Let’s Talk About Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand
Rimfire shooting offers a unique blend of accessibility, affordability, and fun. The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand promises to deliver all of that in a reactive, engaging package. Action Target aims to bring professional-level training to the everyday shooter with this product.
I was looking for a dynamic target system to spice up my .22 plinking sessions. Static paper targets get boring quickly, and I wanted something that offered instant feedback and a bit of a challenge. Several options existed, but the appeal of a plate rack system, scaled down for rimfire and offered at a relatively accessible price point, drew me to this Action Target product.
My first impression upon unboxing was of solid construction. The steel looked robust, and the overall design seemed well-thought-out. I was initially excited to get it set up and start knocking down some plates.
Compared to other reactive targets I considered, like dueling trees or spinning targets, the plate rack seemed to offer a more structured and potentially challenging training experience. I chose the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand over these alternatives because it mimicked the functionality of larger, centerfire plate racks used in professional shooting competitions. The ability to reset all targets simultaneously was also a major selling point.
However, my initial excitement quickly waned after attempting the first reset. As reported by other users, there was a significant issue with the reset mechanism. This was a major disappointment that ultimately overshadowed the positive aspects of the product.
Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offers a dedicated rimfire area, making it ideal for this type of target. I set the target up at the recommended distance of 10+ yards, using a variety of .22 LR firearms.
The initial rounds were satisfying. Hearing the ping and seeing the plates drop provided instant gratification. However, the frustration mounted quickly when I tried to reset the plates using the provided cable.
The reset lever was extremely difficult to actuate. It required excessive force due to rubbing between the bar and the base, as reported by others, making the remote reset function unusable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions, the reset issue persisted without improvement. Despite attempts to lubricate the pivot points, the targets still required manual reset after each string of fire. This made the whole experience tedious and significantly detracted from the enjoyment of using the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand.
The AR500 steel plates showed no signs of damage from .22 LR rounds, which is a testament to their durability. However, the mild steel stand is vulnerable to stray shots and would likely require repair or replacement if repeatedly struck. Cleaning was minimal, mostly just wiping down the plates and stand after each use.
Unfortunately, the core functionality of the plate rack – the convenient reset mechanism – failed to deliver on its promise. In comparison to my experience with other Action Target products, which have generally been reliable, the Rimfire Plate Rack was a major letdown. It severely underperformed, and I have spent months attempting to rectify the issue with no success.
Breaking Down the Features of Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand
Specifications
The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand features six 4-inch diameter target plates. These are constructed from 1/4″ AR500 armor steel, a standard for target systems.
The system includes a 4-foot stand, which elevates the target for better visibility and usability. It also comes with a 30-foot reset cable for remote resetting of the plates.
Weight: 50 lbs. This makes it relatively portable while still providing stability during use.
Dimensions: 58″ H x 36″ W. This footprint provides a substantial target array without taking up excessive space.
Steel Grade: 1/4″ AR500 steel. This provides excellent resistance to .22 LR impacts.
Rimfire Shooting Distance: 10+ yards. This is the recommended minimum distance for safe and effective use.
Included Accessories: 4 ft Stand. This comes standard.
These specifications, on paper, seem well-suited for a rimfire plate rack system. However, the critical flaw in the reset mechanism undermines the intended benefits of these features.
Performance & Functionality
When the plates drop as expected, the system functions as intended. However, the faulty reset mechanism severely impacts the overall performance.
The primary strength lies in the use of AR500 steel plates, which withstand repeated impacts without damage. The biggest weakness is, without a doubt, the problematic reset system. The system requires excessive force, often rendering the remote reset cable useless and forcing manual resets. The unit fails to meet expectations due to this critical flaw.
Design & Ergonomics
The overall design of the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand is sound. The plate size and spacing offer a good balance of challenge and hit probability.
However, the execution falls short due to the tolerance issue with the pivot bar. The build quality appears decent, but the functional flaw overshadows any positive aesthetic or ergonomic aspects.
Durability & Maintenance
The AR500 steel plates are highly durable and should last for many years with proper use. However, the mild steel stand and the reset mechanism are potential points of failure.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Repair, however, could be complex and potentially require modification to address the design flaw.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand comes with the necessary components for basic operation. There are no readily available accessories or customization options marketed for this specific model.
While the plates could theoretically be replaced with aftermarket options, it’s unlikely that this would address the core issue with the reset mechanism. The stand itself is a universal design and not intended to be customized beyond its intended purpose.
Pros and Cons of Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand
Pros
- Durable AR500 steel target plates for long life.
- Instant feedback with reactive knockdown plates.
- Relatively portable compared to larger centerfire plate racks.
Cons
- Faulty reset mechanism renders remote reset useless.
- Poor tolerance between the pivot bar and base causes excessive friction.
- Unresponsive customer service from Action Target.
- Mild steel stand is vulnerable to damage from stray shots.
Who Should Buy Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand?
This product might be suitable for someone who:
- Enjoys manually resetting targets after each string of fire and doesn’t mind the inconvenience.
- Is comfortable with potentially modifying the product to address the reset issue.
Who should skip this product?
- Anyone expecting a fully functional, remotely resettable plate rack system.
- Shooters who prioritize reliability and ease of use.
- Those who value responsive customer service and product support.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Lubricant to attempt to reduce friction in the reset mechanism (unlikely to fully resolve the issue).
- Potentially, tools and materials for modifying the pivot bar and base to improve clearance.
Conclusion on Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand
The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand presents a promising concept, but fails to deliver on its core functionality due to a significant design flaw. The problematic reset mechanism renders the remote reset feature unusable and detracts significantly from the overall shooting experience.
The value proposition is severely undermined by this critical issue. At $459.99, the price is not justified given the product’s shortcomings.
I cannot recommend this product in its current state. The frustration and disappointment caused by the faulty reset mechanism outweigh any potential benefits. Consider exploring alternative rimfire target systems from manufacturers with a proven track record of quality and customer support. Don’t make the same mistake I did – steer clear of the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack until they address this fundamental issue.