Best Shot Timer: Things to Know About the Top 10 Great Shot Timers

Best Shot Timer Comparison

Our Top 10 Picks for the Good Shot Timers Reviews

Competition Electronics Pocket Shot Timer, Blue

The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer, Blue is a very reliable model and, according to one customer, is the default shot timer at their local range.

It features an ambidextrous design. So, you can use it with both left and right hand without blocking the timer’s sensor or buzzer.

However, while the ergonomics is great, the physical design of this timer still needs improvements. The housing is made from supposedly impact-resistant plastic, but it has a very flimsy feel to it. The exterior scratches quite easily and it has been known to expire from being roughly-treated before.

Therefore, if this is the model that you decide to go for, we highly recommend that you be gentle with it.

The interface is easy enough to use and consists of five buttons. The first and most obvious is the power button. Then, depending on how you want to measure your shots, you can choose for either an instant or a delayed start.

You also have different buttons to help you review shots, split times, and shot numbers. The internal memory of the timer can store up to 50 different shots, which isn’t quite as high as other timers on the market.

The screen is a bit on the smaller side, but it is bright and easy to read.

In terms of battery, the timer uses a standard 9V battery. After 10 minutes of inactivity, the timer is programmed to automatically shut down to conserve power.

Pros

Cons

INDESIGN Tactical Shot Timer

If you need a timer that’s built for range work, the INDESIGN Tactical Shot Timer will be up to the task.

From the very first look, it is quite obvious that the timer is rugged and can withstand a lot of abuse. The housing is made from impact-resistant plastic. But, unlike the previous Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Timer, this one feels a lot more rigid.

It can be tossed, thrown, and dropped without much of an issue. The timer is also waterproof, so you can bring it out into the rain or drop it in a puddle without a problem.

Functionally, the timer is multi-purposed. Other than being a PAR timer, it can also be used as a normal stopwatch and countdown timer. You may also adjust the timer’s setting to suit your needs. It has an instant start, random start, fixed-time start as well as 4 other customizable practice modes.

For this exact reason, according to Special Pie (the manufacturer), the timer has been rated for use in sport competitions such as USPSA, IPSC, 3 Gun, and Steel Challenge. But there’s one more reason: the timer also comes with a Bluetooth module to connect with large LED billboards. It makes organizing such events a whole lot easier.

So, if we were to do a shot timers comparison right now, this model would win over a lot of best shots timers out there.

Unfortunately, not everything about this timer is great. The speaker has been criticized by a lot of users to be small and ineffective.

The screen sits prominently at the front of the timer. Not only is it large, the screen is also very bright and easy to read. To make it easier for you to view it in daylight, the screen is coated with a layer of anti-glare.

It has a pretty decent battery life, offering 7 days of use on a full charge. Unlike most timers which use removable batteries, the INDESIGN timer has a built-in rechargeable battery. From 0%, you can plug it in and charge it back to 100% in only 1.5 hours.

The timer automatically shuts down after a period of inactivity to save power.

Overall, this is a solid timer to use if you need a professional shot timer, if you can overlook the rather bad speaker that it comes with.

Pros

Cons

SPECIAL PIE Shot Timer - 3 in 1 Shooting Timer (M1A2-F)

Similar to the INDESIGN, this gun shot timer from Special Pie is built with toughness in mind. Packed similarly densely with features, you can rely on it to track your shots and serve as the arbiter for your shooting competitions.

Design-wise, unlike the INDESIGN, this timer isn’t made to be roughly-handled. The design here focuses a whole lot more on lightness and compactness rather than durability. As a result, this timer will be a lot more fitting for use at an indoor range rather than outdoor.

Though the design is different, the functionality is mostly the same as the INDESIGN tactical timer.

Beside the PAR timer, you also get a countdown timer and a stopwatch. You will also get different timing settings for competitions like USPSA, IPSC, APSC, IDPA, 3 Gun, and Steel Challenge. These modes are useful for practicing if you intend on participating. They will also be hugely useful for range officers at these events.

This best shooting timer comes with a Bluetooth function to connect with larger LED billboards. It is also compatible with PractiScore — a smartphone app to track and analyze your shooting performance. Currently, only the Android version is available. The iOS version is said to be under development.

