US20080054570A1 - Shooting targets, including teaching targets, target assemblies and associated systems - Google Patents

Abstract

Shooting targets, including teaching targets, target assemblies and associated systems are disclosed herein. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to target systems and assemblies for effectively teaching and practicing shot placement on animal shapes for improving hunting skills. In a particular embodiment, a shooting target assembly includes a backer having at least a first target image. The backer may include a substrate and a first print layer. The target image, including at least a first animal shape, may be at least partially defined by the first print layer. The assembly may also include a replacement label sized to cover a target region of the first target image. The replacement label may include a label print layer that at least partially defines a region of the animal shape. The replacement label may also include an illustration of a first organ structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
• This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/840,754, filed Aug. 28, 2006, entitled “FIREARM TARGET ASSEMBLIES,” and which is incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
• The present disclosure is directed generally to shooting target assemblies and shooting target systems, including targets with replacement target regions configured to improve and teach shot placement skills.
BACKGROUND
• Many marksmen use firearms, including game hunters, competitive and non-competitive sport shooters, military personnel, law enforcement officers, as well as ranchers needing to protect livestock from predators. At some point in their training, most marksmen use firearm targets to improve and practice their marksmanship skills. Similarly, hunting archers or sports archers, also uses targets to improve accuracy and precision. Typically, target practice occurs on a shooting range or other protected environment suitable for repeat practice and evaluation of performance.
• Conventional targets may include a variety of images, typically fashioned to include progressively smaller concentric portions culminating in a desired point of impact such as a “bulls-eye,” for a firearm projectile (e.g., a bullet) or arrow. Target images for marksmanship practice may be a variety of sizes and may be used for practice while positioned at various distances and in a variety of environmental conditions (e.g., bright or low lighting, precipitation, wind, etc.). For example, targets used in varying outdoor conditions or at great distances may have other features (e.g., color, texture, reflectivity, water resistance, glare resistance, positionable at various heights, etc.).
• Target shooting may help marksmen measure and track their shooting accuracy. For example, the distance between the intended impact point and the actual impact point can be measured and recorded to monitor improvement in target shooting accuracy. While sport shooting competitions typically include targets having an intended impact point, in some instances (e.g., hunting) marksmen must hit desired impact points while not having indication marks such as a bull's-eye to guide their sight lines. Accordingly, targets and target assemblies are important elements in teaching, practicing, and improving marksman-related skills.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify similar elements or acts. The sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes of various elements and angles are not drawn to scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve drawing legibility. Further, the particular shapes of the elements as drawn are not intended to convey any information regarding the actual shape of the particular elements, and have been solely selected for ease of recognition in the drawings.
• FIG. 1A is a front view illustration of a shooting target assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 1B is a front view illustration of a target backer in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIGS. 2A-2C are cross-sectional views along line2-2 inFIG. 1B of embodiments of the target backer in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIGS. 3A-3D are partially schematic, front view illustrations of embodiments of a replacement label in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 4A is a partially schematic, front view illustration of a shooting target assembly having an animal shape in a front perspective view. in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 4B is a partially schematic, front view illustration of a shooting target assembly having an animal shape in a broadside perspective view, and in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 5 is a partially schematic, top perspective view illustration of an embodiment of a shooting target system in accordance with the disclosure.
• FIG. 6 is a partially schematic, front view illustration of another shooting target assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 7 is a partially schematic, front view illustration of another shooting target assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 8 is a partially schematic, front view illustration of another shooting target assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
• FIG. 9 is a partially schematic, front perspective view illustration of a further embodiment of a shooting target assembly in accordance with the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• A. Overview
• The following disclosure describes several embodiments of shooting targets, target assemblies, and associated systems and methods. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to shooting targets having a replaceable target region for improving and teaching shot placement.
• In one embodiment, a shooting target assembly includes a backer having at least a first target image. The backer may include a substrate and a first print layer. The target image, including at least a first animal shape, may be at least partially defined by the first print layer. The assembly may also include a replacement label sized to cover a target region of the first target image. The replacement label may include a label print layer that at least partially depicts an internal region of the animal. For example, the replacement label may include an illustration of a first organ structure.
• In another embodiment, a shooting target system includes a target assembly having a target backer with a first target image on a first side and a second target image on a second side. The first target image has a first animal shape with a first target region and the second target image has a second animal shape with a second target region. The target assembly may also include a first replacement label including a first region on a front surface corresponding to one of the first or second target regions. The target assembly may also include an illustration of an internal organ structure overlaying at least one of the first animal shape, the second animal shape, and/or the first region.
• Another embodiment is directed to shooting target assemblies having a target backer with a photorealistic image presented on a first side of the target backer. The photorealistic image may include an animal image. The shooting target assembly also includes a replacement label. The replacement label includes a portion of the animal image contained on the target backer and is positioned on the target backer such that the animal image and the photorealistic image are substantially aligned. The portion of the animal image contained on the replacement label may be photorealistic. The portion of the animal image may further include a schematic view of a region of the animal. The shooting target assembly also includes an illustration of an internal organ structure carried by the replacement label.
• Specific details of several embodiments of the disclosure are described below with reference to shooting targets and shooting target assemblies. Several details describing well-known structures or processes often associated with targets and manufacturing of targets are not set forth in the following description for purposes of brevity and clarity. Also, several other embodiments of the disclosure may have different configurations, components, or procedures than those described in this section. A person of ordinary skill in the art, therefore, will accordingly understand that the disclosure may include other embodiments with additional features and characteristics, or the disclosure may include other embodiments without several of the features and characteristics shown and described below with reference toFIGS. 1A-9.
• Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also include the plural or singular term, respectively. Moreover, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive from other items in reference to a list of at least two items, then the use of “or” in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in the list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list. Additionally, the term “comprising” is used throughout to mean including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same features and/or other types of features and components are not precluded.
• B. Embodiments of Target Assemblies
• FIG. 1A is a front view of ashooting target assembly100 for teaching and practicing shot placement by a practice shooter (e.g., a firearm marksman, archer) in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. Theshooting target assembly100 includes atarget backer110 having asubstrate112 and afirst print layer114. Thefirst print layer114 may be partially defined by atarget image120. Thetarget image120 may include at least ananimal shape122. Theassembly100 may further include areplacement label130 sized to cover atarget region124 of thetarget image120 and having alabel print layer132 at least partially defining aregion125 of theanimal shape122. Thelabel print layer132 may include an illustration of internal organ structures134a-134d(collectively referred to as134), such as vital organs (e.g., lungs, heart, liver, spine, etc.). In other embodiments, thelabel print layer132 may include a bull's-eye, or may match theanimal shape122 of thetarget region124 that is being covered.
• FIG. 1B is a front view of thetarget backer110 illustrated inFIG. 1A. Referring toFIGS. 1A and 1B together, thetarget backer110 has the first print layer114 (e.g., an ink layer, a laser-printed surface, a painted surface, a printed photographic image, etc.) covering or at least proximal to thesubstrate112 and facing in a direction generally opposite from thesubstrate112 and visible by the shooter. Thefirst print layer114 may at least partially define thetarget image120. In some embodiments, thefirst print layer114 may include one or more colors arranged in a color pattern to form thetarget image120. In other embodiments thefirst print layer114 may be a photograph or other photorealistic image of ananimal shape122 or other target shape.
• As illustrated in the embodiment shown inFIG. 1B, thetarget image120 may include a simulated image of a game animal or hunting target such as theanimal shape122. Theanimal shape122 illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B depicts a buck as the animal would be visualized from abroadside perspective view129. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a variety of animal shapes, including animal shapes depicted in a wide array of positions (e.g., perspective views, front views, top views, rear views), may be shown including, but not limited to, game animals (e.g., deer, moose, elk), birds (e.g., wild turkey, duck, quail), canid family members (e.g., coyote, fox), felines (e.g., mountain lion), and vermin (e.g., ground squirrel, mole, rabbit, gopher). Theanimal shape122 may be sized to full-scale or may be less or more than full-scale. Accordingly, theanimal shape122 representing a buck may be sized according to the buck's authentic size on thetarget image120. In other embodiments, thetarget image120 may have theanimal shape122 sized differently than full-scale (e.g., smaller or larger than the animal's authentic size).
• Theanimal shape122 may be colored and havecharacteristic features123 that impart a recognizable and/or realistic appearance. In this specific embodiment, theanimal shape122 may be a photograph taken of the desired target representative animal. In other embodiments, a realistic illustration or painting may depict theanimal shape122, the representative animal color, and/or characteristic features123. In further embodiments, theanimal shape122 may be a simple drawing or cartoon that includescharacteristic features123 of the representative animal, target or target shape.
• As illustrated inFIG. 1B, thetarget image120 may include one or more illustrations of the internal organ structures134 (e.g., heart, lungs, liver, spine, other skeletal features, etc.) at least partially defined by thefirst print layer114. In some embodiments, thereplacement label130 may include the internal organ structures134 and is configured to overlay theanimal shape122 in a generally anatomically correct position. Additionally, the internal organ structures134 may be scaled to size according to the corresponding size of theanimal shape122. Furthermore, the internal organ structures134 may include the anatomical shape of the representative organs' structures. In other arrangements, the anatomical shape may not be included and the illustrations may include other shapes such as a bull's-eye to represent the location of the representative organ structures. Some illustrations of the internal organ structures134 (e.g., illustrations representing vital organ structures) may generally be located in the target region124 (shown in dotted lines) of thetarget image120.
• In one embodiment, the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 may include an outline of the one or more internal organ structures. In some arrangements, the outline may be in a lighter color (e.g., gray, light brown, etc.) so that the outlines of the internal organ structures134 do not contrast with theanimal shape122, including the internal coloring of theanimal shape122. Consequently, the internal organ structures134 may be at least partially camouflaged by theanimal shape122 and color and may have a general “phantom” appearance. In other arrangements, the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 may be outlined in a contrasting color, or in additional arrangements, the internal organ structures134 may be filled with a pattern or solid color (e.g., red, pink, yellow, green, grey, etc.). In a further embodiment, the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 may includeidentification information135, such as a identification label to indicate the name of the representative organ. In some embodiments, the first print layer may not include the internal organ structures134.
• In one embodiment, theanimal shape122 may be surrounded by anexterior image region126. Theexterior image region126 may include shapes depicting realistic surroundings for the representative animal. For example, theexterior image region126 may includeenvironmental features127 such as grass, bushes, trees, clouds, mountain sides, rocks, or other natural features. Theenvironmental features127 may be colored, shaped, and otherwise emulate a natural setting via a photographic image (e.g., photorealistic image), an illustration, a painting or the like. Thetarget image120, including theanimal shape122 and theexterior image region126, may have a generally natural appearance that a hunter or other marksman (e.g., forest ranger, rancher, law enforcement officer) would realistically encounter while hunting or while on the job.
• In other embodiments, thetarget image120 may not include the environmental features127. For example, the exterior image region may be a solid color and/or have other target features such as conventional target shapes128 having concentric rings (e.g., bull's-eye), cross-hairs, etc. In these embodiments, shooters may practice shooting the conventional target shapes128 and/or use the conventional target shapes128 for focusing scopes, laser pointers, night vision equipment and the like. In a particular arrangement, thetarget image120 may include manufacturing and/or company identification information (not shown). In some embodiments, thetarget backer110 may be cut to remove theexterior image region126 or shaped to include the only theanimal shape122.
• FIGS. 2A-2C are partially schematic, cross-sectional views illustrating embodiments of the target backer110 (individually illustrated as110a-c) in accordance with the present disclosure. Referring toFIGS. 2A-2C, thetarget backer110 may be generally planar and have afirst side202 and asecond side204 facing opposite from thefirst side202. In other embodiments, thetarget backer110 may have other configurations (e.g., curved, three-dimensional, folded, etc.) Thetarget backer110 may include thesubstrate112 having at least acore layer206. In some embodiments thetarget backer110 may also include a texture layer (not shown) that would lend to the appearance of a three-dimensional structure.
• FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of thetarget backer110awherein thecore layer206 includes a rigid or semi-rigid layer having a corrugated shape. Thecore layer206 may be made of a variety of materials including cardboard, plastic, paper stock, or other suitable supporting material. As illustrated inFIG. 2A, thesubstrate112 may also include one or more additional support layers208aand208battached to thecore layer206 on the first andsecond sides202 and204, respectively. Support layers208aand208bmay be formed from the same material as the supporting material used to form thecore layer206 or the support layers208aand208bmay be formed of a material different than the support material used for forming thecore layer206.
