Targets allow you to assess the accuracy of your shooting but they don’t tell you the speed. This is when a shot timer comes in handy.
Basically, what a shot timer does is that it measures the precise time between the start signal and the final shot.
Most brands display par time, start delay options and the review function although functions vary from one brand to another.
You set a start and a stop beep through the par time, and after you press the go button, the start beep will sound a set time or a random interval through the start delay options.
You see all the information in the string of fire you shot through the review function.
Top 8 Shot Timer: Comparison
| Shot Timer | Dimensions (inches) | Weight | View on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket Pro Timer II CEI001 | 5 x 3 x 1.5 | 3.2 oz. | Check Price |
| PACT Club Shot Timer 3 | 5.7 x 4.7 x 2.4 | 8.8 oz. | Check Price |
| Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI4700 Shot Timer and Purchasecorner Polish Cloth Bundle | 5.9 x 4 x 2.7 | 12.8 oz. | Check Price |
| Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Shot Timer and Purchasecorner Polish Cloth Bundle | 5.9 x 4.1 x 2.6 | 4.8 oz. | Check Price |
| CED7000 Shot Timer – Perfect for Dry Fire Practice Shooting or RO use in USPSA, IPSC, 3 gun, and Steel Challenge | 3.94 x 1.85 x 0.7 | 2.9 oz. | Check Price |
| Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer | 4.2 x 3.2 x 1.5 | 1.6 oz. | Check Price |
| Espresso Supply Digital Shot Timer | 2 x 0.9 x 2.6 | 4 oz. | Check Price |
| Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer Cloths Pin Type Belt Clip | 5.9 x 4.1 x 2.3 | 8.8 o. | Check Price |
Best Picks of Shot Timer
#1: Pocket Pro Timer II CEI001 Review
[aawp box=”B008KMOSAI” template=”horizontal”]For those who are looking for an affordable shot timer, the Pocket Pro Timer II CEI001 is one of the best options out there. It was made by in the United States by Competition Electronics, one of the leading brands in the electronic timer and chronograph industry.
There are three ways to configure the Pocket Pro Timer II, which are Single Time Only, Review Direct and Rounds Per Minute.
The common denominator of the three configurations is that they all show the battery condition.
Both Single Time Only and Review Direct show the last shot while both Review Direct and Rounds Per Minute show the first shot, the last split, the number of shots, the date and time and the start delay setting.
Only Rounds Per Minute shows the rounds per minute.
The 1.5 kHz start buzzer frequency of this shot timer transmits through hearing protection very well.
It has large buttons, a large clothespin style belt clip, a large lighted graphics LCD, an intuitive menu and navigation, a shot sensor and a separate buzzer.
- This blue-colored shot timer is affordable, very durable and easy to use.
- It can review four shots at the same time either forward or reverse with split times.
- With its start button on the side, its size fits in your hand comfortably.
- If you don’t use it in 10 minutes, it turns off automatically.
- You can read the display position from either the bench or your belt.
- The par timer’s tones for start and stop are not different.
#2: PACT Club Shot Timer 3 Review
[aawp box=”B00PGIL974″ template=”horizontal”]With a unique design, the Pact Club Timer 3 will fit your hand comfortably because the buzzer and microphone are not obstructed.
Its 100-shot memory comes with par time, automatic battery saver and automatic data compression.
This shot timer displays total time, shot number and split time all at once. Among the timer’s features are a big custom display, a sealed conductive rubber keypad and corrosion proof contacts.
The buzzer of this shot timer has a low frequency but it is loud enough. It is less likely for you to block the buzzer and the microphone because they are located to the timer’s side so they are away from your hand.
Below the shot timer’s top, all the control buttons are recessed so you don’t have to worry about pressing the buttons accidentally while you run with the timer. The buttons fall under your fingers naturally when you want to press them.
When you activate this shot timer, par time is displayed. The timer is made in the U.S. like the Pocket Pro Timer II.
- The shot timer is reasonably priced, durable and easy to use.
- It is packed with features that make it perfect both for first timers and for those who are training for competition shooting.
- Its rubber keypad is custom-sealed, conductive and waterproof.
