Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap Review

The Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap: Beyond the Benchtop

For over a decade, my gear has been subjected to the rigors of outdoor expeditions, the grease and grime of workshop projects, the sterile precision of laboratories, and the unpredictable conditions of field operations. My discerning eye for equipment has been honed by necessity, demanding reliability, functionality, and value. When I first encountered the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap, it presented a solution to a niche but critical problem in firearm handling and testing, especially for those involved in custom builds or specialized firearm work.

The immediate need for such a device arose from a recurring frustration. As an enthusiast who frequently works on pistol caliber carbine builds, particularly those inspired by classic submachine gun designs, the process of testing these creations often involved significant logistical hurdles. Driving to a suitable range, only to discover a minor tweak was needed, meant a wasted trip and lost momentum. This is where the concept of a localized, safe testing solution became not just desirable, but essential for efficient workflow.

Initial impressions of this clearing trap were solid. The robust construction, evident even before hands-on interaction, suggested a product built for purpose. Unlike flimsy alternatives I’d seen or considered, the weight and the promise of specialized materials hinted at a serious piece of training equipment. It immediately felt like a step up from DIY solutions or less specialized containers.

While I had glanced at a few other table-top containment systems, most were designed for more general dry-fire practice or lacked the critical safety features for actual live-fire testing. None offered the specific combination of robust containment and user-friendly design that this Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap seemed to promise.

The first reaction was one of pragmatic satisfaction. It wasn’t a revolutionary gadget, but a well-thought-out tool that addressed a specific pain point, offering a tangible improvement to my workshop’s capabilities and my own safety protocols.

Real-World Testing: Putting Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap to the Test

My primary testing ground for this clearing trap was my dedicated workshop, a controlled environment that often mimics the need for contained testing. Given my specific hobby, I was eager to see how it performed during the crucial stages of testing newly assembled or modified pistol caliber carbines. This involved live-fire tests at very close range, simulating those critical initial checks after a build or repair.

The unit performed admirably under these close-quarters conditions. It effectively contained the vast majority of projectiles and associated debris, a vital function when space is limited. While the description notes the possibility of small projectiles escaping, in my controlled tests, this was minimal to non-existent, particularly with standard handgun calibers. I didn’t intentionally expose it to harsh weather, but the Rhino Lining exterior certainly offered peace of mind against casual workshop spills or dust.

Ease of use was a significant win. It’s designed to be intuitive; simply place it on a stable surface, chamber a round (or perform a function check), and fire. There was no complicated setup or learning curve, which is precisely what you want in a tool that streamlines a testing process.

A minor surprise was the amount of chopped rubber material inside. While I expected it to absorb impact, the sheer volume indicated a robust system for catching and holding spent primers and jacket fragments. This confirmed its capability for absorbing significant energy from live fire, even at close distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent but frequent use, primarily for testing handgun-caliber firearms that I’ve been working on, the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. It has become an indispensable part of my post-build verification process. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve needed to perform a quick function check or a short test burst before committing to a full range trip, and this unit has consistently delivered.

Durability is evident. The exterior Rhino Lining shows no signs of cracking or peeling, even after being moved around the workshop and occasionally subjected to minor impacts. The internal rubberized material remains effective at capturing projectiles, showing minimal degradation. There’s no discernible loss of containment capability, which is the critical measure for this type of device.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. When the internal rubber becomes saturated with debris, the primary method of “cleaning” is to simply shake it out or, if necessary, empty and refill it with fresh material. This ease of upkeep means it’s always ready for the next test, a far cry from more complex containment systems.

Compared to my previous, less specialized methods of containing test-fire debris (which involved significantly more setup and risk), this clearing trap represents a monumental improvement. It’s a purpose-built tool that performs its intended function exceptionally well, justifying its place in any serious firearm enthusiast’s or builder’s setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap

The specifications of the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap paint a clear picture of a robust, purpose-built containment system. It measures 18 inches long, 12 inches high, and 7 inches wide, providing a substantial surface area for capturing projectiles. The core of its protective capability lies within, filled with a mixture of chopped rubber and fire retardant, designed to safely absorb and retain fired rounds. The exterior boasts a durable Rhino Lining, offering resistance to wear and environmental factors, making it suitable for various workshop and even limited outdoor testing scenarios.

These dimensions are crucial for its function. The generous length and height ensure a wide target area, minimizing the chance of a projectile missing the trap entirely. The 7-inch width provides depth, allowing the internal materials ample space to decelerate and capture rounds effectively, preventing ricochets. The Rhino Lining is more than just aesthetic; it’s a practical barrier against moisture and abrasion, crucial for longevity in a workshop environment.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Action Target
• Color: Black
• Fabric/Material: The primary material in contact with projectiles is a proprietary blend of chopped rubber mixed with fire retardant. The exterior is coated in Rhino Lining.
• Height: 12 inches – This provides a significant vertical target area.
• Length: 18 inches – A substantial horizontal footprint for capturing shots.
• Width: 7 inches – This dimension dictates the depth of the containment cavity.
• Depth/Thickness: While not explicitly a single dimension, the 7-inch width serves as the effective depth of the chopped rubber fill.
• Condition: New

