Let’s Dive into Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower
The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower is an entry-level trap designed to bring the fun of clay shooting to your backyard or local range. Manufactured by Champion Traps and Targets, this portable unit boasts a 50-clay capacity and promises to elevate your skills in the shooting sports without breaking the bank. It’s marketed as an affordable and convenient way to practice your shotgun skills, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out.
I was looking for a reliable and easy-to-use clay thrower that would allow me to practice solo without needing someone to manually launch the targets. My old hand-crank thrower was tiring and inconsistent. I wanted something that would simulate real-world hunting scenarios where I need to react quickly.
Upon unboxing, the Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower felt surprisingly robust for its price point. The materials seemed durable, and the assembly appeared straightforward thanks to the included DVD. It had a good weight to it, suggesting a stable platform, though not so heavy that it would be difficult to move around.
Compared to other automatic clay throwers I researched, the Champion EasyBird stood out due to its combination of affordability and decent capacity. Models from Promatic and Atlas Traps offered higher capacities and more advanced features, but at a significantly higher cost. The Champion EasyBird seemed like the perfect balance of features and price for my needs.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower seemed well-built and easy to assemble, but the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of providing a consistent and reliable clay-throwing experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower at my local shooting range on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The range offered a controlled environment with plenty of space to set up the thrower and safely practice my shooting. I wanted to get a feel for how the thrower performed under ideal conditions before testing it in more challenging environments.
The thrower performed well in the dry conditions, consistently launching clays at the advertised distance. It was relatively easy to set up, following the instructions from the included DVD. The 50-foot release cord with foot pedal was very convenient.
It took a few throws to dial in the angle and trajectory, but once I got the hang of it, the Champion EasyBird provided a consistent target presentation. The single-second cycle time was fast enough to provide a good rhythm for practice. My initial concern was if I would struggle with the learning curve of the remote activation, however, this proved to be beneficial.
The only issue I encountered during the first use was a few instances of clay targets breaking upon launch. This seemed to be related to slight imperfections in the clays themselves, rather than a fault of the thrower. Also, my battery cables needed extending for my setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower has held up surprisingly well. The frame shows no signs of bending or weakening, and the motor continues to operate smoothly. I typically use it 2-3 times a week for practice sessions.
There are a few minor scratches on the paint, but otherwise, the thrower still looks and functions like new. I am storing the product in a dry environment.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe down the thrower after each use to remove any dirt or clay residue. Occasionally, I apply a light coat of lubricant to the moving parts.
Compared to my previous manual thrower, the Champion EasyBird is a game-changer. It allows me to practice more efficiently and effectively, and the consistent target presentation has significantly improved my shooting skills. This far outperforms what I expected in terms of performance and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Champion Traps and Targets provides a reliable and trusted brand in the shooting sports industry.
- Capacity: The 50-clay target capacity is sufficient for extended practice sessions without frequent reloading.
- Throwing Distance: Adjustable throwing range from 55 to 65 yards allows for varying levels of challenge.
- Release Type: The 50 ft release cord with foot pedal release provides remote activation for solo practice.
- Cycle Time: The fast, 1-second cycle time ensures a consistent target presentation.
- Target Compatibility: Throws standard 108 mm or International 110mm clay targets.
- Power Source: Runs off a 12-volt battery (deep cycle type recommended) for portability.
- Safety Features: Includes an On-Off-Safe Release switch to safely uncock the arm and an arm safety ring for visual indication of the throwing arm path.
- Additional Features: Features a 30 amp circuit breaker to protect electrical wires and the motor.
- Mounting Options: Easily mounts to the Champion Trap Taxi 40261 (sold separately) for enhanced portability.
These specifications translate to a user-friendly and portable clay thrower. The 50-clay capacity minimizes interruptions, and the adjustable throwing range allows you to customize the challenge based on your skill level and the available space. The remote activation is particularly valuable for solo practice.
Performance & Functionality
The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower performs its primary job—throwing clays—remarkably well. It consistently launches targets with good speed and distance.
The single-second cycle time is quick enough to simulate realistic shooting scenarios. The thrower is relatively reliable, with only occasional issues of broken clays. It meets expectations and exceeds them for a product in this price range.
The strengths of the Champion EasyBird include its ease of use, portability, and consistent target presentation. A potential weakness is its reliance on a 12-volt battery, which requires occasional charging.
Design & Ergonomics
The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower is constructed from durable steel and plastic components. The materials feel solid and well-assembled.
The weight is manageable, making it easy to transport and set up. The design is relatively simple and straightforward, with no unnecessary frills. There is minimal learning curve as the features are quite intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower should last for many years. The steel frame is resistant to rust and corrosion, and the motor is designed for long-term use.
Maintenance is simple and requires only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Parts are readily available if repairs are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower comes with a 50-foot release cord and an instructional DVD. It can be mounted on the Champion Trap Taxi 40261 for increased portability.
While there are limited customization options, the thrower is compatible with standard 108mm and 110mm clay targets. This is the most important aspect to be aware of when purchasing the thrower.
Pros and Cons of Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower
Pros
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for an automatic clay thrower.
- 50-Clay Capacity: Allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloading.
- Remote Activation: Foot pedal release enables solo practice.
- Adjustable Throwing Range: Provides versatility for different skill levels and shooting environments.
- Easy to Assemble and Use: Simple design with minimal learning curve.
Cons
- Requires 12-Volt Battery: Battery not included and requires charging.
- Clays Can Break Upon Launch: Can occur with lower-quality or damaged clays.
Who Should Buy Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower?
The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower is perfect for recreational shooters. It also is ideal for those looking to improve their shotgun skills without investing in a more expensive, professional-grade trap. Casual campers who enjoy shooting sports will get the most benefit from the product.
This product isn’t for those who require a high-volume, professional-grade trap for competitive shooting or commercial use. The Champion EasyBird is best suited for occasional practice sessions.
A must-have accessory is a good quality 12-volt deep cycle battery. Also, having a collection of high-quality clay targets is a must.
Conclusion on Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower
The Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower is a solid entry-level option for anyone looking to enjoy the sport of clay shooting. It combines affordability, ease of use, and decent capacity in a portable package.
The price is justified by its performance and functionality. It is perfect for casual practice and skill development.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable way to enjoy clay shooting without needing an assistant. If you’re ready to take your shotgun skills to the next level, the Champion EasyBird Auto-Feed Trap Clay Thrower is a great place to start. Get yours today and start breaking clays!