• In one embodiment, thefirst side202 includes thefirst print layer114 wherein the first print layer at least partially defines a first target image (e.g., thetarget image120 shown inFIG. 1B). Thefirst print layer114 may be printed on a sheet of paper, plastic, or other printable material, and may be permanently or temporarily attached to thesupport layer208awith an adhesive (not shown) such as an adhesive film, epoxy, tape, paste, or other suitable material. Additional embodiments may include attaching thefirst print layer114 to thesupport layer208awith tacks, clips, nails, staples, or other fastening devices.
• Referring toFIG. 2A, thesecond side204 may include asecond print layer210. Thesecond print layer210 may have several of the same features as thefirst print layer114. For example, thesecond print layer210 may at least partially define a second target image (not shown). The second target image may be the same as thefirst target image120; may show the first target image from a different perspective; or may be different from the first target image. In a specific example, the first target image may include a first animal shape (e.g., animal shape122) and the second target image may include a second animal shape different from the first animal shape.
• In another embodiment, illustrated inFIG. 2B, thetarget backer110bincludes thesubstrate112 having thecore layer206 as described above with respect to targetbacker110a(FIG. 2A). Thetarget backer110bdiffers from thetarget backer110ain that thetarget backer110bdoes not include theadditional support members208aand208b. In this embodiment, thefirst print layer114 and/or thesecond print layer210 may be directly attached to thecore layer206. In another embodiment, not shown, thesubstrate112 may include at least one of theadditional support members208aor208b(FIG. 2A) and at least one of thefirst print layer114 or thesecond print layer210 may be directly applied to (e.g., printed onto) thesupport layer208aor208b. In other embodiments, thefirst print layer114 may be directly applied to thecore layer206 on a first side and the support layers208aand/or208bcan be attached to a second side.
• FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view along line2-2 ofFIG. 1B illustrating atarget backer110cin accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure. Thetarget backer110cdiffers from thetarget backers110aand110bin that thetarget backer110chas aplanar core layer206. Thecore layer206 may be a solid material that generally provides mechanical strength and support for thetarget backer110c(e.g., a plastic structure, polystyrene layer, cardboard, wood, or other supporting material). In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2C, thefirst print layer114 and/or thesecond print layer210 may be attached to thecore layer206. In other arrangements, the additional support layers208aand208b(FIG. 2A) may be attached to thecore layer206 and thefirst print layer114 and/or thesecond print layer210 may be directly applied to (e.g., printed onto) thesupport layer208aand/or208b.
• The embodiments of thetarget backer110a-cillustrated inFIGS. 2A-2C, contain thesubstrate112 having supportive features, such thecore layer206. The target assembly may also include a target stand (not shown) configured to carry thetarget backer110 in a variety of locations and position the target backer at various angles. For example, the target stand may be configured to carry thetarget backer110 in a plane transverse to the horizon (e.g., vertical, upright). In another embodiment, the target stand may support at least the target backer in a position that is generally parallel to the horizon. The target stand may include a variety of support members for carrying thetarget backer110. In some arrangements, thetarget backer110 may not include acore layer206 and thetarget backer110 may be fully supported by the target stand. In other arrangements, the target stand may be unnecessary and thetarget backer110 may be configured to be self supporting (e.g., by folding, an integrated back support, etc.) or supported by other structures (e.g., a fence, a box, a hay bale, the ground, etc.).
• Referring back toFIG. 1A, theshooting target assembly100 also includes thereplacement label130. Thereplacement label130 may be generally planar and may include one or more pliable or non-pliable layers. For example, thereplacement label130 may include alabel substrate131, such as paper stock or plastic, and thelabel print layer132 covering thelabel substrate131. Thereplacement label130 may have afront surface133 and a back surface (not shown) generally facing opposite from thefront surface133. Thelabel print layer132 may be applied to or otherwise attached to thefront surface133.
• Thereplacement label130 may have a size smaller than thetarget backer110. For example, thereplacement label130 may be configured to cover a portion of the target image120 (e.g., the target region124) on thetarget backer110. In one embodiment, theregion125 of theanimal shape122, as defined by thelabel print layer132, may correspond to thetarget region124 of thetarget image120. Thelabel print layer132 may at least partially define theregion125 such that theregion125 is a duplicate image of thecorresponding target region124. For example, theregion125 of thereplacement label130 may be duplicated in color and design such that when the replacement label is attached to thetarget region124 of thetarget image120, the visual transition between thetarget image120 and theregion125 defined by thelabel print layer132 is seamless. In other embodiments, however, theregion125 may look different from the target image surrounding thetarget region124.
• In one embodiment, thelabel print layer132 may also at least partially define one or more of the illustrations of the internal organ structures134. In this arrangement, theregion125 may be different from thetarget region124. For example, in embodiments wherein thetarget image120 does not include one or more of the internal organ structures134, areplacement label130 having one or more of the internal organ structures134 may be attached to targetbacker110 thereby changing the appearance of thetarget assembly100. In other embodiments, differing internal organ structures134 may be shown on each of thetarget image120 and thereplacement label130, e.g.,lungs134a,heart134b,liver134c,spine134d, etc.
• FIGS. 3A-3D are partially schematic, cross-sectional views illustrating embodiments of the replacement label130 (individually illustrated as130a-c) in accordance with the present disclosure. The replacement labels130 are substantially as described above with respect toFIG. 1A. The replacement labels130a-130cdiffer from each other by including more or less target practice information overlaying theregion125. For example,FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of thereplacement label130ahaving thelabel substrate131 and thelabel print layer132. In this embodiment, thelabel print layer132 at least partially defines theregion125 and the illustrations of internal organ structures134a-c. The illustrations of the internal organ structures134a-cmay be configured to overlay theregion125 and may include only an outline of the internal organ structures134a-c. As described above, the outline of the internal organ structures134a-cmay be in a non-contrasting color (e.g., grey, brown, etc.) to minimize visibility of the internal organ structures134a-cto the practicing shooter (not shown). In other arrangements, the outline of the internal organ structures134a-cmay be in a contrasting color (e.g., white, black, red, etc.) from the surround color of theregion125 such that the outline has increased visibility for the practicing shooter.
• In another embodiment, illustrated inFIG. 3B, thereplacement label130bmay include thelabel print layer132 having illustrations of the internal organ structure134a-cthat are fully patterned or color-filled such that the internal organ structures134a-care fully visible to the practicing shooter (not shown) when overlaying theregion125. For example, thelungs134acould be colored pink, theheart134bcould be colored red and theliver134ccould be colored blue. In other arrangements, the internal organ structures134a-ccould include other colors or patterns (cross-hatching, etc.).
