CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/802,643 filed Jun. 10, 2010, a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/238,965 filed Sep. 26, 2008 and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/975,290, filed Sep. 26, 2007, all incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND 1. Field
The disclosed embodiments relate to a firing berm, and more particularly, to a portable firing berm that acts as a bullet trap.
2. Description of Earlier Related Developments
Firing berms are used at shooting ranges as a backstop to capture fragments from cartridges fired at targets and to prevent excessive travel of fired bullets for safety purposes. Lead has become both a safety and environmental concern leading to the use of bullet traps instead of soil based berms. An example of such a trap is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,486,008 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Here, the bullet trap has a spiral deceleration chamber with a lead collection vessel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The foregoing aspects and other features of the exemplary embodiments are explained in the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a portable firing berm incorporating features in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 2 is a right side elevation view of a firing berm incorporating features in accordance with the exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 3 is a left side elevation view of a firing berm incorporating features in accordance with the exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of a firing berm incorporating features in accordance with the exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of a firing berm incorporating features in accordance with the exemplary embodiment; and
FIG. 6 is another elevation view of another firing berm in accordance with another exemplary embodiment
FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of firing berms in accordance with another exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 8A is a side elevation view of a firing berm;
FIG. 8B is a side elevation view of a firing berm;
FIG. 8C is a side elevation view of a firing berm; and
FIG. 9 is a side section view of a firing berm.
FIG. 10 is a side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 11 is a top view of a firing berm;
FIG. 10 is a side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 11 is a top view of a firing berm;
FIG. 12 is a side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 13 is a partial side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 14 is a side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 15 is a side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 16 is a partial side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 17 is a side view of a firing berm;
FIG. 18 is a side view of a hinge;
FIG. 19 is a side view of a firing range;
FIG. 20 is a side view of a firing range; and
FIG. 21 is a side view of stacked portable firing berms.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S) Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a portable firing berm 10 incorporating features in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Although the present invention will be described with reference to the embodiment shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention can be embodied in many alternate forms of embodiments. In addition, any suitable size, shape or type of elements or materials could be used.
Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a portable firing berm 10 incorporating features in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Referring also to FIG. 2, there is shown a right side elevation view of firing berm 10. Referring also to FIG. 3, there is shown a left side elevation view of firing berm 10. Referring also to FIG. 4, there is shown a front elevation view of firing berm 10. Referring also to FIG. 5, there is shown a rear elevation view of firing berm 10. Portable firing berm 10 is movable or capable of being ported between and positioned at different desired locations indoors (e.g. within a building) or outdoors to provide for the capture of bullet fragments from rounds 12, including armor piercing (AP) rounds, (such as and not limited to 0.223 CAL AP or 5.56 mm AP rounds) fired at berm 10, for example in direction 14. Portable berm 10 is shown as a complete assembly movable as a unit without breaking down into sub assemblies and without disassembly and reassembly.
Portable firing berm 10 may have a funnel portion 16 adapted to funnel and deflect stray rounds into a dry tank portion 18. In alternate embodiments, a funnel portion may not be provided. Dry tank 18 is configured to define an opening through which the bullets enter the dry tank 18 and is configured to define a dry absorption region or section communicating with the opening. The dry absorption region of dry tank 18 has absorbing media fill 20 contained therein. In the exemplary embodiment, the absorbing media 20 is adapted to absorb energy from the fired rounds, including AP rounds, and is further adapted to capture and contain the bullet fragments. The dry absorption region and absorbing media fill are arranged to absorb the bullets without the bullets or bullet fragments impacting structure of the dry tank. Here, the absorbing media 20 acts to absorb the energy of fired bullets and prevents rounds or fragments from coming in contact with tank portion 18. As such, portable berm 10 captures bullets and bullet fragments in medium 20 of berm 10 substantially eliminating inspection and/or replacement of discrete interior of the portable berm parts as the energy is absorbed by media 20. Thus, the entire unit 10 may operate substantially without continuous periodic or routine inspection or replacement parts after relatively small number of firings.
