Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target Review

The Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target in Action: First Look

For years, I’ve been on the hunt for a versatile paper target that can serve multiple purposes without costing a fortune. My workshop, lab, and personal range days often demand clear, durable targets that offer good visibility for various sighting systems. This need recently led me to the Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target, a product promising dual functionality and affordability. It arrived as a 100-pack bulk offering, immediately signaling its value proposition.

The initial issue was finding a single target that could accommodate both silhouette practice and specific precision drills, especially when using iron sights or magnified optics. Many targets are either too basic or too specialized, forcing a compromise. Alternatives like purely silhouette targets or generic bullseye targets didn’t quite hit the mark for varied training needs.

Upon opening the package, the first impression was one of robust utility. The paper feels substantial, not flimsy like some cheaper targets, and the blue and red ink is vibrant. My immediate thought was that these targets would hold up well to multiple shots and offer a clear background, a welcome change from washed-out white paper.

I had briefly considered separate B-27 and FBI Q targets, but the combination offered a more streamlined approach to training. The practicality of having both on a single sheet was immediately appealing. There was a quiet sense of satisfaction knowing I had found a potential solution to my target variety dilemma.

Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my private outdoor range, a setting that allows for a range of shooting disciplines. I mounted one of these targets onto a standard cardboard backing designed for paper targets, using a few staples along the top edge. The 23×35 inch size provided ample visual real estate against the natural backdrop.

The targets performed admirably under typical shooting conditions, including a brief period of light drizzle and exposure to dust from ricochets off the backstop. Even after sustained fire from an AR-15 and a handgun, the paper held its integrity remarkably well. The blue and red ink remained distinct, making it easy to identify shot placement even at a distance.

Using this specific model was intuitive from the start, a significant advantage. The familiar B-27 silhouette and the distinct FBI Q scoring zones meant no adjustment period was necessary. My only minor surprise was how well the ink resisted smudging from my .22LR, which can often be an issue with lesser-quality paper targets.

The bright blue color proved to be an excellent contrast for both iron sights and magnified scope crosshairs. This dual-use capability was precisely what I was hoping for, and the initial experience confirmed its potential.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use across various training sessions, these targets have proven their worth. I’ve used them for general marksmanship practice, drills simulating defensive shooting scenarios, and even for testing new optics and loads. They have become my go-to for routine range days due to their versatility and durability.

The paper’s durability is a standout feature; even with multiple hits from centerfire rounds, the targets rarely tore completely apart. While they certainly show the story of the shooting session with a pattern of holes, they remain functional and readable throughout. The edges can become slightly tattered after many impacts, but this is expected for paper targets and doesn’t hinder usability.

Maintenance is essentially non-existent, as they are single-use items. After a shooting session, I simply collect the used targets and dispose of them. The 100-pack bulk quantity means I don’t have to worry about running out for a considerable time.

Compared to other paper targets I’ve used, these offer a superior balance of cost and performance. Cheaper targets often disintegrate or have faded ink, while more expensive tactical targets can be overly complex or lack the fundamental sighting aids. This Action Target model strikes a practical middle ground.

Breaking Down the Features of Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target

Specifications

The Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target comes in a substantial 23×35 inches size, offering a generous surface area for a variety of shooting disciplines. It is printed on white paper with vibrant blue and red ink, ensuring excellent visibility. This specific product is supplied in a 100 per package quantity, making it an economical choice for frequent shooters.

The 23×35 inch size is significant because it provides a larger-than-average target area, which is beneficial for shooters with iron sights or those who prefer not to aim at very small points. The choice of blue and red ink for the B-27 and FBI Q zones respectively creates clear distinctions for different scoring or aiming points. This combination is ideal for practice that requires tracking different types of hits, from silhouette center mass to more precise scoring zones.

The 100 per package bulk offering is a key specification for value-conscious consumers. It drastically reduces the per-target cost compared to buying smaller quantities. This is particularly relevant for regular range-goers or training facilities.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function, the Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target performs exceptionally well. It serves admirably as both a B-27 silhouette for general handgun and rifle practice and as an FBI Q target for more detailed scoring. The clarity of the printed zones ensures that shot placement is easily discernible, which is critical for analysis and improvement.

