Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette Review

First Thoughts on the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette

The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette targets are a simple but crucial component for any shooter looking to hone their skills. Allen, a trusted name in shooting accessories, offers these targets in a bulk pack, designed to be cost-effective and readily available for extended range sessions. I was looking for a no-frills, high-volume target solution for regular pistol practice, and the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

I remember the days of sketching my own targets on scrap cardboard – a truly tedious process. The promise of 100 silhouette targets for around $20 was instantly appealing, freeing up valuable time for actual shooting instead of preparation. The basic silhouette design suggested a focus on fundamental marksmanship rather than specialized drills, further aligning with my training goals.

Unboxing the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette pack revealed a stack of black paper targets, neatly bundled together. The paper felt substantial enough to withstand repeated impacts without tearing immediately, though obviously not as durable as cardstock or steel. My initial impression was that these were practical, no-nonsense targets made for volume shooting, rather than a premium, high-tech product.

Comparing them to similar products, such as Birchwood Casey’s Shoot-N-C targets, the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette lacks the reactive feedback of the adhesive targets. However, they are far more affordable for high-volume practice. I also considered printable targets, but the cost of ink and paper quickly adds up, making the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette a more convenient and economical choice.

My first impression was one of quiet satisfaction. I wasn’t blown away by bells and whistles, but the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette appeared to be exactly what I needed: a reliable and affordable target solution for frequent range trips. I was eager to get them out on the range and see how they performed in real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette targets was at my local outdoor shooting range. I set them up at varying distances, from 7 yards for close-quarters drills to 25 yards for more deliberate accuracy work. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, typical for an afternoon in the desert.

The targets performed admirably. Even with the breeze, the paper held up well enough to provide a clear aiming point, without excessive flapping or tearing. The dark silhouette offered excellent contrast against the lighter backstop, making it easy to acquire a sight picture. I found myself focusing on fundamentals: stance, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control.

No real surprises emerged during the first use, which was actually a pleasant surprise itself. The targets did exactly what I expected them to do: provide a consistent and affordable aiming point for focused practice. There were no issues with tearing prematurely or being difficult to staple to the target stand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette targets have proven to be a reliable training aid. They consistently provide a clear and affordable target for various shooting drills. The paper, while not indestructible, has held up reasonably well, even with the occasional stray shot impacting the edges of the target.

Durability-wise, they are, of course, paper targets. You get what you pay for, and they aren’t designed to withstand a beating. However, they haven’t shown any premature degradation. I’ve experienced no tearing simply from weather exposure or handling.

Maintenance is nonexistent, as they are disposable targets. After a shooting session, I simply remove the used targets and replace them with fresh ones. The ease of replacement contributes to the overall efficiency of my range time, allowing me to focus on shooting instead of fiddling with targets.

Comparing them to past experiences with other paper targets, the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette performs on par or slightly better. Some cheaper targets I’ve used in the past were noticeably thinner and tore more easily. The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette offers a good balance of affordability and reasonable durability for general range use.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette

Specifications

The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette targets boast a simple yet effective design. Here’s a breakdown of their key specifications:

  • Dimensions: 18″ x 12″ – A decent size for pistol practice at various distances.
  • Material: Paper – Lightweight and affordable, but not exceptionally durable.
  • Color: Black Silhouette on white background (implicitly) – Provides good contrast for easy sight acquisition.
  • Quantity: 100 targets per pack – A high-volume solution for frequent shooters.
  • Design: Basic human silhouette – Suitable for general marksmanship training.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the target’s usability and cost-effectiveness. The size is large enough to provide a clear aiming point without being unwieldy to handle. The paper material keeps the cost down, making it affordable for regular practice. The black silhouette design offers good visibility under various lighting conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette performs its job effectively. It provides a consistent and visible target for practicing shooting fundamentals. Accuracy is entirely dependent on the shooter’s skill, but the clear silhouette design allows for precise aiming. The targets are reliable in that they consistently offer the same aiming point each time.

The strength lies in their simplicity and affordability. They are easy to set up, easy to see, and easy on the wallet. The main weakness is their lack of reactive feedback. You don’t get instant confirmation of your hits like you would with a reactive target.

Overall, the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette meets expectations for a basic paper target. It’s not fancy, but it’s functional and cost-effective.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward: a black silhouette on a paper background. The simplicity is intentional and contributes to the target’s ease of use. The targets are lightweight and easy to handle.

There’s no real “ergonomics” to speak of, as they are simply paper targets. However, the size and shape are well-suited for pistol practice. There’s no learning curve involved; simply staple them to a target stand and start shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

As paper targets, their lifespan is limited. A single target will only last for one shooting session, or perhaps less, depending on the number of rounds fired and the shooter’s accuracy.

Maintenance is non-existent, as they are disposable. Once they are shot up, you simply replace them with fresh targets.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette targets don’t come with any accessories, nor do they offer any customization options. They are basic paper targets designed for a specific purpose.

However, you can customize your training by drawing your own scoring zones or aiming points on the targets. You can also use different colored markers to track your progress. The targets are compatible with any standard target stand or stapler.

Pros and Cons of Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette

Pros

  • Highly Affordable: The bulk pack offers excellent value for money, making it ideal for high-volume shooting.
  • Clear Silhouette Design: The black silhouette provides excellent contrast for easy sight acquisition.
  • Simple and Easy to Use: No complicated setup or features; just staple and shoot.
  • Suitable for Various Distances: The 18″ x 12″ size is versatile for pistol practice at different ranges.
  • Readily Available: Allen products are widely available at sporting goods stores and online retailers.

Cons

  • Lack of Reactive Feedback: No instant confirmation of hits, requiring visual inspection.
  • Not Weatherproof: Paper construction makes them susceptible to damage in wet conditions.


Who Should Buy Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette?

The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette is perfect for:

  • Casual shooters who want an affordable and readily available target for range practice.
  • Pistol enthusiasts looking to improve their accuracy and fundamentals.
  • Those on a budget who need a cost-effective target solution.
  • Instructors teaching basic marksmanship skills.

Who should skip this product?

  • Shooters who prefer reactive targets with instant hit confirmation.
  • Individuals seeking weatherproof targets for outdoor use in all conditions.
  • Those requiring highly detailed or specialized target designs.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

  • A reliable target stand to securely hold the targets.
  • A heavy-duty stapler for easy target attachment.
  • Colored markers to track progress and identify scoring zones.

Conclusion on Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette

The Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette targets are a solid choice for anyone seeking a simple, affordable, and effective training tool. They may not be the most exciting or technologically advanced targets on the market, but they excel at providing a consistent aiming point for honing basic marksmanship skills.

The value proposition is undeniable. For around $20, you get 100 targets, which translates to pennies per target. This is significantly cheaper than reactive targets or even printing your own.

I would personally recommend the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette to any shooter who prioritizes affordability and practicality. They are a valuable addition to any range bag, ensuring you always have a target available for practice.

If you’re looking for a no-frills, cost-effective target solution, the Allen Ez-Aim Paper Silhouette is a smart choice. Grab a pack, head to the range, and start improving your skills today!


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