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Primary Arms SLx 4.5-27x56

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Primary Arms

SLx 4.5-27x56 FFP Review

  Inexpensive, high quality long range optics are starting to become more prevalent in today's market. Primary Arms Optics recently released their SLx 4.5-27x56 first focal plane scope. This thing is a beast, in a good way. It is available with two different ACSS reticles: the Athena BPR MIL Reticle and the Deka G2 Reticle. I received the Deka reticle, which was the one I would have chosen anyways.

  The SLx line of optics from Primary Arms is what I call their “value” line. What that means for the customer is that you get a ton of features for a reasonable price. For instance on this SLx 4.5-27x56 you get an illuminated first focal plane reticle, 34mm tube, finger adjustable turrets, fast focus eye piece, a throw lever, and a zero stop. This line also has some good glass. Because the 4.5-27 is in the SLx line, you do get a scope that might weigh a little more than Primary Arms’ GLx or PLx line, but I expect that in a value line product.

  Primary Arms Optics SLX 4.5-27x56 is loaded with options. I mentioned a few before, but let us get into them more. The 34 mm tube and 56 mm objective lens help to allow more light through the lenses. At lower power, this is not really a problem, but as the magnification increases, light going through the scope to your eye can diminish. So you get a brighter picture than say a 30mm scope with a 50mm objective lens. Another advantage of the 34mm tube is that it allows more elevation and windage adjustments. In the SLx’s case, it allows for 32 MIL’s of adjustment at 100 meters, or about 115 inches. 

  The ACSS DEKA G2 reticle is nice. The Deka is a MIL reticle that has a bunch of features, including ranging. First, it is a crosshair style reticle, no “Christmas tree” style here. I really like this style of reticle because it doesn’t clutter up the viewing space, allowing one to see their target more clearly. The inner part of the reticle has tiny marks every 0.1 MIL. Slightly larger ones at 0.5 MIL’s, and bracketed “T” marks every MIL. Then every 2 MIL mark has a number out to 10 MIL’s. So 2,4,6,8, and 10 are marked with those numbers. This applies to both windage and elevation. This marked portion of the reticle is the illuminated section, including the center 0.1 MIL aiming dot. The center dot gives you a really accurate aiming point. If you want to only see the illuminated part of the reticle, you are limited to about 15x magnification. At the full 27x, you see about 14 MIL’s of the reticle, 7 on each side of the aiming dot. After the 10 MIL mark, you get a solid line with 20, 30, and 40 MIL marks. This outer portion is not illuminated. The top portion of the reticle has some ranging lines, which are also illuminated. These are used to determine the approximate range of a 5 foot 7 inch tall, and/or a 19 inch wide target. The ranging marks start at 300 meters and go out to 1000 meters. I have one minor complaint about the reticle, I would like the stadia line, that has the marks on it, to be smaller than 0.1 MIL. Maybe something like 0.05 MILs. Mainly because this line just holds the markings, which are 0.1 MIL wide. Other than that, I really do like the configuration of the ACSS DEKA reticle.

  Since the reticle just was explained, now maybe we should adjust it to our rifle. The turrets on the SLx 4.5-27 are fairly large and nicely textured. This makes them easy to adjust with or without gloves. The clicks are quite good for being in the SLx line. They are positive with very little “mush” to them. These turrets also adjust the optic in 0.1 MIL increments. The windage turret is capped, but it can be set to a zero after sighting in the rifle. This windage turret also has right and left markings on it. So once you set the zero, if you need the bullet to go left 1 MIL’s, you just turn it to “1L”, or “1R” if needing to move the impact to the right. The elevation turret is one place the SLx really shines. It is a large target style with an adjustable zero stop. Having that zero stop makes it super easy to adjust the optic back to its base zero. One revolution on the elevation knob is also 10 MIL’s of adjustment, making range adjustments easier to calculate. If you don’t like the target style elevation turret, Primary Arms also supplies a standard height turret. Both of these turrets have markings on them, neither one is capped. On the left side of the optic are the parallax and brightness knobs. Both have decent texturing. The parallax knob turns easily, even if it is harder to get clear at longer ranges. The brightness knob turns harder, but has positive detents for the 6 brightness settings. It also has “off” positions in between each numbered “on” position. Brightness is really good, but it is not daylight bright illumination. Unless it was a really dark day, I didn’t really use the illumination. 

  I was impressed with the SLx 4.5-27’s clarity. At lower power levels, up to about 20x, it is super clear and bright. Okay, it is pretty bright all through the magnification range. When you get up to about 25x, the clarity seems to drop a tiny bit. It is still usable at 27x, you just notice it. I was still able to see, and hit targets at 1000 yards without any problems. Okay, seeing them yes, hitting them was more of a challenge. But that was not the optics fault. Part of the reason the clarity drops off at long range is due to the touchy parallax adjustment. It adjusts fine at 100-500 yards, but as the magnification and range increases, it is harder to adjust to get a clear picture. It can be adjusted for a clear picture, it just takes very small movements. Don’t let these complaints scare you off, the SLx 4.5-27 is still a very capable optic out to 1000 yards and beyond.