At the front of the M1A2 is a bright, blue screen LCD display. Its large size means you can read data a whole lot easier. For outdoor shootings, the screen is coated in a layer of anti-glare to keep your eyes from being dazzled.

Like the INDESIGN tactical timer, the battery used in the M1A2 is a rechargeable battery with a 7-day life. The battery can be fully recharged in 1.5 hours. Programmed to conserve battery life, the timer shuts itself off after a period of inactivity.

One common complaint that we have seen doesn’t relate to this gun range timer itself. Rather, it has to do with the instruction manual, which is very difficult to understand.

Pros

Cons

Mantis X3 Shooting Performance System

The Mantis X3’s selling point is that it is basically a pocketable shooting coach. Its sensors can analyze your performance. The data is then used by the system to provide you with tips to help you improve.

Its design is completely different from the other best rated shot timers on the list. The Mantis X3’s sensor component is attached to the underside of your pistol. Connect the sensor to your smartphone through an app and voila, you got yourself an undermount fire tracking sensor.

Most pistols and rifles with a rail or an adapter will fit the Mantis X3. In very special cases, such as with the Glock family of pistols (17 and 19), you may need to purchase a separate adapter for the sensor to fit. You can find the adapter for these on the company’s website. Alternatively, you can just call their customer service to let them sort it out for you.

The sensor can track every movement of your pistol and record it to your phone. Later, you can review valuable pieces of data like your pre-shot hold, trigger pull, and recoil. The system combines these data to give you a summarized score to help you visualize your shooting performance.

It is a lot easier to train your technique and improve performance with this sort of data.

Now I know what you’re probably thinking. That’s great and all, but where does the shot timer come in?

It’s part of the app. Because the sensor is literally a part of your firearm, the Mantis X3 can record your PAR very accurately. Just select the timer mode through your smartphone.

The Mantis X3 functions via a built-in battery. It can last for a very long time. When the battery runs out, you can recharge it with the included Micro USB cable.

One downside is that the Mantis X3 requires a constant connection with your smartphone. As a result, connectivity issues could seriously hamper your session. A lot of people have reported a “Failure to connect to the app” message on their phone.

Other than this road bump, the X3 is an excellent pistol shot timer worth trying out.

Pros

Cons

Best Shot Timer for Dry Fire: DAA-304 Shotmaxx-2 Shot Timer

While the Mantis X3 is designed like a firearm attachment, the Shotmaxx-2 assumes the form of a wristwatch. This form factor makes it an excellent gadget if you like to train on your own.

Shotmaxx-2 is comfortable and light on the wrist. As a result, practicing drawing and tactical movements will be easier with it on. And since it’s strapped to your wrist, you have full use of both of your hands unlike with other timers.

The watch is pretty rugged and can withstand a hard tumble. It is also waterproof. Nevertheless, we don’t recommend you to roll around in the mud with it.

The microphone in the timer can listen accurately to your shots. Customers have attested that even when they’re shooting in a busy range, the Shotmaxx-2 never mistakes them for the user’s shot. It is so sensitive, in fact, that it can differentiate between a dry fire and the real thing.

There are two measurement modes that you can switch back and forth between using the buttons on the device. The first mode is quite familiar: the Shotmaxx-2 will listen to the sound of your gun’s report. But when it’s turned to the second mode, the device uses an in-built accelerometer to feel for the recoil, instead.

This is a very unique feature that not many top rated shot timers have.

While the microphone is sensitive enough to tell the sound of your gun from others, in a busy range, it may give you a better peace of mind using the second mode, instead.

The speaker is loud and can be heard even through foam ear-pros.

Battery is excellent with a standby time of 2 months per charge.

This may sound nitpicky, but if there's absolutely one thing that we have to say that’s not in favor of the Shotmaxx-2, then it’s that the timer doesn’t have Bluetooth. The Shotmaxx-1 had it before it was discontinued. It’s not a big loss, but the feature would’ve still been appreciated.

Pros

Cons

What is a shot timer?

A shot timer is a device that measures the time elapsed between when the shooter begins a trial and when they shoot their first shot. It is also used to measure the time elapsed between shots. This information can be used to improve your shooting accuracy and speed.

