freETarget

[Black_Talon]

There's already a commercial version of this available. They use it at the range I go to for 200m service rifle matches. It's been up and running for over a year now. Works just like the version in this thread, using the four microphones on the target backer but instead of a long USB cable, it uses bluetooth to a laptop or cellphone. I don't remember the name of it though. [embarrassed emoji]

[Azmodan]

There's already a commercial version of this available. They use it at the range I go to for 200m service rifle matches. It's been up and running for over a year now. Works just like the version in this thread, using the four microphones on the target backer but instead of a long USB cable, it uses bluetooth to a laptop or cellphone. I don't remember the name of it though. [embarrassed emoji]

there are a lot of electronic targets available. the problem is cost. most commercial systems are $1500+ . freETarget is $150+

[Moy]

The ones you're seeing for 200 yard service rifle are probably only working for supersonic bullets. There's a couple ones like that - SOLO by silvermountain, and shotmarker (?). They're very slick, cost <$1000 (around $800 I think?), and connect wirelessly to your ipad or computer or whatever.

They explicitly do not work for subsonic bullets like you use for smallbore or air rifle.

I'm following along freETarget eagerly to see if it pans out. Also looks like a fun project (but I also have EE and Comp Sci degrees, so my definition of "fun" might be strange to some). I have yet to get approval to actually use it at my range though. I should ask about that. I think they'll say no :(

[Azmodan]

https://free-e-target.com/

tested another set of boards together with a 3D printed target face.

accuracy looks pretty good

[ColinP]

Will you be offering the 3d printed face as an option for builders without access to a printer? Seems that it takes a large variable out of the way

[Azmodan]

Will you be offering the 3d printed face as an option for builders without access to a printer? Seems that it takes a large variable out of the way

the STL files for the 3D printer are on the site. 3D printers are quite common these days. even if you don't own one, you can find a printer shop nearby to do one print for you. if i could find a 3D printing shop in the middle of Transylvania, you can find one in the great US of A :)

each builder has the option to use the files or build the target housing after their own ideas/design

[bking]

If you can’t find a 3D printer between friends, your library, etc there are also inexpensive online services like Shapeways. You just upload your file, specify what you’d like it made of and get it mailed.

Many on target talk have printers too, I’m sure if you posted asking someone would help you out cheap.

[ColinP]

I had no idea really, since I retired I haven't given technology a second thought, I imagined they were something only the likes of NASA had! Shows what I know. I take it then that those STL files are universal?

[bking]

Yep, anyone with any 3D printer can use that file.

[dulcmr-man]

I just received my circuit cards and I am now trying to find someone to 3D print the target face. The face measures 300 mm x 380 mm (11.8" x 14.9") and thus significantly larger than an average 3D printer can handle. I tried shapeways.com, an on line 3D printing service, but their estimating software indicates that the piece is too large for them to handle.

Since I live in Prescott, AZ I am now going to research 3D printers in the Phoenix area to see if someone there can accommodate this project. If someone out there has already found someone who can do this at a reasonable price, I would appreciate hearing about them.

Thanks in advance,

Dennis, aka dulcmrman

[bdutton]

Just received my first set of supplies for the feETarget too. I have a 3d printer too and its definitely too small for the target holder. So I will build a prototype out of wood instead.

[dulcmr-man]

Just received my first set of supplies for the feETarget too. I have a 3d printer too and its definitely too small for the target holder. So I will build a prototype out of wood instead.

I may end up going that route, but I'll continue to research the 3D printing for a bit. I posted on the freETarget web site and Allan got back to me almost immediately. There may be someone in Kansas City that will print the job for $100, or so I hope. Otherwise, I will also go with alternate materials.

Dennis, aka Dulcmrman

[Azmodan]

i found a 3d printing shop in my city that had a big enough printer

this is the printer that was used: https://www.creatbot.com/en/creatbot-f430.html
ask around or buy one :)

[dulcmr-man]

Thanks for the lead, Azmodan. The price of the printer you mention is about $4300, so I won't be buying one any time soon. The whole idea of freETarget is to get a decent electronic scorer for significantly less money than a similar commercial item, so buying such a printer seems self defeating.

I will continue to research 3D printing services to find one that can do the job at a reasonable price.

Dennis, aka Dulcmrman

[bdutton]

I will be documenting the steps I took to create the box and what additional supplies I used to get it all working. It may take a while though.

[bdutton]

Got a rough draft of a frame setup using wood blocks to hold the sensors in place. Initial tests had all of my shots high left in the 6 ring despite shooting all over the bullseye. Not sure why its sensing all of the shots in (almost) in the same hole.

[UnGe]

Idea for somebody with good cad skills and willing to contribute to society :)
It would be so nice to have an STL for the plate split in 4 pieces, with notches for assembly...

Just saying...

[bdutton]

Got a rough draft of a frame setup using wood blocks to hold the sensors in place. Initial tests had all of my shots high left in the 6 ring despite shooting all over the bullseye. Not sure why its sensing all of the shots in (almost) in the same hole.

I figured out my problem was the face plate needed to be in place. The sensors were picking up the sound of the shot from the barrel and not the pellet passing through. I also had a misaligned sensor which combined fixed the problem. Now its just shot calibration and final setup.

[bdutton]

Still need to fine tune the calibration to find out why I am getting the (3) flyers but otherwise nice to use.

[UnGe]

Still need to fine tune the calibration to find out why I am getting the (3) flyers but otherwise nice to use.

Please-please-please record everything you are doing... User walk throughs are much more useful than docs created by people who already know everything :)