EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower Review

Getting Started with the EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower

When you’re out practicing your clay shooting, having reliable equipment is paramount for honing your skills. The EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower presents itself as a portable solution for launching clay pigeons, promising ease of use and adjustability. I stumbled upon this particular unit secondhand, a situation that immediately highlighted a common frustration for many users: a product that seems almost perfect but has a critical flaw. The previous owner had acquired it new but found the clay targets wouldn’t stay seated in the holder, leading to a frustrating lack of functionality. This immediate issue, the absence of a crucial retainer or stop, set the stage for my assessment. My first impression upon picking it up was one of solid, albeit basic, construction. The frame feels sturdy enough, and the idea of a foot-activated system is appealing for hands-free operation. My initial thought was, “If only this minor part were functional, this could be a game-changer for solo practice.” I had briefly considered a manual trap thrower, but the allure of a self-contained, foot-pedal-operated unit for quick setup and use was too strong. This secondhand acquisition, though flawed, offered a unique opportunity to understand the potential and limitations of the EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower firsthand.

Real-World Testing: Putting EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower took place in a wide-open field behind my property, a space with enough room for safe shooting and practice. The setup was remarkably straightforward; I simply unfolded the three staked legs and positioned the unit on the ground. The instruction about attaching it to a spare tire was noted, but the ground stakes offered a stable enough alternative for my initial trials. Loading the clay pigeons was where the primary issue became immediately apparent. As the previous owner mentioned, there’s no definitive “stop” or retainer to hold the clays firmly in place within the throwing arm’s cradle. They tended to sit loosely, and upon testing the foot pedal, the launch was often unpredictable, sometimes throwing the clay awkwardly or not at all, and other times, the clay would simply dislodge before being properly launched. This made consistent practice impossible right out of the gate. Despite the frustration of the seating issue, the concept of the foot pedal was satisfyingly responsive, delivering a decent launch when the clay stayed put.

Extended Use & Reliability

With the seating issue in mind, I decided to improvise rather than abandon the unit. I fashioned a simple, albeit crude, stopper using a piece of durable rubber and some zip ties to keep the clays from sliding out. This modification, while a workaround, allowed me to finally put the thrower through its paces under more realistic shooting conditions. Over several practice sessions, which involved launching approximately 100 clays each time, the underlying mechanism proved surprisingly robust. The adjustable throwing arm spring allowed for noticeable variation in both distance and arc, enabling me to simulate different target presentations, from low flyers to high incomers. The steel frame has held up well, showing no signs of bending or structural compromise, even with repeated forceful deployments of the throwing arm. Cleaning is also a breeze; a quick wipe-down of the arm and frame is all that’s typically needed, and it stores compactly. Compared to some older, more complex manual traps I’ve used, the simplicity of this unit is a definite advantage, assuming the clay retention issue is addressed.

Breaking Down the Features of EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower

Specifications

The EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower is built with a focus on portability and ease of operation, as reflected in its specifications. Its primary components include a steel frame and an aluminum throwing arm, materials chosen for a balance of strength and weight. The unit is designed to be foot-activated, utilizing an integrated foot pedal for launching clays, which is a key feature for solo practice. It has the capability to throw one or two clay targets at a time, offering versatility for different training scenarios. The throwing arm itself is padded to minimize the risk of breaking clays during the loading process, a thoughtful addition. Crucially, it features an adjustable throwing arm spring, allowing users to modify the throwing distance and speed. Furthermore, the throwing angle can be adjusted, enabling users to set up for high-arching shots or lower, faster targets. The unit stands on three staked legs for ground placement, and it also includes an option for attachment to a spare tire for added stability or varied positioning.

These specifications translate into practical benefits for the user. The steel and aluminum construction provides a durable foundation that should withstand regular use in outdoor environments without excessive rust or deformation. The foot-activated trigger is a significant ergonomic advantage, freeing up both hands to focus on mounting the firearm and acquiring the target. The ability to throw singles and doubles directly from the unit means users aren’t limited to one type of target practice. The padded arm is a small but important detail that helps prolong the life of your clay pigeons, reducing waste and cost over time. The adjustable spring tension and angle are perhaps the most critical features for serious practice, as they allow for fine-tuning the target presentations to mimic real-world shooting conditions more effectively than a fixed-angle thrower. The three-leg design offers a stable base on most level terrains, and the spare tire mounting option provides flexibility for those who might be shooting from their vehicle or in varied field conditions.