These specifications are not just numbers; they translate directly into practical benefits. The 18-inch length and 12-inch height create a user-friendly target area, reducing the need for precise aiming during critical initial tests. The 7-inch depth filled with fire retardant chopped rubber is key to its projectile-stopping capability, absorbing the energy of fired rounds and preventing dangerous ricochets or pass-throughs. The Rhino Lining ensures that the unit itself can withstand the rigors of repeated use and minor impacts, contributing to its overall durability and value. While the product description notes AR500 Steel in the specifications table, it’s important to clarify that this steel is likely used in some capacity within the trap’s construction for added reinforcement, but the primary containment medium is the rubber fill, and the exterior coating is the Rhino Lining.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is to safely contain projectiles fired at it, and in this regard, it performs exceptionally well. During my testing with various handgun calibers, including 9mm and .45 ACP, the unit effectively captured every round fired at it. The chopped rubber interior is the star here, absorbing the impact and holding the projectiles and associated debris like spent primers and jacket fragments securely within its confines. This significantly mitigates the risk of ricochets or dangerous projectiles escaping the immediate vicinity of the firearm.

Its primary strength is its unparalleled safety enhancement for close-range firearm testing and function checks. For anyone building or modifying firearms, especially in a home workshop where a dedicated range isn’t immediately accessible, this trap transforms a potentially hazardous procedure into a much safer one. A notable weakness, though minor and inherent to this type of product, is the potential for very small fragments (like BB-sized pieces) to escape, as hinted in the product description. However, in my experience, this is rare and primarily dependent on the ammunition used and the angle of impact. It still vastly improves safety over an open bench.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is fundamentally utilitarian, focused on function over form. The robust Rhino Lining exterior gives it a rugged, professional appearance, suggesting it’s built to withstand a demanding environment. Its overall shape is practical, offering a stable base that won’t easily tip over during use.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be placed on a bench or table, and its size makes it a commanding presence without being overly cumbersome. There’s no complex interface to learn; its usability is directly tied to its placement and the act of firing towards it. The smooth, continuous exterior surface of the Rhino Lining is easy to wipe down, contributing to good practical ergonomics in a workshop setting.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is built for longevity, especially for its intended use case of periodic testing rather than continuous, high-volume firing. The Rhino Lining exterior is exceptionally durable, resisting scratches and abrasions that would quickly mar less robust materials. The internal chopped rubber fill is designed to absorb impacts repeatedly.

Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward. When the rubber fill becomes saturated with lead and copper fragments, the most effective method is to carefully empty the contents. The fire retardant properties are a crucial safety aspect, preventing the buildup of flammable debris. While the product doesn’t explicitly mention a replacement interval for the internal material, with proper care, it should last for a considerable number of testing cycles before needing replenishment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is primarily a standalone unit, and as such, it doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories or extensive customization options. Its strength lies in its integrated design. The Rhino Lining exterior and the chopped rubber fill are its core features, not elements meant to be swapped out frequently.

However, its compatibility with a broader workflow is worth noting. It’s designed to work seamlessly with firearms for dry-fire practice or live-fire testing. For those who wish to extend its functionality or integrate it more deeply into their workflow, potential “customization” might involve how one chooses to mount or position it, or perhaps adding an auxiliary backstop for absolute certainty in highly sensitive environments. The product itself, however, is designed for immediate use right out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap

Who Should Buy Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap?

This Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is an ideal tool for a very specific audience: firearm enthusiasts, gunsmiths, and builders who frequently work on and test handguns and pistol caliber carbines. If you spend time assembling firearms, troubleshooting malfunctions, or performing function checks in a home workshop or a controlled indoor environment where a traditional range isn’t readily available, this unit is a game-changer. It’s for individuals who prioritize safety and efficiency in their firearm modification and testing processes.

Conversely, individuals who only attend public shooting ranges and never perform live-fire tests in a non-range environment likely won’t find this product necessary. Those who require a containment solution for calibers significantly larger than typical handgun rounds might need to seek out different, more heavy-duty options. For users primarily focused on dry-fire practice without live ammunition, simpler, less expensive solutions would suffice.

For those who opt for this trap, consider pairing it with a good pair of hearing protection and eye protection, as safety is paramount during any firearm testing. Having a basic set of cleaning tools readily available for post-test firearm maintenance would also be a wise complement.

Conclusion on Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap

The Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is a thoughtfully designed and exceptionally well-built piece of equipment that directly addresses a critical safety and convenience need for firearm builders and hobbyists. Its robust construction, featuring durable Rhino Lining and an effective chopped rubber and fire retardant fill, provides reliable containment for common handgun calibers during essential testing and function checks. While the initial investment is considerable, the enhanced safety and workflow efficiency it offers in a home workshop environment are invaluable, significantly reducing the risks associated with live-fire verification outside of a dedicated range.

The value proposition is clear: it transforms a potentially hazardous necessity into a controlled, much safer procedure. For anyone serious about building, modifying, or troubleshooting firearms in their own space, the Action Target Table Top Clearing Trap is not just a convenience; it’s a responsible safety investment. I wholeheartedly recommend this unit to anyone who fits its intended user profile, as it consistently performs its crucial task with commendable effectiveness and durability.