Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand Review

The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand: First Use to Final Thoughts

For years, my range days have been punctuated by the satisfying thwack of steel targets. As a gear specialist with over a decade of putting equipment through its paces, I’ve learned to appreciate the immediate feedback reactive targets provide. My search for an affordable, reliable rimfire plate rack led me to the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand. This particular unit promised the core benefits of more expensive systems at a fraction of the cost, a proposition that immediately piqued my interest for both personal use and recommendations.

The driving force behind this purchase was a desire for more engaging .22LR training sessions without breaking the bank. I already owned larger, more robust steel targets for centerfire calibers, but for the sheer volume of shooting I do with my rimfire pistols and rifles, a dedicated plate rack felt like a logical next step. I’d seen Action Target’s reputation for producing solid, no-nonsense shooting gear, and the advertised features of this rimfire-specific model seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of solid construction, especially given the price point. The AR500 steel paddles felt substantial, and the overall design, though simple, seemed well-thought-out. While I considered other brands known for their budget-friendly plinking options, the specific design and advertised material of this rack stood out. My first reaction was a sense of cautious optimism – it looked promising, but the true test would be in its performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand took place at my local outdoor shooting range, specifically in a designated area for rimfire use. Setting up the 4 ft stand was straightforward, requiring minimal assembly with the included hardware. I used a variety of .22LR pistols and a rifle, testing the target’s response at distances ranging from the recommended 10 yards outward.

The target performed as expected initially, with each hit on the 4″ paddles producing a satisfying clang and a visual confirmation of a successful shot. The reactive knock-down action provided the immediate feedback I was looking for, reinforcing good trigger control and sight alignment. However, during this first session, I noticed a slight stiffness when attempting to reset the targets using the pull cord.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and numerous range trips, the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand has been subjected to consistent use. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it, primarily with .22LR ammunition from various manufacturers. Despite its intended use for rimfire, the AR500 steel paddles have held up exceptionally well, showing minimal wear from direct hits.

Maintenance has been relatively simple, mainly involving wiping down the steel components to remove dust and residue after each outing. Storing the unit is also uncomplicated, as it disassembles into manageable pieces. However, the issue I first noticed with the reset mechanism has unfortunately persisted and, in fact, worsened with continued use.

The primary concern that has emerged is the significant difficulty in resetting the target paddles. The mechanism, intended to be easily reset via a 30′ cable, has become problematic. This has required me to manually reset each paddle individually, a process that is not only time-consuming but also deters from the overall shooting experience. This is a significant drawback that overshadows some of its positive attributes.

Breaking Down the Features of Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand

Specifications

The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand is constructed with key specifications designed for rimfire enthusiasts. The six target paddles are made of 1/4″ AR500 armor steel, offering excellent durability against .22LR projectiles. These paddles measure 4″ in diameter, providing a good-sized visual and reactive element for training.

The system includes a 4 ft stand, which elevates the target to a convenient shooting height. The entire unit weighs approximately 50 lb, making it reasonably portable yet stable during use. The reset mechanism is activated by a 30′ cable, designed for remote resetting of all six paddles simultaneously. The target plates themselves are reversible and interchangeable, adding a layer of practicality.

The stand and feet are constructed from mild steel, which, according to the manufacturer, are not intended to withstand direct bullet impacts. This is a critical point for users to be aware of, as damage could occur if the stand is accidentally shot. The recommended shooting distance for this target is 10+ yards, ensuring safe backstop considerations are met.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand is to provide reactive feedback for rimfire shooting. When the paddles are struck by a .22LR bullet, they reliably fall, offering instant visual confirmation of a hit. This immediate feedback is invaluable for developing accuracy and improving shooting skills, especially for new shooters or those practicing fundamental techniques.

Where this target truly falters is in its primary selling point: the ease of resetting. The intended remote reset system, facilitated by the 30′ cable, has been a consistent point of frustration. The tolerance issues between the pivoting bar and the base unit create friction, preventing the paddles from smoothly resetting when the cable is pulled. This significantly hinders the flow of a shooting session, turning what should be an enjoyable plinking experience into a laborious task.