- The tone of the shot timer is clear and less harsh.
- You don’t have to worry about accidental activation because the ergonomic buttons are recessed.
- First timers may find the instructions not be easy to understand.
#3:Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI4700 Shot Timer Review
[aawp box=”B00DX7QPOM” template=”horizontal”]If you are looking for your first shot timer, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro II Timer CEI4700 is recommended for you. Its size gives you a nice fit because the start button is positioned on the side.
To optimize the performance of the shot timer, its shot sensor and buzzer are separate. The buzzer output is 1,500Hz, which is powerful enough and transmits through hearing protection efficiently.
The shot capacity of the shot timer is 99 shots. Both the par time limit and the maximum time before wraparound are 199.9 seconds.
You can set a window of time down to tenths of a second through the par time. Without using live ammunition, you can practice mag changes and draws, among others.
If you are practicing indoors, you can change the volume of the start tone. You can also take advantage of the timer’s wide range of sensitivity adjustments.
The battery type of the shot timer is a 9-volt alkaline battery, which is sold separately and can be replaced easily. With this battery, you can use the timer for around 20 hours.
- The shot timer has a simple interface so it is ideal for first timers.
- If it is inactive for 10 minutes, it will turn off automatically.
- It is easy to learn and remember its intuitive menu and navigation.
- The space where the large buttons are positioned can accommodate big hands comfortably.
- The well-designed pocket clip holds firm.
- The shot timer does not have a memory of previous shot strings.
#4: Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Shot Timer and Purchasecorner Polish Cloth Bundle Review
[aawp box=”B00HYQFUO4″ template=”horizontal”]Among the high-end shot timer models available on the market today is the bundle consisting of the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro shot timer and the Purchasecorner polish cloth. This device is ideal for those who want to get into competitive shooting.
After 10 minutes of inactivity, the shot timer will automatically shot down so you can save batteries. Its display type is in numeric segment and its numbers are 0.5 inch tall.
Whether in reverse or forward order, the shot timer can review up to 50 shots. With the low battery indicator, you know that it’s time to charge the battery or replace it.
You can operate the shot timer with your left or right hand without worrying about having the buzzer and sensor covered. You get the time limit through the second beep of the par time and you can review split times, shots and shot number directly.
Along with the shot timer’s time limit indicator is its adjustable sensitivity. The timer also has instant/random selectable switch and a separate buzzer and shot sensor.
- The manual of the shot timer is clear and concise.
- It gives you good readability even when you use it outdoors.
- Its design is ergonomic, ambidextrous and effective.
- Its display is large.
- Its four buttons including the Start button make the operation straightforward.
- The shot timer does not allow you to freeze a shot string once it has ended.
#5: CED7000 Shot Timer Review
[aawp box=”B01HUFEQ0M” template=”horizontal”]The CED7000 shot timer is highly recommended not only for dry-fire practice shooting. It is also great for Range Officer (RO) use in United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA), International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC), Steel Challenge Shooting Association (SCSA) and 3-Gun competitions.
What makes the CED7000 one of the best shot timers out there is that it is very small and very light but it is highly efficient. It comes with a dual voltage charger, a neck lanyard and a wrist lanyard.
This shot timer was launched in 2006. It was the pioneer in showing splits, times, mode, review functions and date with time and in introducing a customized small illuminated LCD display and a rechargeable mobile battery.
If you are looking for a shot timer with a high frequency loud beep, this is a great choice. Among its other features are Auto-Start mode, Spy mode, Countdown mode, stop watch mode, an adjustable soft beep for dry-fire use and Silent operation for visual starts.
These features make this shot timer ideal for professionals. Five-time USPSA/IPSC production national champion Ben Stoeger is among those who use this device.
- This shot timer easily fits in your palm.
- With its LCD screen, it doesn’t have awkwardly bulky segmented displays.
- It allows you to get audio count down and set different counts.
- Its menu functions are remarkable.
- It is easy to operate.
- This shot timer is not ideal for those who prefer bigger devices.
- It doesn’t have a solid-state switch for you to turn it off.
