Is the Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100 All Talk?
As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in just about every environment imaginable – from dusty workshops and sterile labs to windswept fields and controlled ranges – I approach new equipment with a healthy dose of skepticism. My recent search for reliable, cost-effective practice targets for my shooting regimen led me to the Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100. For years, I’ve relied on a patchwork of homemade targets or generic bulk packs, often struggling with visibility and durability. The promise of an official USPSA/IPSC-compliant target, especially in a convenient 100-pack, seemed like a significant upgrade. My first impression upon unboxing was a quiet nod of approval; the paper felt robust enough, and the printed design was crisp. I’d briefly considered some of the pricier silhouette targets from other manufacturers, but for sheer volume and affordability, these Action Target offerings caught my eye. The initial feeling was one of practical satisfaction, a sense that I might have found a solid workhorse for my training needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor range on a blustery afternoon. I mounted the targets on standard cardboard backers, using thumbtacks around the edges. The sheer size of the targets, a generous 23 x 35 inches, made them easy to spot even at extended distances, and the high contrast black and gray print stood out well against the natural background. I fired a variety of handguns at various distances, from 10 yards to 50 yards, and the paper held up admirably to initial impacts, showing clean holes that were remarkably easy to see. There were no immediate issues or surprises; the targets performed precisely as advertised, making the process of scoring and analyzing shots straightforward.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, these targets became my go-to for almost every range session. They’ve endured countless rounds from 9mm, .45 ACP, and even a few .22LR plinking sessions. Even after being shot repeatedly, the paper didn’t shred into oblivion, maintaining enough integrity to remain useful for multiple sessions before replacement became necessary. Maintenance is essentially non-existent; you shoot them, and when they’re too riddled with holes to be effective or safe, you replace them. Storage is just as simple – a flat stack in my gear bag or workshop. Compared to the flimsy printer paper I sometimes used in a pinch, or the overly expensive specialized targets, this 100-pack offers an excellent balance of durability and cost-effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100
Specifications
The Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100 comes as a substantial 100-pack bulk offering, ensuring you won’t be running out of practice material anytime soon. Each individual target measures a generous 23 inches in height and 35 inches in width, providing a significant aiming area. Constructed from paper, these targets are designed for single-use efficacy and clear feedback. The black/gray color scheme is specifically chosen for optimal visual contrast, making bullet holes readily apparent. This ample size and quantity are crucial for extended training sessions, allowing for more shots per target and reducing the frequency of re-setup.
Performance & Functionality
These targets excel at their primary function: providing a clear and effective aiming point for firearm practice. The USPSA/IPSC compliant design ensures that shooters training for competitive events are using familiar and official dimensions. Bullet holes are incredibly easy to visualize against the contrasting background, which significantly speeds up the scoring and analysis process after a shooting string. For practical purposes, they meet and exceed expectations for a paper practice target. Their main strength lies in this direct, unambiguous feedback. The primary limitation, inherent to all paper targets, is their susceptibility to wind and moisture if used outdoors without additional support.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these IPSC targets is purely functional, focusing on maximizing usability for shooters. The large 23in x 35in size makes them easy to see and aim at, reducing eye strain and improving shot placement accuracy. The print quality is sharp and clear, with no smudging or distortion, which is crucial for precise shot calling. While there are no “ergonomic” features in the traditional sense for a static target, their large, flat nature makes them simple to attach to various backing materials. The visual design is straightforward, emphasizing the scoring zones and outline without unnecessary clutter.
Durability & Maintenance
As a paper product, durability is relative to the number of impacts it can withstand before becoming unusable. Under normal range conditions, a single target can absorb dozens of hits without becoming completely obscured. Maintenance is virtually nonexistent, as the intention is for them to be replaced once heavily damaged. The primary concern for longevity would be exposure to harsh weather; a damp environment can weaken the paper, making it more prone to tearing. However, when stored dry and used appropriately, this 100-pack bulk ensures a long lifespan of usable targets.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100 does not come with specific accessories, as its purpose is to be a consumable training aid. However, its simple design makes it highly compatible with common target mounting systems. This includes standard cardboard backers, wooden frames, or even directly stapling them to soft backstops like berms (though a backing is always recommended for safety and target longevity). There are no inherent customization options for the target itself, but its blank space around the scoring zones allows for personal annotation if desired, though this is generally unnecessary given the official markings.
Pros and Cons of Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100
Pros
- Official USPSA/IPSC Dimensions: Perfect for competitive shooters and those wanting to train to official standards.
- Excellent Bullet Hole Visibility: The high-contrast black and gray print makes it incredibly easy to see where you’re hitting, even at a distance.
- Generous Size: The large 23in x 35in dimensions offer a substantial aiming area and are easy to spot.
- Cost-Effective 100-Pack: This 100-pack bulk offering provides significant value and ensures you have plenty of targets for extended training.
- Durable Paper Stock: The paper is robust enough to withstand multiple hits without disintegrating immediately.
Cons
- Susceptible to Wind/Weather: Like any paper target, outdoor use in windy or wet conditions can be challenging without proper support.
- Single-Use Nature: Once heavily shot, replacement is necessary, which is standard for paper targets but still a consideration.
Who Should Buy Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100?
The Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100 is an ideal choice for competitive shooters involved in IPSC or USPSA disciplines. It’s also an excellent option for any firearm enthusiast who wants clear, definitive feedback during their range practice sessions. Home workshop users or gunsmiths who need to test firearms after work would find these invaluable. Those who frequent outdoor ranges and deal with variable conditions might consider investing in sturdy target stands or wind flags to enhance their usability.
On the other hand, individuals looking for reusable targets or those who primarily shoot in extremely tight indoor ranges where paper splatter is a major concern might want to explore alternatives like steel targets. For casual plinkers who don’t require official dimensions or enhanced visibility, simpler, less expensive targets might suffice. However, for serious practice that demands clarity and adherence to standards, this target pack is hard to beat.
Conclusion on Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100
The Action Target IPSC Paper Practice Target, Pack of 100 is a no-nonsense, highly effective training tool that delivers exactly what it promises. Its adherence to official dimensions, coupled with superior bullet hole visibility and a substantial quantity at a reasonable price, makes it a standout choice for dedicated shooters. The 100-pack bulk ensures long-term value, mitigating the need for frequent reordering. While it shares the inherent limitations of paper targets when exposed to the elements, its performance in controlled environments is exceptional. I wholeheartedly recommend this target pack to anyone serious about improving their marksmanship and looking for a reliable, visually intuitive practice solution. It’s a solid investment for anyone who values clear feedback and consistent training.