There are many different types of shot timers on the market, and each has its own unique features. It is important to choose a timer that meets your specific needs.

How shot timer work ?

Shot timers use a variety of methods to measure the time elapsed between when the shooter begins a trial and when they shoot their first shot. The most common method is to use an infrared sensor to detect the muzzle flash of the gun.

When the sensor detects the muzzle flash, it sends a signal to the timer which then starts the clock. The timer will continue to run until the shooter stops it. This information can be used to improve your shooting accuracy and speed.

Benefit of shot timer

There are a few different benefits that come from using a shot timer.

Shot timers can help shooters to improve their accuracy and speed. By timing how long it takes to hit each target, shooters can get an idea of where they need to improve.

Shot timers can also be used in competition. In some cases, the timer is used to simply keep track of the time it takes each shooter to complete the course. In other cases, the timer is used as part of a scoring system where faster times result in higher scores. This can help to add an element of fun and excitement to the competition.

No matter how they are used, shot timers can be a helpful tool for shooters of all levels. They can help shooters to improve their skills and to see how they stack up against other shooters.

Start delay feature

A shot timer with a start delay feature will give you the opportunity to prepare for your shot. This is especially beneficial for competitive shooters who need time to set up their gear before the competition begins.

Most timers have a delay of anywhere from one to five seconds, and some even have a longer delay. Make sure to choose a timer with a delay that is suitable for your needs.

Chronograph function

A chronograph is a device that measures the time it takes a projectile to travel a known distance. This information can be used to determine the velocity of the bullet. Many shot timers have a built-in chronograph function.

Dry Fire Feature

A dry fire feature is a useful feature for shooters who want to practice their trigger control. When the timer is in dry fire mode, it will not record any of the shots that you make. This allows you to focus on your accuracy without having to worry about the time.

Many timers also have a shot count feature that will keep track of the number of shots that you have fired. This is a useful feature for competitive shooters who need to keep track of their ammunition usage.

Par Time Feature

A par time feature is a useful feature for shooters who want to compete against themselves. This feature allows you to set a time limit for each drill. When the timer expires, the drill will end and the results will be recorded.

This feature is also useful for shooters who want to measure their progress over time.

Voice Output Feature

A voice output feature is a useful feature for shooters who want to keep their hands free. This feature will speak the time remaining, the elapsed time, and the results of the drill.

This feature is also beneficial for shooters who are visually impaired.

How do I use a shot timer?

Using a shot timer is fairly simple. You simply start the timer when you begin your trial and stop it when you shoot your first shot. The timer will then calculate the time elapsed between start and finish.

If you are using the timer to measure the time between shots, you will need to stop the timer after each shot. This information can then be used to improve your shooting speed.

Types of shot timers

There are many different types of shot timers on the market, and each has its own unique features. It is important to choose a timer that meets your specific needs.

The following is a list of the most common types of shot timers:

Mechanical timers – These timers use a mechanical clock to measure the time elapsed between shots. They are typically less expensive than other types of timers, but they can be difficult to use in low-light conditions.

Digital timers – These timers use electronic sensors to measure the time elapsed between shots. They are typically more accurate than mechanical timers, and they can be used in low-light conditions.

Voice activated timers – These timers are activated by voice commands. They are typically more accurate than other types of timers, and they can be used in low-light conditions.

RFID timers – These timers use RFID tags to measure the time elapsed between shots. They are typically more accurate than other types of timers, and they can be used in low-light conditions.

Tips for improving your shooting speed

The following are a few tips for improving your shooting speed:

– Practice regularly. The more you practice, the faster you will shoot.

- Use a shot timer to measure your progress. By tracking your progress, you can identify areas where you need to improve.

- Drill frequently. Drill is one of the best ways to improve your shooting speed.

- Shoot from different positions. Shooting from different positions will help you to become more proficient with your gun.

- Stay focused. When you are shooting, you should focus on the target and not on anything else. This will help you to shoot faster and more accurately.

– Practice under pressure. Shooting in a stressful situation will help you to become more comfortable with shooting under pressure.