• Referring toFIG. 3C, thereplacement label130cmay include an additional target feature, such asconcentric rings136 overlaying a portion of the internal organ structures134a-c. In this embodiment, theconcentric rings136 may provide information to the practicing shooter about where to aim the intended shot. For example, theheart134bmay be at the center of the concentric ring design such that the practicing shooter learns where to place his/her shot when hunting. Theconcentric rings136 may be placed in other locations within theregion125 depending on the intended skill to practice (e.g., shooting tranquilizers darts). In the illustrated embodiment, thereplacement label130 includes both the internal organ structures134a-chaving filled color and the concentric rings136. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other replacement labels130 may have other arrangements useful for target practice. For example, thereplacement label130cmay include theconcentric rings136 configured to overlay the outlines of the internal organ structures134a-cshown inFIG. 3A. In another arrangement, thereplacement label130cmay include theconcentric rings136 and not include the internal organ structures134a-c. In this arrangement, theconcentric rings136 overlay theregion125 directly.
• Referring toFIGS. 3A-3C together, thereplacement label130 may have thelabel print layer132 at thefront surface133. In some embodiments, thereplacement label130 may include a second label print layer (not shown) at the back surface. For example, thereplacement label130 may be configured to be dual-sided. In these particular embodiments, the second label print layer may have many of the same features and characteristics as described with respect to thelabel print layer132. In one embodiment, both thelabel print layer132 and the second label print layer may be configured to cover thetarget region124. In a particular example, thelabel print layer132 may include the elements illustrated in thereplacement label130aofFIG. 3A, and the second label print layer may include the elements illustrated in the replacement labels130bor130c(FIGS. 3B-3C). In these embodiments, theregion125 is at least partially defined by both thelabel print layer132 at thefront surface133 and the second label print layer at the back surface. Accordingly, the practice shooter (not shown) may determine if the practice session will include the elements depicted on thefront surface133 or the elements depicted on the back surface (not shown) by selectively attaching one of thefront surface133 or the back surface to thetarget backer110.
• In other embodiments, the second label print layer may be different from thelabel print layer132, in that a second region (not shown), at least partially defined by the second label print layer, may be different from theregion125. For example, the back surface of thereplacement label130 may be configured to be attached to atarget backer110 having a different target image (e.g., a second target image including at least a second animal shape). In this embodiment, the practice shooter may choose to use thereplacement label130 on more than onetarget backer110 for a practice shooting round. While a dual-sided replacement label130 may provide additional practice elements not provided by a single-sided replacement label130 (e.g., more or less shot placement information for guiding and/or teaching the shooter where to place practice shots), thereplacement label130 may be destroyed during the practice round. Therefore, the practice shooter will likely use only one of thefront surface133 or the back surface of thereplacement label130.
• In a further embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3D, thereplacement label130 may be configured for testing a practice shooter's skill level during a practice shooting round. For example, thereplacement label130 may be the dual-sided replacement label130 having both thelabel print layer132 at thefront surface133 and the secondlabel print layer302 at theback surface304. In one embodiment, thelabel print layer132 may at least partially define theregion125, but not include the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 or other target elements (e.g., concentric rings136). The secondlabel print layer302 at theback surface304 may include at least the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 (shown in dotted lines) in generally anatomically correct positions. In use, theback surface304 may be attached to thetarget backer110, such that the internal organ structures134 are concealed from view. The practice shooter may shoot a plurality of projectiles (e.g., bullets, arrows) at thefront surface133 during a practice round to test his/her shot placement skills. Following at least one practice shot, the shooter may gauge shot placement success by comparing the projectile entry site (e.g., bullet hole) with the internal organ structure134 on theback surface304. In other embodiments, the secondlabel print layer302 may have more or less skill testing information. For example, the secondlabel print layer302 may also include a mirror image of theinternal area125,concentric circles136, measuring and/or other accuracy determining features.
• In another embodiment, not shown, thereplacement label130 may have thelabel print layer132 at thefront surface133. As described above with respect toFIG. 3D, thelabel print layer132 may at least partially define theregion125, but not include the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 or other target elements (e.g., concentric rings136). In these embodiments, theassembly100 may be provided with removable organ structures that may be independently attached to theregion125 when desired. For example, the removable organ structures may be stickers that are applied by a user to thefront surface133. Orientation markers may be provided to guide the placement of the stickers, etc. In these embodiments, the practice shooter may have the opportunity to selectively choose which organ structures to be presented (e.g., illustration of theheart134b) on thereplacement label130.
• Referring back toFIGS. 3A-3D, thereplacement label130 may be configured to have an adhesive at the back surface (not shown) facing opposite from thefront surface133. The adhesive may be an integral layer applied to the back surface (e.g., adhesive film, epoxy, tape, paste, or other suitable material). Additional embodiments may include attaching thereplacement label130 to thetarget backer110 with tacks, clips, nails, staples, or other fastening devices. In these embodiments, the back surface (e.g., back surface304) does not require adhesive application.
• The adhesive (not shown) may be configured to releaseably attach thereplacement label130 to thetarget backer110 such that thereplacement label130 may be used for a shooting practice session and subsequently be removed from thetarget backer110. For example, a marksman using a firearm (not shown) may shoot a plurality of firearm projectiles (e.g., bullets) aimed to hit thereplacement label130, creating a plurality of projectile holes140a-c(referred together as140) in thereplacement label130 as well as in thetarget backer110. Following impact of the projectiles at thefront surface133 and/or thefirst side202, the holes140a-cdisposed in thereplacement label130 and the corresponding portion of thetarget backer110 may be patched by removing thereplacement label130 and attaching asecond replacement label130 configured to cover thetarget region124 of thetarget image120. Thesecond replacement label130 may also be releaseably attached to thetarget backer110. By using a plurality of replacement labels130, thetarget backer110 may be used in several subsequent practice shooting rounds.
• In some embodiments, the replacement labels130 may be configured to release from thetarget backer110 without further damage to thereplacement label130, such that the practice shooter may score and/or keep thereplacement label130 for his or her records. In other embodiments, the adhesive may be configured to permanently attach thereplacement label130 to thetarget backer110. In these embodiments, thesecond replacement label130 may be configured to cover thetarget region124 and thefirst replacement label130 having the holes140.
• In some embodiments, thetarget backer110 and/or the replacement label may include additional visibility features for assisting practice shooters in determining points of impact during a practice round. Referring back toFIG. 1A, thefirst print layer114 may include a release feature that allows aportion141 of thefirst print layer114 adjacent to a point of impact142a-bto be removed. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize suitable materials having release features, e.g., crackled or flake-off printed or painted material, layers having semi-elastic properties, a separate release layer and/or a synthetic layer (not shown) between thesubstrate112 and thefirst print layer114, etc. Additional embodiments and description of suitable targets having flake-off and/or release features associated with print layers are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/339,863, entitled “FIREARM TARGETS AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING FIREARM TARGETS,” which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