Stump is approximately 1100 yards, Optic is at maximum power (27x)

  I ended up mounting the SLx 4.5-27x56 on my Bergara .308, which sits in an MDT chassis. The rifle already has a 20 MOA rail to mount an optic on. This gives me extra adjustment to use. Because of this, with the SLx 4.5-27, I get a full 20 MILs of “up” elevation adjustment. This lets me dial out to a range of about 1400 yards, which is about 200 more than I will ever shoot this rifle. I shot this optic out to 1100 yards. That is how I know that the parallax adjustment gets really touchy. It takes a bit to get a clear picture at that range, but it is doable. The turret adjustments are nice and make it easy to adjust to whatever range you are shooting at. The SLx 4.5-27 would make a great entry level PRS or long range scope. It did everything I needed it to and more.

  If you are looking for that affordable, quality, long range optic, the Primary Arms SLx-4.5-27x56 would be a good choice. It has decent clarity and exceptional brightness. Once it is adjusted, it can easily see targets at 1000 yards and beyond. It also has 2 different reticle options, a Christmas tree style and the DEKA reviewed here, so you can get the style you want. If you are looking at getting into long range shooting, or just need a good high power magnified optic, go check out the SLx 4.5-27x56.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality long range optic at value price

Target Market:

Those wanting a long range, clear optic that doesn’t beat you up on price. Also entry level long range shooters

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Battery Type: CR2032 3V Lithium Coin

  • Click Value: 0.1 Mil

  • Focal Plane: First Focal Plane

  • Illuminated: Partial Red Illumination

  • Magnification: 4.5X - 27X

  • Mount Compatibility: 34mm

  • Reticle: ACSS DEKA G2 Mil 

  • Total Elevation Adjustment: 32 MIL

  • Turret Features: Tactical / Target Profile, Finger Adjustable

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • Reticle stop

  • Field Of View @ 100yds: Low: 26.69 ft. / High: 4.46 ft.

  • Length: 13.78 in

  • Eye Relief: 4 in

  • Weight: 32.6 oz.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Athena BPR Mil Reticle    

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 star from Texan at OpticsPlanet.com

Scope is super clear. A great value for the money. My second scope of this line.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $549.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms, Optics Planet, or your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Reticle choice

  • Clear and bright glass

  • Target turrets

  • Illuminated reticle

  • Zero stop

  • Price

Cons:

  • Parallax adjustment is touchy

  • Heavy

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Primary Arms GLx MD-21 Review 

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Gritr Tactical Range Bag

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Gritr Gear

Tactical Range Bag

Review

  Everyone needs a good range bag. Some people want smaller ones, and some people want larger ones. Gritr Gear has their Tactical Range Bag that falls somewhere in between the two sizes. So you get a medium sized range bag, with features that can turn it into a larger or smaller range bag.

  The Gritr Tactical Range Bag is really a do all bag. In general, it starts as a 18 inch x 12 inch x 10 inch exterior size. Inside the main compartment is a removable tote, a removable mat, and a medical pouch. On each side are large zipper compartments. On one end is another zipper compartment. On the other end is an open pouch. The main compartment is then covered by a highly velcroed dual zipper flap. Gritr offers the bag in a multitude of colors and patterns. I chose the Green Topo pattern, even though I was torn between it and Splatter.

 I will explain the main compartment of the Tactical Range Bag first. Especially since it is where you end up throwing everything into. The size of the main compartment is approximately 14 x 9 x 9 inches. It sounds small, but you can fit a lot of stuff in there. On the bottom of the main compartment is a hard floor mat. This mat gives the bag a hard bottom but is also removable. Once removed, the floor mat can then be unfolded to a 28 x 14.25 inch size. Because it unfolds, you now have a nice place to set pistols and gear on a shooting bench. You could also use it as an interim cleaning mat. I like it for taking pictures of pistols and gear that I am doing reviews on. The mat has the same topo pattern as the exterior of the range bag. The dual zippered flap that covers the main compartment has hook and loop all over it, for your patches of course. This feature gives you quick access to whatever is in the main compartment. The dual zippers are also tied together with a handle strap, making opening and closing it fairly easy with one hand. This main compartment is very useful for anything you want to throw in it.

  Inside that main compartment is something even more useful. That item is a removable Tote bag. It is made to just rest inside the main compartment. Yes, it does take up most of the main compartment, but you won’t care because it is so useful. It measures 12 x 7 x 8 inches and has some decent, soft style, carry handles. The tote is open top with a hard floor. Built into the sides of the tote bag are 2 padded pistol bags. Just unzip either of them and you can drop a full size pistol into them. Throw some ammo boxes inside the tote and you are ready to go. Because of the tote, you can just grab it instead of the whole range bag. So if you are at a match, or anywhere else, and don’t want to carry the whole bag, you can just grab the tote and go. Put the pistol on one side, and mags in the other, and your ammo resting on the bottom. The only down side to the tote is that it does take up space in the main compartment. I usually just put the tote in the main compartment and nothing else. Having the built in pistol bags is super useful.

