Most gun owners and don’t need the best shot timer to make an accurate shot. Hunters also do not need a shot timer to hunt down the game.
However; if you are a shooter who participates in competitive shooting sports or events, particularly pistol events like IDPA events, a shot timer is very important.
In most competitive shooting events, the faster you get your shots off, the better your score is. For effective practice results, you need to invest in the best shot timer.
Shot timers are small devices that are used to measure the time it takes you to make individual shots or a string of shots.
The devices are commonly used in competitions, you can use them with good results to improve your shooting skills.
The best shot timer models can also be used to produce a sound that announces the beginning of a shooting session.
Best Shot Timers Review
In this article, we will help understand what to look out for in the best shot timer and also provide you with reviews for some of the best shot timers for beginners,best budget shot timers and best shot timers for IDPA. First,let us begin a quick summary of the best shot timers in the market today compared in a table for you to quickly skim through:
Best Shot Timer Comparison Table
To help you save time, let us begin with a quick comparison table of the best shot timers :
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1 Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI-4700
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2 CED 7000 Shot Timer
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3 Competition Electronics Pocket Shot Timer
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4 PACT Shot Timer3
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5 Shotmaxx-2 Shot Timer
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6 Mantisx Training System
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7 Competition Electronics Pro Timer 4
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8 PIE Shot Timer 3
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Top 10 Best Shot Timers Reviews
The best shot timers can make it easier for you to practice shooting when you are at a range. When shopping for the best shot timer for beginners, consider how loud the beeper or buzzer is and how sensitive the microphones are. You do not have to spend so much money on a shot timer, you can buy a budget shot timer and enjoy all the benefits of a shot timer. Here are some of the reviews of the best shot timers for beginners.
Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI-4700 (Best Shot Timer for IDPA, Beginners & Indoor Ranges )
Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI-4700 is one of the most popular shot timers on the market that offers you value for your money. It is loved by shooters because it comes with a user-friendly control panel, and at an affordable price. The timer is small and compact, making it easy to operate. It is capable of monitor and review your progress as it records your lowest times and compares them.
The shot timer can be used to improve your drawing and shooting speed. The device can memorize and recall your individual shots as well as your shot strings. It has LCD display that is easy to read and provides you with all the data you require in large characters. The unit’s buttons are clearly highlighted for easy use and operation. Its dead time adjustment helps you to get rid of the echoes, and therefore qualifies it as the best shot timer for indoor ranges.
Key Features
- Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 works with the 1x 9 Volt batteries and the recommended batteries are Polaroid 9 Volt batteries).
- The shot timer is blue in color and has configurations of display and automatic power turn down after 10 minutes of inactivity to save the battery.
- You can attach it to your belt using the large clothespin style belt clip that is tough enough to hold the shot timer firmly.
- Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 can store up to 99 shots for a given timing cycle. The subsequent shots are stored by overwriting the previous value of shot 99.
- You can set the shot sensitivity from the SHOT SENSITIVITY screen of the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 shot timer. You simply need to increase the value for greater sensitivity decrease it for less sensitivity.
- You can reset the shot timer to factory setting by removing the battery, and holding down the “Start” button then reinstall the battery.
- Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 measures internally to a resolution of 1 mSec, but shot displays and splits are rounded to the nearest 10 mSec which may make the RPM reading to look inaccurate especially when you calculate manually.
Pros
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- Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 is a great choice for those who want to improve their drawing and shooting speed.
- The shot timer can memorize and recall your individual shots as well as your shot strings.
- It comes with clearly highlighted buttons for easy use.
- The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 has a user-friendly control panel that is easy to use.
- It is a small and compact shot timer that comfortably fits on your hands.
- The shot timer can monitor and review your progress as it records your lowest times and compares them.
- It can be worn on your belt and fits firmly.
- Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI 4700 timer has a random start mode for dry firing and 3 display modes.
Cons
- The device doesn’t come with an instructions manual.
- The display can be difficult to read.
