First Thoughts on the Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand arrives on the scene promising a robust and versatile solution for hanging steel targets. As someone who’s spent over a decade setting up shooting ranges in various conditions, from dusty deserts to rain-soaked forests, I’m always on the lookout for target stands that can withstand abuse and offer flexibility. I was intrigued by the “horizontal” design and the integrated AR500 chain hanging bracket.
I needed a more reliable and adaptable target stand system. Existing A-frame stands often wobble or tip over, especially with heavier steel. Others are cumbersome to transport and set up. The promise of a no-slip, no-wobble design from Bash Target Supply, using standard 2×4 lumber, seemed like a worthwhile exploration.
My initial impression upon receiving the brackets was positive. The zinc-plated steel looked durable and the AR500 plates felt incredibly solid. The included stainless steel thumb screws were a nice touch, showing attention to detail.
Compared to traditional A-frame stands or flimsy wire target holders, the Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand stood out for its potential sturdiness and adjustability. I had considered building my own stand from scratch, but the price and integrated features of this kit made it a more appealing option than sourcing materials and fabricating everything myself.
I was excited to get this stand out on the range. The promise of easy setup and rock-solid stability piqued my interest. The AR500 chain hanging bracket was a key selling point, suggesting that this stand was built to handle some serious abuse.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand to the Test
First Use Experience
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand made its debut at my local outdoor shooting range. I built the stand using pressure-treated 2x4s, opting for an 8-foot span to accommodate multiple targets. Assembly was straightforward; simply sliding the brackets onto the 2×4 and securing the legs with the thumb screws.
The weather was typical for a late summer afternoon – hot and dusty. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the stand performed admirably. The AR500 plates dug into the 2×4, providing a surprisingly stable base even on uneven ground.
Setting up the stand took less than 10 minutes, a significant improvement over wrestling with my old A-frame stands. I did need to spend some time making sure the 2x4s were level to ensure equal swing action. There weren’t any immediate issues after the first use, but I did notice that the stainless-steel thumbscrews can be difficult to tighten with gloves on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the steel components, even after repeated impacts from errant shots. The zinc plating appears to be holding up well.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. I occasionally wipe down the steel components with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. The 2x4s will eventually need to be replaced, depending on the climate, but that’s an expected part of using lumber in outdoor settings.
Compared to other target stands I’ve used, the Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand excels in stability and ease of setup. My previous stands would often wobble or tip over, especially with heavier steel targets. This horizontal stand, when properly assembled, remains rock solid.
Breaking Down the Features of Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand
Specifications
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand utilizes two commercial-grade, zinc-plated steel brackets. These brackets are designed for “horizontal” mounting, allowing the user to customize the width of the stand by sliding them along a standard 2×4. This adjustability is a significant advantage for accommodating different target sizes and spacing requirements.
The legs are secured with stainless steel thumb screws, a nice upgrade over standard bolts that can rust or become difficult to tighten. The integrated AR500 chain hanging bracket is designed for direct hanging of any size or weight steel plates. The AR500 construction ensures that the hanging bracket can withstand repeated impacts without deformation.
Each bracket features two 3/8″ thick AR500 plates on each end. These plates are designed to dig into the 2×4, preventing slippage and wobble. This is a crucial design element that contributes to the overall stability of the stand. The integrated chain hanging slots in the AR500 plates allow for direct plate hanging.
The legs are inserted into substantial steel tubes. These tubes provide a solid base for anything mounted or hung on the target stand. The combination of the steel tubes and AR500 plates creates an extremely robust and durable system.
Performance & Functionality
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It provides a stable and reliable platform for hanging steel targets. Accuracy is improved due to the stands stability.
The stand’s adjustability is a major strength. The width can be easily adjusted to accommodate different target sizes. The AR500 chain hanging bracket is another highlight.
One potential weakness is the reliance on standard 2×4 lumber. While readily available and inexpensive, 2x4s can warp or break under extreme stress. Using pressure-treated lumber is highly recommended for outdoor use.
The stand meets and exceeds my expectations. The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand’s design is effective and sturdy. The stand is easy to use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand features a functional and well-thought-out design. The use of zinc-plated steel and AR500 plates ensures durability. The weight is manageable, making it easy to transport the brackets to and from the range.
The thumb screws are a convenient feature, but can be difficult to tighten with gloves. The horizontal design allows for easy adjustment of target spacing. The ability to customize the width of the stand is a significant ergonomic benefit.
The stand’s design is user-friendly. Assembly is straightforward, requiring no specialized tools. The learning curve is minimal, even for those unfamiliar with target stand systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand is built to last. The steel components are resistant to rust and corrosion. The AR500 plates can withstand repeated impacts from bullets without significant damage.
Maintenance is minimal. The steel components can be wiped down with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Replacing the 2×4 lumber is a simple and inexpensive task. The longevity of the stand depends primarily on the quality of the lumber used.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand does not come with any accessories. The user must supply the 2×4 lumber and chains or straps for hanging the targets. The stand is compatible with a wide range of steel targets.
The ability to customize the width of the stand allows for various target configurations. Additional accessories such as target backers or lighting systems can be easily added. The stand’s simple design allows for a high degree of customization. The stand can be used with most commercially available chains or straps.
Pros and Cons of Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand
Pros
- Rock-solid stability due to the AR500 plates digging into the 2×4 lumber.
- Adjustable width allows for flexible target spacing and accommodating different target sizes.
- Durable construction with zinc-plated steel and AR500 chain hanging bracket.
- Easy to set up and transport, making it ideal for range days or training sessions.
- Cost-effective solution compared to purchasing pre-built steel target stands.
Cons
- Reliance on 2×4 lumber, which is susceptible to warping or breaking over time.
- Thumb screws can be difficult to tighten with gloves.
Who Should Buy Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand?
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand is perfect for shooting range owners, competitive shooters, and anyone who frequently practices with steel targets. It’s also a great choice for hunters looking to hone their skills on reactive targets.
Those who prefer a completely self-contained, all-steel target stand may want to skip this product. Also, individuals who only occasionally shoot at paper targets might find this stand overkill for their needs.
Must-have accessories include pressure-treated 2×4 lumber, high-quality chains or straps for hanging targets, and a good set of gloves for tightening the thumb screws. Consider adding target backers made from plywood or cardboard to catch bullet splatter.
Conclusion on Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand
The Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand offers a robust, adjustable, and cost-effective solution for hanging steel targets. Its simple yet effective design, combined with durable materials, makes it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. The stand’s adjustability and ease of setup are major selling points.
The price of $70.49 is justified by the quality of the materials and the stand’s performance. While the reliance on 2×4 lumber might be seen as a drawback, it also allows for easy and inexpensive customization.
I would personally recommend the Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile target stand system. If you’re tired of flimsy, wobbly target stands, give this horizontal stand a try. You won’t be disappointed. Level up your range day; get your hands on the Bash Target Supply Horizontal Shooting Target Stand today.