Action Target Darts Target Review

What You Didn’t Know About the Action Target Darts Target

There are certain niche products that bridge the gap between traditional hobbies and specialized equipment, and the Action Target Darts Target is one such item. Manufactured by Action Target, a company known for its range equipment, this product offers a unique twist on familiar activities. It’s essentially a high-volume paper target designed to simulate a dartboard, intended for firearm practice that mimics the scoring of a traditional darts game.

My pursuit of this particular target was born from a desire to inject a bit more fun and competitive spirit into my range sessions, especially when training with a buddy. Standard paper targets, while functional, can become monotonous. The idea of a game that involves accuracy, scoring, and a familiar format like darts was immediately appealing, offering a new challenge beyond just hitting a bullseye.

Upon first inspection, the targets themselves are substantial. They are constructed from what feels like standard paper, but the printing is bold and clear, with distinct scoring zones. The sheer 100-pack bulk quantity is impressive and suggests a focus on frequent use rather than a single, high-end experience.

I briefly considered other novelty targets, but the specific game concept of “gun darts” wasn’t readily available in many other formats. Most alternatives focused on simple silhouette challenges or reactive steel. The appeal of this particular model lay in its direct simulation of a well-known game, making it accessible and immediately understandable. My initial impression was one of practical utility, a straightforward product designed for a specific, entertaining purpose.

Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target Darts Target to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested these targets primarily at my local outdoor shooting range, set up on standard cardboard backings. The scenario was a two-player competition, aiming to replicate a game of darts with .22 LR pistols and 9mm handguns. The weather was fair, with mild temperatures and no significant precipitation.

During the first session, the Action Target Darts Target performed as expected. The paper held up reasonably well to multiple hits from .22 LR rounds, though higher caliber 9mm rounds began to tear through the scoring areas more quickly, as anticipated. The clarity of the scoring rings was excellent, making it easy to distinguish hits even from a moderate distance.

Ease of use was immediate; the targets are standard in size and attach easily to any existing target frame. There was no learning curve involved, simply hanging them up and beginning the game. My only minor surprise was how quickly some of the smaller scoring sections could become unusable with multiple hits from the 9mm, but this is inherent to using paper with firearms.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several subsequent range days, the Action Target Darts Target continued to prove its worth. The 100-pack bulk meant I wasn’t rationing them, allowing for extended practice sessions and multiple games. The ink used for the scoring numbers and lines showed good resistance to fading, even with some minor exposure to ambient moisture overnight on the range.

Durability, as expected for a paper product, is limited by ammunition caliber. For lighter calibers like .22 LR, the targets can withstand a good number of shots before becoming unintelligible. However, with frequent 9mm use, especially in the smaller bullseye areas, sections quickly became peppered and difficult to score accurately. This isn’t a flaw of the target itself, but a characteristic of paper targets and firearms.

Maintenance is essentially nonexistent, as these are consumable targets. Storage is simple: a large, flat binder or portfolio keeps the 100-pack organized and protected from damage. I found no specific maintenance required beyond keeping them dry and flat.

Compared to generic paper targets, these offer a significant advantage in terms of structured play. While a blank target can be marked for games, the pre-printed scoring zones of this model streamline the process immensely. They certainly don’t compare to reactive steel targets in terms of longevity or instant feedback, but for their intended purpose of game-based paper target practice, they are excellent.

Breaking Down the Features of Action Target Darts Target

Specifications

The Action Target Darts Target comes as a 100-pack of individual targets. They are constructed from paper, with a multi-colored design that mimics the visual layout of a traditional dartboard. The manufacturer is Action Target, a reputable name in shooting range equipment.

The paper material provides a cost-effective and accessible medium for target practice, allowing for easy scoring and visual feedback through bullet holes. Its primary specification is the 100-quantity pack, which signifies a bulk purchase ideal for frequent shooters or training facilities. The multi-color printing is crucial for clearly delineating the scoring zones, differentiating it from a plain paper target.

While not explicitly stated, the size is generally consistent with standard silhouette or large practice targets, easily fitting on typical target stands. Unlike some specialized targets, there are no complex features like reactive elements or electronic scoring; its simplicity is its strength.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary function as a game-oriented paper target, the Action Target Darts Target performs exceptionally well. The clear scoring zones and numbering allow for easy tracking of points during a simulated darts match. This makes it significantly more engaging than simply aiming for a bullseye on a blank sheet.

