DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. Review

First Thoughts on the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in.

Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless targets come and go. The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. piqued my interest because it promises the instant feedback of steel without the inherent ricochet hazards. It’s a reactive polymer target from the DA Targets company.

I was on the hunt for a safe and convenient target system for consistent practice at my local range. My old steel targets were beginning to show their age, and the constant painting and moving was becoming a chore. I yearned for something that would provide instant visual feedback, be easily portable, and most importantly, safe for myself and others.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the weight and feel of the polymer material. It felt robust and durable, hinting at its ability to withstand repeated impacts. The 6-inch size seemed ideal for handgun practice and even some longer-range rifle work. Initial build quality appeared solid.

Compared to traditional steel gongs or paper targets, the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. offered a unique proposition. I had considered self-healing polymer targets before, but the gong shape and reactive color-change feature swayed my decision. It seemed a more engaging and practical option than a static polymer block.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The claims of being able to withstand hundreds of rounds from both handguns and rifles seemed bold, but I was eager to put the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. to my local outdoor shooting range, a familiar environment with varying distances and backdrops. The weather was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for the target’s advertised temperature range. I suspended the target from a sturdy target stand using paracord through its integrated hanging hole.

My initial testing involved a variety of handguns: a 9mm Glock 19, a .45 ACP 1911, and a .22 LR pistol. I started at 15 yards and gradually increased the distance. The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. performed admirably. Each impact resulted in a visible color change, providing instant feedback. It was far more satisfying than squinting at paper targets through a spotting scope. I switched to a .223 AR-15 at 50 yards. The reactive polymer held up.

The target was incredibly easy to use. It required no setup beyond hanging it. The visual feedback was immediate. A slight breeze caused the target to swing gently, adding a dynamic element to the shooting experience.

After about 100 rounds, I noticed some minor surface abrasions from the handgun rounds, but nothing that compromised the target’s integrity. The .223 rounds created slightly larger impact marks, but the color-change feature remained clearly visible. I experienced no ricochet issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. has proven to be a reliable and engaging training tool. It has been subjected to hundreds of rounds from various calibers, and while it shows signs of wear, it is still fully functional.

The durability has been impressive. The surface has accumulated numerous impact marks, but the polymer material has not cracked or splintered. The color-change feature remains consistently visible, even after prolonged use.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. I’ve occasionally wiped the target down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris, but that’s it. Unlike steel targets, there’s no need for painting or patching.

Compared to my previous experiences with steel targets, the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. offers significant advantages in terms of safety and convenience. The reactive feedback is also superior to paper targets, making it easier to track progress and refine shooting skills. The polymer target beats out steel for quick practice sessions.

Breaking Down the Features of DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in.

Specifications

• Size: 6 inches in diameter. The compact size makes it portable and suitable for various shooting distances.
• Material: Reactive polymer. This material is designed to absorb impacts and change color upon being hit.
• Caliber Rating: Rated for all handgun calibers and rifle calibers. This makes it versatile.
• Temperature Operating Window: 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. This limits its use in extreme temperatures.
• Reactive Color Change: Changes color upon impact for immediate visual feedback. This is a key feature that enhances the shooting experience.
• Hanging Hole: Integrated hanging hole for easy setup. Simple setup is key.
• No Ricochet: Designed to minimize ricochet risk. Safety is paramount.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the target’s performance, safety, and overall user experience. The reactive polymer ensures immediate feedback and reduces the risk of ricochet, while the 6-inch size provides a challenging yet achievable target for various skill levels. The temperature limitation is a potential drawback in certain climates.

Performance & Functionality

The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. performs its job exceptionally well. It provides immediate visual feedback, enhances shooting accuracy, and is safe to use.

Its greatest strengths are its instant feedback, portability, and minimal maintenance. The temperature range is a notable weakness.

The target meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations. I was initially skeptical about the durability of the polymer material, but it has proven to be surprisingly resilient. The instant feedback has also been more beneficial than I anticipated.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. is simple yet effective. The gong shape provides a clear and easily visible target, while the integrated hanging hole makes setup quick and easy.

The polymer material is lightweight, making the target highly portable. The weight reduces strain. There is no significant learning curve. Its intuitive design makes it user-friendly for shooters of all skill levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. is reasonably durable, capable of withstanding hundreds of rounds from various calibers. The material will eventually degrade over time.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. This saves time. There are no repair options, as the target is designed to be replaced once it reaches the end of its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. does not come with any accessories. It does not offer customization options beyond choosing the appropriate hanging method.

The target is compatible with any standard target stand or hanging system. Aftermarket options do not exist for this target.

Pros and Cons of DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in.

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in.?

The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. is perfect for recreational shooters, handgun enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a safe and convenient target system for regular practice. It particularly benefits those who value immediate feedback and ease of use.

Those who primarily shoot high-powered rifles or live in regions with consistently extreme temperatures should skip this product. A different target might be more appropriate.

A sturdy target stand and durable hanging cord are must-have accessories for the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. Metal stands help with stabilization.

Conclusion on DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in.

The DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. is a well-designed and effective target system that offers a unique shooting experience. It’s far superior to paper targets.

At $34.49, the price is justified by the enhanced safety, instant feedback, and minimal maintenance it provides. It’s fairly priced.

I would personally recommend the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. to anyone looking for a safe, convenient, and engaging target system for handgun and low-caliber rifle practice. This target is a blast to shoot.

Give the DA Targets Reactive Gong Target Mild 6 in. a shot – you might just find your new favorite target!

Check Best Price HERE