Ventilation portion 22 is provided and adapted to ventilate and filter air from within funnel portion 16 and dry tank portion 18. Rounds 12 are fired toward portable berm 10, generally in direction 14 and captured within the dry tank portion 18 and absorbing media 20. Funnel portion 16 is shown having four partitions 24, 26, 28 and 30 angled relative to the line of fire 14 such that rounds hitting funnel portion 16 are directed through opening 32 on the inner portion of funnel 16. Although funnel 16 and opening 32 are shown rectangular in shape, any suitable shape may be used. Funnel 16 is shown fabricated from steel plate where partitions 24, 26, 28, 30 are welded to each other. In alternate embodiments, any suitable material or fabrication technique may be used. In alternate embodiments, the funnel 10R structural similar to the funnel may be positioned within the dry tank. Extensions 34, 36 are provided on partitions 26, 30. Funnel 16 and tank 18 are shown generally in a square shape, however in alternate embodiments, any suitable shape may be provided. For example, the width may be scalable to a much larger width. Dry tank portion 18 is shown fabricated of welded and formed steel. In alternate embodiments, any suitable material or fabrication technique may be used.
Dry tank portion 18 has forward chamber 38 and rear chamber 40 (two chambers are shown in FIGS. 1-4, though in alternate embodiments more or fewer chambers may be provided) separated by first wall or partition 42. Partitions 42 may be formed to allow round penetration between chambers 38, 40. The first partition 42 may have any suitable arrangement, such as a screen, and/or may be made from any suitable material allowing the rounds fired at the portable berm to penetrate the partition and pass from chamber 38 into the absorbing media 20. Partition 42 may be removable through the front of berm 10 or through hatch 42. Partition 42 may be located within tank 18 with mounting features in tank 18 that allow partition 42 to be held in place. First partition 42 is shown approximately splitting tank portion 18 in half. In alternate embodiments, partition 42 may be in any suitable position. As will be described, absorbing media 20 is placed in the rear chamber 40 through access hatch 43 where first partition 42 prevents absorbing media 20 from migrating to forward chamber 38. The access hatch shown for example as a formed and welded metal cover, may have a handle allowing easy removal. The hatch may be hinged or loose and may have latching features to keep it in position during transport. As seen best in FIG. 3, in the exemplary embodiment, a second wall 44 or partition (which may be otherwise similar to first partition) may be provided for example, where it is desired that absorbing media 20 have more than one media type, where second wall/screen 44 separates the different media type. In alternate embodiments the second wall 44 may separate similar media types (for example additional media mass is desired inside the chamber 40.) In the exemplary embodiment, rear chamber 40 may be separated by partition 44 into chambers 46, 48 holding the different media. Partitions 42, 44 for example may be made from ⅛″ expanded steel partition or any other suitable material, such as a welded steel array. Partitions 42, 44 are shown at an angle, for example, and 80 degree angle to prevent excessive pressure on partitions 42, 44 from aggregate 20. In alternate embodiments, any suitable angle could be provided. In alternate embodiments, the second partition may be impenetrable to rounds fired into berm 10 and impacting the second partition. For example, the second partition may be formed from plate steel or any other suitable material such as ceramics or composites of sufficient strength to stop impacting bullets/fragments. In alternate embodiments more or fewer partitions or walls (similar to partitions 42, 44) may be provided and defining more or fewer chambers that may be filled with the same or different media. In other alternate embodiments one or more of the chambers may hold no media.