The main strength is its game simulation capability. It effectively translates the scoring system of darts to a shooting scenario, adding a layer of fun and competition. A notable weakness, however, is the inherent fragility of paper when hit by firearms, particularly with larger calibers. The smaller scoring segments can quickly become obscured by multiple bullet holes, making precise scoring challenging after heavy engagement.

This product definitively meets expectations for its intended use. It provides an accessible and enjoyable way to practice marksmanship with a scoring system. It exceeds basic target functionality by offering a structured game, but its material limitations mean it doesn’t surpass the durability of more robust target options.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Action Target Darts Target is a straightforward replication of a dartboard layout. It features bold, easily identifiable numbers corresponding to dart scoring (e.g., 20, 19, etc.) and distinct sections for triples and doubles. The use of multiple colors enhances visual separation between zones, which is critical for accurate scoring.

Build quality is that of a sturdy paper product, capable of being stapled or clipped to target holders without immediate tearing. Its paper construction is lightweight and easy to handle. Ergonomically, it’s designed to be viewed from a distance, with large, clear markings that are easily legible.

There’s no complex control interface or physical handling that requires ergonomic consideration beyond standard target mounting. The design is purely functional, focused on clear visual representation of the scoring system. The markings are well-placed and easy to interpret, even with varying light conditions on the range.

Durability & Maintenance

As a consumable paper product, the durability of the Action Target Darts Target is directly tied to the ammunition used and the number of hits it sustains. For .22 LR, a single target can likely last through an entire game or practice session for one or two players. However, with larger calibers like 9mm or above, its useful life is significantly reduced, often lasting only a few rounds in critical scoring areas.

Maintenance is practically non-existent, as these are single-use items. Once a target is rendered illegible or too damaged for accurate scoring, it’s typically replaced. The 100-pack ensures that replacements are readily available.

Potential failure points are inherent to paper targets: tearing from staples, wind damage, or rapid destruction from direct hits. No specialized maintenance is required, making it a hassle-free option. The expectation is that they will be used and discarded, which is typical for this class of target.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Action Target Darts Target itself is the core product, and it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. However, its design lends itself to a few practical enhancements and considerations. Standard target staples, clips, or even tape are essential for mounting it securely to a target backing or frame.

Beyond the basic mounting hardware, the primary “customization” is the ammunition choice itself. Using lighter calibers like .22 LR will extend the usable life of each target, allowing for more scoring and practice per sheet. Conversely, using higher calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP will quickly degrade the target, forcing more frequent replacements but providing a more dramatic visual.

There are no direct “upgrade” options for the target itself, as it’s a printed paper product. Its value lies in its ready-to-use format and the 100-pack quantity, rather than any modularity or interchangeability. The main consideration is ensuring you have adequate target stands or backings to properly display and hold these targets.

Pros and Cons of Action Target Darts Target

Who Should Buy Action Target Darts Target?

The Action Target Darts Target is an excellent choice for casual shooters, friends practicing together, and firearms instructors looking to add an element of fun and competition to training sessions. It’s ideal for those who enjoy low-cost, high-volume practice with .22 LR firearms, where the targets will last longer and provide more value. Anyone looking to improve their fundamental marksmanship through a structured game will find this product highly beneficial.

This product is likely not suitable for individuals requiring sterile medical equipment, ultra-compact gear for backpacking, or extreme precision applications where target integrity is paramount. Shooters exclusively using high-powered centerfire handguns might find the targets degrade too quickly to be cost-effective for extended play. Those who prefer reactive targets that provide instant audible or visual feedback might also find this less appealing.

For those who purchase these targets, I highly recommend investing in sturdy target stands or frames that can hold the paper securely, especially in windy conditions. Having a good supply of staples or clips for mounting is also essential. If you plan to use higher caliber firearms, consider using a larger backing plate behind the paper target to help maintain some structural integrity in the scoring zones.

Conclusion on Action Target Darts Target

The Action Target Darts Target delivers exactly what it promises: a fun, engaging, and cost-effective way to turn a standard range session into a competitive game. Its clear design and the sheer 100-pack bulk quantity make it an excellent value for anyone looking to add variety to their shooting practice. While its paper construction means it’s not the most durable option for high-powered firearms, it shines with .22 LR and provides an enjoyable challenge for all skill levels.

The value proposition is undeniable, offering a significant amount of entertainment and practice for its price point. It’s a straightforward, no-frills product that excels at its specific niche. I would personally recommend the Action Target Darts Target to anyone looking to inject a dose of friendly competition into their shooting routine, especially if they frequently shoot lighter calibers. It’s a simple yet brilliant way to make practice more engaging and rewarding.