Firebird Exploding Targets from the UK Are Fun, Easy to Use
We thought the USA enjoyed the coolest shooting stuff. But the Brits may have one-upped us this time. Now available in the United Kingdom (but not the USA) are Firebird exploding, reactive targets. These affordable, pyrotecnic targets are offered in four different models: Hi-velocity rifle (rimfire and centerfire), Air Rifle, Shotgun, and Archery. Unlike the binary explosive kits available in the USA, Firebird targets are ready-to go right out of the box. You just take the adhesive-backed target disc out of the box, and place it on the target frame. (The air rifle version requires a small retaining cup behind the target disc.) For the shotgun Firebird targets, you simply stick the Firebird disc on the back of a clay pigeon. Peel and stick — simple as that.
Here’s a video showing Firebird targets in use. (See more videos on the Firebird website). Looks like good fun to us — the targets go bang with a puff of smoke when hit. Simple to use. No messy chemicals. No mixing required. Just stick ‘em on the target backer and shoot. Kudos to the Brits for bringing this to market in the UK. Hopefully we will see Firebird targets on this side of the Atlantic sometime soon.
Sniperfire Exploding Targets
The Firebird SniperFire 40mm and 65mm are designed specifically for use with any high velocity firearm, rimfire or centerfire. Backed with double-sided tape, SniperFire targets can be affixed to any clean, dray and uniform surface such as plywood, fluted plastic, or stiff cardboard. Now being used by military and police units in many countries, the Firebird SniperFire is a practical training tool that gives shooters “instant gratification” when hitting the target. SniperFire targets cost £18.95 ($28.92) for twenty 40mm discs, or £19.95 ($30.45) for twenty 65mm discs.
Airflash Standard Air Rifle Exploding Targets
Specifically designed for use with air rifles, Firebird Airflash Targets come in 40mm or 65mm sizes. Once hit with an air rifle pellet, the target ignites with “a significant pyrotechnic reaction and loud report” as the Brits say. In other words, it goes “bang” with big cloud of smoke. The £24.95 Airflash Starter Kit includes twenty 40mm reactive targets and an Airflash Magplate (sort of like a small-cupholder). Airflash 40mm refills (with 20 targets) cost £18.45. The 65mm refills are £19.95.
For those who enjoy reactive targets that explode with a big bang and a cloud of smoke, binary compounds are available from a variety of vendors, including 
