Is the Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target Right for You?
For years, my range days involved a tedious trek downrange to reset targets, interrupting the flow and frankly, getting a bit tiresome. That’s precisely why I was drawn to the Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target. This innovative aiming accessory promises to eliminate those tiresome resets, offering a continuous shooting experience without the need to leave the firing line. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of sturdy, no-nonsense construction; it felt robust and ready for action, a stark contrast to flimsier alternatives I’d encountered. While I briefly considered other auto-resetting systems, their complexity or perceived fragility steered me back to this straightforward design. The immediate sense was one of pragmatic problem-solving; this wasn’t just a target, it was a solution to a common shooter’s annoyance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target to my usual informal outdoor range, which is essentially a cleared section of my property with a backstop. Setup was straightforward; the target mounts easily onto standard 2×4 or 1×6 lumber, requiring only a couple of screws. My initial tests involved .22LR rounds from a pistol, and I was immediately impressed by the target’s immediate and satisfying “bounce back” action after each hit. The green polymer construction handled the impacts well, with no visible damage from the lighter caliber.
Conditions were fair for testing, with mild temperatures and no precipitation. The auto-resetting mechanism worked flawlessly with every hit, snapping back to its upright position without any hesitation or manual intervention required. This was a revelation; the ability to fire multiple shots and see immediate feedback without moving was a game-changer for practice sessions.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks, the Bounceback Target saw consistent use with various calibers, including .22LR, 9mm, and even some .45 ACP. The polymer material, specifically their SHOOT-THROO material, proved surprisingly resilient. While there were visible impacts, particularly from the larger calibers, the target’s structural integrity remained intact, and more importantly, the auto-resetting function continued to work as intended.
Durability has been excellent; despite repeated impacts and being left out in the elements (under a cover when not in use), there are no signs of cracking or significant degradation. Maintenance is minimal, essentially just wiping down any dirt or debris. Compared to steel targets that can ding or react unpredictably, or reactive targets that require manual resetting, this Throom target offers a highly convenient and reliable alternative for practice. The flexible hinge at the base, also made of the SHOOT-THROO material, is a clever design element that allows bullets to pass through with minimal disturbance, prolonging the life of the target itself.
Breaking Down the Features of Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target
Specifications
The Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target features a 6-inch round target face, providing a good aiming point for various shooting disciplines. It is constructed from a durable polymer material, specifically engineered for resilience against projectile impacts. The target mounts easily onto standard lumber such as 2x4s, 2x3s, and 1x6s, offering flexibility in setup.
A key specification is its auto-resetting mechanism, where the target snaps back and bounces to an upright position after being hit. This is facilitated by a one-piece design with a flexible hinge at the base, also made from the SHOOT-THROO polymer. This material is designed to allow bullets to pass through the target and the hinge without causing damage. The target comes in a green color, making it visible against most backdrops. Each unit is sold individually, with a quantity of 1 per purchase.
These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The 6-inch diameter offers a substantial aiming point, suitable for both precision practice and general plinking. The durable polymer construction ensures longevity, meaning fewer replacements over time compared to less robust materials. The ease of mounting on common lumber makes setup quick and accessible for most shooters, whether at a dedicated range or an informal setup. The auto-resetting feature is the star, dramatically increasing practice efficiency by eliminating downtime. The SHOOT-THROO material for the target and hinge is critical for ensuring the target functions as designed without degrading under repeated fire.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target is to provide a reactive, self-resetting aiming point. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The satisfying “thwack” and subsequent bounce of the target after a solid hit are immediately rewarding, offering clear visual and audible feedback.
Strengths: The auto-resetting capability is its most significant strength, allowing for continuous shooting and maximizing practice time. The durability of the SHOOT-THROO polymer is impressive, handling multiple calibers without issue. Its ease of setup on readily available lumber is another major plus.
Weaknesses: While designed to be durable, direct hits from very high-powered rifle rounds or sustained fire on the hinge area could potentially lead to premature wear. It’s important to remember this is primarily designed for pistol calibers and rimfire.
Overall, this target meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended use. It is a highly functional piece of equipment that directly addresses the inconvenience of manual target resetting.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Bounceback Target is wonderfully simple and effective. Its one-piece construction minimizes potential failure points. The green polymer offers good visibility, though I might personally prefer a brighter, more contrasting color in some lighting conditions.
Ergonomically, the target is designed for utility rather than comfort in hand, as it’s meant to be mounted. The flexible hinge at the base is a stroke of design genius, ensuring that it absorbs impact and allows the target to reset without damage. The 6-inch round face is a practical size, neither too large to encourage poor aiming habits nor too small to be frustrating.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target appears to be a long-lasting product for its intended applications. With appropriate use (primarily pistols and rimfire), it should withstand thousands of rounds.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent, which is a significant advantage. A quick wipe-down to remove dirt or residue is usually all that’s needed. The SHOOT-THROO polymer is easy to clean and resistant to weathering.
Potential failure points would likely be the hinge area if subjected to extremely high-velocity projectiles not intended for this target. However, for typical handgun use, the durable polymer construction suggests a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target is a standalone product, and as such, it does not come with any specific accessories. Its primary customization option lies in how you choose to mount it, utilizing various lengths and types of lumber for support.
The flexibility to remove the mounting bolts allows for the target to be knocked completely off its stand, offering a different type of reaction for training, though this is a less common use case. While not a direct accessory, ensuring you have appropriate screws or fasteners for mounting is essential. The Throom Targets brand does offer other target systems, but this particular model is designed for simple lumber mounting without proprietary stands.
Pros and Cons of Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target
Pros
- Effortless Auto-Resetting: Eliminates the need to walk downrange to reset targets, significantly improving shooting practice efficiency.
- Durable SHOOT-THROO Polymer: The target and its flexible hinge are constructed from a resilient polymer that withstands repeated impacts from appropriate calibers.
- Easy Setup on Lumber: Mounts quickly onto common lumber sizes like 2x4s and 1x6s, requiring no specialized stands or equipment.
- Satisfying Feedback: Provides clear audible and visual confirmation of hits with its distinct bounce-back action.
- Cost-Effective Practice: Reduces downtime and allows for more shooting in less time, making practice sessions more productive.
Cons
- Caliber Limitations: Primarily designed for pistol calibers and rimfire; high-powered rifle rounds may cause excessive damage.
- Potential Hinge Wear: Sustained, direct hits on the hinge area from powerful rounds could lead to premature degradation.
Who Should Buy Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target?
This Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target is an ideal choice for recreational shooters who frequently practice with handguns and rimfire firearms. It’s perfect for backyard ranges, informal shooting areas, and even some competitive training scenarios where continuous fire is beneficial. Anyone looking to maximize their shooting time and minimize tedious resetting will find this target invaluable.
Those who primarily shoot high-powered rifle calibers might want to look at dedicated steel targets designed for such applications, as this target is optimized for lighter rounds. For those using it with pistols, pairing it with good quality ammunition and ensuring proper mounting on stable lumber will enhance the experience.
Conclusion on Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target
The Throom Targets Bounceback 6in Round Auto-Reset Target is a remarkably effective and well-thought-out piece of shooting equipment. For its price of $45.99, the value it delivers in terms of practice efficiency and sheer enjoyment is substantial. It addresses a common pain point for shooters with a simple, robust solution that performs as advertised. The durability of the SHOOT-THROO polymer, combined with the clever auto-resetting mechanism, makes it a standout product for handgun and rimfire enthusiasts. I wholeheartedly recommend this target to anyone looking to streamline their practice sessions and spend more time actually shooting. It’s a practical, reliable, and fun addition to any shooter’s arsenal.