• In one embodiment, a firstcontrasting surface143 may be exposed through thefirst print layer114 following projectile impact. The firstcontrasting surface143 may be a layer between thesubstrate112 and thefirst print layer114. In one embodiment, the firstcontrasting surface143 may be the support layers208aand208b(FIG. 2A). In other embodiments, the firstcontrasting surface143 may be the core layer206 (FIGS. 2A-2C). The firstcontrasting surface143 may have afirst color144athat aligns at least with theanimal shape122. For example, thefirst color144amay be a contrasting color, such as red, orange, white, or other suitable color, that visually stands out to the practice shooter once the firstcontrasting surface143 is exposed. Specifically, when a projectile (e.g., bullet) penetrates thetarget backer110 at the point ofimpact142a, thefirst color144amay be exposed.
• In some embodiments, the firstcontrasting surface143 may also have asecond color144bthat aligns at least with theexterior image portion126. In these embodiments, the practice shooter may effectively differentiate between points ofimpact142aat theanimal shape122 from points ofimpact142bat theexterior image portion126.
• In other embodiments, thelabel print layer132 may also include the release feature that allows aportion145 of thelabel print layer132 adjacent to a point ofimpact142cto be removed. As described above with respect to the firstcontrasting surface143, a secondcontrasting surface146 may be exposed through thelabel print layer132. In one embodiment, the secondcontrasting surface146 may be thelabel substrate131; however, in other embodiments, the secondcontrasting surface146 may include other layers between thelabel substrate131 and thelabel print layer132. The secondcontrasting surface146 may have a thirdcontrasting color144cthat aligns at least with the illustrations of the internal organ structures134. In these embodiments, the practice shooter may effectively differentiate between points ofimpact142cat the internal organ structures134 and other points of impact142a-b.
• Thetarget image120 and/or thetarget backer110 may include one ormore orientation markers150 for properly aligning thereplacement label130 to thetarget backer110 before attaching thereplacement label130. Proper alignment of thereplacement label130 facilitates the anatomically correct positioning of the illustrations of the internal organ structures134. In other embodiments,alignment markers150 are not necessary and features of theanimal shape122 and/or environmental features may serve as an alignment guide when attaching thereplacement label130 to thetarget backer110.
• Recognition of animal shapes122 as well as learning and practicing shooting skills for successfully targeting the anatomically correct positions of vital organs, will provide greater success for hitting the vital organ structures in living animals. Accordingly, animal pain and suffering may be reduced in hunting and/or extermination events. Existing targets typically do not include a simulation of authentic shooting conditions or a plurality of teaching elements for learning and practicing shot placement relative to an animal shape. For example, conventional targets typically do not include photo-quality images that would teach a new hunter what a representative animal would look like during a hunt. Additionally, conventional targets do not typically feature animal shapes at a full-scale size, which may further instruct shot placement by encouraging practice shooters to be aware of the correct anatomical positioning of the vital organs. Furthermore, these targets do not have replaceable features that permit the practice shooter to use the target during multiple practice sessions or permit choosing varying degrees of shooting difficulty to learn and test shot placement skills.
• In contrast to conventional targets, theshooting target assembly100 may provide a teaching system for shot placement and awareness of organ structure positions relative to theanimal shape122 or othercharacteristic features123, enabling shooters to acquire skills for shot placement when hunting or shooting live animals. For example, thetarget image120 may include a photo-realistic image of a representative animal (e.g., animal shape122) with or without theexterior image region126 depicting realistic surroundings for the representative animal. Additionally, theshooting target assembly100 may present theanimal shape122 at a realistic full-scale size.
• In a particular embodiment, theshooting target assemblies100 may be manufactured such thatmultiple replacement labels130 having a variety of arrangements may be used with asingle target backer110. Each of the replacement labels130 may provide a teaching, practice, and/or testing session for the practice shooter. Use of thetarget backer110 in multiple practice rounds may be facilitated by covering thetarget region124 withadditional replacement labels130 between successive rounds. The replacement labels130 do not require the same quantity of manufacturing time or material to produce as do thetarget backers110, and therefore may be significantly less expensive to produce. Accordingly, the reuse of thetarget backer110 may provide cost savings to the practice shooter and/or range operator.
• Furthermore, the combination of thetarget backer110 and the replacement labels130 provides means to present multiple sets of information, e.g., first andsecond sides202 and204 of thetarget backer110,front surfaces133 and back surfaces (not shown) of replacement labels130, and/or combinations of target features (e.g., bone structure, internal organ structures, crosshairs, and/or concentric circles).
• Another feature of particular embodiments of theshooting target assembly100 is that varying degrees of shooting difficulty and/or shot placement difficulty may be selected by the practice shooter at each individual practice round. In a specific example, the practice shooter may begin a first practice round using thereplacement label130c(FIG. 3C) configured to teach the practice shooter where to aim in order to properly strike vital organs in the targeted animal. Following the first practice round, the practice shooter may have one or more practice rounds usingreplacement labels130aand/or130b(FIG. 3A-3B). Additionally, the practice shooter may test and evaluate their shot placement skills using the dual-sided replacement label130d(FIG. 3D) having theregion125 on afront surface133 exposed to the shooter and the illustrations of the internal organ structures134 on theback surface304 facing thetarget backer110.
• The highlighted features, and other related features disclosed herein, provide the opportunity to form a target assembly system that may be manufactured and sold as a kit. For example, the kit may provide a teaching, practicing, and/or testing system. The kit may include one ormore target backers110 having one ormore target images120. Additionally, the kit may include a plurality of replacement labels130. In one embodiment, the kit may include one or more of each of thereplacement labels130a-d. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other elements that could be beneficially included in the kit (e.g., a target stand, a record keeping notebook, etc.). In other embodiments, the shooting target assembly elements could be sold as separate units.
• C. Additional Embodiments of Targets and Target Assemblies
• FIGS. 4A-8 illustrates additional embodiments of shooting target assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure. The shooting target assemblies illustrated, and described in more detail below, are generally similar to theshooting target assembly100 described with respect toFIGS. 1A-3A. However, the shooting target assemblies illustrated inFIGS. 4A-8 includedifferent target images120 having theanimal shape122 representing a) different perspectives of an animal body that may be presented to a practice shooter, or b) different animals that may be hunted and/or exterminated.
• FIGS. 4A and 4B are partially schematic, front view illustrations ofshooting target assemblies402 and404, respectively. Theshooting target assemblies402 and404 include several of the same features as theshooting target assembly100 illustrated inFIG. 1A. For example, theshooting target assembly402 illustrated inFIG. 4A includes thetarget backer110 and thereplacement label130. Thetarget backer110 includes atarget image406 different from thetarget image120 illustrated inFIG. 1. Thetarget image406 may be at least partially defined by thefirst print layer114 and may include afirst animal shape408. Similar to theanimal shape122 presented inFIG. 1A, thefirst animal shape408 represents the buck. However, thefirst animal shape408 represents afront view perspective410 of the buck's body. In this embodiment, thereplacement label130 may be configured to include aregion412, and in some embodiments, illustrations ofinternal organ structures414 in anatomically correct shapes and positions consistent for thefront view perspective410 of thefirst animal shape408. Accordingly, a practice shooter may learn and practice shot placement and develop organ position awareness for an animal discovered in the front perspective orientation in the wild.