Collection tray or cleanout box 50 may be provided in communication with forward chamber 38 to allow removal of fragments that may collect in forward chamber 38. Tray 50 may be stationary and fixed. In alternate embodiments, tray 50 may be removable, for example by sliding relative to tank 18. Absorbing media 20 is provided to absorb the energy of rounds fired at portable berm 10 and to capture fragments from the rounds. Absorbing media 20 may be crushed stone or gravel. In alternate embodiments, absorbing media 20 may be any suitable material that may be suitable to absorb the energy of rounds fired and capture fragments. Absorbing media 20 may comprise more than one media; either mixed or separated. In the event they are separated, second partition 44 (e.g. screen) may separate the different media, for example as noted before, where rear chamber 40 may be separated by partition 44 into chambers 46, 48 holding the different media. Here, front chamber 46 may contain a first berm adapted to absorb the initial energy and may be made up of a suitable material, such as iron oxide pellets and rear chamber 48 may contain a suitable material, such as gravel or crushed stone. In alternate embodiments, any suitable combination or mix of media may be used. In alternate embodiments, more or less partitions may be provided with more layers of berm.
Ventilation portion 22 is adapted to force ventilate and filter air from within the funnel portion or the dry tank portion. In alternate embodiments the ventilation portion may employ natural or convective ventilation. In the exemplary embodiment, ventilation portion 22 has an exhaust fan 52, fan plenum 54, HEPA filter portion 56, forward plenum 58 and left and right ducts 60, 62. Left and right ducts 60, 62 are in communication with forward chamber 38 through duct slots 64, 66 in the side partitions of forward chamber 38. In alternate embodiments ventilation ducts may be located in any desired position and more and fewer ducts may be used. In the embodiment shown, an air curtain 68 is formed at the opening 32 whereby air is ducted through the HEPA filter 56 and exhausted through fan 52 in direction 70. Forward plenum 58 may also be in communication with rear chamber 40 of dry tank portion 18 where air is ventilated through the media 20. Plenum 58 in combination with exhaust fan 52 provide negative pressure between the tank portion 18 and ambient surrounding the berm 10 forcing contaminated air through HEPA filter 56. Fan 52 may be suitably sized, for example, sized to provide 30 cubic feet per minute flow for a 4′×8′×4′ tank portion 18. In alternate embodiments, any suitable fan or duct configuration may be used.
In the exemplary embodiment, portable berm 10 has suitable lift or carry points, such as eyes 72, 74, 76, 78 allowing for example a crane or other implement to lift berm 10 with a sling. Eyes 72, 74, 76, 78 are shown welded to chamber 18. In alternate embodiments, any suitable combination of features may be provided. Handles 80 are also provided, for example to allow fork lifting of berm 10. Supporting frames 82, 84 are also provided to support berm 10 and allow berm 10 to be pulled from one location to another. The berm 10 may have a transport system, such as wheels, or may be placed on a transport, so that the berm may be transported and repositioned at different locations as desired. Berm 10 is shown provided with a desired finish such as with camouflage paint. In alternate embodiments, any suitable finish may be used.
As noted before, the berm 10 is suitable for use singly (or in combination with other berms, as will be described further below) as a firing berm (to stop and absorb fired rounds) indoors, within the confines of a building or facility, or outdoors. As may be realized, the portable berm may be ported, substantially as a unit without disassembly and reassembly, to any desired location, indoors and outdoors in order to provide a firing berm at the location. Also, in the exemplary embodiment the portable berm 10 may be moved to and between any number of different locations so that the firing berm positioned at one location may be subsequently repositioned, substantially as a unit, at any other desired location. As noted above, the portable berm may be used singly, and in combination with other berms in order to define a berm having different selectably variable configurations. Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a front elevation view of a firing berm 100 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, firing berm 100 may be modular and include one or more berm modules 10, 10A-10N that may be positioned as desired in order to form a firing berm of desired shape and size. In the exemplary embodiment, the portable berm modules of firing berm 100 may be substantially similar to each other and to portable berm 10 described before (similar features are similarly numbered). In alternate embodiments, the modular firing berm may be formed of different modules. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the berm modules 10, 10A-10N are shown arrayed serially, for example purposes. As may be realized berm modules 10, 10A-10N may be added or removed to vary the length of the firing berm 100 as desired. Modules may be positioned side by side as shown in FIG. 6 to form for example a substantially continuous wall berm. In the exemplary embodiment the modules may be positioned with the rim edges of the funnel portion 16 substantially in contact with each other, or somewhat overlapped to prevent fired rounds from escaping between the adjoining funnel portions 16. As may be realized, modules may also be positioned to form a sectioned firing berm configuration. Firing berm sections may be aligned with each other or angled relative to each other. In the exemplary embodiment, the modular firing berm 100 is shown within a facility or building FAC (shown in phantom), though and as may be realized, the firing berm (or a desired portion thereof) may be repositioned outside the building. In other alternate embodiments, the berm modules may be positioned one over the other, for example to vary the height of the firing berm. Then a firing berm of any size, or shape may be erected at any location and may then be readily modified or moved to another location by transport and placement of the portable berm modules 10, 10A-10N.