  Gritr throws in a medical pouch with the Tactical range bag. It is a fairly decent med pouch having pockets and straps where you need them. The dual zippers unzip to let you open the pouch up flat and quickly. I do wish that Gritr had an option to have the med pouch filled with a trauma kit. Even without it being stocked, I think including a med pouch is pretty cool, especially since any range trip should be accompanied with a good med kit. On a basic level, you could always fill it with something like THIS. I do wish the med pouch had some MOLLE to attach it to the outside of the range bag. But hey, good on Gritr for including it and getting people thinking.

  Back to the outside of the Tactical Range Bag. On each side of the range bag are 2 large zippered compartments, both can fold down flat when open. Inside one of these pockets, there is hook and loop MOLLE up against the bag side. I like that you can attach extra stuff with multiple attachment methods. On the fold down side of this compartment are 2 zippered mesh pockets. I have my stapler in this compartment, with staples in one of the mesh pockets and target tape in the other pocket. The other compartment has one large zippered mesh pocket on the fold down flap side. Then on the side against the bag, there are 3 little pockets. 2 of these have a hook and loop cover flap. The other one is open. I usually put miscellaneous tools, a timer, and rifle mags in this compartment. These side compartments are large enough to fit a ton of extra stuff.

  The Gritr Range Bag has end pockets also. Okay, one is a compartment and one is a literal pouch. The pouch is just an open top pocket with an elastic pull string. I would prefer some way of closing it completely, but maybe I am wrong here. Either way, I use it for my over the ear hearing protection. It does give me easy access to just grab the shooting muffs and slip them on quickly. On the other end is an actual zippered compartment. On the outside of this end compartment is more MOLLE in the bag's color pattern. Inside it is just a compartment, no pockets or anything. I usually have extra hearing protection and eye protection in this compartment. 

  I have been very pleased with the overall size of the Gritr Tactical Range Bag. It has been working out great for me. It is smaller than my old super large one, but big enough that I can fit all my stuff in it. So far the stitching on the seams has held up and looks as good as new. I tend to overload my bags, so this says a lot about the quality of the Gritr bag. The carry handles on the bag work nice, even if they flop into the main compartment when closing it up, but most bags tend to do this. The bag also comes with a removable wide, padded, carry strap. This carry strap is 3.5 inches wide. So it really disperses the weight on your shoulder. Especially if you load the range bag up like I tend to do. Yes, it is adjustable for length too. The Gritr Range bag seems to be the perfect size. If you need only a small bag, just use the Tote by itself. If you need something larger, just attach some stuff to the MOLLE. 

  So, you are looking for a range bag. You don’t want to spend a ton but want a good bag. Go give the Gritr Tactical Range Bag a look. The bag is a great size for range trips, or anything else. The quality is nice. Plus it has all the features you need or want in a range bag. You can even get it on Amazon. Go check it out over at Gritr Gear, who knows, you might find some other good range stuff while you’re there.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Range bag that can used for various other things

Target Market:

Shooters, hunters, or anyone needing a decent shoulder bag

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Material - 500D Nylon

  • Volume - 35.4 liters

  • Dimensions - 18" x 12" x 10"

  • Weight - 6 lbs

  • Removable Inner Tote (12" x 7" x 8")

  • Removable Mat (28" x 14.25")

  • First Aid Kit Pouch

  • Top Patch panel

  • Laser cut molle

  • Heavy-duty zippers

  • Padded carry strap

  • Lifetime warranty 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Lots of different designs and colors

What others are saying?:

4 out of 5 stars on Amazon 

Love it, could use a few tweaks

Overall I think this would be a five-star bag with a few tiny tweaks just to make it easier to fit things.

I love the bag overall.

Pros:

- good fabric

- great layout

- wish more manufacturers/importers opted for more interesting fabric colors

Cons:

- no pocket/opening fits ear pro well, they all crush ear pro except if you want it bouncing around inside the bag

- internal pockets really flat when empty so they're getting strained when you put anything inside, limiting what you can put in the bag. They are only single stitched, I bet this will be a problem too. Common design problem I see. Would be much better if they just added a half inch of fabric to make all the pockets a little loose when empty.

- wish either the gap for the inner bag were larger or oriented the other way

- eye pro pockets are a very tight fit

- wish the top zipper were lockable 

Link to other reviews:

The Gear Bunker

Price point:

MSRP = $114.95

Retail = $100

I need it now! Availability:

Gritr Gear or Amazon 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great size

  • Molle in good locations 

  • Removable inner tote

  • Hard removable floor/mat

  • Available in non-tactical colors

  • Padded carry strap

Cons:

  • Open end pocket

  • Small inner pockets

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Aimwin PE320 review   

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Sightmark Presidio 5-30x56

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Sightmark Presidio

5-30x56 LR2 Review

  When it comes to magnified optics, prices and quality can range drastically. Sightmark is not new to these magnified optics and has various different product lines. Sightmark's Presidio line is somewhere in the middle of what they have to offer, which fits with what I was going to do with it. 

  I was looking for a fairly high power magnified optic. That is where Sightmark came in. They have a first focal plane Presidio in 5-30x56. It has a mil style Christmas tree reticle called the LR2. It was perfect for the Bergara I was reviewing. This much magnification makes it easier for my eyes to see targets at distance. So testing accuracy on the Bergara was easy thanks to the Presidio 5-30.

