Gong Targets vs. Paper Targets: Comparison and Features
Shooting targets are an important element of every training process, regardless of whether you are engaged in sport shooting, hunting or tactical training. Some of the most common are metal gong targets and regular paper targets. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on the tasks and goals of shooting.
Gong Targets: Advantages and Disadvantages
Gong targets are metal targets, usually made of steel, which has high hardness and can withstand significant impact loads. They are widely used for military training and firearms shooting training, as they provide instant feedback in the form of a characteristic sound after hitting.
Advantages of gong targets:
Instant feedback. The main advantage of gongs is a clear sound when hitting. The shooter gets immediate feedback on accuracy, allowing him to focus on shooting rather than checking the target. This is especially useful at medium and long ranges, when it is difficult to see the results of shooting.
Durability. Metal gong targets can withstand hundreds or even thousands of shots, especially if they are made of hardened steel (such as AR500 or AR550). Velmet uses steel with its own heat treatment ARM 600, which can withstand more than 22,000 hits on a full-size target. This makes them a worthwhile investment for those who practice shooting often.
Time saving. Since gong targets do not need to be replaced after each shot, the training process becomes continuous. This is especially important for professional training, when every minute on the range matters.
Variety of shapes and sizes. Gongs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small round gongs to large silhouettes, allowing you to customize your target equipment for specific training and educational purposes.
Disadvantages of gong targets:
Lack of hit detail. Gongs do not allow you to pinpoint the exact location of the hit. You only hear the sound, but you cannot see where the shot hit. This can be a problem when it is important to know the exact kill zone.
Weight and portability. Gongs are heavy metal targets that are not always easy to transport or install. Additional structures are needed to secure them, which can complicate their use on different sites.
Restrictions for certain types of weapons. Some types of weapons, particularly air guns or small-caliber guns, may not create a powerful enough impact to activate the sound on the gongs at long distances, and large-caliber bullets or those with a heat-strengthened core can damage a steel target.
Paper Targets: Advantages and Disadvantages
Paper targets are a classic choice for many shooters, especially for sports and training where accuracy is important. They are easy to set up and use, but they have their own characteristics.
Advantages of paper targets:
Accurate hit assessment. The main advantage of paper targets is the ability to clearly see where exactly the shot hit. This is especially important for practicing shooting accuracy, for example, in competitions or in preparation for exams.
Availability and low cost. Paper targets are cheap and easy to replace, which makes them ideal for training at short distances or for mass events.
Mobility. They are lightweight and easy to transport. This makes them a great choice for mobile shooting ranges or training at different sites.
Disadvantages of paper targets:
Short service life. After several hits, paper targets become unusable and need to be replaced. This increases the time it takes to prepare new targets during training.
Cannot be used at long ranges without optical devices. At long ranges, it is difficult or even impossible to see hits on a paper target without additional equipment (optics or binoculars).
No instant feedback. Compared to gongs, paper targets do not provide an audible signal, which slows down the evaluation of shooting results.
When should you use gong targets and when - paper targets?
The choice between metal gong targets and paper targets depends on your goals:
If your goal is to train speed and reaction, or you train at medium and long ranges, where it is important to get instant feedback, it is better to choose gong targets. They provide operational information about the hit and can be used repeatedly.
If you are focused on improving the accuracy and detail of hits or shoot at short distances, paper targets are the ideal option. They allow you to accurately assess the impact point and adjust your shooting with maximum precision.
Gong targets and paper targets have their own advantages and disadvantages, and their choice depends on what results you want.
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