The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer Made a Bold First Impression
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer promises to be a simple yet effective tool for both practice and competition. Made by Competition Electronics, this timer aims to deliver accurate shot time measurement in a user-friendly package. My initial interest stemmed from a need for a reliable timer to track my progress in USPSA and IDPA matches. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered the features I needed for serious practice.
Upon unboxing, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer felt surprisingly sturdy for its size. The ergonomic design appeared comfortable in hand, suitable for both right and left-handed shooters. The build quality seemed decent, although the plastic casing did feel a bit lightweight. I was hoping it would be more rugged, considering it might endure some rough handling at the range.
I was debating between this timer, the Pact Club Timer III, and the CED 7000. The Pact was a bit bulkier, and the CED 7000, while feature-rich, was more expensive. I chose the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer for its simplicity and reasonable price point. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The large display and intuitive button layout hinted at ease of use, but I needed to see how it performed under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer was at an outdoor shooting range during a sunny afternoon. I was running a series of drills focused on drawing from the holster and engaging multiple targets. The timer was easy to activate, and the buzzer was loud enough to be heard over the ambient noise of other shooters. I appreciated the instant start option for immediate feedback on my draw time.
While the sunny conditions were ideal for visibility, I was concerned about how the timer would perform in less favorable environments. The controls were fairly intuitive. However, I did accidentally hit the wrong button a few times while under the pressure of timed drills. Still, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer worked well overall, providing me with valuable data on my shot-to-shot times and overall stage performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer has proven to be a reliable training tool. It has held up well despite being dropped a couple of times on the concrete range floor. The plastic casing shows a few minor scratches, but the timer continues to function flawlessly. The automatic power-down feature after 10 minutes has also proven to be a welcome battery-saving feature.
Cleaning the timer is straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous, less expensive timer, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer offers significantly better accuracy and consistency. It hasn’t disappointed me yet, and it has definitely helped me improve my shooting skills.
Breaking Down the Features of Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer
Specifications
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer features a direct review of shots, split times, and shot number. It offers a selectable switch for instant or random delayed start. The timer utilizes a separate shot sensor and buzzer. These features allow for optimal performance. The display shows time to 199.99 seconds. This covers most practical shooting scenarios.
The timer can review up to 50 shots. This is useful for analyzing longer strings of fire. Its LCD screen features half-inch tall numbers. This offers good visibility even in bright sunlight. It requires a 9-volt battery (not included). It also offers a low battery indicator and an automatic power turn-down after 10 minutes of inactivity. These help prolong battery life.
Performance & Functionality
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer performs its job admirably. Its accuracy is consistent. Its ease of use is remarkable. The timer helps shooters measure their performance and track improvements. One minor weakness is that the button layout can take some getting used to.
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer meets and exceeds expectations for its price range. It is a valuable tool for any shooter looking to improve their speed and accuracy. It delivers reliable performance in a compact and user-friendly package.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer is adequate. The plastic casing is lightweight. The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold and operate. The timer is generally user-friendly. However, the button layout could be improved for more intuitive operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer seems reasonably durable. The occasional drop on the range hasn’t caused any significant damage. Maintenance is simple. Wiping it down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer doesn’t come with any accessories. It also has limited customization options. It is designed as a standalone unit. This simplifies the user experience, but limits personalization. There are no options for external microphone or data logging.
Pros and Cons of Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer
Pros
- Accurate shot timing. The timer provides reliable and consistent measurements.
- Easy to use. The intuitive interface makes it simple to operate.
- Compact and lightweight. It’s easy to carry around on the range.
- Affordable price. It offers excellent value for the money.
- 50-shot memory. Useful for analyzing longer shooting strings.
Cons
- Plastic casing feels somewhat flimsy.
- Button layout could be more intuitive.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer?
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer is perfect for competitive shooters, especially those involved in USPSA, IDPA, or 3-Gun competitions. It is also a good choice for anyone looking to improve their shooting skills through timed drills. This tool is valuable for personal practice or scoring matches.
Those looking for a more rugged and feature-rich timer might want to skip this product. Shooters needing advanced features like data logging or integration with external devices may prefer a higher-end option. A must-have accessory would be a sturdy case to protect the timer from damage during transport and use.
Conclusion on Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer
The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer is a solid and reliable tool for measuring shot time intervals. Its simplicity, accuracy, and affordability make it a great choice for shooters of all levels. The price is definitely justified by the performance and features offered.
I would absolutely recommend the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer to anyone looking to improve their shooting skills or participate in competitive shooting events. It’s a valuable investment that will help you track your progress and achieve your goals. Get your Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer today and start shaving seconds off your times!