The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable Made a Bold First Impression
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable target stand promises a simple, affordable solution for setting up targets at the range. Manufactured by Allen, this stand is designed for ease of use and portability, making it appealing to shooters of all levels. I was looking for a lightweight, no-frills option for impromptu range sessions.
My previous target setups involved a haphazard collection of cardboard boxes and duct tape, always a struggle. I was seeking something more professional and, frankly, less embarrassing. The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable seemed to fit the bill with its promise of easy setup and portability.
Unboxing was straightforward – just the stand itself, folded flat. The black finish looked clean, and the materials felt adequately sturdy for the price point. My initial impression was that it was simple and functional, though I wasn’t blown away by the build quality.
I considered a few other options, like the Birchwood Casey portable target stand and some DIY PVC pipe setups. However, the Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable won out due to its price and the promise of quick setup. The Birchwood Casey model was slightly more expensive, and I wasn’t ready to commit to a DIY project. I was cautiously optimistic – hoping it would perform as advertised and save me some setup headaches.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable to my local outdoor shooting range, which has uneven terrain and is often subject to unpredictable weather. It was a fairly calm day, but there was a light breeze. I set it up about 25 yards from the firing line.
Setup was indeed easy: the stand unfolded quickly and was ready to go in seconds. However, the light breeze made it challenging to keep targets securely attached. I ended up using more tape than expected to ensure they wouldn’t blow away. After my first use, I noticed the metal already bending slightly at the legs of the stand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few months of regular use, the Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable has shown some wear and tear. The metal has bent further, requiring careful placement to maintain stability. While it’s still functional, I doubt it will hold up for many years.
Cleaning is simple—just wiping it down with a damp cloth. However, the bending metal concerns me in terms of long-term durability and safety. While it is better than a cardboard box, I may consider upgrading in the future.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable
Specifications
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable boasts a straightforward design with a few key specifications. It’s constructed from black-coated metal. It’s designed to hold standard-sized paper targets.
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable is light, making it easy to carry to and from the range. The simple construction allows for quick set up and take down. These specifications impact the user experience, as the lightweight nature can be a drawback in windy conditions, and the basic design may not accommodate larger or heavier targets.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable functions adequately for basic target practice. It holds targets upright, allowing for clear visibility and shot placement. It’s simple, but it gets the job done, as long as the weather cooperates.
Its strengths lie in its ease of use and portability, making it a decent solution for casual shooters. The primary weakness is its lack of robustness, especially in windy or uneven conditions. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly target stand, but it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is extremely basic, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The black-coated metal provides a clean look. The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable is very lightweight.
There’s almost no learning curve. It’s intuitive to set up and use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the thin metal construction, I don’t expect the Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable to last for years. The bending I’ve already observed is a concern. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Repair might be possible with some bending and reinforcement, but it’s probably not worth the effort. I expect to get a couple of years of use out of it.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable doesn’t come with any accessories. There aren’t any customization options. It is designed to function as a standalone target stand.
It’s compatible with standard paper targets, which can be easily attached using tape, staples, or target clips. Additional clips might be useful for securing targets in windy conditions.
Pros and Cons of Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable
Pros
- Easy and quick setup.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Affordable price point.
- Simple, functional design.
- Compatible with standard paper targets.
Cons
- Not very durable.
- Unstable in windy conditions.
- Limited to smaller targets.
Who Should Buy Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable?
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable is perfect for casual shooters who want a simple and affordable target stand for occasional use. It’s also suitable for beginners who are just starting out and don’t want to invest in expensive equipment. It is most useful for those with access to an indoor shooting range.
Anyone serious about competitive shooting or needing a stand for frequent use in varied weather conditions should probably skip this product. They should seek a more robust and durable option. Must-have accessories include heavy-duty target clips and potentially some weights or stakes to secure the stand in windy conditions.
Conclusion on Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable
The Allen Ez-Aim Range Portable offers a basic, budget-friendly solution for setting up targets at the range. It’s easy to use and portable, but its durability is questionable, especially in windy conditions. The price is definitely justified for what you get – a simple, functional stand that gets the job done for casual shooters.
Personally, I would recommend it to someone looking for an inexpensive, temporary solution. However, I would advise them to be aware of its limitations and consider upgrading to a more robust stand if they plan to use it frequently or in challenging conditions. If you are looking for simple and cheap, then this may be the target stand for you.