First Impressions of Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is a seemingly simple product designed to prolong the life of a crucial component of any shooting range: the 2×4 that holds your targets. Double Tap Industries promises unmatched durability with their AR500 steel construction, shielding your stands from bullet strikes and ricochet damage. As someone who has built and maintained numerous shooting stands over the years, constantly replacing chewed-up 2x4s, I was intrigued.
I was tired of constantly patching and replacing the 2x4s on my target stands. Stray shots and ricochets were turning them into splintered messes, and the cost of replacement wood was adding up. I needed a solution that was both durable and affordable, and the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon receiving the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate, I was immediately impressed with its solid feel. The raw AR500 steel exudes ruggedness, and its simple design hints at easy installation. Picking it up, the weight also suggested durability and the ability to withstand considerable impact.
Compared to simply reinforcing my 2x4s with extra wood or using makeshift metal shields, the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate offered a dedicated solution. It felt more professional and promised a longer-lasting fix than my previous attempts at DIY protection. Ultimately, I chose this product because it offered a focused, purpose-built solution at a reasonable price point.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate looked and felt like it could handle the abuse it was designed for. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the claims of unmatched durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground was my private shooting range, a 100-yard setup nestled in a rural area where I can safely engage in various shooting activities. I installed the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate on a new 2×4 used for holding paper targets, focusing on handgun practice at distances of 10 to 25 yards. The conditions were dry with moderate temperatures, typical for a late spring afternoon.
Installation was straightforward. I simply positioned the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate where I anticipated the most bullet impact and secured it using self-tapping screws. The first few magazines fired at the target included intentional misses aimed close to the plate.
After the first session, I inspected the plate. It showed no signs of penetration or significant deformation, just surface marks from the impacts. The 2×4 behind the plate remained unscathed, confirming the plate’s protective capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate continues to perform admirably. It has withstood numerous rounds from 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP handguns. While the raw steel finish has acquired some surface rust due to exposure to the elements, the plate itself remains structurally sound.
There is no sign of warping or cracking, even after repeated direct hits. Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down occasionally to remove loose debris and prevent excessive rust buildup. The AR500 Steel has proven its worth, taking a beating and protecting the underlying 2×4.
Compared to the unprotected 2x4s I previously used, the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate represents a significant improvement in both durability and longevity. Previously, I was replacing or heavily patching my target stands every few weeks. With the plate in place, the protected 2×4 remains in excellent condition.
Breaking Down the Features of Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate
Specifications
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is constructed from AR500 steel, a high-hardness, abrasion-resistant steel alloy known for its exceptional impact resistance. Its dimensions are 2 inches in length and 4 inches in width, designed to fit snugly on a standard 2×4 piece of lumber. This compact size allows for targeted protection without adding excessive weight or bulk to the target stand.
The plate comes in a raw finish, meaning it is unpainted and uncoated. While this might lead to surface rust in humid environments, it also means there is no paint or coating to chip or peel away upon impact. The manufacturer is Double Tap Industries, a company specializing in shooting accessories designed for durability and performance.
These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the plate’s effectiveness in protecting 2x4s from bullet strikes. AR500 steel provides the necessary hardness to deflect bullets, while the 2×4 inch size offers sufficient coverage for the most vulnerable area.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is to protect 2x4s from bullet damage, and it excels at this task. During testing, the plate consistently prevented bullets from penetrating the 2×4, even at close ranges with high-powered handguns. The plate’s angled design helps deflect errant shots away from the target stand, further enhancing its protective capabilities.
One strength is its simplicity. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to fail. The only potential weakness is the raw steel finish, which requires occasional maintenance to prevent rust. However, this is a minor issue compared to the plate’s overall performance.
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate meets and exceeds expectations for a product of its type. It provides reliable protection and prolongs the life of target stands, saving both time and money in the long run.
Design & Ergonomics
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate boasts a straightforward and functional design. The raw steel finish gives it a rugged, utilitarian aesthetic, and the compact size ensures it doesn’t interfere with target placement or visibility. The weight, while substantial, is manageable and doesn’t add excessive strain to the target stand.
Installation is simple and requires only basic tools. There is no learning curve; anyone familiar with basic woodworking or construction can easily attach the plate to a 2×4.
Durability & Maintenance
The AR500 Steel construction ensures the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate will last for years, even with regular use and exposure to harsh weather conditions. As mentioned previously, the raw steel finish may require occasional maintenance to prevent rust. However, this can be easily addressed with a wire brush and a rust-inhibiting coating.
Repair is unlikely to be necessary under normal circumstances. The plate is designed to withstand repeated bullet impacts, and its solid construction makes it highly resistant to damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options available, as the plate is designed for a single, focused purpose. However, users can easily paint or coat the plate to match their target stand or to provide additional rust protection.
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate does not require any proprietary accessories and is compatible with any standard 2×4 lumber. Users can easily adapt the plate to different target stand designs and configurations.
Pros and Cons of Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Made from AR500 steel, this plate can withstand repeated bullet impacts without failing. This translates to significant cost savings over time by drastically reducing the need to replace damaged 2x4s.
- Simple Installation: The straightforward design allows for quick and easy installation using basic tools. This makes it easy for anyone to upgrade their target stands with minimal effort.
- Cost-Effective: Priced at $39.99, the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate pays for itself over time by extending the life of your target stands. Compared to the ongoing cost of replacing 2x4s, this is a smart investment.
- Versatile: The plate is compatible with any standard 2×4, making it suitable for a wide range of target stand designs. This versatility allows users to easily integrate the plate into their existing shooting setups.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your target stands are protected from bullet damage allows you to focus on your shooting without worrying about constantly repairing or replacing your equipment. This peace of mind enhances the overall shooting experience.
Cons
- Raw Steel Finish: The lack of a protective coating means the plate is susceptible to rust, especially in humid environments. While easily addressed with maintenance, it is an additional consideration for some users.
- Limited Size: The 2×4 inch size provides targeted protection but may not cover the entire area prone to bullet strikes on some target stand designs. Users may need multiple plates for comprehensive coverage.
Who Should Buy Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate?
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is perfect for shooting range owners, avid target shooters, and firearms instructors who regularly use and maintain their own shooting ranges. Anyone who frequently replaces damaged 2x4s on their target stands will benefit from the plate’s durable construction and cost-saving benefits. It is also a great addition for hunters who practice frequently to maintain proficiency.
This product might not be necessary for casual shooters who only visit commercial shooting ranges occasionally. These ranges typically handle target stand maintenance. Additionally, those who are highly skilled and rarely miss the target might find the added protection unnecessary.
A must-have accessory for the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is a good quality self-tapping screw designed for steel. A rust-inhibiting coating can also be applied to the plate to minimize maintenance requirements.
Conclusion on Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate
The Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is a simple yet highly effective solution for protecting target stands from bullet damage. Its AR500 Steel construction ensures exceptional durability, and its straightforward design makes it easy to install and maintain. While the raw steel finish may require occasional rust prevention, the plate’s overall performance and cost-saving benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
At $39.99, the price is justified by the product’s longevity and the reduced need for target stand repairs. I would personally recommend the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate to anyone who wants to prolong the life of their target stands and save money in the long run.
If you’re tired of constantly replacing damaged 2x4s, the Double Tap Industries 2×4 Protector Plate is the answer. Upgrade your shooting range today and shoot with confidence, knowing your equipment is protected by the best.