Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 Review

First Thoughts on the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 is a seemingly simple product, but in reality, it’s a fundamental tool for honing marksmanship skills. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours on the range, and I understand the importance of quality targets. Allen Company is a well-known name in the shooting sports industry, known for producing affordable gear, but my initial thought was whether this particular target kit could stand up to the rigorous demands of regular training.

I was looking for a cost-effective way to set up multiple target stations for different drills. Paper targets are essential for diagnostics, allowing shooters to analyze their shot placement and identify areas for improvement. The listed price of $12.49 seemed incredibly reasonable, but I was curious about the paper quality and how well the targets would hold up to repeated use in varying weather conditions.

Unboxing the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35, I was greeted by a stack of paper targets. The initial feel was acceptable, but not exceptional. The paper seemed to be of a standard weight, not overly thin but certainly not a heavy stock. My initial thought was that these might tear easily under harsh conditions.

Compared to some higher-end target options with thicker paper and weather-resistant coatings, the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 is undoubtedly a budget-friendly alternative. However, I chose this kit hoping that the affordability would be offset by the number of targets included, allowing for frequent replacement without breaking the bank. I hoped to find it a decent option versus spending much more for a smaller count of higher quality targets.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, and the target design was functional. The real test would be how they performed on the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 to my local shooting range on a moderately windy day. I wanted to assess their performance under typical conditions. The range offers both covered and open-air lanes.

Setting up the targets was straightforward using standard target stands and clips. Immediately, the wind became a factor, causing the thinner paper to flap considerably. This made precise aiming more challenging, but it also provided a realistic training scenario for dealing with environmental variables. After a few rounds of .223, 9mm, and .45 ACP, the target showed significant tearing around the bullet holes, especially with the larger calibers.

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 targets were easy enough to use. However, the effects of the wind and the resulting target damage meant I had to replace them more frequently than expected. This was only partially related to use, the wind contributed to significant damage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 proved to be adequate for basic range practice, but not particularly durable. Signs of wear and tear were evident after just a few sessions. The bullet holes tended to expand and rip, obscuring the target area and making it difficult to accurately assess groupings.

The paper targets are not weather-resistant. Exposure to even light rain or morning dew caused them to become soggy and prone to tearing. Maintenance was virtually non-existent – once a target was damaged, it was simply replaced.

In comparison to some of the more robust polymer targets I’ve used in the past, the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 is a definite step down in terms of longevity. However, it’s important to remember the significant price difference. For high-volume training, the affordability might outweigh the lack of durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35

Specifications

• Material: Paper. This is the primary component.
• Dimensions: 23 inches x 35 inches.
• Target Type: Silhouette. This helps train for center mass shots.
• Replaceable Targets: The kit allows replacement of individual targets. This is a positive for training.
• Price: $12.49. This makes them affordable compared to other options.

These specifications mean the target is lightweight and easily portable. The paper material necessitates indoor or fair-weather use for optimal lifespan. The silhouette design is ideal for practicing defensive shooting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 performs its basic function adequately: it provides a visual reference point for aiming and assessing shot placement. Accuracy is determined by the shooter, not the target itself, but the target’s visibility can influence accuracy.

The primary weakness is the paper’s susceptibility to tearing, especially with larger calibers or in windy conditions. It meets basic expectations for a low-cost paper target, but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 design is straightforward and functional. The black silhouette on a white background provides good contrast for easy visibility.

There’s no real learning curve involved – it’s a paper target. However, the thin paper can make it difficult to handle in windy conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 is its weakest point. Under ideal conditions, one target might last for a reasonable number of rounds with smaller calibers.

Maintenance is minimal – simply replace the target when it becomes too damaged to be useful. No repair is possible or practical.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 doesn’t come with any accessories. There aren’t any customization options in the traditional sense.

However, users can add their own scoring zones or training drills by drawing directly on the target. It is compatible with standard target stands and clips.

Pros and Cons of Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35

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Who Should Buy Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35?

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 is perfect for:

• Budget-conscious shooters who need a large quantity of targets for basic training.
• Individuals practicing with smaller calibers (.22 LR, 9mm) at relatively close ranges.
• Indoor shooting ranges where weather conditions are not a factor.

Who should skip this product?

• Shooters using high-powered rifles or larger calibers at longer ranges.
• Individuals training in windy or wet conditions.
• Those seeking durable, long-lasting targets for intensive training.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Sturdy target stands to prevent targets from blowing over in windy conditions.
• Reinforced target clips to prevent tearing.
• A waterproof carrying case to protect the targets from moisture.

Conclusion on Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35

The Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 is a no-frills, budget-friendly option for basic target practice. While the paper’s low durability and lack of weather resistance are significant drawbacks, the affordable price point makes it a viable choice for shooters on a tight budget.

The value proposition is decent: you get a lot of targets for a very low price, but you sacrifice durability. If you’re willing to replace targets frequently and primarily shoot indoors or in good weather, the savings might be worth it.

Personally, I would recommend the Allen Silhouette Kit: 23 X 35 to beginners and casual shooters looking for an inexpensive way to practice their marksmanship. However, more experienced shooters or those training in demanding conditions would be better served by investing in more durable target options. Consider your specific needs and budget before making a decision. Upgrade if you need to, but get some practice in!

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