#6: Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer Review
[aawp box=”B00CQ6ONEU” template=”horizontal”]The Pocket Pro shot timer from Competition Electronics measures shot time intervals efficiently. This blue-colored device is highly recommended for scoring matches and personal practice.
Among the good features of this shot timer are its low battery indicator and its automatic power turn down after 10-minute inactivity. What this timer requires is a 9-volt alkaline battery, which is sold separately.
Whether forward or reverse, this shot timer can review up to 50 shots and display time to 199.99 seconds. Its switch is selectable for instant or random delayed start while its LCD display has numbers that are a half inch tall.
You can use either your right or left hand without covering the buzzer or sensor while operating the shot timer. This is because of its ergonomic design.
Each specific function is assigned to each of the buttons so you don’t have to press a button several times. It produces 105 decibels, which are loud enough for you to hear over hearing protection, and the beep can be heard over a gun fire.
When you are training by yourself, set up the shot timer for a random interval. If you are teaching a class, take advantage of the par time.
- This shot timer is simple and very easy to use.
- Its beeps are clear.
- Its large buttons are spaced far apart.
- The functions are efficiently distributed to the buttons.
- The numbers are easy to read.
- The switches on the side of the shot timer are not very sturdy.
#7: Espresso Supply Digital Shot Timer Review
[aawp box=”B0016C8Y2W” template=”horizontal”]What makes the Digital Shot Timer special is that it is made of food safe ABS plastic. It was created by Espresso Supply, an expert when it comes to developing espresso accessories and small wares for espresso bar and coffee business operations.
Crafted with a great-looking chrome finish, this timer comes with an LR44 battery, a magnetic strip and instructional manual. A dual clip-and-stand feature is integrated in the shot timer, as well.
This shot timer can count by seconds, minutes or hours. Upon reaching zero, the alarm function will sound for 1 minute then it will start to count up and show the elapsed time since it reached zero.
You can use it as an excellent countdown timer through its digital memory function, which is necessary for timing shots accurately. Its magnetic attachment allows you to fit the shot timer to your espresso machine.
Another good feature of this shot timer is its count-up timer. This feature lets you know the overall time that has passed in case you missed the bell.
- This shot timer lets you time shots accurately.
- It has an attractive appearance.
- Its digital memory can be used as a countdown timer.
- You have the option to count by seconds, minutes or hours.
- Its timer rings longer than other shot timers.
- You may have to use some glue if the magnet separates from the unit.
#8: Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer Cloths Pin Type Belt Clip Review
[aawp box=”B004ZVR93Q” template=”horizontal”]Made of high impact plastic, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer Cloths Pin Type Belt Clip is clean and lightweight while its blue color makes it aesthetically nice. It comes with a clothespin-style belt clip.
The belt clip of the shot timer is effectively large and it fits over your shooting belt nicely. When you are running drills at the range, you can clip the timer to a front pocket without worrying about it coming loose.
When you go to town, you can hook the shot timer to your pocket. You can switch it to a delayed start then switch it back to instant when you run competitors on the range.
The power source required by this shot timer is a 9-volt alkaline battery. It displays time to 199.99 seconds and the numbers of its display are 0.5 inch tall.
While the display of this shot timer appears to be simplistic, you will be surprised by how easy it is to review strings and set up a par time once you learn the controls. It has a shot capacity of 50 shots.
- This shot timer is very simple to operate.
- It is lightweight but durable.
- It is simple but highly functional.
- Its ability to have a second beep is excellent.
- You can rely on its solid controls during practices and competitions.
- It does not have the ability to turn down the volume, which is needed when you do dry-firing at night.
How to Choose a Shot Timer
It is important to read shot timer reviews before shopping for one especially if you are a beginner. Even veteran shooters read these reviews first to look out for new models and make sure they get the best timer that meets their specific requirements.
There are at least five factors you need to consider when you are choosing a shot timer.
These are quality, durability, battery life, data recording and display.
Shot timers are used in hard-core activities so they are required to be durable and of high quality. Your timer must be strong enough to endure the harshest conditions in the training field or in the combat.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, it is not advisable to choose a shot timer that has few features but affordable. Better invest on more expensive timers with many features that will effectively help you improve your training skills.
