First Impressions of Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets
Turkey season. The words alone conjure up visions of crisp mornings, the rustle of leaves, and the heart-pounding gobble of a longbeard strutting into range. But before all that, there’s the often tedious yet crucial task of patterning your shotgun. Enter the Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets, promising a more realistic and convenient way to dial in that perfect turkey load.
As an avid turkey hunter with over a decade of experience chasing gobblers across the country, I’ve used my share of patterning targets. Many are either generic circles or oversized silhouettes that don’t accurately represent the vital zone of a real turkey. I was looking for a target that offered a more realistic representation and a convenient adhesive backing.
Upon receiving the Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets, I was immediately impressed by the size and clarity of the turkey image. The adhesive backing felt strong and durable, and the highlighted kill zone provided a clear aiming point. Compared to the larger, less detailed cardboard targets I’ve used in the past, these appeared far more practical.
I chose these targets over competitor brands like Birchwood Casey because of their size, adhesive backing, and realistic image. Birchwood Casey’s offerings often lack the convenient peel-and-stick feature, requiring staples or tape, which can be a hassle in the field. My initial impression was one of excitement. I was eager to see how these Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets would perform at the range and if they could truly simplify the patterning process.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets took place at my local shooting range, which features a 50-yard patterning board. The weather was relatively mild, with a slight breeze, providing a typical springtime hunting condition. I mounted the target on a large piece of cardboard, ensuring a clean and stable surface for adhesion.
The targets were incredibly easy to apply. I simply peeled off the backing and stuck them to the cardboard. I began patterning my 12-gauge shotgun at 30 yards with different chokes and loads. The bright colors and clear kill zone allowed for easy shot pattern assessment. After each shot, the adhesive held firm, even with the impact of heavy turkey loads.
The initial results were promising. I quickly identified the optimal choke and load combination for my shotgun. However, I did notice that the paper material, while durable, showed shot holes clearly but didn’t offer immediate visual confirmation of pellet density at a distance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and numerous patterning sessions, the Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets continued to perform admirably. The adhesive backing remained strong, even after repeated exposure to varying weather conditions. I even left a target outside in light rain, and it stayed firmly in place.
The targets showed minimal signs of wear and tear. The paper material, while not waterproof, held up well to the impact of shot. Cleaning was non-existent, as the targets are disposable, offering a convenient and hassle-free experience. They outperformed the larger, more cumbersome cardboard targets I’d used in the past, which often required repairs and were difficult to transport.
From my extended use, I learned that these targets are perfect for pre-season patterning and adjustments. They were much more convenient compared to setting up full-sized 3D targets. The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets provide a consistent and reliable method for refining your turkey hunting setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets
Specifications
The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets are designed specifically for turkey hunters looking to pattern their shotguns effectively. Each target measures 6.5×9 inches. This size offers a realistic representation of a turkey’s head and neck.
The targets feature an adhesive paper construction for easy application to various surfaces. They come in a 30-pack, providing ample targets for multiple patterning sessions. Each target displays a multi-colored, life-size tom turkey head and neck profile. A highlighted kill zone offers greater visual feedback on shot placement. These specifications combine to create a practical and effective tool for dialing in your turkey gun.
Performance & Functionality
The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets excel in providing immediate feedback on shotgun patterns. The realistic size and highlighted kill zone accurately represent the vital area on a turkey. This allows hunters to make precise adjustments to their chokes and loads.
The adhesive backing is strong and reliable, ensuring the targets stay in place even with heavy recoil. One potential weakness is the paper material, which is susceptible to tearing in extremely wet conditions. Overall, the targets meet expectations by simplifying the patterning process and providing accurate shot placement feedback.
Design & Ergonomics
The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets are designed for ease of use and practicality. The adhesive backing eliminates the need for staples or tape, streamlining the setup process. The multi-colored design and clear kill zone enhance visibility, even at a distance.
The lightweight paper material makes them easy to transport and store. There’s no learning curve involved. Just peel and stick. The design focuses on functionality, providing a user-friendly experience for hunters of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
Given that the Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets are made of paper, their longevity is limited to a single patterning session. They’re designed as disposable targets, meant to be replaced after each use. Maintenance is non-existent, as there is nothing to clean or repair.
While they aren’t built to last indefinitely, the 30-pack provides ample targets for multiple seasons. The adhesive backing holds up well in various conditions, ensuring they remain functional for their intended purpose. They are a cost-effective and convenient solution for turkey hunters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets are primarily standalone products. They don’t offer any specific customization options directly on the target itself. However, hunters can certainly customize their patterning setup by using different backdrops.
For instance, mounting the targets on a larger piece of cardboard or plywood provides a more stable surface and allows for multiple targets to be placed side-by-side. These targets are universally compatible with all shotgun gauges and loads, making them a versatile addition to any turkey hunter’s gear.
Pros and Cons of Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets
Pros
- Realistic life-size tom turkey head & neck profile which provides accurate representation of the kill zone.
- Extra strong adhesive backing makes for easy, quick setup.
- Highlighted kill zone gives immediate feedback on shot placement.
- Convenient 30-pack offers value and ample supply for multiple patterning sessions.
- Affordable at $21.99.
Cons
- Paper material is not waterproof and can tear in heavy rain.
- Single-use design means they must be replaced after each patterning shot.
Who Should Buy Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets?
The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets are perfect for turkey hunters of all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice, these targets offer a simple and effective way to pattern your shotgun and dial in your turkey load. They are also ideal for gun shops or ranges that offer patterning services.
Hunters looking for a durable, reusable target should skip this product. So too should those who don’t mind using staples or tape to attach targets. Must-have accessories to complement these targets include a sturdy backdrop (cardboard or plywood) and a reliable rangefinder for accurate distance measurements.
Conclusion on Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets
The Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets offer a convenient and effective solution for turkey hunters seeking to optimize their shotgun patterns. Their realistic design, strong adhesive backing, and clear kill zone provide immediate feedback. This leads to more confident and ethical shots in the field.
At $21.99 for a 30-pack, the price is certainly justified, considering the time and effort saved compared to traditional patterning methods. I would highly recommend these targets to any turkey hunter looking to improve their accuracy and increase their chances of success. So, grab a pack of Thompson Target Life-Size Turkey 6.5x9in Adhesive Peel & Stick Targets, head to the range, and get ready to put more gobblers on the ground this season!