First Thoughts on the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black
The Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black is a niche product, designed for a very specific purpose: target shooting with high-powered optics. At a price point of just $8.49, it promises to enhance the target shooting experience. I was intrigued by the “Mongo” moniker, and whether it actually delivered on improved visibility at extreme ranges.
My own eyesight isn’t what it used to be, and while I enjoy pushing my rifles to their limits at long-distance ranges, I sometimes struggle with standard target acquisition. A clearer, more defined target set would definitely improve my overall accuracy and enjoyment. The promise of compatibility with high-power lenses also piqued my interest, as I’ve invested heavily in quality optics over the years.
Upon receiving the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black, the immediate impression was…well, it’s a target set. The black print against the cardboard was sharp and clean. It felt lighter than expected, but that’s hardly a detractor for something designed to be stationary. Given the price, I wasn’t expecting anything extravagant, but I was hoping for a tangible improvement over standard paper targets.
I’ve used various target sets over the years, from simple bullseyes to more complex silhouette designs. Compared to a standard, multi-ringed bullseye target, the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black design seemed intentionally minimalist, focusing on high visibility. I passed on some higher-priced, reactive targets this time around, prioritizing simplicity and clarity over novelty features. Ultimately, I chose this set due to its promise of enhanced visibility with high-powered optics, a feature I was eager to test.
My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could a target set costing less than a cup of coffee truly make a noticeable difference? I was eager to head to the range and find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black was at my local shooting range, under bright sunlight conditions. I set up several targets at varying distances, ranging from 100 to 300 yards. I used my .308 rifle with a 20x high-power scope.
The immediate difference compared to the standard bullseye targets was noticeable. The bold black reticle on the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black stood out crisply, even at the furthest distances. This made acquiring the target much faster and easier than with traditional targets, especially with the high-power scope amplifying any imperfections.
I didn’t experience any issues with the targets tearing or being damaged by bullet impacts. The cardstock held up well, even after repeated hits. One small surprise was how well the black print resisted glare; it maintained its clarity even under direct sunlight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black during multiple range sessions, I’ve developed a solid understanding of its durability and performance. The targets have held up surprisingly well, even with exposure to moderate humidity. There has been no noticeable fading of the black reticle.
I’ve noticed some minor wear and tear around the bullet holes, as expected. The cardstock remains surprisingly resilient. Simple tape repairs have extended their lifespan.
Compared to previous experiences with cheaper paper targets that disintegrate quickly, the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black has definitely exceeded my expectations. These targets held up better to the elements and repeated use. It seems like a solid value for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black
Specifications
The Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black is designed for target shooting, specifically when using high-power optics. It is essentially a printed target made of cardstock paper. The primary design feature is a black reticle pattern.
- Material: Cardstock paper. This is a standard material for paper targets.
- Color: Black print on a white background. This provides high contrast for visibility.
- Design: “Mongo” reticle, optimized for high-power scopes. The specific design isn’t detailed beyond this description.
- Price: $8.49. This is a very affordable price point for a target set.
The key specification is the “Mongo” reticle design, intended to improve visibility with high-power lenses. While the product description is sparse, this design is critical to the target’s intended purpose.
Performance & Functionality
The Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black performs its intended function adequately. The high-contrast black reticle does indeed improve target acquisition at longer distances, particularly when using a high-power scope. This leads to faster and more accurate shots.
The main strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. It is a basic design that does what it promises. The lack of additional features can be seen as a weakness by some users, who might prefer more complex targets with scoring zones or reactive elements.
The target set meets my expectations for a low-cost, high-visibility target. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s effective.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black is minimalist and functional. The black reticle is designed for maximum contrast and easy visibility. The cardstock material is lightweight and easy to handle.
The target set is user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved; simply attach the target to a backstop and start shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black is adequate for its intended use. The cardstock material will eventually wear out after repeated bullet impacts. However, it holds up reasonably well under normal range conditions.
Maintenance is non-existent, as the targets are disposable. Once they are too damaged to use, they are simply replaced.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available.
The target can be used with any standard target backstop or holder. It is compatible with a wide range of firearms and optics, from handguns to high-powered rifles.
Pros and Cons of Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black
Pros
- High-contrast black reticle provides excellent visibility, even at long distances.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for all shooters.
- Simple and easy to use, with no learning curve.
- Compatible with all standard target backstops and firearms.
- Noticeably improves target acquisition speed with high-powered optics.
Cons
- Cardstock material is not exceptionally durable and will wear out with repeated use.
- Minimalist design may not appeal to shooters who prefer more complex or reactive targets.
Who Should Buy Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black?
The Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black is perfect for target shooters who use high-power optics and prioritize clear target visibility. It is also a great option for budget-conscious shooters who want a simple and effective target. It will be especially useful for shooters with eyesight limitations.
This product might not be ideal for tactical shooters who need more complex training targets, or for those who prefer reactive targets that provide immediate feedback. Someone looking for advanced scoring zones would need to look elsewhere.
A good target stand or backer is a must-have accessory. This allows for easy and secure target placement.
Conclusion on Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black
The Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black is a surprisingly effective and affordable target set. Its high-contrast black reticle noticeably improves target visibility, especially when using high-power optics at long ranges. While the cardstock material isn’t the most durable, it holds up well enough for repeated range sessions.
The price is absolutely justified, given the performance and ease of use. At just $8.49, it’s a no-brainer for any shooter looking to improve their accuracy and target acquisition speed.
I would definitely recommend the Gunstar Pro Series Mongo Reticle Set Black to anyone who enjoys long-range shooting with high-power optics. It’s a simple and effective tool that can make a real difference. Grab a set and head to the range – you might be surprised at how much it improves your shooting experience!