Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round Review

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round Made a Bold First Impression

For years, I’ve relied on paper targets and the occasional reactive clay pigeon for range practice. While functional, they lacked the immediate feedback and satisfying ‘PING!’ of steel. The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round, from Champion, promised a more engaging and durable alternative, so I had to see what all the fuss was about.

My range time was becoming monotonous. I needed a target that could withstand repeated impacts, offer instant confirmation of hits, and add a bit of excitement back into my training. I was tired of taping up holes in paper and sweeping up clay fragments.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the target’s robust construction. The steel felt thick and substantial, and the paint job looked even and well-applied. At $34.99, it seemed like a steal compared to other steel targets I’d considered that cost twice as much.

I considered options from AR500 Armor and ShootSteel.com, both reputable names in steel targets. However, the Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round offered a great balance of size, thickness, and price that made it the best fit for my needs. Its simplicity and ready-to-use design sealed the deal.

Initially, I was excited. The promise of instant feedback and a durable target was appealing. My excitement was tempered slightly by the thought that the paint might not hold up, but for the price, I was willing to give it a shot.

Real-World Testing: Putting Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round at my local outdoor shooting range. I set it up at 100 yards for rifle testing and 25 yards for handgun drills, suspending it from a sturdy target stand using chains.

The weather was clear and dry, perfect for shooting. Hitting the target produced a loud, satisfying ‘PING!’ that was immediately gratifying. I focused on accuracy with my AR-15 and rapid-fire drills with my 9mm pistol.

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round was simple to set up and use. The pre-drilled holes made it easy to hang, and the target provided instant feedback, confirming hits without any guesswork. No issues arose during my first session, only pure enjoyment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round has held up remarkably well. It has become a staple in my range setup.

The target has proven to be incredibly durable. While the paint has chipped in areas where it’s been directly hit, the steel itself shows no signs of warping or damage, even after numerous impacts from various calibers. Cleaning has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a cloth is all it takes.

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round has exceeded my expectations. It outperforms my previous reliance on paper targets in terms of durability and overall enjoyment. It’s a solid, reliable target that continues to provide hours of fun.

Breaking Down the Features of Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round

Specifications

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round boasts several key specifications. It features a 10-inch diameter round gong, constructed from 3/8” AR500 comparable steel. The target is laser cut for precision and includes 1/2″ carriage bolt holes for easy mounting. It is also fully painted for enhanced visibility and corrosion resistance.

These specifications are crucial for performance and longevity. The 3/8” AR500 comparable steel ensures the target can withstand repeated impacts from centerfire rifles and pistols without damage. The laser cutting provides a clean and consistent edge, while the 1/2″ holes allow for easy and secure hanging.

Performance & Functionality

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round performs its primary function exceptionally well. It provides a clear, audible ‘PING!’ upon impact, offering instant feedback to the shooter.

Its strengths lie in its durability and ease of use. The target’s size makes it a reasonable challenge at various distances, and its steel construction ensures it can handle a high volume of fire. However, the paint does chip with repeated use, potentially requiring occasional touch-ups. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a steel target in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round features a simple, functional design. The round gong shape is classic and effective, while the pre-drilled holes make setup straightforward.

The target’s weight is substantial but manageable, contributing to its overall stability when hung correctly. The painted surface enhances visibility, making it easy to see against various backgrounds. I found no learning curve associated with its use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round is built to last. The AR500 comparable steel provides excellent resistance to deformation and penetration.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular visual inspections for damage and occasional cleaning with a dry cloth are all that’s needed. I anticipate years of reliable use from this target.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it can be easily customized with different hanging systems, such as chains, straps, or springs.

It’s compatible with standard target stands and hardware. The 1/2″ mounting holes are designed to accommodate readily available carriage bolts, making customization simple and affordable.

Pros and Cons of Champion Impact Steel Gong Target 10″ Round