  The specifications of the Presidio 5-30 are really what make it a great optic. That 6x zoom makes it possible to see fairly close up and still reach out. Its large 56mm objective lens allows good light transmission so you can see your target, even at dusk on high magnification. The 30mm one piece body makes it easy to find scope mounts. The parallax adjustment is adjustable from 20 yds to infinity, so the Presidio can still work well on a PCP style airgun or even a 22 long rifle. It has an illuminated red reticle so you can see it better at dusk or dawn. Plus, if you want it, Sightmark throws in a throw lever. All the other details are down below in the Features and Benefit section.

  Sightmark uses their LR2 Mil reticle in the Presidio. This reticle is a pretty standard First Focal Plane Christmas tree style reticle (see picture). Since it is a first focal plane, the stadia marks of the reticle stay the same size throughout the magnification range. The LR2 reticle has windage and elevation marks at 0.5 mil increments, with mil numbers at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mils. Out at the outer left, right, and top are 0.1 mil marks. They are intended to give a more accurate range estimation, when using the reticle for determining the range to a target. The Christmas tree dots can be used to combine wind and elevation holds, giving you a precise reference on where to aim. Lastly, the stadia line thickness is 0.03 mils, so you get a super precise aiming point. If you want the full hash marked reticle in view, you can only adjust the scope’s power up to 18x. After that the reticle starts to get cut off in the window. At 30x, you get about 2⁄3 's of the reticle’s marked stadia. 

  When looking at optics in this price range, optic clarity is huge. The Presidio 5-30 pleasantly surprised me for a $500 optic. When looking through the optic, it is very clear and has very little chromatic abrasion throughout the magnification range. Eye relief is decent. However, I did notice a slight difference between 5x and 30x. The weird part is that 30x seemed more forgiving than 5x, Usually it is the other way around and the lower magnification is more forgiving on eye relief. The field of view, or the width of what you see looking through the scope, is a little narrower than some optics. So finding a target at the higher magnifications can be a little more difficult. I wouldn’t call this a deal breaker for sure, just something to note for some shooters. 

  Having an illuminated reticle on the Presidio is nice. It is not daylight bright, but it is not intended to be. If you are shooting in lower light, or even cloud cover, it works nicely. There are 6 brightness adjustments on the left turret. In between each level is an “off” resting spot. I really like having an off position between brightness levels. That way I don’t have to try and remember to turn the knob all the way to the off position. Sightmark says the battery life on the Presidio has a 150 hour average. So at lower levels you can get up to 500 hours. This may not sound like a lot, but that's basically a week of being turned on all the time, or more. 

  The Presidio 5-30 uses target style turrets. I think these style turrets were a good option for the Presidio. They don’t stick up too far and are large enough to get a good grip on. The turrets produce a decent click when adjusting them and it can be felt. Each click adjusts the scope by 0.1 mil. The elevation turret has numbers 0-9, with 10 hash marks between the numbers. Each number is 1 mil and each hash mark is 0.1 mil. The windage knob has a zero position, then it is marked either 1R, 2R, etc, or 1L, 2L, etc. Each number is also 1 mil with 0.1 mil hash marks between them. For example, if the bullet needs to go left, just move the dial toward 1L. Both the windage and elevation knobs can be set to zero once you are sighted in. On the left side of the Presidio is the parallax knob and the brightness knob. These are pretty self explanatory. A win for the Presidio is that it also comes with a zero stop. This is very uncommon for optics in the Presidio’s price range. The zero stop is also easy to install. 

Radio tower lamp is approximately 300 yds away

  As mentioned previously, I mounted up the Sightmark Presidio on a Bergara bolt action rifle. The rifle is a 308 win. I found the Presidio to perform well enough on that platform. The eye relief made it harder to get the scope forward enough with normal picatinny rings. If I had an extended pic rail mounted on the Bergara, that would have helped. One disadvantage of the Presidio is its 30 mm tube. Because of this, you only get 18 mils of travel out of it. With the Bergara’s 20 moa base, I still only get 12.5 mils of up adjustment in the Presidio. That means that I can only dial the optic out to a range of around 1100 yards with the 308 cartridge. I don’t expect to ever shoot this past that, but it is something that I feel needed mentioning. The Presidio 5-30 is heavy, like 2 pounds worth. I know it isn’t a small optic, and other optics in this price range weigh about the same, but I was hoping for a little lighter. Other than that, I have been happy with the Presidio. I just can’t get over how clear the optic is.

