The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower Made a Bold First Impression
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower enters a market saturated with complicated, expensive, and often unwieldy clay target launchers. Straight out of the package, its simplicity is its most striking feature. The Manufacturer, MTM, promises ease of use and surprising power, all wrapped in a package that costs less than a tenner. My interest was piqued, especially after years of wrestling with spring-loaded contraptions that bruised shoulders and required the strength of a small gorilla to operate.
I needed a simple, portable solution for solo practice sessions. I’m often out at the range alone, and while I enjoy honing my skills, setting up and launching clays by myself can be a real chore. I’ve tried other hand-held throwers before, and they always seemed to fall short, either requiring more strength than I anticipated or failing to consistently launch the clays with any reasonable distance or trajectory.
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower arrived in a no-frills package. Its construction appeared durable, with a thick, molded plastic that felt solid in my hand. Picking it up, I was surprised by how lightweight it was, and the Power Pivot Arm felt surprisingly robust. Compared to some of the clunkier, heavier, and mechanically complex throwers I’ve used, this seemed almost too simple.
My initial choice was between this, a more traditional spring-loaded thrower from Champion, and a battery-operated automatic thrower (much pricier, but a friend recommended it). I chose the MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower for its portability, simplicity, and, frankly, the price point. The Champion thrower felt bulky, and the automatic thrower seemed like overkill for casual practice, and it was cost prohibitive.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited by the simplicity and the promise of easy, powerful throws. It’s hard to get truly excited about a $7 target thrower, but the claims of the Power Pivot Arm and the focus on ease of use definitely piqued my curiosity.
Real-World Testing: Putting MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower was at my local shooting range. The range has a designated area for clay target practice, a perfect spot for testing its capabilities. It was a partly cloudy day, with a slight breeze, conditions that could easily expose any weaknesses in its design.
The thrower was surprisingly easy to use. Unlike spring-loaded models, there was no cocking mechanism to fight. It only took a few throws to get a feel for the Power Pivot Arm, quickly adjusting my technique to achieve the desired launch angle and distance.
The initial results were impressive, exceeding my expectations. The thrower sent clays soaring with surprising force, far exceeding the distances I could achieve with my old hand-held thrower.
I did encounter a small initial issue. The first few throws resulted in the clay targets breaking upon release, but I quickly realized that I was gripping the thrower too tightly. Adjusting my grip and allowing the thrower to pivot naturally eliminated this problem.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower has held up remarkably well. The plastic shows no signs of cracking or stress fractures, and the Power Pivot Arm still operates smoothly. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days to light rain, and it hasn’t faltered.
The thrower has proven to be incredibly durable. Even after being accidentally dropped on gravel multiple times, there are no significant signs of wear or tear, only minor cosmetic scratches.
Maintenance is practically non-existent; there are no moving parts to lubricate. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use is all it takes to keep it clean, making it exceptionally easy to maintain.
Compared to previous experiences with other throwers, the MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower is a clear winner. It’s more powerful, easier to use, and significantly more reliable than any other hand-held thrower I’ve tried.
Breaking Down the Features of MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower
Specifications
- The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower is designed specifically for standard-size clay targets. Its form is specifically molded for that task.
- It is constructed of a durable, high-impact plastic, and this keeps the weight down for ease of transport and use.
- Its key feature is the Power Pivot Arm, a patent-pending design that enhances throwing power and reduces strain on the user. This arm is molded as a single piece with the rest of the body.
- There are no moving parts or adjustments, simplifying operation and eliminating potential points of failure. Simplicity is key.
These specifications contribute directly to the thrower’s ease of use and portability. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods, while the durable plastic ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The clever Power Pivot Arm design is the heart of the product.
Performance & Functionality
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower performs its job admirably, launching clay targets with surprising power and consistency. With proper technique, I was able to achieve distances comparable to more expensive, spring-loaded throwers.
The thrower’s main strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. The lack of a cocking mechanism and the intuitive Power Pivot Arm make it incredibly easy to pick up and use. One potential area for improvement might be adding some texture to the handle for improved grip, especially in wet conditions.
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower exceeds my expectations, especially considering its price point. It offers a level of performance and usability that rivals more expensive alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower is impressive, given its low cost. The plastic feels solid and durable, and the molded design is comfortable to hold. The light weight reduces fatigue during extended use.
The thrower is exceptionally user-friendly. There’s practically no learning curve; anyone can pick it up and start throwing clays with minimal instruction.
Durability & Maintenance
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower is built to last. Its simple design and durable materials ensure it can withstand regular use for years to come. Maintenance is virtually non-existent.
A quick rinse with water after use is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The lack of moving parts eliminates the need for lubrication or other maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower is a standalone product and doesn’t require or support any accessories. There are no customization options available. This lack of customizability keeps the price down. It also aligns with its core design principle of simplicity.
Pros and Cons of MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower
Pros
- Extremely affordable: At under $7, it’s a steal.
- Surprisingly powerful: Launches clays farther than expected.
- Incredibly easy to use: No complicated mechanisms or adjustments.
- Durable construction: Made from high-impact plastic.
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to carry and store.
Cons
- Basic design. There are no adjustment options.
- Smooth handle: Grip could be improved with texturing.
Who Should Buy MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower?
Perfect for: Casual shooters, beginners, and anyone looking for an affordable and portable clay target throwing solution. Those who value simplicity and ease of use will particularly appreciate this thrower.
Who should skip this product? Competitive shooters who require highly customizable or automatic target launching systems. Those with limited arm strength may also find it challenging to achieve maximum distances, although the Power Pivot Arm design does help mitigate this issue.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None are strictly necessary, but a shooting vest with a clay target pouch is recommended for convenient storage of targets. Adding grip tape to the handle could also improve comfort and control.
Conclusion on MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower
The MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower is a remarkable product that delivers exceptional value for its price. Its simple design, surprising power, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable and portable clay target throwing solution.
The price is definitely justified, as it offers a level of performance and usability that rivals more expensive alternatives. I would absolutely recommend it to casual shooters, beginners, and anyone who wants a simple, reliable way to launch clay targets.
If you’re tired of wrestling with complicated and expensive target throwers, give the MTM EZ Throw Target Thrower a try. You might just be surprised at how much fun you can have with such a simple tool. Pick one up and head to the range!