Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit Review

Using the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit in the Real World

As someone who’s spent over a decade working with gear across a spectrum of demanding environments – from dusty outdoor expeditions to sterile lab benches and boisterous workshops – I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t. So, when the opportunity arose to test the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit, I was intrigued. This kit promises a fun, engaging reactive target experience, specifically designed for shooting enthusiasts. What initially drew me to this product was a common problem: the static, uninspiring nature of traditional paper targets. While effective, they lack a certain visceral feedback that makes practice feel more dynamic and rewarding. I was looking for something to add a bit more oomph to my plinking sessions, something that would give me immediate, visual confirmation of a good shot beyond a simple hole.

My first impression upon unboxing the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit was one of pragmatic design. The primary component, the squirrel target, is fashioned from what Throom Targets calls “SHOOT-THROO” polymer. It feels robust and surprisingly flexible, giving the impression it can withstand a fair amount of abuse. The associated Pivot Base, which is integral to the knockdown function, shares this tough, self-healing material. While I considered some other reactive target systems that involved more complex spring mechanisms or metal plates, the simplicity of the Throom Targets approach, relying on gravity and a pivot, seemed particularly appealing. It suggested fewer moving parts to break or maintain. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; this looked like a no-nonsense, functional piece of training equipment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit primarily at my local informal outdoor shooting range, a familiar patch of ground where I often conduct equipment evaluations. The setup process was straightforward: I mounted the Pivot Base onto a standard softwood target stand using screws, as instructed. Then, the SHOOT-THROO polymer squirrel target simply snapped into place on the base. I used a .22 LR rifle for the initial tests, a caliber known for being forgiving on targets and for its plinking suitability.

The first few shots were pure revelation. Each well-placed impact caused the squirrel target to audibly thwack and dramatically tip backward onto its base. It was incredibly satisfying, far more so than seeing a hole appear on paper. The reactivity was immediate and pronounced. I also tested it briefly with a .22 WMR rifle, and the knockdown power was even more pronounced. After about fifty rounds, I noticed that the bullets did indeed pass through the target and base as advertised, leaving clean holes in the SHOOT-THROO material, which then seemed to largely seal themselves. No issues with target stapling, no concerns about ricochets from the target itself, just a clear indication of a successful hit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, comprising hundreds of .22 LR rounds and a couple of magazine dumps from a .22 WMR pistol, the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit has held up remarkably well. The SHOOT-THROO polymer, while showing a constellation of bullet holes, remains flexible and shows no signs of cracking or degradation. The self-healing properties are evident; many of the smaller perforations have indeed visibly diminished or closed up. The pivot mechanism, which is quite simple, continues to operate smoothly, reliably tipping the target with each solid hit.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dust or dirt is all that has been required. I haven’t had to perform any lubrication or tightening of components. Comparing this to some other reactive targets I’ve used in the past, particularly those with springs or more intricate mechanisms, the lack of upkeep is a significant advantage. Some budget-friendly metal targets can develop deformation or rust over time, but this polymer construction sidesteps those issues entirely. It has proven to be a durable and reliable addition to my range kit.

Breaking Down the Features of Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit

Specifications

The Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit is primarily composed of two key components: the Knockdown Squirrel Target and the Pivot Base. Both are manufactured from Throom Targets’ proprietary SHOOT-THROO, a tough, flexible, and self-healing polymer. This material is specifically designed to allow bullets to pass through with minimal damage, which is crucial for longevity and safety. The Knockdown Squirrel Target is designed to snap securely onto the Pivot Base.

The Pivot Base itself is engineered to facilitate the target’s reactive knockdown action. It securely mounts to a standard softwood target stand using either four wood screws (included in a separate accessory kit, not detailed here but implied for mounting) or two THROOM Nuts and Bolts (also likely sold separately, or assumed as part of a larger mounting solution). The color of the target is a standard green, which offers decent contrast against most natural backdrops. The quantity included in this starter kit is one target and one base.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The SHOOT-THROO polymer ensures that the target can endure repeated impacts from calibers appropriate for practice without significant degradation. Its flexibility means it won’t shatter or fragment like some harder plastics, reducing the risk of dangerous projectiles. The simple snap-together mounting of the target onto the base, and the straightforward attachment of the base to a stand, means minimal setup time and no complex tools required. This focus on durable, simple materials and design makes the target both user-friendly and long-lasting.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit is to provide an engaging and immediate feedback mechanism for shooting practice. In this regard, it excels. When struck by an appropriate caliber, the target reacts by tipping backward with a satisfying thud, staying down until manually reset. This reactive nature significantly enhances the practice experience compared to static targets. The Pivot Base mechanism is robust and effective, consistently tipping the target even with moderate impacts.