A notable strength is its visibility in varied lighting conditions. The bright ink contrasts effectively with most backgrounds and is easily picked up by the eye, whether you’re using a red dot, scope, or iron sights. Its main weakness, common to all paper targets, is its susceptibility to weather and extreme damage, but this is a minor point for its intended use.

It consistently meets and often exceeds expectations for a paper target in this price range. The combination of a full silhouette and a precise scoring grid offers a dual-threat capability that many shooters seek. It provides a solid foundation for diverse training regimens without requiring multiple target types.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of these targets is commendable. The paper stock feels sturdy, more durable than standard printer paper, and capable of withstanding multiple impacts without immediately shredding. The finish is matte, which helps reduce glare under direct sunlight.

Ergonomically, the design is straightforward and universally understood by shooters. The familiar B-27 silhouette is a standard for a reason, and the addition of the FBI Q grid adds an extra layer of tactical relevance. There is no learning curve; you simply hang it up and shoot.

Practical design elements include the clear division between the B-27 silhouette and the FBI Q scoring area, printed in distinct colors. This separation is crucial for quickly identifying which zone a bullet has entered. The lack of unnecessary graphics or clutter keeps the focus on the shot placement.

Durability & Maintenance

For its intended purpose as a disposable paper target, its durability is quite good. Under normal range conditions with common handgun and rifle calibers, a single target can often hold up for a significant number of rounds before becoming too damaged to read. For calibers like .22LR, it can last for hundreds of shots.

As mentioned, maintenance is non-existent. These are designed to be used and discarded, simplifying the shooting experience. There are no parts to clean or maintain.

Potential concerns, while minor, relate to extreme conditions. Prolonged exposure to heavy rain could cause the ink to bleed, and very high-powered rifle rounds at close range could cause significant fragmentation. However, for typical handgun and rifle range use, these targets are robust enough.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target is designed to be a standalone product, and it comes with no specific accessories. However, its 23×35 inch size makes it compatible with virtually any standard paper target holder or frame. This means it can be readily integrated into existing shooting setups without modification.

While there are no direct customization options for the target itself, its 100-pack bulk nature allows for easy stocking and accessibility. Users can decide how they want to mount it, whether using staples, clamps, or dedicated target clips. The bright blue and red ink provides a clear backdrop for various sighting systems, effectively acting as a subtle form of “customization” for different shooting needs.

Pros and Cons of Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target

Who Should Buy Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target?

This target is an excellent choice for recreational shooters, firearms instructors, and anyone engaged in regular range practice that requires both general silhouette training and specific point-of-aim evaluation. It’s particularly well-suited for those who use a variety of firearms and sighting systems, from basic iron sights to magnified optics, thanks to its clear contrast and dual-zone design. The 100 per package pricing makes it ideal for individuals or groups who shoot frequently and want to manage their consumables budget effectively.

Individuals who require sterile, medical-grade targets or those focused solely on extreme long-range precision with specialized paper might find other options more suitable. The Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target is designed for practical, hands-on shooting education and enjoyment, not niche applications. A must-have complementary item would be a sturdy target stand or backing board, such as a simple wooden frame or a cardboard backing, to ensure the target remains taut and properly displayed during use.

Conclusion on Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target

The Action Target B-27E and FBI Q Combination Target is a highly practical and cost-effective solution for a wide range of shooting disciplines. Its dual-purpose design, combined with robust print quality and durable paper, makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking versatile training targets without breaking the bank. The 100 per package bulk offering solidifies its value proposition, ensuring that frequent range visits are more affordable.

For its intended use, the price is more than justified by the performance and sheer quantity provided. I wholeheartedly recommend these targets to any shooter looking to enhance their training regimen with a reliable, visible, and economical option. If you’re looking for a solid, no-nonsense paper target that does its job exceptionally well, these Action Target units are a clear winner.