target rifle

noun

1. a rifle designed especially for shooting at targets.

Word History and Origins

Origin of target rifle¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

One of the suspect’s online postings includes a photo of his Bushmaster XM-15 E2S Target rifle with what appeared to be a pistol grip.

From Washington Post

By the end of the year, Frank and I were competent shooters, at least with a .22 caliber target rifle.

From Salon

The semi-automatic AR-15 makes an excellent target rifle because of its light weight and low recoil.

From Seattle Times

We know he took a rifle designed to assault people, rather than a hunting or target rifle, and mowed down dozens of people, none of whom were threatening him.

From Washington Post

Although her family didn’t own a ranch or farm, Wallace spent most of her time in the agriculture community through 4-H, rodeos and competitive target rifle shooting.

From Washington Times