The 9 Best Shot Timers for Practical Shooting
Introduction to The 9 Best Shot Timers for Practical Shooting
In the world of competitive shooting, specifically in disciplines like IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) and USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association), shot timers are essential. Shot timers are invaluable tools that help shooters refine their skills in live-fire by providing precise timing of their shots, providing par times in dry-fire and of course enable precision time scoring in practical shooting matches. In this post, we’ll compare the 9 best shot timers for practical shooting on the market: Shooters Global Timer, Shooters Global Timer GO, Competition Electronics ProTimer BT, Competition Electronics ProTimer, Competition Electronics Pocket Pro, Pact Club Timer III, and CED7000 Shot Timer.
Table of Contents
Shooters Global Timer
The Shooters Global Timer is known for its advanced sensor that can accommodate various firearm calibers, including suppressed firearms. It’s durable, water-resistant, and comes with a high-contrast screen, automatic backlight, and a U-Grip for easy mounting. Key features include echo filtering, a memory capable of storing 1,000,000 shots, adjustable sound, sensitivity, and up to 30 days of battery life. It’s a top choice for shooters who need a robust and versatile timer. Unfortunately at this time, the timer doesn’t support Practiscore integration. The SG Timer is designed for regular shooting and dry practice sessions.
Shooters Global Timer GO
A more budget-friendly option from the same company, the SG Timer GO, retains many of the features of its sibling but adds a 240% louder buzzer, making it perfect for outdoor group training. It’s excellent for dry fire sessions and offers echo filtering, adjustable sensitivity, and a memory for 1,000,000 shots. Its ‘spy mode’ is a unique feature for syncing with other timers. Unfortunately at this time, the timer doesn’t support Practiscore integration.
Competition Electronics Pro Timer BT
The ProTimerBT is an advanced shot timer integrating Bluetooth technology for enhanced functionality. Building on the Pocket Pro II design, it features a user-friendly interface and compatibility with the PTLink mobile app, allowing for detailed data collection, review, and note-taking. The device requires a 9V battery and offers low power BLE Bluetooth connectivity, easy timer settings via PTLink, and firmware updates. It includes a 50-string memory with date/time stamps, on-screen Hit Factor scoring, multiple Par time settings, increased sensitivity, and a start signal LED. Additionally, it has a 3.5mm headset jack, a 2-year warranty, and over 30 hours of operation with a replaceable 9V battery. This American-made timer is known for its quality and service. This timer does support bluetooth integration with Practiscore.
Competition Electronics Pro Timer
The ProTimer is an enhanced shot timer, evolved from the Pocket Pro II design, offering great value. It features a user-friendly interface for effective practice sessions, allowing shooters to collect and review shot data directly from the timer. This includes a 50-shot string memory with date/time stamp and on-screen Hit Factor scoring. Key features include up to 5 Par time settings, increased sensitivity, a start signal LED, a 3.5mm headset jack, and a bright blue backlit LCD screen. It requires a 9V battery (not included) and provides over 20 hours of operation. The timer comes with a 2-year warranty and is backed by over 30 years of experience in shot timer design. For more information, visit the product page.
Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer
The Pocket Pro is a shot timer designed for both personal practice and scoring matches. It’s notable for its timeless design and standard-setting features. The device requires a 9-volt alkaline battery and can review up to 50 shots either forward or reverse. Its ergonomic design supports right or left-hand operation without obstructing the buzzer and sensor. Features include automatic power-down, a large display with 0.5-inch tall numbers, adjustable sensitivity, direct review of shots and split times, Par time setting, instant/random delayed start, a large belt clip, separate shot sensor and buzzer, low battery indication, and a 2-year warranty.
Pact Club Timer III
The PACT Club Timer III is a highly effective shooting timer designed to enhance shooting skills and competitive edge. Purpose-built by shooters for shooters in the USA, it comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Key features include recording multiple shots in a single string, displaying time to the first shot, reviewing split times and each shot time, setting Par Time, and an option for instant or delayed start. It boasts an extra loud buzzer suitable for range use and an ergonomic design optimized for training.
CED7000 Shot Timer
The CED7000 Shot-Activated Timer stands out for its advanced features, compactness, and light weight. It offers memory for 10 strings and unlimited shots, customizable Par time settings with fine-tuning, and a dual review function. The timer includes a sensitive microphone, a detailed LCD display, a “Spy Mode,” “R.O. Mode,” and a loud start beep. Its rechargeable battery provides substantial usage time, and it has optional wireless RF capability. Designed for versatility, it includes various carrying options, a universal charger, and technical specifications emphasizing its compact size and powerful functionality.
AMG-Lab
The AMG-Lab Timer features a compact, ergonomic design with a clear display for easy one-handed operation. It uses standard AAA batteries, offering long battery life with weeks of continuous use. The timer integrates seamlessly with the PractiScore app for match recording and practice analysis, including detailed shot time recording and comparison. Its digitally adjusted sensitivity picks up a range of sounds, including dry fire. It also has adjustable beep volume, instant or delayed start options, and multiple par times. Designed and extensively tested in the USA, it’s user-friendly with a durable build.
Kestrel KST 1000
The Kestrel KST1000 Yellow Electronic Shot Timer is a highly versatile and durable shot timer, made in the USA. It features five customizable setting presets, two user-friendly screens, and is compatible with dry fire and suppressed shooting. Notably loud, it is waterproof, dust-proof, and Bluetooth enabled. Unfortunately at this time, the timer doesn’t support Practiscore integration. The device is drop-tested to MIL-STD-810G standards and backed by a 5-year warranty. It accurately detects shots with various firearms, including suppressed and .22LR ammunition. Priced at $299, it’s considered a reliable choice for both competitive and training scenarios.
Comparison Chart
Battery Type | Cost | Battery Type | Battery Life | Water Resistant | Speaker | Bluetooth | Practiscore BT Support |
Shooters Global Timer | $300 | Internal | 100 Hours | Yes | 87db | Yes | No |
Shooters Global Timer GO | $150 | Internal | 70 Hours | No | 99db | Yes | No |
Competition Electronics Pro Timer BT | $180 | 9V | 20 Hours | No | 100db | Yes | Yes |
Competition Electronics Pro Timer | $160 | 9V | 25 Hours | No | 100db | No | N/A |
Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer | $145 | 9V | 20 Hours | No | 100db | No | N/A |
Pact Club Timer III | $130 | 9V | Not Stated | No | – | No | N/A |
CED7000 Shot Timer | $130 | Internal | 25 Hours | No | 110db | No | N/A |
AMG-Lab Timer | $179 | 4-AAA | 17 Days | No | 105db | Yes | Yes |
Kestrel KST 1000 | $300 | CR-123 | 90 Hours | Yes | – | Yes | No |
Conclusion
The range of shot timers discussed caters to various preferences and requirements in competitive shooting. For shooters seeking Bluetooth compatibility and Practiscore integration, the Competition Electronics Pro Timer BT and the AMG-Lab Timer are top choices, enhancing the range officer experience and reducing data entry errors. Shooter Global timers, with their extensive features and app integration, are a worthy investment for tech-savvy shooters. For those valuing simplicity and reliability, the Pro Timer, Pocket Pro by Competition Electronics, and Pact Club Timer III remain steadfast options. This detailed analysis provides valuable insights, aiding in the selection of a shot timer that best fits individual shooting styles and needs.
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