  If you are looking at a decent optic to get into longer range shooting, the Sightmark Presidio 5-30x56 may be it. It has great glass for an optic in this price range. The nice turrets and zero stop make it a great choice for whatever you are doing. Yes it has some performance limitations, but in this price range, that can be expected. If you are looking for that decent, entry level, long range optic, the Sightmark Presidio might be a good choice for you.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Variable power, budget friendly, high magnification first focal plane optic

Target Market:

Anyone looking for a quality higher powered first focal plane optic 

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Reticle brightness settings: 6

  • Magnification (x): 5-30

  • Objective lens diameter (mm): 56

  • Eyepiece diameter (in/mm): 1.74 / 44.1

  • Exit pupil diameter (mm): 36.6

  • Eye relief (in/mm): 3.7 / 95

  • Field of view (ft @100yd): 22ft - 3.7ft

  • Tube diameter (mm/in): 30 / 1.18

  • Parallax setting (yds): 20 - ∞

  • Mil adjustment (one click =): 1/10

  • Windage adjustment range (MRAD): 18

  • Elevation adjustment range (MRAD): 18

  • Zero stop included

  • Throw lever included

  • Maximum caliber: .338

  • Battery type: CR2032

  • Battery life (hours): 150 - 500 hrs

  • Shockproof, Fog proof 

  • 1st Focal plane

  • IP67 - waterproof and dustproof

  • Body material: Aluminum

  • Fully multi-coated lenses

  • Operating temperature (°F/°C): -20 to 160 / -29 to 71 F/C

  • Length (in/mm): 15.67 / 398.02

  • Width (in/mm): 3.79 / 96.25

  • Height (in/mm): 3.02 / 76.71

  • Weight (oz): 33 oz

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

3-18x50

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars from Randy on Optics Planet  

I was skeptical at first, decided to take a chance because it had a lifetime warranty and I watched a video on it from one the head tech/designer at Sightmark. I was impressed so I bought it. I wasn’t disappointed when I got it. This scope feels like a much more expensive scope. Turrets are solid, audible and precise. Has an elevation stop and removable turret caps to set back to zero when you’re done sighting. The throw lever on the magnification works really well. Clarity is very good, high and low. It weighs as much or more than scopes costing twice as much. I have it on an AR 50 A1 - .50 BMG and have put 12 rounds on it with no issues so far. As solid as it is and the few rounds I’ll shoot a lot of .50 BMG I don’t see any issues forthcoming.

Link to other reviews:

The Gun Zone  

Price point:

MSRP = $539.97

Retail = $449.97 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Amazon, SightMark, MidwayUSA, or your local dealer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great clarity

  • LR2 mil reticle

  • First Focal Plane

  • Illuminated reticle

  • Target turrets

  • Zero Stop

Cons:

  • Long

  • Heavy

  • Long eye relief

  • Small elevation adjustment range

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Bergara B-14 Ridge SP Review  

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TCRT Targets

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TCRT Target

Review

  If you are into shooting, you understand the need for good targets. Reusable targets have always been an interest of mine. Who doesn’t want a target that lasts thousands of rounds? TCRT targets makes some of those reusable targets. They also make target stands to hang those targets. TCRT sent me one of their Torso Target Packs, which includes the target and target stands.

  I have used a bunch of reusable targets, but the TCRT ones are different. Or at least the Torso target one is. All of these types of targets claim to be “self healing”, which they are. So when you shoot the target, the bullet passes through and only leaves a very tiny hole. I’m a big fan of Torso style USPSA targets, which is basically what the TCRT one is. TCRT’s Torso is a solid rectangle rubberish target. TCRT then supplies a template to paint or draw on the USPSA target zone lines. What I really like about the TCRT Torso is how thin and lightweight it is. I used to have another brand, and it was over twice as thick and weighed a lot more. Physically, hanging and carrying the TCRT Torso is much easier. 

  The TCRT targets can be shot with just about anything. Rifles, pistols, you name it, they have probably been shot by it. These targets will take 400 rounds of 5.56 per square inch. So unless you are using a precision rifle, or can just shoot that good, you shouldn’t wear them out for a long time. I have shot mine with 308, 45acp, 9mm, 22lr, 556, and probably others. It still is going strong. You can even shoot the TCRT targets at point blank range without damage. It even makes a cool pattern on the target. 

Point blank range with 9mm

  TCRT’s Torso target is made to be painted. Which is part of the reason they include the stencil to mark out the zones. By painting the target you can see where the bullets are hitting. When the paint over the target gets shot, it produces a small splatter mark. Think of one of those bullet hole stickers, because that’s what it looks like. This makes it easy to see where you are hitting. When you get too many holes, just paint over them and start over. An advantage to paint is that you can use different colors if you want to. Different colors on the target can make training better or just more fun.

  Since TCRT sent the “Target Pack”, it comes with their RangeFlex Rack Stand Kit. This Rack Stand kit is TCRT’s target stand. The Rack Stand comes with 2 feet assemblies and 2 cross bar brackets. However, it does not come with the wood 1x2’s. The 1x2’s are used for the feet, uprights, and the crossbar. Instructions on what length to cut the 1x2’s are included. The feet brackets each get a 1x2 for the support legs, or feet. They also each get an upright. The 1x2’s, in all the brackets, are held in with bolts. Just snug them down, or tighten them with a wrench, once you get the wood placed where it is needed. The top cross bar is the same, it just doesn't have the extra spot for the feet. You don’t necessarily need the top crossbar with the Torso target, but it does help with some support. The cool thing about the Rack Stand kit is that it is modular. You don’t need to just make it the width of the Torso target, you can make it much wider. This is where the top cross bar brace does its job. Make the stand wide and you can hang a bunch of the round TCRT targets from it. The possibilities are pretty much endless. 