Essential Features to Look For

Display

Data Recording

Battery Life

Quality and Durability

The Verdict

Based on all the information provided and discussed in this article, we now have decided which of the best five shot timers own the top spot. This is in accordance with the factors that we have discussed and highlighted as important things to consider when choosing a shot timer.

After our thoughtful discussion, we have seen the edges of the CED7000 Shot Timer compared to the other four named units and named it the best shot timer 2022. It is very handy, making it easier for the shooter to carry it to the woods or the range. It can fit perfectly in a palm so it would not be very inconvenient on the part of the user to carry it anywhere especially that it comes with a wrist watch or lanyard.

Yes, it may be more expensive compared to the other brands, but one can be assured that it will only be a one-time out of the pocket experience. Consider it as an investment instead of buying the cheapest shot timers that you can find and having them replaced every week or so. That would not be at all practical.

One can be assured that all other factors are met, and this unit will be able to serve you for a long time. We also need not to mention the fact that it offers more convenience to the user as he need not bring spare batteries anymore since the batteries of this CED7000 are rechargeable.

After providing you with our most practical ways and guided steps to find the Great shot timers, this article hopes that you now have the confidence and the clearest idea when choosing and purchasing one. Always take note of the factors that you need to consider when choosing the perfect shot timer for you. Always go for the one that will surely give you your money’s worth without regretting. Now is your time to go shopping and grab your ideal shot timer based on the reviews that we have provided.

Keep improving your shooting and targeting skills by learning and practicing more. By being here, we know that you are on the right track.

Take advantage of our guided steps and our reviews, and we are very confident that it will help you decide quickly as it will narrow your choices and eventually show you the way towards your preferred shot timer.

Also, keep in mind that these top five best shot timers are recommended for International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) and Competitions which assure everyone that these are top caliber shot timers.

Now, leave your comments and let us know if this article has been helpful to all of you. We would prefer to keep this interactive by letting us know what you think. We would appreciate your feedback and comments. Hope to hear from all of you soon!

Good luck on your shot timer hunting and enjoy shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Does a Shot Timer Work?

The way a basic shot timer (or shooting clock) works is simple enough.

When you first set up a timer, most will give you three options:

+ Instant start: the timer begins recording the moment the START button is pressed. This mode is often used if you have a buddy accompanying you to the range to control the timer.

+ Random start: the timer starts at a random interval. Great to train your drawing reflex.

+ Fixed-time start: the timer starts after a pre-programmed amount of time.

Whenever the timer starts, it will give out a loud, audible beep. That’s your signal to begin shooting. After a pre-programmed period, the timer will let out another audible signal to stop the session.

The timer records each of your shots with a microphone. Certain timers will use an accelerometer to detect the gun’s recoil to make a recording.

What Is PAR Time?

When the timer beeps to begin your shooting session, after a predetermined amount of time, it will sound off a second beep for you to stop. The length of time between the starting beep and the ending beep is called the PAR time.

Your goal as a shooter is to land as many required shots within the PAR time as you possibly can.

What Are Splits in Shooting

Splits are a very simple, but important concept. It refers to the length of time between each of your shots. The quicker the split, the more shots you will be able to make within the PAR time.

Most competitive firearms are semi-automatic (requiring individual trigger pulls to shoot). Splits will tell you exactly how quick your trigger finger is. With an accurate recording of your split times, you will be able to improve your shooting by working on lowering them.

Are There Any Shot Timer Apps?

With a brief search on the app market of your choice (Google Play or Apple’s App Store), you can find hundreds of different shot timing apps. All of them will claim the same thing: that they’re accurate and reliable.

But the truth is that you will be far better off with real, best shot timers than with any of these apps — even the best shot timer apps out there. This doesn’t mean that they don’t work. It’s just that they don’t work well. 

Your smartphone’s microphone isn’t designed to pick up shots. As a result, if you shoot in a busy range, the app may mistake other people’s shots as yours. It’s not unheard of for apps to not record shots at all!

Additionally, the recordings that they make may not be very accurate. If you’re training for a competition, every millisecond counts. Your smartphone won’t be able to give you that, no matter which app you use. So, if you’re serious about logging your shooting performance, the best course of action is to invest in a serious shooting timer.