Referring now to FIG. 7 there is shown a front elevation view of a bank of firing berms in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. Referring also to FIG. 8A, there is shown a side elevation view taken along view line 8A-8A of the firing berm in FIG. 7. Referring also to FIG. 8B, there is shown a side elevation view of another firing berm from view line 8B-8B in FIG. 7. Referring also to FIG. 8C, there is shown a side elevation view of yet another firing berm. Referring also to FIG. 9, there is shown a side section view of still yet another firing berm. As seen in FIG. 7, a number of firing berm modules 100 are shown as berm 110, berm 112, berm 114 and berm 116. Berm modules 100 comprise a portable integrated module with deflection plates and movable trap and containment chambers where berm modules 100 are portable and adapted to capture bullets fired at the individual berms as well as cross berm. Although four portable berms are shown arrayed to form a combined berm, more or less berms may be provided such as for example to vary the width or frontage of the combined berm as described. By way of further example, a single berm 110, 112, 116 may be used, or as many berms as may be desired. The array of berm modules are shown with the mid-modules 112, 114 having open sides in the impact and deflection region to prevent ricochets (e.g. from projectiles with a trajectory crossing or coincident with intermediate side walls) between adjoining modules. In the exemplary embodiment, the end modules 110, 116 may have closed sides depending on which end of side by side array the end module is located. For example, the left end berm 110 has left side closed and the right end berm 116 has right side closed. Berm modules 100 may be sized standard for shipping, for example sized to allow 4 modules to be transported on a standard truck bed. In alternate embodiments, the berm modules may be sized so that more or less modules may be accepted or accommodated on a standard trunk bed. Berm modules 100 may be fabricated from and use common sheet stock plate sizes so as to substantially eliminate cutting of plate to fabricate the berm 110, 112, 114, 116 structure. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 7, a mating flange 172 may mate with corresponding feature 174 for side by side coupling to other modules, for example, coupling module 110 to module 112. The configuration shown in FIG. 7 is merely exemplary and in alternate embodiments the mating flanges and features coupling adjoining berms in the array may have any other desired configuration. The mating flanges may be provided at any portion of the berm, for example along to top, back or any suitable location. In alternate embodiments, more or less mating features may be provided. As previously desired in the exemplary embodiment, each berm module may have one or more open lateral sides (e.g. sides extending from the front berm opening 142, see FIG. 9, to the back wall section 184). For example, left outermost berm module 110 has one open side 118 and one closed side 120 as can be seen in FIG. 8C. As a further example, right outermost berm module 116 has one open side 122 and one closed side 124 as can be seen in FIG. 8A. Intermediate berm modules 112 and 114 may have two open sides 126, 128, 130, 132 as can be seen in FIG. 8B. As may be realized, in alternate embodiments, berm modules may have closed lateral sides, such as when a single module berm is desired.
