First Impressions of Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is a specialized target designed to streamline the sighting-in process for thermal optics. Allen Company aims to solve the common problem of accurately zeroing thermal scopes, particularly during daylight hours when heat signatures can be difficult to discern on standard targets. Featuring a patented treatment that creates distinct thermal signatures on segmented parts of the target, and 1-inch gridlines for accurate adjustment, this product presents a unique approach to thermal optic calibration.
My experience with thermal optics has always involved a degree of guesswork during daytime zeroing. Standard targets often lack the necessary thermal contrast, leading to frustrating and inefficient range sessions. The promise of daytime thermal ID, using the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target, grabbed my attention as a potential solution to this persistent issue.
Upon unboxing, the target feels like a high-quality, thick paper, much like other premium paper targets I’ve used. The 12×12 inch size is adequate, and the adhesive backing feels secure. The specialized treatment doesn’t visibly alter the target’s appearance, but the proof will be in its performance under a thermal scope.
Compared to standard bullseye targets or even silhouette targets, the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target offers a very specific advantage: thermal signature differentiation. Products like Caldwell’s Mag Target or Birchwood Casey’s Dirty Bird targets focus on splatter visibility to show bullet impacts, which don’t address the core issue of thermal signature in daylight. My initial impression is cautiously optimistic – if the thermal differentiation works as advertised, it could significantly improve the thermal sighting-in process, justifying the higher price point.
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target piqued my curiosity; I was hopeful that it would simplify and expedite thermal optic zeroing. If it delivers on its promises, it will become a staple in my range kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target at my local outdoor shooting range on a clear, sunny afternoon. The range provided a controlled environment with distances up to 100 yards, allowing me to assess the target’s performance with my Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro thermal scope. I placed the target on a standard cardboard backer at 50 yards to start.
Even in direct sunlight, the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target produced a noticeably clearer thermal image than a standard paper target. The segmented sections glowed with different levels of intensity, making it significantly easier to distinguish the bullseye and gridlines through the thermal scope. Adjustments were simple, using the 1-inch gridlines, and I quickly zeroed my scope.
The ease of use was a pleasant surprise. Unlike previous daytime thermal sight-in attempts, I didn’t struggle to find a clear aiming point. The thermal contrast provided by the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target eliminated the guesswork, allowing for quick and confident adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target across multiple range sessions, its performance remained consistent. The paper held up well to repeated use, showing no significant wear or tear. I fired multiple shots into each target during each session, and it did what it was designed to do.
The durability of the paper proved adequate. I was able to patch the bullet holes in between each session, to get the most out of the target. Its adhesive backing held strong.
Compared to previous experiences with standard targets, the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target significantly outperformed them in daylight thermal sight-in. The patented treatment consistently provided a clear and distinguishable thermal image, which saved both time and ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target
Specifications
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target features a 12-inch wide by 12-inch high paper target face with a 5-spot bullseye sight-in grid. It also has 1-inch gridlines for precise scope adjustments. The paper is treated with a patented process to create distinct heat signatures for use with thermal imaging scopes.
These specifications are crucial for optimizing the performance of thermal scopes. The segmented heat signatures allow the scope to differentiate between aiming points, while the gridlines enable precise adjustments for zeroing.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target excels in its primary function: providing a clear and distinct thermal image for daytime sight-in. Its accuracy is dependent on the shooter and the quality of the optic.
The main strength of the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is its ability to create thermal contrast where standard targets fail. One weakness is that it is a single-use paper target, so each new sight-in requires a new target. The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target exceeds expectations for daytime thermal sight-in.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is constructed from high-quality paper. The paper is thick and durable, and the adhesive backing makes it easy to mount on any standard target backer.
The target is user-friendly and requires no special skills or knowledge to use. Simply stick it to a target backer and use it as you would any other sight-in target.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is a disposable paper target. Its lifespan is dependent on how many rounds are fired at it during a single session.
The target requires no maintenance or repair. Once it is used, it is discarded and replaced with a new target.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target does not come with any accessories. The target itself is not customizable.
It is compatible with any standard target backer. Users may also want to use a spotting scope or binoculars to observe bullet impacts.
Pros and Cons of Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target
Pros
- Significantly enhances daytime thermal sight-in.
- Clear thermal contrast, even in direct sunlight.
- Easy to use with 1-inch gridlines for adjustments.
- High-quality paper construction.
- Adhesive backing for easy mounting.
Cons
- Single-use target.
- Price is higher than standard paper targets.
Who Should Buy Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target?
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is perfect for hunters and sport shooters who use thermal optics and need to zero their scopes accurately, especially in daylight conditions. It is also beneficial for law enforcement and military personnel who rely on thermal imaging for tactical operations.
Those who primarily shoot with standard optics or who rarely need to zero their thermal scopes might find this product unnecessary. If you primarily shoot at night, this is still an option, but may not be necessary.
A sturdy target backer is a must-have accessory. A spotting scope to observe bullet impacts is also helpful.
Conclusion on Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target
The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is a specialized product that addresses a specific need: simplifying daytime thermal optic sight-in. Its patented treatment effectively creates distinct thermal signatures.
The price of $27.99 is justified by the significant improvement in sighting efficiency and accuracy compared to standard targets. The Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target is an investment in time saved and ammunition conserved.
I would highly recommend the Allen EZ Aim Thermal ID Grid Bullseye Paper Target to anyone who uses thermal optics and struggles with daytime zeroing. If you’re looking to streamline the sight-in process, enhance accuracy, and reduce frustration, this target is a game-changer. Upgrade your range kit today and experience the difference!