• FIG. 4B illustrates theshooting target assembly404 including thetarget backer110 and thereplacement label130. Thetarget backer110 includes atarget image420 different from thetarget images120 and406. Thetarget image420 includes a secondbroadside view perspective422 of an animal shape424 (e.g., the buck). In this particular example, the secondbroadside view perspective422 is the mirror image of thebroadside view perspective129 shown inFIG. 1A.
• One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other view perspectives that could be presented for a variety of animal shapes. For example, a rear view perspective, top view perspective, and bottom view perspectives could also be presented for an animal shape (e.g., a buck). In a specific example,FIG. 5 is a partially schematic, top perspective view illustration of an embodiment of ashooting target system500 in accordance with the present disclosure. Theshooting target system500 includes atarget image502 having an animal shape503 (e.g., buck) in atop view perspective504. Thetarget image502 may be defined substantially as described above with respect to the target image120 (FIG. 1), and may be carried by thetarget backer110.
• Theshooting target system500 may also include thereplacement label130, which may carry at least aregion505 as defined by thelabel print layer506. In some embodiments, thelabel print layer506 may also include illustrations of internal organ structures508 (e.g., skeletal features, lungs, etc.) at or near the forequarter region (e.g., the vital organ region) of theanimal shape503 for teaching and practicing shot placement when apractice shooter510 is shooting from anelevated position512. It may be common for hunters to wait from the elevated position512 (e.g., a tree, pole, or other elevated loft) for a game animal to pass underneath theposition512. In these scenarios, the hunter is presented with thetop view perspective504 of the game animal. Theshooting target assembly500 provides a practice scenario forshooters510 to learn shot placement from theelevated position512.
• Referring toFIG. 5, theshooting target system500 may also include atarget stand514 for supporting at least thetarget backer110 in a position that is generally parallel to the horizon, parallel to the ground, transverse to aprojectile path516, or other desired position. Additionally, the stand may raise thetarget backer110 a distance D₁from the ground or other support surface. The distance D₁, for example, may be generally similar to the typical height of the representative game animal or other animal; however, the distance D₁may include other heights desirable for practice shooting rounds. In particular embodiments, not shown, theshooting target system500 may also include an arrow-stopping material (e.g., hay bale, polystyrene, foam rubber, etc.) positioned below thetarget backer110 and in the space created by the distance D₁such that arrows, spears, and the like may be used during the target practice round, but remain undamaged.
• FIGS. 6-8 are partially schematic, front view illustrations of additional shooting target assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure. For example,FIGS. 6-8 includeshooting target assemblies600,700, and800 havingdifferent target images602,702, and802, including animal shapes604,704, and804 representing different animals.FIG. 6 illustrates theshooting target assembly600 having thetarget image602 carried at least partially by thetarget backer110. Thetarget image602 includes theanimal shape604. In the illustrated embodiment, theanimal shape604 represents a gopher. Theassembly600 also includes thereplacement label130. Thereplacement label130 may be attached to thetarget backer110 and cover a target region (not shown) of the target image. In this embodiment, illustrations of theinternal organ structures606 are presented on afront surface133 of thereplacement label130.
• FIG. 7 illustrates theshooting target assembly700 having thetarget image702 carried at least partially by thetarget backer110. Thetarget image702, in this embodiment, includes ananimal shape704 configured to represent a wild turkey. Theassembly700 may also include thereplacement label130, which includes illustrations ofinternal organ structures706 and a plurality ofconcentric rings708 for instructing shot placement with respect to the location of theinternal organ structures706 and/or other animal shape features.
• FIG. 8 illustrates theshooting target assembly800 having thetarget image802 carried at least partially by thetarget backer110 and having ananimal shape804 configured to represent a coyote. In the illustrated embodiment, thetarget image802 includes atarget region806 at least partially containing illustrations ofinternal organ structures808. Theinternal organ structures808 may have anatomically correct positions relative to theanimal shape804. Theassembly800 may also include thereplacement label130. Thelabel print layer132 may at least partially define the illustrations of theinternal organ structures808 positioned within thetarget region806. Thereplacement label130 may be attached to thetarget backer110 and aligned with thetarget region806 prior to a practice shooting round.
• In one embodiment, not shown,target backers110 may have more than one animal shape, such asshapes408 and424 (FIGS.4A-B), at least partially defined by thefirst print layer114 on thefirst side202. In these embodiments, the practice shooter is presented with more than one sight option during a practice shooting round. For example, more than onereplacement label130 may be attached to thetarget backer110 and positioned to cover at least a portion of the animal shapes408 and424 during the practice shooting round.
• FIG. 9 is a partially schematic, front perspective view illustration of a further embodiment of shootingtarget assembly900 in accordance with the disclosure.FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a dual-sided target backer110 that may be similar to any of thetarget backers110a-cshown in FIGS.2A-C. In this embodiment, thefirst side202 may have afirst target image902 including afirst animal shape904 andfirst target region906 generally positioned at or near a first vital organ region (not shown). Thesecond side204 may include asecond target image908 including asecond animal shape910 andsecond target region912 generally positioned at or near a second vital organ region.
• The positions of thetarget regions906 and912 may be specific to the animal shapes904 and910. For example, thefirst animal shape904 may be a broadside view perspective of a buck showing thetarget region906 at or near the forequarter region of thefirst animal shape904. Thesecond animal shape910 may include a front view perspective of a buck and having thetarget region912 at or near the breast of thesecond animal shape910. In other arrangements, different animal shapes, including other perspective views of animal shapes may be used.
• A practice shooter may choose to shoot a practice round using either thefirst side202 or thesecond side204. Referring toFIG. 9, firearm projectiles (e.g., bullets) or arrows (not shown) may penetrate thefirst side202 and pass through thetarget backer110 leavingbullet holes920 visible from both the first andsecond sides202 and204. In the illustrated embodiment, the animal shapes904 and910 are positioned onrespective sides202 and204 of thetarget backer110 such that thetarget regions906 and912 are aligned with each other. For example, a projectile (not shown) propagating along aprojectile path922 aligned with thefirst target region906, will impact thefirst target region906 and pass through thesecond target region912. Accordingly, holes920 formed in thetarget backer110 through bothtarget regions906 and912 may be covered with replacement labels (not shown) such that either thefirst target image902 or thesecond target image908 may be used in subsequent practice rounds. In other embodiments, thetarget regions906 and912 may not align with each other. In these embodiments, theholes920 created when shooting at either the first orsecond target images902 or908 may not significantly impact the appearance of the other target image.
• From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the disclosure have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the disclosure. Furthermore, aspects of the disclosure described in the context of particular embodiments may be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. Further, while features and characteristics associated with certain embodiments of the disclosure have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such features and characteristics, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such features and characteristics to fall within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not limited, except as by the appended claims.

