Firebird Targets are extremely reliable when used under the proper conditions. To ensure consistent performance, the target must be placed on a clean, dry surface with the face of the target oriented toward the shooter. By design, the target will not detonate if the emblem side is not facing outward.
Firebird Targets perform best when attached to solid steel surfaces such as steel plates, silhouettes, gongs, paddles, or other rigid flat surfaces. The backing surface must remain firm and stationary when struck by the projectile. Paper, cardboard, rubber, and plastic target backers do not provide sufficient rigidity for dependable detonation. See the Backing video here.
Weapons and ammunition must also be capable of producing the minimum required velocity. Standard Firebird Targets require a projectile velocity of at least 850 fps at 50 feet. When using Signal Marker targets, the required minimum velocity increases to 1,042 fps at 50 feet. Smaller calibers generally require a harder backing surface, such as steel or hardwood, to ensure reliable activation. See the Weapons video here.
The hardness of the backing material also affects the size of the flash and report. Wood backing will produce a smaller flash and report, while steel backing creates a louder report and larger flash. Shot placement is also important. If the projectile strikes the rim or outer edge of the target, detonation may not occur. Shots placed closer to the center of the target will provide the best performance, flash, and report.
If all conditions have been checked and the issue still cannot be determined, please contact Firebird Targets Support at support@firebirdtargets.com or call 844-544-4832. When contacting support, please send photos/videos of the targets and record the batch number located in the upper right corner of the package or on the back of the targets.