  The TCRT Torso target did everything one would expect it to do. I set it up, which is really easy using the Rack Stand kit. Then I just clamped the target onto the sticks. The Torso target doesn’t come with clamps, I bought mine at Harbor freight, but TCRT has a 4 pack for $10, so just add them to your cart when you are buying a Torso target and save yourself the hassle. I have painted the target different colors at various times. Colors tend to show hits better than white, since the target itself is a whitish color. I have shot the crap out of the Torso target and it doesn’t even look very used. I know it has at least 2000 rounds through it, mostly 9mm. The only problem I ran into was with the target stand. The leg 1x2’s tend to twist in the bracket sometimes. So instead of being straight, they are more “V” shaped instead of an “H” shape. I never had the stand fall over, so maybe it is just my OCD. The Torso target and stand are easy to pick up and move as a one piece assembly. So moving it around the range is easy to do. I really like the different target possibilities that the TCRT Torso target gives me.

  If you are in the market for a reusable target system, which you should be, the TCRT Torso Target Pack might be it. It comes with target stands, a USPSA/IPSC style reusable target, and a stencil to mark out the scoring zones. Just add some paint and 1x2’s and you are ready to hit the range. Being able to use the TCRT Torso target for years to come is probably its best attribute. So head over to TCRT and check out all their targets.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Reusable Torso target and stands

Target Market:

People who dislike buying targets over and over

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

Target:

  • Re-usable

  • Comes with paint stencil

  • Rated for 400 rounds of 5.56 per square inch

  • Weight - 9.5 pounds

  • Dimensions - 15 × 20.7 × .5 in

  • UV and water-resistant

Stand:

  • Modular

  • Lightweight

  • Easy  Setup

  • Countless Configurations

  • Uses 1x2 wood sticks

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Hanging Round targets or Combo deals

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $175.98 for the bundle

$138.99 for just the Torso target

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

TCRT Targets

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Can take many hits

  • Easy to see hits when painted

  • Doesn't weigh a lot

  • Clamps to target stands

  • Comes with stencil 

  • Target stands are easy to set up

Cons:

  • Target is wider than standard USPSA one

  • Target stand feet tend to twist in base

Score: 8.00 Great

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Gnat Warfare Tactical Pig

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Gnat Warfare

Airsoft RC Pig target Review

  If you want a fun training aid, that you may be able to do in your backyard, you need one of the Tactical Pig targets from Gnat Warfare. These are a radio controlled (RC) target that is intended to be used with airsoft guns for moving target practice. The “Pig” is a foam target that attaches to a 4 wheel drive RC car chassis. You will need a friend to drive while you shoot, but it is worth the enjoyment. We named our Tactical Pig Kyle, Gnat Warfare respectfully calls them “Kevin Bacon”, I will explain later.

  The Gnat Warfare Tactical Pig comes ready to go. All you need to do is charge the RC battery and install the supplied AA batteries into the controller. The Pig comes with a supplied charger to charge the RC battery. It charges relatively quickly, so you won’t have to wait long to start racing around the neighborhood. The instructions are awesome on how to hook everything up and pair the controller. These instructions have tons of pictures, so you hardly even need to be able to read. This process is so easy to get you up and going, that even a ten year old could do it.

  As for the size of the Pig, it is pretty standard for a 1/10th scale RC truck. The car part is approximately 13 inches wide and 18 inches long. The tires are 5 inches tall by 2.5 inches wide. This lends it to use in just about any terrain including backyards and shooting ranges. With the pig target, the total height is about 20 inches. When I first took the RC Pig out for a test spin, I was worried about it tipping over under sharp turns. Well, it did not. All it did was lift the front inside tire. 

  Kevin Bacon, as it is called, is essentially a small Javelina. This Javelina target measures about 22 inches long by 12 inches tall. It is made from 1 inch thick closed cell foam. This allows the airsoft pellets to stick into the target. If you are really close, they may go through, so as always, know your backstop. Especially since this is a moving target. Hitting the RC car part does not seem to affect it. The pellets just bounce off. The target just pushes into a “U” shaped piece on the RC’s frame. This makes changing it super easy. It also allows one to make their own targets and push them into the mount.

  Being this is an airsoft target, you will need an airsoft rifle or pistol to use it. I purchased a CO2 blowback one off of Amazon for $50 and it works well with the Tactical Pig. If you are looking for something to replicate the firearm you already use, I would look at what Umarex has to offer. Either way, this is not super expensive to get into, unless you want it to be.

  We call our Tactical Pig “Kyle”. Why? We had a neighbor once that was a motorcycle officer. He was on the short stature side, kind of like a javelina. So we thought the name was appropriate, lol. 

  Now that you know Kyle, we can talk about how he helps with training. Even though he is a small target, he does move, and move fast. These aspects help you train by shooting at moving targets. But not just moving in one direction like a lot of the moving targets we are used to. The advantage with Kyle is that he is unpredictable. You do not know what direction he will be moving, only the driver does. This makes him a vital training aid for real life scenarios, even if it is airsoft. If your airsoft pistol happens to be the same as your carry pistol, you can even do draw and fire practice. The training possibilities with the Gnat Warfare Tactical Pig are endless. 

