This article has been updated with feedback from the manufacturer. It includes corrections to funcationality and durability.
The importance of timing, in any competitive training, cannot be over-emphasized. Without understanding where you are, you can never know what you need to do to improve.
Regardless if your preference is in the competition shooting sports, tactical, or defense—the use of an electronic timing device is as important as the ammo that feeds the gun, or batteries that power the optics. Introduced in 2006, the Competitive Edge Dynamic (CED) 7000 Shot Timer remains one of the top chosen timers in the industry. It accommodates a broad array of shooting styles and training modes that ensure consistently fast, reliable, and accurate timing to track your performance.
The CED7000 is like many of its competitors; a full-feature, audio-detection shot timer that can be worn in a number of configurations or positions. CED offers a full line of support accessories that complement the CED7000 to include; “big shot” display board, carry holsters, and colored cases. However, unlike any of the other leading shot timer on the market, the CED7000 is smaller than (most) modern smartphone (actually measuring 3.9″ x 1.8″ x 0.7″) and weighs just as little. Combined with its internal lithium rechargeable battery, this translates to hours of range time without worrying about the shot timer’s size or where to position it during stages.
By the numbers, the CED7000 comes with a two-year warranty and offers a host of features:
Nine different modes:
- Range Officer Mode (a mode expressly for ROs)
- “Silent” Operation (for Cowboy shooting)
- Repetitive (for “turning” target systems)
- Comstock
- Combined Comstock
- “Spy” Mode (good for a 2nd RO to use as a backup timer)
- Stop Watch
- Countdown
- Alarm Clock
Four different Par Time settings:
- Single
- Custom
- Automatic
- Multi-Par (Up to 11 Par times)
Fixed (3 second), Random (2-5 second), Instant, or Custom time delay
Adjustable microphone sensitivity, shot filter, and buzzer volume
Product Evaluation Scores:
- Cost – Average (3/5): $119 – $129. In comparison to the current market of available shot timers, the CED7000 is reasonably priced. Occasionally, an online coupon or discount code is available for some of the larger distributors to further lower the cost. For an additional $10 you can get either the chrome or “tactical” model with the RF emitter pre-installed for the CED “big shot” board.
- Comfort – Good (4/5): At 80 grams or 2.9 ounces, the CED7000 is amazingly light, and if worn by a neck lanyard throughout the day, its weight is hardly notable. Its 110db+, 2500hz audio chirp is clear and very distinct. The only notable negative mark here is the small size of the LCD screen makes the corresponding times and other readings smaller than it would appear on other shot timers. The LCD does illuminate whenever a reading or entry is made, which aids low-light/no-light training greatly, then automatically turns the illumination off after 30 seconds of inactivity.
- Durability – Good (4/5): The exterior housing of the CED7000 is a commercial-grade plastic, and with the add-on silicone protective case and screen shield, the most questionable part of the CED7000’s design is the connection point between the rechargeable battery and the AC power cable. CED responded saying that despite 100,000 units sold since launch, they have never had a single issue in this regard, and less than 0.02% returns for failure of the power adapter. CED does offer a subsequent battery exchange service that will likely address any potential issue, or when the rechargeable battery no longer maintains a sufficient charge. It should be noted CED has also only had a 1% return rate for button wear.
- Functionality – Good (4/5): And to be clear, the only reason the CED7000 did not make higher marks for Funcationality was because while it has a tremendous number of modes and features, navigating through them is limited to four buttons and a directional toggle. The consumer really needs to be familiar with how to navigate through the menus and change the settings, or find one they consistently want to use and leave it alone. The CED7000’s ability to adjust sensitivity and mitigate other shooters on the range, or echo is also a plus.
- Weight – Excellent (5/5): As stated, the CED7000 is amazingly light and compact. This earns the shot timer solid marks in comparison to other market shot timers that can weigh upwards of three times in weight, and almost as much in size—yet still have the same functionality.
Overall Rating – Very Good (21/25)
Competitive Edge Dynamic 7000 Shot Timer: https://www.cedhk.com/ced7000-shot-timer
I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.
The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.