Claims (44)

1. A shooting target assembly, comprising:

a backer including a substrate having a first side, a second side facing opposite from the first side, and a first print layer on the first side;

a first target image at least partially defined by the first print layer, the first target image having at least a first animal shape;

a replacement label sized to cover a target region of the first target image, the replacement label having a front surface, a back surface facing opposite the front surface, and a label print layer on the front surface, wherein the second print layer at least partially defines a region of the first animal shape, and wherein the replacement label includes an illustration of a first internal organ structure; and

a release feature at least partially incorporated in the replacement label such that penetration of a projectile removes a portion of the label print layer adjacent to a point of impact and exposes a first contrasting surface adjacent to the label print layer.

2. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first contrasting surface includes a first color aligned at least with the illustration of the first internal organ structure.

3. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first print layer includes the release feature such that penetration of the projectile removes a portion of the first print layer adjacent to a second point of impact and exposes a second contrasting surface adjacent to the first print layer, the second contrasting surface having a second color aligned at least with the first animal shape.

4. The assembly ofclaim 3 wherein the target image includes an exterior image region, the exterior image region surrounding the first animal shape, and wherein the second contrasting surface includes a third color aligned with the exterior image region.

5. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the replacement label further includes an adhesive layer at the back surface for releaseably attaching the replacement label to the target region of the first target image on the backer.

