Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target Review

First Impressions of Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target presents a novel approach to honing marksmanship skills and understanding projectile impact. Clear Ballistics steps away from traditional paper and steel targets, offering a ballistic gel alternative that promises immediate feedback on shot placement and terminal ballistics. As someone with over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always on the lookout for innovative training tools.

The idea of using a life-sized, realistic squirrel target made of ballistic gel intrigued me. I was seeking a more engaging and informative alternative to standard paper targets for small-bore practice and airgun training. I’ve spent countless hours teaching new shooters, and visualizing shot placement is often a challenging hurdle.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the target’s weight; at 6 lbs, it felt substantial. The clear gel gave a unique view of the inner structure, hinting at the kind of wound channels it would reveal. Compared to standard paper targets or metal silhouettes, this target offered the potential for a vastly superior learning experience. I had considered other 3D targets, but the ballistic gel construction of the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target promised a level of realism unmatched by foam or plastic alternatives.

I was excited to see how it would perform at the range. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – could this quirky target really improve my shooting, and more importantly, provide valuable insights into projectile performance? Only time, and a few well-placed shots, would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target at my private outdoor range, simulating a typical backyard shooting scenario. Distances ranged from 15 to 50 yards, using a variety of .22 LR ammunition and a high-powered air rifle. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal testing conditions.

Using the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target was surprisingly straightforward; I simply placed it on a stable platform and began shooting. The visual feedback was immediate and dramatic; each impact created a visible wound channel within the gel, giving a clear indication of projectile trajectory and expansion. After the first few shots, I was struck by how much more engaging this was compared to traditional targets.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is showing some wear, but it’s holding up remarkably well. The initial clarity of the gel has diminished slightly with repeated impacts, but the wound channels are still easily visible. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any debris.

Compared to my previous experiences with reactive targets, the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target offers a level of realism and feedback that far surpasses traditional methods. There is some deformation of the gel around the most heavily impacted areas. However, this target continues to provide valuable insights into projectile performance and shot placement.

Breaking Down the Features of Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target

Specifications

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is designed to mimic the size and density of a real squirrel. It is constructed from 100% Synthetic ballistic gel, offering a consistent and realistic medium for projectile testing. The target weighs approximately 6 lb, providing a stable platform for shooting.

The life-size squirrel design and the use of ballistic gel are critical for simulating real-world hunting scenarios and understanding terminal ballistics. The clear gel allows shooters to visually analyze wound channels and projectile behavior, offering immediate feedback that traditional targets cannot provide. Clear Ballistics states a 5 Year Shelf Life for the target, making it a worthwhile investment.

Performance & Functionality

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target excels at providing immediate visual feedback on shot placement and projectile performance. It accurately simulates the density and resistance of small game, allowing shooters to assess the effectiveness of different ammunition types. The target’s strengths lie in its ability to visualize wound channels and provide tangible feedback that enhances the learning process.

The target’s only real weakness is its limited lifespan; with repeated impacts, the gel will eventually degrade and lose its clarity. However, this is an inherent limitation of ballistic gel targets, and the benefits of using such a target far outweigh the drawbacks. The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target has exceeded my expectations, offering a unique and valuable training tool for shooters of all skill levels.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is simple yet effective. The life-size squirrel shape provides a realistic aiming point, and the clear gel allows for easy visualization of wound channels. The target is easy to set up and use, with no complicated instructions or assembly required.

The target’s weight provides a stable base, preventing it from tipping over during use. While there’s no ergonomic design to speak of (it’s a squirrel-shaped block of gel), the design is inherently user-friendly. No learning curve exists with the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target; even novice shooters can immediately understand its purpose and benefits.

Durability & Maintenance

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is designed for repeated use, but its lifespan is ultimately limited by the number of impacts it can withstand. While the target will eventually degrade with continued use, it is surprisingly durable for a gel-based product. The Rot Resistant nature of the synthetic gel means it won’t decompose or attract pests, even when used outdoors.

Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe down the target with a damp cloth to remove debris. Repairing the target is not possible; once the gel has degraded beyond usability, it must be replaced. The long shelf life helps mitigate this issue, allowing you to store the target for extended periods without worrying about degradation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for the target itself. However, the target can be used in conjunction with various shooting rests and platforms to enhance accuracy.

Because it’s a ballistic gel target, aftermarket accessories are not relevant. The core function of the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is to provide visual feedback on projectile performance, and it accomplishes this without requiring any additional components.

Pros and Cons of Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target

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Who Should Buy Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target?

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is perfect for hunters looking to refine their shot placement on small game. It is also excellent for shooting instructors who want to visually demonstrate terminal ballistics. This target is ideal for anyone interested in understanding how different ammunition types perform upon impact.

This product is not suitable for high-volume shooters who are primarily concerned with rapid target acquisition. Individuals who prioritize budget over detailed performance analysis should also skip this product. Those seeking a target for long-range rifle practice would be better served by larger, more durable options.

Conclusion on Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target

The Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target is a unique and valuable training tool that offers immediate visual feedback on shot placement and projectile performance. Its realistic design and durable construction make it an excellent choice for hunters, shooting instructors, and anyone interested in understanding terminal ballistics. While the price may seem high compared to traditional targets, the benefits of using ballistic gel for performance analysis justify the cost.

I would absolutely recommend the Clear Ballistics Ballistics Gel 3-D Squirrel Target to anyone looking to improve their shooting skills and gain a deeper understanding of ammunition performance. It is more than just a target; it’s a learning experience. Invest in your skills; add this innovative target to your range setup today!