Airgun sports are gaining popularity as a fun and practical way to improve shooting skills right at home. If you’ve ever thought about building your own DIY airgun range, the good news is that it’s easier than you might think. With the right setup, you can enjoy backyard target practice with an air rifle safely and responsibly.

Why Build a Backyard Airgun Range?

Creating a home range offers several benefits:

• Convenience– Practice whenever you want without traveling to a shooting facility.
• Skill development– Improve accuracy, consistency, and control in a comfortable environment.
• Cost-effective– Airguns and pellets are affordable compared to live firearms and ammunition.
• Fun for all skill levels– Whether you’re a beginneror seasoned shooter, a backyard setup can be tailored to your needs.

Choosing the Right Location

When planning your range, safety should always come first. Look for an area that:

• Has a clear backstop (a sturdy wall, hill, or purpose-built pellet trap).
• Is away from neighbors, pets, and busy areas.
• Provides enough distance for your desired shooting range (10–25 yards is ideal for most backyards).

Essential Gear for Your DIY Airgun Range

To create a reliable and safe shooting environment, you’ll need:

• Air rifle or pistol– Choose a model suited for target practice.
• Targets– Paper, metal spinners, or knockdown targets work well.
• Pellet trap/backstop– Prevents pellets from scattering and protects property.
• Protective equipment– Safety glasses are a must, even for airgun practice.

👉 Pro Tip: Upgrade to adjustable targets or steel plates as your accuracy improves.

Safety Guidelines to Follow

Even though air rifles are less powerful than firearms, safety is non-negotiable. Follow these rules:

• Always treat your airgun as if it were loaded.
• Never point your airgun at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
• Keep the shooting area clear of bystanders, pets, and distractions.
• Wear safety glasses during every session.
• Regularly check your equipment for damage or wear.

Setting Up Targets for Backyard Practice

Start simple with paper bullseye targets, then add variety for fun and skill-building:

• Short-range paper targets– Great for beginners.
• Spinners or reactive targets– Provide instant feedback.
• DIY targets– Tin cans, clay discs, or chalk blocks can make practice more engaging.

FAQs About Backyard Airgun Ranges

Is it legal to set up an airgun range at home?

In most areas, yes, but local laws vary. Always check city and state regulations before building a range.

What’s a safe shooting distance for a backyard airgun range?

Most backyard ranges are between 10–25 yards, depending on available space and the power of your airgun.

Do I need protective gear for airgun practice?

Yes. Safety glasses protect your eyes from ricochets and debris.

What’s the best backstop for a DIY airgun range?

A pellet trap or a thick wooden board in front of a dirt hill works best to stop pellets safely.

Can children use backyard airgun ranges?

With adult supervision, yes. Make sure younger shooters follow strict safety rules at all times.