Pocket Pro Shot Timer Showcase Video
2) CED 7000 Shot Timer
The CED 7000 SHOT TIMER is a quality shot timer that is ideal for Dry Fire Practice Shooting or RO use in USPSA, IPSC, 3 gun, and Steel Challenge. The shot timer uses a rechargeable mobile battery as a power source. It features a small LCD display to show your times, splits, and the unit’s date/time as well as the mode currently in use.
The device is lightweight and compact, making it easy for you to take it with you every time you go to the range. Due to its small size, the timer won’t interfere with your shooting. It produces a soft beep that allows you to use it with great results. The shot timer is capable of can memorizing and recalling up to 10 shot strings and an endless number of individual shots. It can be used for draw training.
Pros
- The shot timer can be worn around your neck, or you can wear it around one of your wrists.
- It is small and lightweight thus it won’t interfere with your shooting.
- The shot timer can memorize and recall up to ten shot strings and numerous individual shots.
- It is capable of displaying split times as well as total shots.
- The device comes with a random start mode.
- It can be used for draw training.
Cons
- The construction is not strong
- It is ideal for those who compete with several different firearms.
3) Competition Electronics Pocket Shot Timer
The Competition Electronics Pocket Shot Timer is one of the best budget shot timers that offers you value for your money. The timer comes at a reasonable price and is therefore a great choice for beginners looking for a reliable shot timer. It is a small device that has an ergonomic design which makes it easy for you to use it with either hand.
The pocket shot timer is capable of memorizing and recalling up to 50 individual shots. It includes some features that can help you improve your shooting skills. The unit has a display that shows you the number of shots you’ve taken, the split times, and the shots’ review. It has a shot sensor and buzzer for an increased performance. The timer will automatically shut down after 10 minutes of inactivity to save power. The unit’s battery can last for a very long time. It lets you either select the random start or the instant delayed start that will lets you test your reaction and drawing time.
Pros
- The shot timer is reasonably priced.
- It automatically shut down after 10 minutes of inactivity to save power.
- The shot timer comes with shot sensor and buzzer for improved performance.
- It features an ergonomic design which makes it easy for you to use it with either hand.
- The Competition Electronics Pocket Shot Timer is capable of memorizing and recalling up to 50 individual shots.
- It has a random start for dry firing.
- The shot timer includes instant delayed start that allows you to test your reaction and drawing time.
- It has a large display which makes it easy for you to see your update.
Cons
- It is not ideal for indoor ranges.
4) PACT Shot Timer3
The PACT SHOT TIMER 3 is a small and compact shot timer that can record and recall up to 100 shots at once. Its small size makes it easy to hold on one hand. The device can also be worn around your neck or wrist without it interfering with your shooting. It comes with a has a highly sensitive microphone that will record all of your shots without any problems.
The shot timer includes a buzzer that produces a loud and clear signal that will signal the start of the recordings. It has rubber recessed buttons that are ergonomically designed or easy operation and to reduce the chances of you pressing them accidentally. The timer can be used for draw practice and works well with shooting gloves. It includes random start mode for dry firing or draw practice.
Pros
- It features large rubber buttons that are easy to operate.
- The shot timer works well with shooting gloves.
- It can be worn on your belt or around your neck to prevent interfering with your shooting.
- PACT SHOT TIMER 3 comes with a has a highly sensitive microphone that will record all of your shots without any problems.
- It includes a buzzer that produces a loud and clear signal that will signal the start of the recordings.
- The timer can be used for draw practice.
- It has a random start mode for dry firing.
Cons
- It is very sensitive for indoor ranges.
5) Shotmaxx-2 Shot Timer
Shotmaxx-2 Shot Timer is a compact and small shot timer that is designed to look like a watch. It can be worn around your wrist without it interfering with your draw or shooting. The timer has a good memory and is capable of recording and recalling up to 9 strings of 99 shots each. It provides you with all the data you need from a shot timer.