  Everyone that shot, or drove, the Gnat Warfare Tactical Pig just loved it. It is so much fun to shoot at. Plus it gives you a fantastic training aid. If you have kids, they will love it also. Do yourself a favor and go check out “Kevin Bacon”, “Kyle”, or whatever else you want to call the Tactical RC Pig.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Radio Controlled airsoft target

Target Market:

Anyone who likes to have fun and shoot moving targets

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Everything is included except the airsoft gun

    • RC frame

    • RC Battery and charger

    • Pig target

    • Controller

    • AA batteries for controller

  • Replaceable targets

  • Aggressive off-road tires

  • 4x4 RC suspension

  • Hobby-grade 7.2v NiMh battery included

  • 2.4Ghz radio extended-range control

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 stars at Gnatwarfare.com

Chris H.

I have had this pig target for almost 5 years. It has proven to be extremely well built and insanely fun to shoot. Our kids love airsoft and the large wheels, independent 4 wheel suspension and powerful motor lets us drive anywhere on our property, and it’s fast! The battery seems to last forever. I actually still have the original batteries in the controller. The foam pig Silhouette target has been hit 10s of thousands of times and is barely scratched. The BBs make a satisfying loud thud with each hit, which can be heard at long distance.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $299.00 

Retail = Same - Currently on sale for $99.99

I need it now! Availability:

Gnat Warfare or Umarex

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • FUN

  • Great training aid

  • Well made

  • 4 wheel drive

  • Large tires to go anywhere

  • Everything is included

Cons:

  • MSRP is a bit high

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Umarex Origin Review   

Infinity Target with "zones"

  Anyone that shoots, knows about replacing targets. Infinity Targets has come out with a solution for anyone using USPSA/IDPA silhouettes. They are making reusable rubber targets that look like those cardboard humanoid ones. When I first noticed these, I knew I just had to have one. Infinity Targets agreed to send me one.

  Construction of the Infinity Target is recycled rubber. Similar to the “rubber dummy” style, but flat and thinner. The target depth runs about ¾”. They then paint one side white. I was sent the target with “zones”. The zones are cut into the target to resemble the scoring zones on a USPSA target. When I first received the Infinity target, these zone marks were black, but after painting over the target, they are now the same color as the target, but still noticeable.

  The Infinity target came with 2 heavy duty metal clamps. These included clamps are used to clamp the target to a stand. When I say “stand”, I mean the typical 2 piece, 1”X2”, wood uprights, that are typically slid into some type of metal base. The 2 clamps hold the target to the sticks pretty good. The target itself is not light, I’d say it weighs around 10-12 lbs. If the sticks in your target base are loose, the target can seem to lean a little. Another set of clamps will fix this, but I just lived with it because it wasn’t enough to matter. Replacement clamps are pretty cheap, should you choose to shoot one.

  These type of targets are great for practice. Since the Infinity Target has zones, you can see where your hits are. Seeing the hits is helpful if you compete. I even used it to sight in a few pistols. If you get too many holes for your liking, just grab your can of spray paint, and paint over the hits. I will mention that since the target is self healing, the marks it makes in the paint do not look like the nice holes in a paper target. 

  Every range trip, I take the Infinity Target out. The range I use does not allow steel to be shot with rifles any closer than 100yds. It’s for safety, and I understand. By using the Infinity Target, I am able to shoot rifles on the pistol bays. Plus I just paint it when I paint my pistol steel target. I am also able to shoot the Infinity target at very short distances. At muzzle close distances, it doesn’t blow apart like cardboard targets. If you live where it rains a lot, I do, the rubber doesn’t soak up water like paper or cardboard, so you can shoot longer in the rain. The target also works as a nice paper target backer, just staple your paper target to it and go. 

Closeup of 12 gauge slug

Back side of target - slug hole

  I have pretty much shot the Infinity Target with everything I have. As one might expect, hollow points will do more damage to the target. This is because they literally punch a hole out instead of pushing their way through. Infinity Targets says you can use anything up to 12 gauge 00 buck, but no slugs. The smaller calibers like .22lr and .223 hardly do anything to it. 9mm and up seem to actually do more damage to the target itself. Now, I shot 00 buck at about 3 yards, it took a pretty big chunk, out of the back side, of the target, but no visible holes. I did shoot one 12 gauge slug at it, it put a nice size hole in the target (I expected this). After 4 months and probably well over 1000 rounds, it’s still holding up well.

Circles are 00 buck impacts from 3 yards

  If you don’t want the Infinity Target white, just paint it. If you want it to look like a USPSA cardboard target, paint it a brown color. I painted mine grey as it is slightly harder to see. The darker the color, the harder it is to make out where you hit the target. I like this for training because I can’t see the hits and have to just go on training. I did notice that “flat” paints and primers do a better job of covering the target and covering of the bullet holes.

