How to build a range that lasts | Our preferred setup

Published on April 12, 2025
Duration: 15:42

This guide, presented by TA Targets, focuses on building a professional and durable shooting range. It emphasizes investing in high-quality, long-lasting steel targets and systems, such as AR550 plate racks, falling trees, and dueling trees, over superficial amenities. The instructor highlights the cost-effectiveness and safety benefits of armored posts over traditional wooden supports and suggests T-post mounting for flexibility, particularly on ranges with natural grass. The ideal range setup includes a variety of reactive and static steel targets to enhance shooter engagement and training.

Quick Summary

When building a shooting range, prioritize investing in quality steel targets and durable systems like AR550 plate racks, armored posts, and T-post mounts. These choices enhance shooter experience, reduce maintenance costs, and improve safety compared to standard amenities and wooden target stands.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Range Building
  2. 00:43Focus on the Flat Range
  3. 00:59Importance of Planning and Quality Systems
  4. 01:43Investing in Quality vs. Amenities
  5. 02:03Common Range Building Mistakes
  6. 02:38Need for Quality Steel Targets
  7. 02:41Introducing the Phoenix Plate Rack
  8. 03:15Phoenix Plate Rack Features (AR550 Steel)
  9. 03:51Phoenix Base Options
  10. 03:59Other Reactive Steel Targets
  11. 04:41The Double Falling Tree Target
  12. 04:57Falling Tree vs. Dueling Tree
  13. 05:47Dueling Trees: Self-Resetting
  14. 06:05Importance of Static Steel Targets
  15. 06:16Exodus Line of Steel Targets
  16. 06:37Reduced C-Zone ADAP Systems
  17. 06:44Standard vs. Gen 3 Base
  18. 07:01Mistake: Using 2x4 Posts
  19. 07:36Cost-Benefit of Armored Posts
  20. 08:54The Advantage of Armored Posts
  21. 08:57T-Post Mounting Brackets
  22. 09:35T-Posts for Mowing and Berms
  23. 10:57T-Posts on the Berm
  24. 11:34Popper Targets
  25. 11:45Var Poppers: Knockdown or Auto-Reset
  26. 12:06Ideal Range Setup Summary
  27. 12:11Ideal Flat Range Components
  28. 12:31Recommended Bases and Posts
  29. 12:51Corner Target Placement
  30. 13:00Adding More Systems with T-Posts
  31. 13:16Final Thoughts on Range Investment
  32. 13:34Business Perspective: Avoiding Lawsuits
  33. 14:03Quality Product vs. Cheap Junk
  34. 14:13TA Targets' Product Guarantee
  35. 14:33Contacting TA Targets
  36. 14:46On-Site Facility Visits
  37. 15:19Conclusion: Take Your Range Seriously

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important considerations when building a shooting range?

When building a shooting range, prioritize a clear plan for its purpose and target audience. Invest heavily in quality steel targets and durable systems, as these directly impact the shooter's experience and the facility's reputation. Avoid overspending on amenities while neglecting downrange equipment, as this can lead to liability and a poor customer experience.

Why are armored posts recommended over standard wooden posts for target stands?

Armored posts are recommended for target stands because they are significantly more durable and safer than standard 2x4 lumber. They reduce the risk of fragmentation, prevent fires caused by burning lead, and eliminate the constant need for replacement, ultimately saving professional facilities money and time on maintenance.

What types of reactive steel targets are beneficial for a shooting range?

Beneficial reactive steel targets include plate racks, falling trees, and dueling trees. Plate racks offer an engaging experience for pistol shooters, while falling trees provide a unique challenge with their drop-upon-impact mechanism. Dueling trees are excellent for competitive scenarios as they are self-resetting, allowing for continuous engagement.

How can T-post mounting brackets improve a shooting range setup?

T-post mounting brackets offer great flexibility for target placement, especially on ranges with natural grass that requires mowing. They eliminate the need for fixed bases that can damage mowing equipment and allow targets to be easily repositioned. T-posts can also be driven into berms to optimize target placement and extend berm lifespan.

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from TA Targets

View all →