Shooting Instructor’s Opinion: #1 Shot Timer?
CED 7000 Shot Timer Review
As shooting instructors, we’ve tested various options over the years. While many offered moderate success, their electronics eventually failed—this was the case with our old PACT Club Shot Timer. After hearing recommendations from our local USPSA leaders, we decided to try the CED 7000 Shot Timer. We loved it so much that we bought two more! Here’s our comprehensive CED 7000 review, highlighting its pros and cons.
Why Choose the CED 7000 Shot Timer?
The CED 7000 stands out because of its durability, ease of use, and range of features. It strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, making it a reliable choice for both competitive shooters and instructors.
Pros of the CED 7000 Shot Timer
- Ease of Use: The timer is user-friendly and doesn’t require an extensive learning curve.
- Durability: Built to last, the CED 7000 has stood up to rigorous use by our team of world-class instructors.
- Versatile Features: It offers more functionality than most users need, ensuring it covers all scenarios.
- Long Battery Life: Its internal rechargeable battery lasts for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent recharging.
Cons of the CED 7000 Shot Timer
While the timer works well in most settings, we encountered a minor issue:
- Over-Sensitivity in Indoor Ranges: One client found that the timer picked up shots from other lanes, even after lowering the sensitivity to its minimum setting. While this might not be a dealbreaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you frequent busy indoor ranges.
- The button labels are poorly named, but once you get used to it – it is great!
Practical Tips for Using the CED 7000
- If the beep is too loud for your preference, cover the speaker partially with your finger to muffle the sound.
- Explore the advanced features over time; while the basic functions are sufficient, the timer has much more to offer for advanced users.
Why We Recommend the CED 7000
Our team of professional shooting instructors has consistently relied on the CED 7000 Shot Timer for training and competitions. Its combination of reliability, durability, and user-friendly design makes it our favorite shot timer in its class.
If you’re ready to upgrade your shooting practice, consider purchasing the CED 7000 through our Amazon affiliate link.
My wife and late daughter enjoying the old PACT timer:
Shot Timers Available on Amazon – Why Use a Dedicated Shot Timer?
Shot timers provide precise feedback on your shooting performance, measuring split times, overall speed, and reaction times far more accurately than smartphone apps. They are essential for improving your skills, whether for practice, competition, or coaching.
Recommendations by Category
- Dry Fire Practice: AMG Lab Sidekick (excellent sensitivity and adjustable delay).
- Live Fire and Competition: Kestrel KST1000 and Competition Electronics ProTimer BT (highly durable, loud buzzers, and detailed analytics).
- General Coaching: Competition Electronics Pocket Pro (user-friendly with loud audio).
Top 4 Amazon-Rated Shot Timers
- Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer
Highly durable, waterproof, dual-screen design, and PractiScore compatible.
View on Amazon - PACT Club Shot Timer III
Compact, robust, easy to use, with loud buzzer and simple controls.
View on Amazon - Competition Electronics ProTimer BT
Bluetooth-enabled, tracks shot strings and splits, integrates with mobile apps for advanced training.
View on Amazon - Shooters Global Smart Shot Timer 2
Advanced Bluetooth connectivity, app integration, video overlay capabilities, ideal for modern competitive shooters.
View on Amazon
Choosing the Right Shot Timer
- Kestrel KST1000: Best choice for competition shooters and instructors requiring rugged reliability and loud volume.
- PACT Club III: Budget-friendly option, great for beginners or casual range use.
- ProTimer BT: Excellent for detailed analytics and app-connected training sessions.
- Shooters Global Smart Timer: Ideal for tech-savvy users who integrate video and advanced app features into their training.
These timers, backed by extensive instructor recommendations and strong Amazon reviews, offer something for shooters of every level and training style.