  The Infinity Targets, zone target, is nice. As the saying goes, I would recommend it to a friend. Shipping costs aren’t very cheap because of the size/weight, but sometimes Infinity Target’s has deals on shipping. If you are looking for some sort of usable, reusable, target, definitely go give them a look.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Reusable Torso target

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a reusable target

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Reusable

  • Comes with clamps

  • “Zone” lines

  • Approximately 0.75” thick

  • Self sealing

  • Up to 12 gauge 00 buck ammunition

  • Uses regular target sticks and stands

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

No Zone lines, Hostage add on

What others are saying?:

Ben A. at Infinitytargets.com  5/5 stars

Great for close contact drills

I am the training director at diamondback shooting sports in Tucson, Az. These targets are awesome for our close contact drills. Paper targets last all of two rounds from close distance, but these targets hold up great. They seem to take as many rounds as full size rubber dummies but for 1/4 of the price! Would always suggest these targets, and will be ordering some for our sales floor asap!

Link to other reviews:

None found

Price point:

MSRP = $55.00

I need it now! Availability:

Infinity Targets

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Takes multiple hits

  • Uses standard target stands

  • Paintable

  • Made from recycled rubber

Cons:

  • Heavy-ish

  • Clamps can be shot

Score: 7.50 Good

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Favorite Link:   Gun and Gear Cult



Thor Targets - Steel "A" zone set

 If you have done any type of shooting before, you know that reactive targets are great. Steel targets are probably one of the best bang for your buck targets. They give a distinctive tone when shot. That feedback goes a long way with new shooters, as well as old ones. Thor Targets kindly gave me a steel target and stand to review, and I love shooting steel.

 Steel targets are a joy to shoot. If you’re a new shooter, they give you feedback that can be heard and seen. If you are a seasoned shooter, they can just be fun, or give excellent practice. Thor targets does not disappoint here. The steel is easily heard. Plus you can just spray over the hits with some new paint and basically have a brand new target.

 Thor uses “better than AR500” steel. AR500 is pretty much the industry standard for steel targets as it is highly impact resistant. Thor uses an armor grade steel that has a higher Brinell strength. The Brinell scale characterizes the indentation hardness of a material. What does this mean to you. Well, the Thor steel should pit less and last longer. All good things when it comes to something being shot at. Thor also rates their targets for 3000 feet per second of velocity, at the impact point. So the velocity needs to be less than 3000 fps when it strikes the target. They also recommend a 100 yard distance for rifle rounds and a 25 yard distance for pistol rounds. These are for safety measures and to prevent being hit with back splatter.

 I received the “A”-zone set. The set consists of the target, a stand, and a hanger. It also uses a 2x4 which is not included. One great part about the 2x4 is the ability to adjust the targets height. Depending on what length the 2x4 is cut at, determines the height of the target. If you have more than one set up, you can vary the heights for different targets. Thor’s target stand is really nice also. It is shaped like an “H” with one length being longer than the other. The stand is made to have the longer feet forward to offset the weight of the target. I found that sometimes one needs to put the longer feet toward the back. I may have tipped the target over doing a mag dump of 9mm. On the stand is a place to insert your 2x4. Then on top of the 2x4, you place the hanger. The hanger slides over the 2x4 and has a hook extending out from it. This hook is where the target rests. There is a slot in the target on which to hang it. Once you have the “set” you can just purchase the steel targets to hang from the base and hanger

 Thor’s “A” zone target is meant to replicate the “A” zone in USPSA. It is a little different in shape, but the size is about the same. One nice aspect to a steel plate target is that it has two sides. All of Thor’s targets come painted white. Since the target is reversible, one could paint the other side a different color, this could be for training or just fun. Thor uses ⅜” thick targets, so the larger the size, the heavier it can be.

30 yard 223 hit

 One can see the quality in Thor’s products. The steel plate has no sharp edges (at least when new.) The stand and hanger are expertly welded together. I even shot the steel at 30yds with a 5.56 55gr and it only put a very small pit in the steel (Do not do this yourself, it is not recommended by Thor, myself, or the Firearms Radio Network.) Everything else I have shot it with has only knocked the paint off. This is from .22lr up to 12 gauge buckshot!

 If you are in the market for some steel targets, check Thor Targets out. Their steel targets and stands will not let you down. They are rated by speed, not caliber. Just don’t shoot armor piercing rounds at them, unless you like holes in them. They will even ship them to you. So go check Thor Targets, or their new store “Thor Armory”.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality Steel Targets

Target Market:

Shooters wanting a reusable target

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Impact rating of 3000fps at target, 100yds rifle, 25yds pistol

  • Harder than AR500 steel

  • Use of cheap 2x4

  • Steel base

  • Steel Hanger

  • Shaped like USPSA “A” zone

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Other sizes and shapes available

What others are saying?:

Facebook

I purchased the dueling tree with 6, 6 inch targets and loved it. I hit it at relatively close range with a hard .308 shot, and it barely made a mark in it. The AR 556 just took paint off, and the .40 didn't make a mark. I will never have to replace these targets, so the cost up front more than pays for itself in the long run. Thanks Thor Targets. Great product and service!

Link to other reviews:

Johnsons Customs on Youtube

Price point:

MSRP = $150 complete

I need it now! Availability:

Thor Targets - use code “4eats” to save some money

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Durable

  • Brakes down for easy transport

  • Uses cheap 2x4 lumber

  • Size (A zone)

Cons:

  • Shipping price

Score: 8.75 Somewhere between Great and Amazing

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Favorite Link:   Medford Knife & Tool

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