Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 Review

One Tool, Many Questions: The Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220

The Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 is a portable, manually operated clay target thrower designed for recreational shooting and practice. Trius, a well-known name in shooting sports, aims to provide an affordable and reliable option for shooters of all skill levels with this offering. The claim of tool-free adjustments and a high angle target retainer piqued my interest, promising a user-friendly experience.

For years I’d relied on bulkier, more complex traps, but I needed something lightweight and easy to transport for solo practice sessions. I was specifically looking for a trap that could launch both single and stacked (piggyback) double targets. The Trius Birdshooter 2 seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the lighter weight compared to the Trius Original. The materials felt sturdy enough, primarily aluminum and durable plastic, but the overall build quality felt a little less robust than I anticipated. The design is simple and functional, though not particularly inspiring.

I considered the Champion Wheelybird Auto-Feed Trap and the Do-All Outdoors Fowl Play Automatic Clay Pigeon Thrower, both offering higher target capacity and automated throwing. Ultimately, I chose the Trius Birdshooter 2 for its portability and simplicity, hoping it would provide a reliable, no-frills experience. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see if its performance would match its promises of ease and convenience.

Real-World Testing: Putting Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 at my local shooting range, a relatively open field with varying wind conditions. The setup was quick and easy, and I used the included bolt to mount it to an old tire for stability. The dry conditions allowed for easy footing while operating the trap.

The initial throws were consistent, although the high angle target retainer took some getting used to for consistent loft. I managed to launch both single and double targets successfully, although the double launches were slightly less predictable in their trajectory. My main concern was the arm’s spring tension which seemed inconsistent between throws.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Trius Birdshooter 2 has held up reasonably well, although some wear and tear is visible. The aluminum arm shows some minor scratches and the plastic base has scuffed from being mounted. The bolt-down tire mount proved more reliable than foot operation.

Maintenance is fairly straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts with a light oil. Compared to my older, more complex traps, the Trius Birdshooter 2 offers a simpler and less demanding maintenance routine. However, the inconsistent spring tension is persistent and causes frustration.

Breaking Down the Features of Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220

Specifications

• The Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220, manufactured by Trius, is designed for launching standard-sized clay targets. It is manually operated and features a single arm throwing mechanism.

• It weighs approximately 11 pounds, making it relatively lightweight and portable, and its dimensions are roughly 24 x 12 x 6 inches when folded. The light weight contributes to its portability, but also compromises its stability in windy conditions.

• The frame is constructed from a combination of aluminum and durable polymers, offering a balance between strength and weight. The aluminum throwing arm includes an oil-impregnated bushing, meant to enhance smoothness and reduce friction.

• A high-angle target retainer is included to vary launch trajectories, and it can throw both single and piggyback double targets. The high angle retainer adds variety, but requires practice to master consistent launches.

Performance & Functionality

The Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 performs adequately for recreational shooting, providing a decent throwing distance and launch angle. However, the inconsistent spring tension affects accuracy. The manual operation requires physical effort, but it allows for immediate adjustments and control over the launch.

Its strengths lie in its portability and ease of setup, making it suitable for solo practice or casual shooting sessions. Its weaknesses include inconsistent launch trajectories and a somewhat flimsy feel, especially when compared to more robust traps. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly clay target thrower but falls short of delivering a premium experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for its price point, with the aluminum arm and polymer base providing adequate durability. The unit weighs only 11 pounds, making it easy to carry and transport. The ergonomics are simple and functional, with a basic foot pedal design for launching targets.

The user-friendliness is high, with no complicated adjustments or settings required. The tool-free adjustment claim is accurate, allowing for quick changes to launch angles without the need for additional tools. The Trius Birdshooter 2 has a very short learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Trius Birdshooter 2 should last for several seasons of regular use. The aluminum arm and polymer base are resistant to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor use. Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts.

Repairing the unit is straightforward, with readily available replacement parts from Trius. The simple design minimizes the potential for major mechanical failures. However, the spring tension is not adjustable so replacement is necessary when tension declines.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 comes with a bolt for mounting it to a tire or wooden platform, enhancing stability. There are no official customization options offered by Trius for this model. However, users can modify the base or add weight for improved stability.

It is compatible with standard-sized clay targets from various brands. Aftermarket accessories are limited due to the simple design. Additional accessories like a remote release or automatic target feeder are not compatible with this manual trap.

Pros and Cons of Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220

Who Should Buy Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220?

The Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 is perfect for recreational shooters, beginners, and those seeking a portable and affordable clay target thrower for solo practice. It’s also suitable for casual campers or anyone wanting a simple, no-frills option for backyard shooting.

This product is not ideal for serious competitive shooters or those who require consistent and precise target launches. Those looking for automated target feeders or more robust construction should also skip this product. A must-have accessory is a sturdy tire or wooden platform for stable mounting.

Conclusion on Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220

In summary, the Trius Birdshooter 2 Clay Target Traps 10220 offers a decent entry-level option for recreational clay target shooting. While it delivers on portability and ease of use, its inconsistent spring tension and somewhat flimsy build quality detract from the overall experience.

The price of $69.79 is justifiable for its intended purpose, but buyers should be aware of its limitations. I would recommend it with reservations, mainly for those seeking a budget-friendly and portable option for casual shooting practice. Consider your specific needs and expectations before making a purchase, and remember a sturdy base can greatly improve the Trius Birdshooter 2’s overall function.