First Thoughts on the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK
Stepping onto the range, the scent of gun oil and burnt powder hangs heavy in the air; it’s a familiar comfort. Today’s mission: dissecting the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK, a seemingly simple target option from Allen. These aren’t your high-tech, reactive targets; they’re paper, plain and simple.
Why these? I was looking for a cost-effective, no-frills solution for zeroing rifles and pistols, and for general practice sessions. Reactive targets are fun, but they can get expensive quickly. The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK promised a budget-friendly way to get rounds downrange.
Unboxing, or rather, unwrapping the tightly bundled pack, revealed three large paper targets. The design is straightforward: a central “house” shape with various scoring zones. The paper stock feels adequate for the job, though not exceptionally thick. My initial impression? Functional and definitely inexpensive.
Compared to other paper targets I’ve used – Birchwood Casey’s Dirty Bird series, or even basic bullseye targets – these felt less premium. However, the size advantage and the unique target design piqued my interest. I chose the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK over smaller targets due to the increased surface area, offering more room for error, especially when working with newer shooters or sighting in optics. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK was at my local outdoor range, a gravel pit carved into the hillside. The weather was typical for late summer: hot, dry, and a slight breeze kicking up dust. I primarily tested these targets with a .22LR rifle and a 9mm pistol.
Setting up the targets was simple – stapling them to wooden frames. The size was immediately appreciated; at 23″x35″, they presented a substantial aiming point. During the initial rounds, the targets held up well. The bullet holes were clean and easy to score. There were no issues from the slight breeze, as long as I secured the targets well to the frames.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK proved their worth as reliable practice targets. Durability-wise, they are paper, so they don’t magically become impervious to damage. Repeated hits in the same area eventually lead to tearing, especially with larger calibers.
Maintenance is non-existent, you shoot them and replace them. These targets are designed to be disposable. Compared to more expensive, self-healing targets, the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK offer a “use and replace” solution. They met my expectations for a budget-friendly target option, performing admirably for their intended purpose.
Breaking Down the Features of ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK
Specifications
- Quantity: 3 per pack.
- Material: Paper.
- Dimensions: 23 inches x 35 inches.
These specifications are important because they determine the target’s usability and longevity. The large size makes it easier to see at longer distances. The paper composition dictates its suitability for various calibers and the need for secure mounting.
Performance & Functionality
The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK performs its primary function – providing a visual aiming point – effectively. Accuracy is, of course, dependent on the shooter, not the target. The design, with its various scoring zones, allowed for practicing different shot placements.
However, the paper’s thinness means that larger calibers can quickly obliterate the target, reducing its lifespan. A heavier paper stock would significantly improve the target’s durability. Despite this, the targets meet expectations for basic range practice.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is basic but functional. The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK features a red and black “house” shape on a white background. This high contrast makes it easy to see the target even in less than ideal lighting conditions.
The large size is a definite plus, particularly for beginners or those shooting at longer distances. There is no learning curve; it is simply a paper target that you put downrange and shoot.
Durability & Maintenance
As mentioned previously, durability is the main weak point. Paper targets, by their nature, aren’t designed for longevity. The lifespan of each target depends heavily on the caliber used and the number of rounds fired.
Maintenance is non-existent. Once a target is too damaged to be useful, it is simply replaced.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK doesn’t come with any accessories, nor does it offer customization options in the traditional sense. However, shooters can customize the targets by adding their own markings or scoring zones with a marker. These targets are compatible with standard target stands and staplers.
Pros and Cons of ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK
Pros
- Affordable: The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK offers a low-cost target solution for practice and sighting in firearms.
- Large Size: The 23″ x 35″ dimensions provide a generous aiming area, especially useful for beginners or longer-range shooting.
- High Contrast Design: The black and red “house” shape is easy to see in various lighting conditions.
- Simple to Use: No setup complexity; just staple it to a target stand and start shooting.
- Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of firearms, from .22LR to larger caliber rifles and pistols.
Cons
- Limited Durability: The paper construction is prone to tearing, especially with larger calibers or repeated hits.
- No Backing: Requires a target stand or sturdy backing for proper use.
Who Should Buy ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK?
The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK is perfect for budget-conscious shooters, recreational plinkers, and those who need a large target for zeroing optics or training new shooters. It’s also a great option for shooting clubs or organizations that need to purchase targets in bulk without breaking the bank.
Who should skip this product? Shooters looking for a long-lasting or reactive target system should consider other options. Hunters who require highly detailed anatomical targets might also find these too basic. A sturdy target stand and a reliable stapler are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK
The ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK is a simple, affordable, and functional target solution for a variety of shooting activities. While not the most durable option on the market, its large size and high-contrast design make it a practical choice for budget-minded shooters. At $6.49 for a pack of three, the price is definitely justified.
I would recommend the ALLEN EZ AIM 23X35 HOUSE CARDS 3PK to anyone looking for a basic, no-frills target for general range practice. If you need a cost-effective way to put rounds downrange, these targets are definitely worth considering. Grab a pack (or two!) and head to the range. You won’t be disappointed by the value.