The main strength of this reactive target system lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The SHOOT-THROO material’s ability to allow bullets to pass through is a major advantage, minimizing wear and tear and reducing the risk of ricochets from the target itself. However, a potential weakness, depending on the caliber used, is that very high-velocity rounds or very close-range impacts could potentially cause larger holes or slight deformation in the polymer. For typical .22 LR plinking or even lighter centerfire practice rounds, this is not an issue. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a reactive practice target, particularly given its intuitive design.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit is undeniably functional. The squirrel silhouette is recognizable and provides a clear aiming point. The green color offers good visibility against most backdrops, though in very bright sunlight or certain dusty environments, a brighter contrasting color might be a marginal improvement. The SHOOT-THROO polymer feels durable and slightly rubbery to the touch, suggesting it can absorb impact well.

Ergonomically, the target is designed for ease of setup and use rather than intricate handling. The snap-on attachment of the target to the base is intuitive and requires no force. The base itself is designed to sit stably on a target stand. While there’s no complex “grip” or “control” in the traditional sense, the overall design makes it incredibly user-friendly. The only minor point of consideration might be the string for resetting the target, which is not explicitly detailed in the provided specs but is a common feature on such targets; its material and length would influence ease of resetting from a distance.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where the Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit truly shines, thanks to its SHOOT-THROO polymer construction. Under normal use with calibers like .22 LR and .22 WMR, the target is designed to last for a significant number of impacts. The self-healing aspect of the polymer means that smaller bullet holes will visibly close over time, extending the target’s usable life considerably. It’s unlikely to crack or shatter like brittle plastic targets.

Maintenance is exceptionally low. Beyond occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris, there are no parts that require lubrication or adjustment. The primary way this target might eventually wear out is through the cumulative effect of countless bullet passes, which could eventually enlarge the holes or cause the material to degrade. However, for its intended purpose of practice and plinking, it’s built to withstand a very high volume of fire. A potential failure point could arise if the pivot mechanism becomes obstructed by debris, but this is easily remedied by a quick cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit is designed as a functional, standalone training tool. The core components are the Knockdown Squirrel Target and the Pivot Base. The provided product description implies that mounting hardware like wood screws or THROOM Nuts and Bolts would be necessary for attaching the base to a target stand, suggesting these might be sold separately or assumed to be available from the user’s existing equipment.

There are no inherent customization options for the target itself in terms of color or material as described. However, the genius of this system lies in its compatibility and modularity. The SHOOT-THROO polymer targets are likely interchangeable; one could theoretically purchase different shapes from Throom Targets (e.g., zombie targets, other animal silhouettes) and snap them onto the same Pivot Base. This allows for variety and replacement without needing to buy a whole new base system. The primary “accessory” is a method to reset the target after it has been knocked down; this is typically done with a pull string attached to the target or base, though its inclusion isn’t detailed here.

Pros and Cons of Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit

Who Should Buy Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit?

The Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit is an excellent choice for recreational shooters, plinkers, and anyone looking to make .22 LR or similarly powered rimfire and small-caliber centerfire practice more engaging. It’s ideal for backyard target practice, informal range sessions, and for introducing new shooters to the satisfying feedback of hitting a target. Home mechanics and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy target practice might also find its robust and low-maintenance design appealing for casual range days.

Individuals who should probably skip this product are those who regularly shoot high-powered rifle calibers (e.g., .308, .223/5.56mm at close range), as the SHOOT-THROO polymer may not withstand such impacts over time. It’s also not designed for competitive precision shooting where every minute hole on paper is critical for data. For those needing a sterile, medical-grade item or something for extreme cold-weather survival, this target is out of its element.

To make the most of this target, ensuring you have a stable softwood target stand and appropriate mounting hardware (screws or THROOM Nuts and Bolts) is essential. A simple pull string for resetting would also be a highly recommended, almost mandatory, complementary item if not included.

Conclusion on Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit

The Throom Targets Knockdown Squirrel Reactive Target Starter Kit offers a genuinely fun and effective enhancement to shooting practice, particularly for rimfire calibers. Its SHOOT-THROO polymer construction is impressively durable, allowing for a high volume of shots before showing significant wear, and the self-healing properties are a welcome feature. The simple, reliable knockdown mechanism provides immediate and satisfying feedback that static targets simply can’t match, making practice more rewarding and encouraging better shot placement.

Considering its price point of $44.99, the value proposition is strong. You get a durable, engaging target that vastly improves the shooting experience for common plinking calibers. I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking to add a bit of dynamic excitement to their shooting sessions, especially those who primarily use .22 LR firearms. It’s a well-designed, practical piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of an improved practice experience without demanding significant investment or complicated maintenance. If you’re looking for an affordable way to make your range time more enjoyable, this target is a solid choice.