Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack Review

First Impressions of Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack

The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack arrived, promising a visually superior experience at the range. Thompson Target is a name I’ve come to trust for affordable, reliable targets, and these Bright Lightning targets looked to continue that trend. The key selling point, the vivid neon-red bulls against a bright white background, immediately caught my eye. I needed targets that would give me clear feedback on my shots, especially when working on precision drills with my aging eyes.

Over the years, I’ve struggled with spotting my shots, particularly with darker targets and less-than-ideal lighting conditions. My old targets with black bullseyes just weren’t cutting it anymore. I’d spend more time squinting through my spotting scope than actually shooting. I’d hoped the Thompson Target Bright Lightning would be the solution to my problem.

Unboxing the Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack, I was pleased with the crisp, clean print quality. The paper felt sturdy, not flimsy like some of the cheaper options I’ve encountered. The neon red bullseye was indeed vibrant, offering a stark contrast to the white background.

Compared to standard black bullseye targets and some tan-colored silhouette targets I’ve used, the Bright Lightning targets offered a notable visual advantage right out of the box. I considered other “splatter” targets, but found their price point significantly higher. The Thompson Target Bright Lightning offered a good balance of visibility and affordability. My initial impression was positive; I was eager to see how they performed at the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack was at my local outdoor range. I was zeroing a new scope on my AR-15, and consistent, visible targets were essential. The range was experiencing typical mid-morning glare, which often washes out standard targets.

The Bright Lightning targets performed admirably in the challenging lighting conditions. The neon red bullseye stood out clearly, even at 100 yards, allowing for quick and easy shot placement. I found it significantly easier to spot my shots compared to traditional black bullseye targets. There were no issues at all with tearing or shredding when stapled to the target board.

Ease of use was a definite plus. No special preparation was required; I simply stapled the target to the board and began shooting. The only minor issue was the bright white background reflecting the sunlight; a darker backing might improve visibility further on exceptionally bright days.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack has proven to be a reliable and valuable training aid. I’ve used them with a variety of firearms, from .22LR pistols to .308 rifles. They consistently provide excellent visibility and hold up well to repeated use.

Durability has been impressive. The paper resists tearing even with multiple rounds impacting the target. I have seen no significant signs of wear and tear, aside from the expected bullet holes. A slight yellowing of the white paper occurs after prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, but this doesn’t affect visibility.

Maintenance is nonexistent, which is exactly what I want in a paper target. Once the target is riddled with holes, it is simply replaced. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, thinner targets that tear easily, the Thompson Target Bright Lightning has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and visibility.

Breaking Down the Features of Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack

Specifications

• The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack are specifically designed for rifle and pistol use. Their 9×12 inch size is a good compromise, large enough for longer ranges but small enough to easily transport and staple.
• The neon red color of the bullseye is crucial for high visibility. This allows shooters to quickly acquire the target and easily spot bullet holes, minimizing wasted time and maximizing training efficiency.
• The targets are constructed from quality white 60 lb. vellum paper, providing a sturdy and tear-resistant surface. This is important as it prevents the target from ripping or shredding upon impact, especially with larger caliber rounds.
• The target paper thickness is 0.0045 inches. This provides an excellent balance of durability and visibility, making them ideal for a variety of shooting applications.
• The pack contains 50 individual targets, providing a cost-effective solution for frequent shooters. This bulk quantity allows for extended training sessions without the need for constant re-supply.

Performance & Functionality

The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack performs its primary job exceptionally well: providing a clear and visible target for accurate shooting. The contrast between the neon red bullseye and the bright white background is outstanding. It greatly enhances the shooter’s ability to quickly acquire and engage the target.

The targets are reliable and consistent. Shot placement is easily discernible, even at longer ranges, reducing the need for constant adjustments to spotting scopes. The only minor weakness is the potential for glare in direct sunlight. However, this is easily mitigated by adjusting the target’s angle or using a target backing.

The Bright Lightning targets meet and exceed my expectations for a standard paper target. Their superior visibility and robust construction make them an ideal choice for a wide range of shooting disciplines.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack is simple yet effective. The use of high-contrast colors and a clean, uncluttered layout maximizes visibility. This minimizes eye strain and reduces the time required to acquire the target.

The build quality is solid. The 60 lb. vellum paper provides a sturdy and durable surface. The weight feels substantial, giving me confidence they will withstand repeated use.

There is essentially no learning curve. Simply staple the target to a board and begin shooting. It is an incredibly user-friendly design.

Durability & Maintenance

The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack are designed to last through extensive shooting sessions. The heavy-duty paper resists tearing, even with multiple rounds impacting the target area. The vibrant colors are fade-resistant, ensuring long-lasting visibility.

Maintenance is not required. The targets are disposable and easily replaced once they are no longer usable. The targets are designed for single use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack are designed to be used as-is. There are no additional accessories included with the pack. Shooters may choose to use a target backing to reduce glare in direct sunlight or to provide a more stable mounting surface.

The targets are compatible with all standard staplers and target stands. There is some limited customization, you can also add pasters to the targets to extend their use. These are not official accessories.

Pros and Cons of Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack

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Who Should Buy Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack?

The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack are perfect for a wide range of shooters. This includes recreational target shooters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement personnel. Anyone looking for a high-visibility, durable, and cost-effective target will benefit from these. They are exceptionally valuable for shooters with vision impairments or those practicing at longer ranges.

Those who prefer highly specialized targets with scoring rings or specific training drills might want to explore other options. If a shooter needs to track scores or train specific areas of the target, they may be disappointed. A high-end electronic target would give that shooter more of what they need.

Must-have accessories include a reliable stapler and a sturdy target stand. Target pasters can extend the life of each target. A target backing can minimize glare in direct sunlight.

Conclusion on Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack

The Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack delivers on its promise of superior visibility and reliable performance. The high-contrast design makes it easy to acquire and engage targets, while the durable construction ensures they hold up well to repeated use. At a price of $21.99 for a pack of 50, the value proposition is excellent.

I would personally recommend these targets to any shooter looking to improve their accuracy and visibility at the range. They are a simple, effective, and affordable solution for a wide range of shooting applications.

If you’re tired of squinting to see your shots, give the Thompson Target Bright Lightning 9x12in Paper Shooting Targets – 50 Pack a try. You won’t be disappointed. Add these to your cart, and elevate your next range day!