First Impressions of Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire
The Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire promises affordable, reactive target practice for rimfire enthusiasts. Champion is a well-known name in shooting sports, and I was intrigued to see how their budget-friendly steel target would perform. My initial impression was that it was a simple, no-frills solution for honing shooting skills.
I’ve been searching for a way to make my .22LR practice sessions more engaging than just punching holes in paper. The reactive nature of steel targets, with their satisfying “ping” and visible movement, seemed like the perfect solution. I wanted something that was durable, easy to set up, and wouldn’t break the bank.
Upon unboxing, the Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire feels solid and well-made for its price point. The steel appears to be of adequate thickness to withstand repeated impacts from .22LR rounds. Its design is simple: a prairie dog silhouette cut from steel, ready to be hung or propped up. Compared to more elaborate auto-resetting or spinner targets, this is about as basic as it gets. I picked this target over others, because of its simplicity and price. Other steel targets, while providing more features, were significantly more expensive, and for rimfire practice, the Champion target seemed adequate enough for this purpose.
I was cautiously optimistic. I wasn’t expecting match-grade precision or indestructible resilience, but I was hoping for a reliable and fun target for casual rimfire practice. The price certainly makes it appealing, but only real-world testing would reveal its true value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire was at my local outdoor shooting range. I set it up at 50 yards, hanging it from a sturdy target stand using some paracord. The day was dry and sunny, perfect for a rimfire session.
The target performed admirably. The “ping” was audible and satisfying, and the target reacted visibly with each hit. The satisfying ring of steel really enhances the shooting experience. I experienced no issues with the target deforming or showing signs of damage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire is holding up well. It shows some paint chipping and minor surface rust (easily remedied with a quick spray of rustoleum), but no structural damage. I make sure to store the target indoors when not in use to prevent any unnecessary damage due to the environment.
The target has proven to be quite durable. Despite hundreds of rounds impacting it, it continues to provide reliable and enjoyable reactive target practice. It definitely outperforms paper targets in terms of engagement and feedback and is similar to other steel targets in its ability to hold up over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire
Specifications
The Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire is constructed from steel, designed to withstand repeated impacts from rimfire rounds. The manufacturer is Champion. It’s intended for .22LR caliber only, ensuring safety and preventing damage.
The target’s size is approximately 6″ x 8″, making it a reasonably sized target for practice at varying distances. Its steel construction provides durability for long-term use. The relatively small target size requires good accuracy for the shooter.
Performance & Functionality
The Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire functions perfectly as a reactive target for rimfire practice. The audible “ping” and visible movement provide instant feedback, confirming successful hits. This feedback is highly valuable for gauging accuracy and improving shooting skills.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. There are no moving parts to break or malfunction, ensuring consistent performance. One area for improvement would be adding some sort of mounting system as the target is nothing more than a steel plate, which requires the user to figure out how to hang or prop the target.
Design & Ergonomics
The target’s design is straightforward: a prairie dog silhouette cut from steel. The bare-bones design is simple to setup, but could be improved by adding a better way to do so out of the box. Its weight is manageable, making it easy to transport and set up.
There is no real learning curve to this product. Simply hang or prop it up, ensure the area behind the target is safe and clear, and start shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction, the Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire is built to last. With proper care (such as occasional cleaning and rust prevention), it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning and rust prevention measures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire comes as a standalone target with no included accessories. Customization options are limited, as the target is a simple steel silhouette. Some shooters might choose to repaint it or add reflective tape for increased visibility, but there is no real need to customize the target.
Pros and Cons of Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Audible “ping” and visible movement provide instant feedback.
- Simple design makes it easy to set up and use.
- Enhances the fun and engagement of rimfire practice.
Cons
- Requires a separate stand or hanging system.
- Paint finish is prone to chipping.
Who Should Buy Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire?
This target is perfect for: Rimfire enthusiasts looking for an affordable and engaging way to practice. New shooters who want instant feedback on their accuracy. Anyone seeking a simple and durable target for casual shooting sessions.
This product might not be ideal for: Shooters looking for more advanced features like auto-resetting mechanisms. Those who prioritize pristine aesthetics over functionality.
Must-have accessories: A sturdy target stand or hanging system.
Conclusion on Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire
The Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire offers excellent value for the money. It provides a durable, reactive target for rimfire practice at an affordable price. Its simple design and reliable performance make it a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s range setup.
The price is absolutely justified, as you receive a durable and rewarding target for a very low cost. I would definitely recommend this target to any rimfire enthusiast looking to enhance their practice sessions.
If you are looking for an affordable and effective steel target for your .22LR rifle, the Champion Impact Steel Prairie Dog Target Rimfire is a great option. Go ahead and give it a shot; you won’t be disappointed!