, the Range Master must order that all affected targets have a replacement non-scoring border drawn or fitted thereon.
Cardboard targets must never be required to receive more than 12 hits before being scored and patched.
When the scoring area of a cardboard target is to be partially hidden, course designers must simulate hard cover in one of the following ways:
By actually hiding a portion of the target (see Rule 4.1.4.1).
By physically cutting targets to remove the portion deemed to be hidden by hard cover. Such targets must be fitted with a replacement non-scoring border, which must extend the full width of the cut scoring area (see Rule 4.2.2).
By painting or taping the portion of the target deemed to be hidden by hard cover a single and visibly contrasting color.
Hard Cover (and overlapping no-shoots) must not completely hide the highest scoring zone on a partially hidden cardboard target. The minimum requirements are specified in Appendix B1.
For Virginia Count and Fixed Time courses of fire, overlapping targets must not present a situation where a single bullet can create two scoring hits thus creating an extra hit penalty. Targets must be separated with hard cover or no-shoot.