But no matter how durable the shot timer is, it would be useless if the battery has a limited life. When you are comparing different models, pay attention to how long the battery would last.
The main function of a shot timer is to record data to help you assess your training progress and skill. If it does not give you foolproof data recording and storage accuracy, then it will not serve its purpose.
Moreover, even if the data recording is accurate, it will still be useless if you cannot conveniently see the recorded data and information. You should not be interrupted the timer itself when you access all the date that you need.
Types of Shot Timer
Shot timers enable you to review each shot you fired. To evaluate the consistency of your shooting, a shot timer allows you to check the times between the shots.
There are no specific categories that make certain shot timers belong to the same type. Like other products, they vary in size, shape and color but they have pretty much the same functions.
What can be considered as types of shot timers are the regular ones and the high-end ones. The regular timers simply have the basic functions of a timer, which are par time, start delay options and review function.
The high-end shot timers can offer more than these. Such a high-end shot timer is one model of a shot timer created by PACT that you can also use as a chronograph.
Your purpose of buying a shot timer may also be counted as the type of shot timers. Those with regular features are great for training while those with extra features are recommended for club shooting.
Top Shot Timer Brands
Choosing the best shot timer for the money can be time-consuming, especially if you are a newbie. If you’re still familiarizing yourself with the features of shot timers, better rely on the trusted brands when you are choosing the best one for you.
Among the popular brands of shot timers are PACT, Competition Electronics and Competitive Edge Dynamics (CED). PACT is popular among hobby shooters, competitive shooters, law enforcers and military people.
The CED brand is almost three decades old. The practical shooting community knows the brand for its shooting electronics and accessories.
As for Competition Electronics, the company has been manufacturing shooting devices since 1982. It also manufactures chronographs just like PACT.
Types of Shot Timer
Shot timers enable you to review each shot you fired. To evaluate the consistency of your shooting, a shot timer allows you to check the times between the shots.
There are no specific categories that make certain shot timers belong to the same type. Like other products, they vary in size, shape and color but they have pretty much the same functions.
What can be considered as types of shot timers are the regular ones and the high-end ones. The regular timers simply have the basic functions of a timer, which are par time, start delay options and review function.
The high-end shot timers can offer more than these. Such a high-end shot timer is one model of a shot timer created by PACT that you can also use as a chronograph.
Your purpose of buying a shot timer may also be counted as the type of shot timers. Those with regular features are great for training while those with extra features are recommended for club shooting.
Top Shot Timer Brands
Choosing the best shot timer for the money can be time-consuming, especially if you are a newbie. If you’re still familiarizing yourself with the features of shot timers, better rely on the trusted brands when you are choosing the best one for you.
Among the popular brands of shot timers are PACT, Competition Electronics and Competitive Edge Dynamics (CED). PACT is popular among hobby shooters, competitive shooters, law enforcers and military people.
The CED brand is almost three decades old. The practical shooting community knows the brand for its shooting electronics and accessories.
As for Competition Electronics, the company has been manufacturing shooting devices since 1982. It also manufactures chronographs just like PACT.
Who Makes the Best Shot Timer
With its decades of experience in the industry, Competition Electronics is considered the best brand of shot timers. Its reliable technology allows you to target training details including shooting skills and speed with efficiency.
Final Verdicts
All the eight shot timers listed in this article are high-quality products. However, I give the top spot to the Pocket Pro shot timer from Competition Electronics that comes with a Purchase corner polish cloth as it beats all other models in terms of quality, durability, battery life, data recording and display.
While it is more expensive than other models, this one is the best shot timer for the money. It is packed with features that make it great not only for those who want to get into competitive shooting but also to hobby shooters.
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In every training session I can’t imagine doing without a shot timer, it is handy for growing my skills but I think I would love an extra piece for my cousin.
I want to surprise him during our next outdoor shooting competition. A quick check on this blog fronts me with two options I hope won’t disappoint; the Pocket Pro Timer II CEI001 and the PACT Club Shot Timer 3.