Performance & Functionality

In its intended role as a clay target thrower, the EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower performs adequately, provided its primary flaw—the lack of a secure clay retainer—is addressed. When the clays are properly seated, the launch mechanism is robust and delivers a satisfying propulsion. The adjustable throwing arm spring is effective, allowing for a good range of velocities and distances suitable for typical sporting clay practice. I found it could launch targets far enough for realistic shooting distances, and the adjustable angle certainly helped in varying the trajectory, making practice more engaging. The ability to throw doubles is also a valuable function for practicing instinctive shooting or paired target acquisition. However, without a proper way to secure the clays, the unit’s core functionality is severely compromised. The clays can easily shift or fall out before the pedal is fully depressed, leading to inconsistent launches or no launch at all. This significantly detracts from its reliability and makes it challenging to achieve the consistent practice needed for skill improvement.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower prioritizes simplicity and straightforward operation. The steel frame provides a sturdy base, and the aluminum throwing arm is lightweight yet appears sufficiently strong for its task. Assembly is minimal, mainly involving unfolding the legs and ensuring the arm is properly seated, which contributes to its portability. The foot pedal is ergonomically positioned for easy access and actuation, fulfilling its promise of hands-free operation. The padded throwing arm is a thoughtful touch, designed to protect clays during loading, though its effectiveness is somewhat negated if the clays don’t stay in place. The adjustability for both throwing angle and spring tension is well-integrated, with accessible knobs or pins that allow for quick modifications in the field. The inclusion of three staked legs ensures a stable platform on most outdoor surfaces, though additional stability might be desired on very uneven terrain.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower seems to possess good durability for its intended purpose. The steel frame has shown no signs of rust or structural compromise, even after being used in damp field conditions. The aluminum throwing arm is resilient and has withstood the forces of repeated launches without any visible bending or deformation. Maintenance is commendably simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth after use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and free from dirt and debris. The absence of complex mechanical parts means there are fewer points of failure. However, the crucial element of durability is intrinsically linked to the clay retention issue. If the area where the clays are loaded is prone to wear or damage, it could exacerbate the seating problem over time. For long-term reliability, ensuring the padded throwing arm remains intact and that the adjustment mechanisms stay free of grit would be advisable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower comes with a relatively limited set of accessories directly from the manufacturer. Its primary features are integrated into the unit itself: the foot pedal, the adjustable spring, and the adjustable angle mechanism. The padded throwing arm is part of the core design, intended to prevent premature breakage of clays. As mentioned in the product description, it can be mounted onto a spare tire, which acts as a more robust anchoring point than the staked legs, though this is more of an alternative mounting method than a true accessory. Customization is largely limited to adjusting the throwing speed, distance, and angle via the built-in mechanisms. There are no readily available aftermarket upgrades for this specific model that address the critical clay retention issue, meaning any significant customization would likely be a DIY endeavor. This lack of readily available enhancements or modifications, particularly for the clay seating problem, is a notable limitation.

Pros and Cons of EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower

Who Should Buy EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower?

The EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower is best suited for the dedicated clay shooter who is comfortable with DIY modifications and minor troubleshooting. If you’re an individual who enjoys tinkering and can devise a simple solution for securing the clay pigeons, this unit offers a budget-friendly way to get a foot-activated trap. It’s ideal for someone looking for a portable setup for solo practice in a field or backyard where space permits. Those who prioritize hands-free operation and appreciate the ability to adjust target speed and angle will find its core functionalities appealing.

However, individuals who expect a plug-and-play experience right out of the box should steer clear. Shooters who require absolute reliability and don’t want to spend time fixing or modifying equipment will find the clay retention issue a significant deterrent. If you’re looking for a seamless, professional-grade clay thrower for serious training or club use without any fuss, you would be better served by looking at more robust, and likely more expensive, options that don’t suffer from this fundamental design oversight. For a DIY enthusiast or a patient marksman, this model could become a functional tool with a little ingenuity.

Conclusion on EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower

The EZ-Aim Xcelerator Claymaster Sporting Clay Target Thrower presents a mixed bag for the discerning shooter. On paper, its features – the foot pedal, adjustable launch characteristics, and portability – are exactly what many solo practitioners are looking for. The steel frame and aluminum arm suggest a level of durability that can hold up to the demands of repeated use outdoors. The core mechanism for launching clays, when functional, performs adequately and allows for varied practice.

However, the undeniable flaw in its design—the inadequate retention of clay targets—cannot be overstated. This single issue prevents the unit from being a truly reliable or enjoyable piece of equipment without intervention. Its value proposition is therefore diminished, as the price point becomes less justifiable when factoring in the necessary modifications or workarounds.

Would I personally recommend it? With significant caveats. I would recommend it only to the technically inclined individual who sees the potential for improvement and is willing to invest a small amount of time and effort into a DIY fix. For anyone seeking a hassle-free solution for clay shooting practice, there are simply better, more reliable options available, even if they come at a higher cost. This thrower is a starting point for a project, not a finished product for immediate, perfect use.