These apps do have their use cases, though. Let’s say your US Ballistics electronic shot timer suddenly ran out of battery, broke down on the range, or you just forgot to bring them with you, your smartphone could be a good stand-in. Don’t rely too much on the recordings, though. Like we said, they aren’t very reliable.

Can You Dry Fire With a Shot Timer?

You most certainly can. And there’s no need to search for a special shot timer for dry fire. Virtually all serious shot timers will have a mode to detect the click of the hammer in a dry fire. They will record the sound as a “shot” even without the gunpowder.

So, if you want to practice your drawing and shooting at home, these shooting timers have got you covered.

Do shot timers work for dry fire?

Yes, shot timers can be used for dry fire practice.

What is par time on shot timer?

Par time is the amount of time you have to shoot a target. It is usually measured in seconds.

What are the best features of a shot timer?

The best features of a shot timer vary depending on your needs. However, some common features include adjustable volumes, tones, and par times.

Do I need a shot timer?

While a shot timer is not required, it can be a helpful tool for improving your shooting skills.

How do I use a shot timer for dry fire?

To use a shot timer for dry fire, you first need to set the timer for the amount of time you want to shoot. Then, you need to place your gun in a safe direction and start shooting. When you hear the beep, stop shooting.

What are the benefits of using a shot timer?

Some benefits of using a shot timer include improving your shooting skills, increasing your awareness of the amount of time you have to shoot, and forcing you to focus on your accuracy.

Do professional shooters use shot timers?

Many professional shooters use shot timers to help them improve their shooting skills.

How do I clean my shot timer?

To clean your shot timer, you will need to remove the batteries and wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Be sure to avoid getting any water inside the timer.

Can I use a shot timer for airsoft?

Yes, you can use a shot timer for airsoft. However, you may need to adjust the settings to accommodate for the different distances involved in airsoft.

What are best shot timer app for iPhone?

There are many shot timer apps available for iPhone, but some of the best include:

- Perfect Shot Timer: This app is designed to help you time your shots perfectly, and includes features such as adjustable settings, a pause function, and more.

- Shoot-O-Matic: This app is a great choice for those who want a simple and easy to use shot timer. It includes a large start/stop button, and can be set to vibrate or make a sound when your time is up.

- Shooting Timer: This app is perfect for those who are serious about their shooting, and includes features such as customizable settings, different modes (including practice and match), and more.

What are best shot timer apps for dry fire practice? 

There are many different shot timer apps available, and it can be difficult to choose the right one. Some things to consider include the features offered by the app, the ease of use, and the price. Some popular shot timer apps include Dry Fire Pro, Shoot-N-Train Timer, and TomatoTimer.

Dry Fire Pro is a comprehensive training app that offers a wide range of features. It includes a shot timer, practice drills, target tracking, and more. It is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Shoot-N-Train Timer is a simple but effective app that is great for dry fire practice. It includes a shot timer and allows you to set up custom practice drills. It is available for both iOS and Android devices.

TomatoTimer is a free shot timer app that is simple to use. It includes a basic shot timer and allows you to set up custom practice drills. It is available for both iOS and Android devices.

No matter which app you choose, a shot timer can be a great way to improve your shooting skills. By using a shot timer, you can track your progress and see how you are improving over time.

What are the Best shot timer apps for iPhone 

There are plenty of shot timer apps available for iPhone, and they can be a great way to help improve your shooting accuracy. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Shot Timer by Drillslinger

This app is designed to help you time your shots and track your progress over time. It features a simple interface that makes it easy to use, and it includes a variety of different drills to keep you challenged.

2. Shoot-N-Sync Shot Timer

This app allows you to sync your shots with a companion app on your Apple Watch, making it easy to track your progress. It also includes a variety of drills and games to keep you entertained, and it even has a night mode so you can continue practicing after dark.

3. Dryfire by Tactical Tools

This app is designed to help you improve your trigger control and shot placement. It includes a variety of drills to challenge you, and it even lets you compete against friends or other users online.

4. Shot Timer Plus

This app includes a variety of features to help you time your shots and track your progress. It includes a split-screen mode so you can see your previous shots, and it even allows you to share your results with friends via social media.