FAQ
Common questions about spotting scopes, phones, matches and outdoor use.
Which spotting scope do I need to use TargetSpotter?
For the 25 m disciplines, a scope with about 35× magnification is enough. Development and testing used a Bresser Spektar 15–45×60. A solid smartphone mount is essential.
Can TargetSpotter be used as a scoring system in competitions?
No. It is not intended or suitable for that. Hit-detection accuracy is limited by camera resolution. TargetSpotter was built to give the shooter the same information they get through the spotting scope: where the last shot landed.
Why are only hits from ring 5 / 6 / 8 detected?
Covering a larger area optically needs more pixels. Current smartphone cameras, combined with a spotting scope, do not provide enough resolution for the outer rings while keeping a high recognition rate.
Which smartphones work with TargetSpotter?
The aim is Android 8 or newer with a usable camera. It was built and tested on an older Huawei P40 and a Xiaomi Poco – both budget phones. Phones with optical zoom did not work reliably in tests.
Can I use TargetSpotter for other disciplines, such as archery or crossbow?
In principle yes, within the technical limits. Reports from the field are welcome.
Can TargetSpotter be used outdoors?
Outdoors, lighting is usually less stable, so hit detection reaches its limits. We are happy to receive field reports.