First Thoughts on the Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel promises hours of plinking fun. It’s designed for .22 rimfire enthusiasts who want instant feedback and minimal setup time. The promise of auto-resetting targets immediately caught my attention.
For years, I’ve relied on traditional paper targets and manually resetting steel targets. While effective, the constant walk downrange to tape up holes or reposition targets breaks the rhythm of practice. The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel, offered a potential solution to save time and maintain focus.
The target arrived well-packaged and the solid steel construction was immediately apparent. The weight, 6.83 lbs, felt reassuringly sturdy without being cumbersome. Compared to cheaper, flimsier target options I’ve seen, this appeared to be a significant step up. I considered a similar Caldwell target, but the Champion‘s reset mechanism seemed simpler and more robust.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if the Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel lived up to its promise of reliable auto-resetting action, saving me time and enhancing my shooting practice. I couldn’t wait to get out to the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel at my local outdoor shooting range. It was a sunny afternoon with a slight breeze, perfect conditions for some plinking. I set the target up at 25 yards, a comfortable distance for .22 rimfire shooting.
The initial setup was quick and easy. I simply placed the target on a stable surface and stepped back to begin. Hitting the gongs produced a satisfying ting sound, providing immediate feedback. After knocking down all five gongs, a shot to the center target efficiently reset the system.
During the first hour, there were no malfunctions. Each gong reset cleanly after a center shot. However, as the afternoon wore on, I noticed occasional failures to reset if the center shot was off-center.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel has proven to be reasonably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the steel gongs themselves. The paint is chipping in a few places, which is to be expected.
The frame shows no signs of bending or warping. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the mechanism functioning smoothly. I typically wipe down the target with a dry cloth after each use.
Compared to manually resetting targets, the Champion saves considerable time. However, the occasional reset failure means it’s not entirely hands-free. Ultimately, it does outperform cheaper, non-resetting targets in convenience and engagement.
Breaking Down the Features of Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel
Specifications
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel is specifically designed for .22 caliber ammunition. It features five 2.5-inch resetting gong targets. The solid steel construction promises durability and longevity.
The target weighs 6.83 lbs. This weight provides stability without being too difficult to transport. The solid steel frame design is intended to hold the targets steady. The “strike middle target to reset” feature is the core of its auto-resetting functionality.
These specifications are important because they dictate the target’s intended use and lifespan. The .22 caliber restriction ensures safety and prevents damage from higher-powered rounds. The steel construction is crucial for withstanding repeated impacts.
Performance & Functionality
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel performs its primary function reasonably well. It provides reactive targets that offer instant feedback and the convenience of an auto-resetting mechanism. However, the reliability of the reset depends on the accuracy of the center shot.
The strength lies in its ability to speed up practice sessions. A weakness is the occasional reset failure. It mostly meets expectations for a budget-friendly auto-resetting target, but falls short of flawless operation.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The all-steel construction is rugged and durable. The weight of 6.83 lbs is manageable for most users.
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup. There is no significant learning curve. The simplicity of the design is its strength.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel should last for several years. The steel construction is resistant to damage from .22 rounds. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent rust and maintain smooth operation.
The target is relatively easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down after each use and occasional lubrication of the reset mechanism will prolong its lifespan. However, the paint will chip over time with repeated impacts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel does not come with any additional accessories. There are no readily apparent customization options. Its design is fairly fixed.
While you could theoretically repaint the target with a more durable coating, there are no official or readily available accessories offered by Champion. It is not generally compatible with accessories from other brands. Its strength lies in its simplicity, not its modularity.
Pros and Cons of Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity with proper use.
- Convenient auto-resetting mechanism saves time and effort compared to manual targets.
- Provides instant auditory feedback with each successful hit.
- Easy to set up and use, requiring minimal assembly or prior experience.
Cons
- Reset mechanism can be unreliable if the center target is not hit precisely.
- Paint finish is prone to chipping with repeated impacts.
- No customization options or included accessories.
Who Should Buy Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel?
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel is perfect for casual plinkers, recreational shooters, and anyone looking to improve their .22 rimfire accuracy without constantly walking downrange. It is also well-suited for youth shooters learning the fundamentals of marksmanship. Those seeking affordable and reactive target practice will benefit most.
This product is not ideal for competitive shooters demanding pinpoint accuracy and flawless performance. Individuals who prefer high-end, customizable targets or those who primarily shoot calibers other than .22 should skip this product.
A can of spray paint for touch-ups is a must-have accessory. Regular cleaning and lubrication can also extend the target’s lifespan.
Conclusion on Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel
The Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel offers a fun and convenient way to practice .22 rimfire shooting. It’s not perfect, the reset mechanism can be finicky, and the paint will chip. The steel construction makes it a durable option for the price.
At $32.49, the price is justified for the convenience and entertainment it provides. It is a worthwhile addition to your range gear, especially if you are looking for instant feedback without constantly resetting.
I would recommend the Champion Rimfire Five Gong Auto Reset Target Steel to casual shooters seeking an affordable and engaging target. Give it a shot (pun intended!) and see if it enhances your next range session.