6. The assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising a second print layer at the second side, the second print layer at least partially defining a second target image having at least a second animal shape, and wherein the second target image is different from the first target image.

7. The assembly ofclaim 6 wherein the first target image includes a photorealistic first animal shape having a first perspective view, and the second target image includes a photorealistic second animal shape having a second perspective view.

8. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first target image includes a photographic image.

9. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first target image includes an illustration of an animal.

10. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the region includes a duplication of the target region, and wherein the replacement label is releaseably attached to the backer such that the region covers the target region.

11. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first internal organ structure includes at least one of a heart, a lung, a liver and a spine.

12. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first target image includes an illustration of a plurality of internal organ structures configured to overlay the first animal shape in a generally anatomically correct position.

13. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first target image includes the first animal shape having a realistic size and color as a representative animal.

14. The assembly ofclaim 13 wherein the target region of the first target image includes the realistic size and color, and wherein the illustration of the first internal organ structure includes a full-scale illustration positioned in an anatomically correct location relative to the first animal shape.

15. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the illustration of the first internal organ structure includes an outline of the first internal organ structure in an anatomically correct position.

16. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the illustration of the first internal organ structure includes a color different from a realistic color for a representative animal.

17. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the second print layer further includes a super-imposed pattern over the illustration of the first internal organ structure, the pattern including concentric rings.

18. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first animal shape includes a broadside perspective view of an animal image.

19. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first animal shape includes one of a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of an animal image.

20. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first animal shape includes one of a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of an animal image.

21. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the target image includes an exterior image region surrounding the first animal shape, the exterior image region having one or more environmental feature shapes.

22. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first animal shape includes a game animal.

23. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first animal shape includes a turkey.

24. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first animal shape includes one of a vermin, a bird, a canid, and a felid.

25. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the replacement label further includes a fourth print layer on the back surface, the second label print layer at least partially defining a portion of a second animal shape, and wherein at least one of the front surface and the back surface may be releaseably attached to the backer.

26. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the replacement label further includes a second label print layer on the back surface, the second label print layer at least partially defining the region, and wherein the second label print layer does not include the illustration of the first internal organ structure.

27. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the substrate includes a core layer, and wherein the first print layer is attached to the core layer.

28. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the target image is printed directly on the substrate.

29. The assembly ofclaim 1, further including a stand for supporting at least the backer in a position that is generally parallel to the horizon.

30. The assembly ofclaim 1 wherein the first print layer at least partially defines a plurality of target images, individual target images each having at least an animal shape.

31. The assembly ofclaim 30 wherein the individual animal shapes include different perspective views of a representative animal image.

32. The assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising a projectile-stopping material.

33. A shooting target system, comprising:

a target assembly including:

a target backer having a first side and a second side generally facing opposite from the first side;

a first target image on the first side, the first target image including a first animal shape having a first target region;

a plurality of replacement labels, individual replacement labels having a label front surface and a label back surface generally facing opposite of the label front surface, the label front surface including a region image corresponding to the first target region, wherein at least one replacement label is attached to the target backer at the first target region, and wherein the individual replacement labels include a release feature such that penetration of a projectile removes a portion of the region image adjacent to a point of impact and exposes a contrasting surface, the contrasting surface having a first color different from a region image color; and

an illustration of an internal organ structure overlaying at least one of the first animal shape and the region image.

34. The system ofclaim 33 wherein at least the first side includes the release feature such that penetration of the projectile removes a portion of the first target image adjacent to a second point of impact and exposes a second contrasting surface, the second contrasting surface having a second color aligned at least with the first animal shape, and wherein the second color is different from the first color and a target image color.

35. The system ofclaim 33, further comprising a second target image on the second side, the second target image including a second animal shape having a second target region, the second animal shape being different from the first animal shape.

36. The system ofclaim 35 wherein the first target region and the second target region are aligned along a projectile path, the projectile path being generally transverse to the target backer.

37. The system ofclaim 33 wherein the target assembly is included in a kit, and wherein the plurality of replacement labels includes at least one of a) a label having an outline of the illustration of the internal organ structure, b) a label having the illustration of the internal organ structure in a color different from a first animal shape color, and c) a label having the region image at the label front surface and at least the illustration of the internal organ structure at the label back surface.

38. The system ofclaim 33, further comprising a stand for supporting at least the backer in a position that is generally parallel to the horizon.

39. The system ofclaim 38, wherein one of the first animal shape and the second animal shape includes one of a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of an animal image.

40. A shooting assembly, comprising:

a target backer having a photorealistic image presented on a first side, the photorealistic image including an animal image, the animal image having a size approximately the same size as a representative animal;

a replacement label having a portion of the animal image; and

an illustration of an internal organ structure carried by the replacement label.

41. The shooting assembly ofclaim 40 wherein the illustration of the internal organ structure is configured to overlay the portion of the animal region in a generally anatomically correct position.

42. The assembly ofclaim 40 wherein the animal image includes at least one of a broadside prospective view, a front perspective view, a rear perspective view, a bottom perspective view and a top perspective view.

43. The assembly ofclaim 40 wherein the replacement label is attached to the target backer and covers a portion of the photorealistic image, and wherein the portion of the animal image is photorealistic and aligns with the photorealistic image to form a seamless transition between the portion of the animal image and the photorealistic image.

44. The assembly ofclaim 40 wherein:

the photorealistic image is at least partially defined by a first print layer, the first print layer including a release feature such that penetration of a projectile removes a portion of the first print layer adjacent to a point of impact and exposes a first contrasting surface adjacent to the first print layer, the first contrasting surface having a first color aligned at least with the animal image;

the portion of the animal image is at least partially defined by a label print layer, the label print layer including the release feature such that penetration of the projectile removes a portion of the label print layer adjacent to the point of impact and exposes a second contrasting surface adjacent to the label print layer; and

wherein the second contrasting surface includes a second color aligned at least with the illustration of the internal organ structure.

Images