Design & Ergonomics

The overall design of the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand is utilitarian and functional. The use of 1/4″ AR500 steel for the paddles is a significant advantage, promising longevity against rimfire calibers. The no-weld design is a plus for assembly and potential disassembly for transport or storage, although the primary assembly is quite straightforward.

The ergonomics are acceptable for the setup and use of the target itself. The 4 ft stand provides a comfortable shooting height for most individuals. However, the ergonomics of the resetting mechanism are fundamentally flawed. The stiffness and friction encountered make using the reset cord awkward and often ineffective, forcing users into a less convenient manual reset.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the AR500 steel paddles is a definite strong point. After extensive use, they show only minor surface marks and no signs of warping or damage from standard .22LR ammunition. This suggests that the target plates themselves are built to last for a considerable time.

However, the durability of the system as a whole is questionable due to the problematic reset mechanism. The friction points within the pivoting assembly could potentially lead to accelerated wear over time, even if the steel paddles themselves remain intact. Maintenance beyond basic cleaning of the steel plates is limited, as the core issue lies in the manufacturing tolerances of the moving parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand comes with a standard set of accessories crucial for its operation. This includes the aforementioned 4 ft stand, the 30′ reset cable, and the six 4″ diameter steel paddles. The paddles are designed to be reversible and interchangeable without tools, which is a convenient feature for maintenance or if one side becomes particularly worn.

While the product itself doesn’t lend itself to extensive customization in terms of materials or core functionality, its primary draw is its affordability. There aren’t many readily available aftermarket customization options for this specific model that would address its core functional limitation—the reset mechanism. Users are largely reliant on the factory configuration for its intended operation.

Pros and Cons of Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand

Who Should Buy Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand?

This Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand is best suited for the patient rimfire shooter or someone on a very tight budget who prioritizes reactive steel over flawless functionality. It’s a good option for individuals primarily interested in the visual feedback of steel targets for casual plinking or teaching basic marksmanship, provided they are prepared for the possibility of manual resets. Beginner shooters or families looking for a fun range activity might find it appealing for its core reactive nature, assuming the reset issue can be managed or mitigated.

However, anyone seeking a seamless and uninterrupted shooting experience should likely avoid this product. If you value efficiency, prefer to spend more time shooting than resetting, or are easily frustrated by equipment malfunctions, you would be better off investing in a more reliable alternative. Those who frequently shoot with multiple people might also find the manual reset process particularly inconvenient.

For those who do opt for this target and find the reset frustrating, a potential mitigation could involve carefully inspecting and filing down any areas of significant friction on the pivoting bar or base. However, this requires mechanical aptitude and may void warranties. A more practical suggestion is to consider it as a static steel target system with the added benefit of reactive plates if they happen to reset.

Conclusion on Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand

The Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand presents a classic case of trade-offs dictated by price. Its primary strength lies in the use of durable 1/4″ AR500 steel for its 4″ diameter target plates, offering a satisfying reactive experience when it functions as intended. The 4 ft stand and overall design are adequate for its purpose, making it an accessible entry point into reactive steel targets for rimfire enthusiasts.

However, the value proposition is significantly undermined by a critical flaw in its design: the reset mechanism. The tight tolerances and resulting friction make remote resetting unreliable, often necessitating a tedious manual reset. This fundamental issue detracts heavily from the user experience and the product’s overall utility, turning what should be an engaging plinking tool into a source of frustration.

While the Action Target Rimfire Plate Rack Target w/ 4 ft Stand delivers on reactive steel at a budget-friendly price, its significant drawback in resetting capability means I cannot wholeheartedly recommend it without major reservations. It’s a product that could be great, but as it stands, the hassle involved in resetting the targets overshadows its positive attributes. If you are prepared for the potential need to manually reset and prioritize the steel’s durability over seamless operation, it might suffice. Otherwise, it’s wise to explore more reliable alternatives on the market.