Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit Review

Out of the Box: Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit

My search for a more engaging and practical way to practice my marksmanship led me to the Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit. For years, static paper targets have been my go-to, but the thrill of immediate feedback was something I craved. The idea of a target that reacts and visibly falls over after a solid hit, simulating a prairie dog disappearing into its burrow, promised a much more dynamic and rewarding training session. I considered a few other reactive target systems, including some that used steel and required reset bells, but the self-healing polymer and the unique prairie dog design of the Throom target caught my eye. Upon unboxing this kit, my initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The green polymer felt sturdy, and the target itself had a satisfying heft, suggesting it could withstand repeated impacts.

Real-World Testing: Putting Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I took this reactive target kit out to my local outdoor range, a place where I can legally and safely test equipment with various firearms. My initial setup involved attaching the prairie dog target to its pivot base and then securing that base to a standard softwood target stand. This was a straightforward process; the target snapped onto the pivot base easily, and mounting the base to the wood was a matter of a few screws. For my first session, I opted for my .22 LR rifle, firing from about 25 yards, a distance that offers a good challenge for reactive targets.

The moment of truth came with the first clean hit. The prairie dog target clanged audibly as it was struck and then tipped backward with an satisfying thump, disappearing from my direct line of sight. It stayed down, awaiting a manual reset by pulling the attached string, which brought it back to an upright position for the next shot. This immediate, tangible feedback was exactly what I was looking for, making practice far less monotonous.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range days and hundreds of rounds – primarily .22 LR and a few dozen .223 rounds – the Throom target has held up exceptionally well. I’ve noticed no significant degradation in its ability to react. The SHOOT-THROO polymer is living up to its self-healing reputation, as bullet holes are barely visible after impacts and don’t seem to compromise the target’s integrity. There have been no cracks or signs of structural weakness, even with the slightly higher energy of the .223 rounds.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down to remove any dirt or debris is all that’s typically needed. Storing it is also simple; it’s compact enough to toss into my range bag without any fuss. Compared to some metal reactive targets I’ve used in the past, which can show dents or require de-burring after heavy use, this polymer target requires virtually no ongoing maintenance beyond the manual reset.

Breaking Down the Features of Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit

Specifications

The Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit includes one KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target and one Pivot Base. Both components are constructed from Throom’s tough, flexible, Self-Healing polymer. This material is engineered to allow bullets to pass through it without causing permanent damage, a key feature for longevity and safety.

The self-healing properties mean that minor perforations close up over time, ensuring the target remains functional and safe for repeated use. This is a significant advantage over targets that can become unusable after just a few direct hits. The green color offers good visibility against most natural backgrounds, making it easy to acquire your target at a glance. The quantity is listed as one unit, implying a single prairie dog target and its corresponding base.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this reactive target is to provide immediate visual and auditory feedback upon impact. The KnockDown Prairie Dog excels at this. When struck with sufficient force, it reliably tips backward, simulating the prairie dog disappearing into its hole. This reactive action is crucial for improving shooter accuracy and trigger control, as it provides instant confirmation of a good shot.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The instantaneous knockdown action provides a satisfying reward for a well-aimed shot, motivating longer practice sessions. A minor point of consideration, however, is that extremely low-powered ammunition might not generate enough energy to reliably tip the target. While it’s designed for common calibers like .22 LR and .223, very light loads might require adjustment or a more powerful firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit is focused on functionality and durability. The green polymer material is not only tough but also weather-resistant, meaning it can be used in various outdoor conditions without immediate degradation. The prairie dog silhouette is distinct and easily recognizable, serving its purpose effectively as a training aid.

Ergonomically, the target is designed to be mounted and reset with ease. The snap-in mechanism for attaching the prairie dog to the pivot base is intuitive, and the reset string allows for quick repositioning without needing to approach the target face-on. The flexible nature of the polymer also contributes to its durability, absorbing impacts rather than shattering or deforming permanently.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a standout feature of this target system, largely due to the SHOOT-THROO polymer. After numerous impacts from various calibers, there are no significant signs of wear beyond the expected bullet perforations, which the material effectively heals. The pivot base also appears robust and designed to withstand the stresses of target strikes.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. Keeping the target clean simply involves wiping it down. There are no intricate parts that require lubrication or special care, making it ideal for users who prefer low-maintenance gear. The self-healing aspect means that replacing the target is not a frequent concern, extending its usable lifespan considerably.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit is a starter kit, and as such, it comes with the core components: the prairie dog target and the pivot base. The description notes that the pivot base can be secured to a softwood target stand using four wood screws or two THROOM Nuts & Bolts, which are sold separately. This implies that while the kit provides the reactive target system, the mounting hardware is not always included, depending on how you choose to attach it.

There aren’t extensive customization options for the target itself, as it’s a single-piece polymer design. However, the potential for mounting it on various stands or even a DIY frame offers a degree of flexibility. Users might also consider using other Throom targets with the same pivot base, as the system is designed for modularity.

Pros and Cons of Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit

Who Should Buy Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit?

This Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit is an excellent choice for recreational shooters, especially those who primarily use .22 LR firearms for plinking or practice. It’s also well-suited for individuals looking to add an element of fun and immediate feedback to their target practice sessions without the expense of steel targets or the environmental impact of disposable paper targets. Home range enthusiasts or backyard shooters (where permissible) will find this target system particularly appealing for its ease of use and durability.

However, those who require sterile, medical-grade equipment, or who need targets designed for extremely high-powered rifle calibers might need to look elsewhere. If your primary focus is competition shooting that demands specific target types, this might be more of a supplementary training tool. For enhanced usability, I’d recommend purchasing a pack of THROOM Nuts & Bolts if you plan to use a softwood stand, ensuring a secure and quick setup.

Conclusion on Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit

The Throom Targets KnockDown Prairie Dog Reactive Target Starter Kit delivers a robust and engaging shooting experience, particularly for rimfire enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the durable, self-healing polymer that promises longevity, and the simple yet effective knockdown mechanism provides the satisfying feedback essential for motivating practice. While it’s not designed for heavy magnum calibers, for its intended purpose with .22 LR and similar rounds, it performs admirably.

Considering its price of $44.99, the value proposition is strong, offering a reusable and fun training aid that minimizes ongoing costs associated with disposable targets. I would readily recommend this reactive target system to anyone looking to spice up their shooting routine and improve their marksmanship with an immediate, visual cue of success. It’s a practical, well-built piece of gear that brings a welcome element of dynamic engagement to the range.