The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless target stands promising stability and ease of use. But I was looking for a no-frills, reliable solution to replace my aging, makeshift target setup, something that could withstand regular range use without breaking the bank. The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black caught my eye with its simple design and affordable price point.
My shooting sessions were constantly interrupted by target stands that wouldn’t stay put or were too flimsy to handle anything beyond a gentle breeze. I needed something durable and easy to transport, so I could focus on improving my marksmanship, not wrestling with equipment. The SME stand’s steel construction and trident footer seemed like a step up from my previous wooden contraptions. The initial unboxing revealed a straightforward, no-nonsense product.
Compared to heavier, more elaborate target stands with adjustable legs and complex mechanisms, the SME SMETGTST appeared refreshingly simple. It wasn’t as feature-rich as some of the premium stands from companies like Champion or Caldwell, but those came with a significantly higher price tag. I chose the SME stand because it prioritized functionality and affordability over bells and whistles. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; its simplicity had me intrigued.
Real-World Testing: Putting SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black to my local outdoor shooting range for its first test. The weather was mildly windy, a typical condition at this range, and a factor that often plagues flimsier target stands. Setting it up was quick and easy. The trident footer pushed firmly into the ground, providing surprising stability.
The stand performed well, even with the wind picking up intermittently. I tested it with both paper targets and cardboard silhouettes, using the included clips to secure them. There was minimal sway, and the targets remained securely in place throughout my session. However, the clips felt a little flimsy and I was worried they would not last long.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black is holding up better than I initially anticipated. The powder coat finish shows no signs of chipping or rust, despite being exposed to the elements. I am careful about transporting the stand, as I am worried that the frame will become damaged if I am not careful.
While the frame remains sturdy, the included target clips are a definite weak point. Several have already broken or bent out of shape, requiring me to replace them with heavier-duty binder clips. Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. It outperforms my previous homemade target stands in terms of stability and portability, but the cheap clips continue to disappoint.
Breaking Down the Features of SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black
Specifications
The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black features a 5/16″ steel frame, providing a decent balance between weight and durability. The black powder coat finish offers some protection against rust and corrosion. The Manufacturer, SME, doesn’t provide specific dimensions, but the stand is sized to accommodate standard paper targets.
It comes with a trident footer ground stake, designed to provide stability on various terrains. The adjustable top horizontal bar allows for some flexibility in target size. The inclusion of eight (8) target clips is intended to secure two paper targets to the frame. The specifications highlight the SME stand’s focus on simplicity and affordability, prioritizing essential functionality over advanced features.
Performance & Functionality
The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black performs its primary function – holding up targets – reasonably well, especially considering its price. Its stability is surprisingly good on firm ground, minimizing sway and movement during shooting sessions. The adjustable top bar accommodates different target sizes, but the adjustment mechanism itself is quite basic and requires manual tightening.
The target clips are the biggest letdown, often proving to be flimsy and prone to breaking. The steel frame itself is sturdy, but the overall functionality is somewhat limited by the quality of the accessories. It meets the basic expectation of a target stand, but falls short of exceeding it due to the subpar clips.
Design & Ergonomics
The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black features a simple, utilitarian design. The all-steel construction provides a sense of robustness, while the black powder coat finish gives it a clean, professional look. Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up, even for individuals with limited strength.
There’s no real learning curve; it’s ready to use straight out of the box. However, the basic design lacks any ergonomic considerations beyond ease of transport.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel frame of the SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black appears durable and should last for several years with proper care. The powder coat finish provides some protection against rust, but scratches and chips can expose the underlying steel to corrosion. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The longevity of the target clips is questionable. Replacement clips can easily be found at most office supply stores or online retailers, but represent an ongoing expense.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black comes with eight (8) target clips as its only included accessory. There are limited customization options beyond replacing the clips with higher-quality alternatives. The stand’s basic design is compatible with most standard paper targets and cardboard silhouettes.
Aftermarket target backers, such as cardboard or plywood sheets, can be added for increased durability and visibility.
Pros and Cons of SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black
Pros
- Affordable Price: It’s one of the least expensive target stands on the market.
- Sturdy Steel Frame: Provides a solid base for targets.
- Easy to Transport: Lightweight and simple design.
- Simple Assembly: Ready to use in minutes.
- Good Stability: Keeps targets upright in moderate winds.
Cons
- Flimsy Target Clips: Prone to breaking and bending.
- Limited Adjustability: Top bar adjustment is basic and manual.
- Basic Design: Lacks advanced features or ergonomic considerations.
Who Should Buy SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black?
The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black is perfect for casual shooters, budget-conscious individuals, and anyone who needs a simple, portable target stand for occasional range use. It’s also a good option for those just starting out in shooting sports and don’t want to invest in more expensive equipment.
Those who require a more durable, feature-rich target stand for frequent or competitive shooting should skip this product. A must-have modification is replacing the included target clips with heavier-duty alternatives, such as binder clips or spring clamps.
Conclusion on SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black
The SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black delivers on its promise of affordability and basic functionality. Its sturdy steel frame provides a stable base for targets, and its lightweight design makes it easy to transport. However, the flimsy target clips are a significant drawback, requiring immediate replacement for optimal performance.
The price is justified for what you get – a no-frills target stand that gets the job done. I would recommend it to casual shooters who are looking for a budget-friendly option and are willing to replace the clips. If you need a reliable and cheap target stand, then purchase the SME SMETGTST Target Stand Steel Frame Powdercoated Black now.