The shot timer produces a loud beeping sound that marks the start of the shooting session. It can effectively review each string individually. The Shotmaxx-2 Shot Timer has a sensitive microphone or an accelerometer to track your shots. The microphone will catch the shots of an airsoft rifle. You can track your shots using the microphone when you are alone at the range.
Pros
- It comes with a very sensitive microphone that will catch the shots of an airsoft rifle.
- The shot timer lets you track your shots using the microphone when you are alone at the range.
- It can record and recall up to 9 strings of 99 shots each.
- The timer can be worn around your wrist without it interfering with your draw or shooting.
- It produces a loud beeping sound that marks the start of the shooting session and can effectively review each string individually.
- The timer comes with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- It has limited display options.
6) Mantisx Training System
The Mantisx Training System is an essential shooting solution that can shooters improve their shooting skills. It is not a shot timer but it is a great alternative to a shot timer. The training system can help you effectively keep track of your shots and it can measure the pauses you make between each shot. Using the training system is like having a shooting coach next to you on every shooting session.
It is designed to provide you with real-time information about your shooting. Based on your shooting information, it offers you data-driven advice for every area you need to improve your shooting skills. The training system will keep track of your performance over time, and show your progress relying on the memorized data. It can be mounted on any handgun or rifle using the rail or a rail adapter.
Pros
- It provides you with personalized advice that you can use to improve your shooting skills over multiple areas.
- The training system can be used for dry firing.
- It includes headphone jack for effective indoor use.
- You can get the system’s app for free, and the app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
- It is capable of storing any number of shots and strings.
- Mantisx Training System use rechargeable battery.
- The system’s app includes target and follow-through tracking.
- It can be mounted on any handgun or rifle using the rail or a rail adapter.
- The training system is like alternative to having a shooting coach next to you on every shooting session.
Cons
- The training system is not as effective for rifles.
- It is not a shot timer.
7) Competition Electronics Pro Timer 4
Competition Electronics Pro Shot Timer 4 is the latest unit of the series that is capable of connecting wirelessly to a printer to let you print the unit’s stored data. It is an advanced shot timer that allows you to select between an instant start, a random start, and a fixed delay one. The timer can help shooters improve their reaction times, and also improve their draw time.
The Electronics Pro Shot Timer 4 is very sensitive and will not miss any of the shots you make. It will effectively memorize up to 100 individual shots. The shot timer is also capable of automatically calculating your HIT factor. It provides you with 3 operating modes.
The simplified mode will display the time, shot numbers, start delay and par time while the standard mode will display the time, shot number, split time, review time, and review the split time for individual practice. The third mode is the extended mode that offers you what the standard mode offers and also offers multiple par times that can be very helpful for cadence practice.
Pros
- The shot timer can automatically calculate your HIT factor.
- It can connect wirelessly to a printer to let you print the unit’s stored data.
- The Competition Electronics Pro Shot Timer 4 lets you select between an instant start, a random start, and a fixed delay one.
- It comes with 3 operating modes to let you choose the mode that suits you.
- The timer is very sensitive and will not miss any of the shots you make.
- It is designed to help shooters improve their reaction times.
- The shot timer can be daisy-chained to other units for multiple shooters.
- It includes a hit factor calculator.
- The unit automatically shutdown after 10 minutes of inactivity to save battery.
Cons
- It is relatively pricey.
- The shot timer may not be ideal for most beginners.
8) PIE Shot Timer 3
The PIE Shot Timer 3 is a reliable shot timer that is small and compact for easy use. It can be paired with LED or PIE targets for tracking accuracy as well as speed. The unit is capable of storing 20 shot strings of up to 99 shots each. It displays shot number, split times, and total time. The timer can also be used as a stopwatch.
The device is powered by rechargeable battery and comes with a hanging lanyard and belt clip. It provides you with three modes: a regular firing mode, a highly sensitive airsoft/dry firing mode. The shot timer is a great choice for airsoft or dry fire training.
Pros
- It can be used as a stopwatch.
