Officers heading to the range to improve their firearm accuracy can choose more traditional steel or paper targets or more realistic, programmable options. View our slideslow of targest from 10 law enforcement vendors.
Targets and Target Systems: 2012
The standard Auto-Popper is the same shape as a traditional Pepper Popper. It is a great target for every shooter, but particularly those working on speed and accuracy. This target stands 14 inches high and is only four inches across at the widest portion of the target. The majority of the target is only two inches wide. Part of MGM's Skillbuilder system, the standard Auto-Popper helps build your accuracy skills. The auto reset feature keeps your finger on the trigger, not on the target resetting it.
Arntzen Corp.'s alloy steel targets are ideal for training, practice, or matches. The company’s steel gong model 9115 AR500 target hangs from a stand and rings when you hit it. The full-size IPSC plate measures 3/8 x 17.25 x 29.5 inches and weighs 46 pounds. Arntzen’s portable folding stand sets up quickly without tools; just hook the target on the top of the stand. You can adjust the angle at which the target hangs so you can direct the lead spatter to the ground. You can set them up and shoot all day without maintenance.
Qualification Targets' HM-1 is the first in its new line of Hit Marker Targets. This new line of targets incorporates the company’s shoot-and-mark technology to give a shooter instant feedback by showing each hit to the target with a contrasting colored mark. The HM-1 paper target measures 12 x 12 inches. Different sizes, colors, shapes, and silhouettes will be available as the target line expands. The Hit Marker Targets aim to give visible instant feedback on any range.
The Nexgen Target Control System for pneumatic and Running Man systems is new from Savage Range Systems. It features enhanced programming capability, multiple "course of fire" functionality, ease of use, remote capability, and off-the-shelf maintenance. Multiple "course of fire" exercises, with up to 15 steps in each, can be programmed and stored for future use. Turning targets can be set to run simultaneously. Carriers can be programmed to automatically run a course with multiple changes in direction and speed. Carriers can also be coordinated or linked with each other or run completely independently.
The rifle-rated Spartan steel target from Salute Targets measures just over 20 inches tall and 11 inches wide and weighs 21.5 pounds. What makes the Spartan different is its three separate moving target zones: head, heart, and pelvis. Each one moves independently, flipping out to the side when shot. Follow-up shots can be used to flip them back again. The Spartan breaks down into four pieces. Target bases are sold separately.
For 2012 Birchwood Casey has introduced a new line of White/Black Shoot-N-C targets. The white targets leave a black "halo" around each shot that can easily be seen at many distances. They work especially well at indoor ranges or in low light conditions. Crosshairs and open sights show up especially well on the white-over-black design. The bull's-eye versions also have horizontal posts that make great crosshair reference points. Three versions of the Shoot-N-C White/Black targets are available: 8-inch and 12-inch Bull's-Eye X and 12 x 18-inch Silhouette.
Action Target's Track Runner heavy-duty track-mounted moving target system is designed for more permanent range installations. Unlike portable systems where the target is suspended from a steel cable, targets used with the Track Runner are mounted to a trolley that runs on a special track mounted close to the ground. This approach is ideal for realistic tactical applications because the target can move to different locations, change speed and direction, and dart in and out of cover.
Target Industries' Flip-n-Targets are easy to transport and use. They come in three sizes: Qualifier, Pro, and Sportsman. The design of these folding wooden target stands allows for quick and easy set-up, not to mention the benefit of minimizing the space needed for storage and travel. The stand allows for set-up on uneven ground and does well in the wind thanks to adjustable legs.
In addition to its many options for shooting practice such as Realistic Police Combat Targets, the Speedwell Targets division of Rockwood Corp. now sells zombie targets. Available in Osama zombie, zombie clown, zombie woman, and zombie hostage situation models, these 23 x 35-inch targets come in packs of 100. You can order them individually, or in a package that includes 25 of each model.
The Extreme Hostage Target from Challenge Targets creates unpredictable and lifelike movement for real-world situational training. Its patent pending counterbalance technology uses wind to generate random motion eliminating the need for motors, batteries, or pneumatic power. The portable all weather system is capable of year-round outdoor use. Add the optional Pulley Stand to manually control the motion on indoor ranges or areas with no wind. The target system will create random movement of any standard cardboard targets. Cardboard targets and wood items are sold separately.