ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK Review

First Thoughts on the ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK

Plinking. The word itself evokes simpler times, tin cans dancing on a fence post, and the satisfying thwack of a well-aimed shot. The ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK promises to deliver that nostalgic experience without the hassle of finding (or cleaning up) those tin cans. This unassuming pack of paper targets from Allen aims to be an affordable and convenient solution for backyard fun or serious range practice.

My journey to these targets started with a simple problem: the need for a consistent and safe plinking setup for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals. I was tired of makeshift target solutions that were either unsafe or created an unnecessary mess. My criteria were simple: affordability, visibility, and portability.

Unboxing the ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK was… uneventful. They are paper targets; expectations were managed. The paper stock feels reasonably sturdy, thicker than newsprint but not quite cardstock. My initial impression was that they are exactly what they advertise to be: simple, inexpensive targets.

I considered other options, like Birchwood Casey’s Dirty Bird targets, which offer the instant gratification of reactive splatter. However, the higher price point and the fact that I didn’t specifically need reactive feedback pushed me towards the ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK. There were also some cheaper, generic targets, but the Allen name gives me a bit more confidence in the product quality.

My first impression? A pleasant surprise, honestly. For the price, I wasn’t expecting much, but they seem perfectly adequate for their intended purpose. I’m eager to see how they perform at the range and whether they’ll stand up to repeated use.

Real-World Testing: Putting ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK was at my local outdoor shooting range, primarily using a .22LR rifle and a 9mm pistol. The weather was mild and sunny, ideal conditions for target practice. I set the targets up at distances ranging from 25 to 50 yards for the rifle and 7 to 15 yards for the pistol.

The targets were easy to attach to the target stands with just a few staples. The bright, assorted colors made them highly visible, even at the longer distances. I experienced no issues with tearing or ripping during the initial setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of sporadic use, spread across three different range sessions, the ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK has held up surprisingly well. Naturally, they are disposable, one-time-use targets, but they performed their function perfectly. The paper is robust enough to withstand several shots before needing replacement, depending on caliber and distance.

There are no real maintenance requirements. Once they’re riddled with holes, you simply replace them. I noticed no significant wear and tear beyond the expected bullet holes.

Compared to simply shooting at soda cans, these targets offer a far more consistent and measurable training experience. They are certainly not high-tech, but they get the job done, and they do it affordably. For basic plinking and fundamental marksmanship practice, they exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK

Specifications

The ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK is a simple product, but understanding its specifications helps appreciate its utility. The key specifications are its size (12″x12″), material (paper), and quantity (9 targets per pack). The paper is a relatively standard weight, sufficient for catching bullets without excessive tearing.

The 12″x12″ size is adequate for practicing with pistols and rifles at typical plinking distances. The paper material keeps the cost low and makes the targets easily disposable and recyclable. The pack of 9 offers a decent number of targets for multiple range sessions without breaking the bank.

Performance & Functionality

The ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK performs its job admirably. They provide a visible and consistent target for practicing marksmanship. The assorted colors (as described) enhance visibility under various lighting conditions.

The main strength is its simplicity and affordability. A minor weakness is that there are no scoring rings or specialized target designs. They are plain targets, and they do require a separate backstop to be safely used. They meet expectations for basic target practice but lack advanced features.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and functional. The square shape is easy to staple or tape to target stands. The lightweight paper makes them highly portable.

The design isn’t flashy, but it is effective. The absence of a complex design makes them easy to use with minimal setup.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is limited, as they are paper targets meant for single use. The paper holds up reasonably well to multiple shots, but eventually, they will need replacing. There is no maintenance required.

They are meant to be disposable, and the low cost reflects this.

Accessories and Customization Options

There are no accessories included with the ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK. Customization is limited to drawing your own scoring rings or target designs with a marker. They are compatible with standard target stands and staplers.

The targets are simple and don’t offer much in the way of factory customization. Aftermarket enhancement would be limited to using different mounting solutions.

Pros and Cons of ALLEN EZAIM 12″X12″ PLNKNG TRGT 9PK