| What’s wrong with KDs by Rowdy Yates
SASS #141
In the past 20 years of my observations of Cowboy
shooting and looking over the many discussions on the various chat boards
It’s fairly easy to come up with a short analysis of the problems associated
with knock down and reactive targets. Most of the comments and observations
can be boiled down to just a few factors.
Lack of consistency or reliability usually top
the list.
Fact is if a range isn’t willing to spend the
dough a reliable revolver knockdown may be quite elusive.
Typical problems with a reactive target might
be:
1. The target will blow over in a stiff wind,
creating confusion for the shooter.
2. Fall when the KD next to it is hit, creating
confusion for the shooter.
3. Not fall with even the heaviest of loads.
4. Change of position or reactivity during the
match. (inconsistent)
I’m sure there are other problems with reactive
targets but these 4 seem to be the most common. In the first 2 scenarios
(the most contentious) the problem is from trying to set the targets to
fall with the lightest of loads. Obviously the number 3 problem, a target
that refuses to fall even when hit squarely with a shotgun, is the result
of a non-functioning reactive target.And finally the number 4 problem is
generally the result of poor attention to or maintenance of the targets
during the match. It is important that a reactive target be staked, mounted
or placed so that it does not move or change position through out the match
and that it be tested from time to time in order to make sure it remains
consistent for each shooter.
If a match director or club has chosen to use
reactive targets they must expect to have properly functioning targets.
These targets must have a method of adjustment that will insure a proper
setting and a shield that protects the mechanical portions from lead splatter.
The MD must also have a plan to attend to and
maintain them throughout the match. Additionally the Club must also have
the ability to set these targets to a standard that will lessen the contention
factor.
Requiring a setting on reactive targets is so
light as to accommodate the lightest possible load will demand the existence
of the contention factor in full bloom. Under current SASS rules that setting
may be so light that the target would be required to react appropriately
from the strike of a 70 grain bullet traveling at a blazing 200 fps. Maybe
even less.
Permitting the MD to set his targets to a reliable,
consistent and firm reactivity will provide targets that will have the
greater potential to “enhance shooter feedback and spectator appeal” as
originally intended.
So, the bottom line:
The Wild Bunch is currently in the process of
making a decision regarding power factor, velocity, bullet weight or allowable
ammo. In this writers opinion it would not be prudent to change or alter
the current reactive target standard regardless of the results of this
process. The only exception might be to offer the bonus system of; a hits
a hit and a bonus for the reaction of the target.
If implementing a power factor or velocity requirement
also results in the reduction of the reactive target standard then it might
be more productive to drop the whole subject. |