- The shot timer is great for airsoft or dry fire training.
- It can easily be paired with LED or PIE targets for tracking accuracy as well as speed.
- The device can store 20 shot strings of up to 99 shots each.
- It comes with 3 modes to let you select the mode that suits your situation.
Cons
- It is nor ideal for indoor use
Qualities of the Best Shot Timer
The search for the best shot timer can be long especially if you are new to shot timers. Most shot timers have similar designs and the same amount of data, making it harder for beginners to identify the most reliable shot timer. Here are some of the features of the best shot timer for beginners.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity is a very important feature when shopping for the best shot timer. In most cases, you will be in the company of other shooters practicing at the range. You need to ensure that the shot timer you buy is sensitive enough to recognize the shots you make but ignore shots from other shooters.
To reduce the chances of your shot timer detecting shots from other shooters, it is recommended you look for a timer that measures time between shots using an accelerometer instead of using the microphone. A shot timer that uses an accelerometer will help you accurately measure how long it takes you to make a shot without detecting any interference from the other shooters.
Ease to Use
Most shot timers are small enough to fit in your hand, but all shot timers are not operated the same. Some models have detailed manuals that guide you on how to use the device while others have instructions that are hard to follow. To effectively use a shot timer, you may need some experience or practice with the device.
Look for a device that has a user-friendly design. Some of the best shot timers come with recessed buttons to prevent you from accidentally pressing them while you shoot. Shot timers with delayed start feature is also useful when training since it allows you to use a handheld shot timer even if you place it on a counter or a bench.
Features and Functions
Different shot timers come with different features and functions. Most of the features and functions are designed to help you in your training. Look out for features such as the display, if a timer produces so much data and the data is cramped on a small display, you might find it hard to interpret the data.
The ability of the shot timer to connect wirelessly to a printer and arrange all the data they record neatly on a sheet of paper can be a plus feature that will help you keep track of your progress easily.
Benefits of Using a Shot Timer
Are you still wondering if you need a shot timer? If you are still unsure about getting a shot timer, we have provided you with some of the benefits of a shot timer to help you understand why you need to invest in the best shot timer for beginners.
1. Start delay feature
Most shot timers come with a start delay feature that allows a few seconds to pass before ringing the start signal. The few seconds provides allow you to prepare, making it easy for you to improve your draw time. It helps improve your target acquisition time, and improve your reaction time as well.
2. Random start feature
The best budget shot timer might come with a random start feature that helps you improve your reaction time. When this feature is selected, the shot timer will produce the start sound after a random period of time passes. By tracking your reaction times and practicing you can easily improve your shooting skills.
3. Dry Fire Feature
The dry fire feature allows you to practice your shooting without having to go to a range. If you are a beginner, practicing dry fire is important prior to practicing live fire. Dry fire is safer for beginners who are not familiar with live fires. When practicing dry fire, your firearm is unloaded, especially if you’re practicing indoors.
4. Par Time Feature
This feature is designed to help improve your reloading skills. Use 2 empty magazines, one magazine in the handgun, and the other in your magazine pouch or in your tactical pants. It helps you practice and improve your reloading skills by letting you try to reload your pistol and acquire your target before the second beep of the shot timer.
5. Review Function
The review function allows you to check your data, and check your split times. The split times help reveal valuable data on how you shoot. The function can provide answers to all of the questions you have concerning your shooting skills. With constant practice, you can easily improve your shooting speed and decrease your split times.
Conclusion
The best shot timers for beginners should help you improve your shooting skills. It should also be easy to operate. We recommend getting a shot timer that does not require ammo since it is less costly to train. Some of the best shot timers for beginners can be used for dry firing, allowing you to do your training indoors. The best budget shot timers have simulated ammo to prevent putting strain on your budget.
No matter the brand of shot timer you purchase, if you are a beginner ensure that the timers is budget friendly and easy to use. We hope that you will get a timer that will help you improve your shooting skills from our review of the best shot timers for beginners.