Referring again to FIG. 9, in the exemplary embodiment portable berm 114 may have frame 140 forming an opening 142 through which bullets 144, 146 fired at the berm enter berm 114. The configuration of the representative berm 114 shown in FIG. 9 is exemplary and in alternate embodiments the berm may have any desired shape and arrangement. Portable berm 114 has first impact portion or directional plate 150 connected to frame 140 and disposed to deflect bullets, towards the containment portion, entering opening 142, or chamber 156. Deflector 152 is movably connected to frame 140 as will be described further below. Upper directional plate 150 may be made from steel, for example ¼″ plate steel, and is shown inclined, for example at about 20 degrees (though in alternate embodiments the pitch may be different). The lower plate 154 is shown substantially flat with inclined portion 190 and extends in length sufficiently to provide containment for fragments such that fragments may be swept into the back containment portion 156. Here, the lower plate or second impact portion 154 may also be connected to the frame 140 and is arranged below the first impact portion 150. The second impact portion 154 is arranged to provide another containment portion with the second impact portion 154 communicating with bullet containment portion 156. As noted before the second impact portion 154 in the exemplary embodiment may be positioned to prevent undesired escape of bullets, ricochets, and fragments from the berm and facilitate ease of entry into the containment portion 156, such that bullets and bullet fragments captured by or landed on the second impact portion 154 may be for example swept into the bullet containment portion 156. Bullet containment portion 156 communicates with opening 142 with the bullet containment portion having an integral impact section 152 disposed so that unspent bullets received in the bullet containment portion impact against and are stopped by the impact section 152. Impact section 152 forms a steel end plate that stops stray rounds from the front of movable containment portion 156. Impact section 152 provides an integral rear deflector and stop plate, for example, may be formed from 1.0″ armor plate and be provided at about 60 degrees opposite pitch to directional plate 150. In alternate embodiments the pitch may be different as desired, for example, the impact section may be pitched forwards at a suitable angle. In alternate embodiments, any pitch, thickness or suitable material may be provided. Here, bullet containment portion 156 has an integral bullet containment section 158 arranged to contain bullets and bullet fragments from the impact section 152. In the exemplary embodiment, bullet containment portion 156, or at least a portion thereof, is movably mounted to the frame 140 to move substantially as a unit relative to the opening from one position to another position 160. Back wall section 184 has opening 162 for removal of movable impact and trap containment portion 156 of berm 114. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the movable or removable section is shown as being substantially coincident with the containment portion 156, though in alternate embodiments, the movable section, with integral impact section and containment layer may be only part of the containment portion and movable without moving or removing the complete containment portion. In other alternate embodiments the movable or removable containment section may have an integral impact section but no containment layer or may have a movable containment layer without impact section. In the exemplary embodiment, gate or access door 162 may be provided to access portion 156. The bullet containment portion is movable to a position where the containment section 156 is accessed for contained bullets and bullet fragments. Here, containment section 156 comprises a movable bullet containment portion 158 with integral impact section 152 and integral dry containment media 164 and is movable as a unit to access containment. In the embodiment shown, section 156 is shown as a slidable drawer mounted for example on rollers 192. In alternate embodiments, any suitable movable system may be used, for example, the embodiment shown is slidable to the back of berm 114 whereas in alternate embodiments, berm 114 could open in any other direction or manner, for example in a drop down or slide out sideways manner. Drawer 156 also is shaped to hold an integral dry containment layer to hold dry containment media 164, such as sand, earth or any other suitable dry media suitable to hold fragments. In alternate embodiments any other suitable containment media may be used (including liquid media), or no containment media may be used. Here, bullet containment portion 156 is dry and utilizes an absorbing media fill 164 arranged to absorb and contain the bullets and bullet fragments.
Berm 114 is movable as a unit without disassembly or re-assembly. Frame 140 has a base 176 that is shown as a flat plate and allows placement of berm 114 on any support structure with a flat seating surface. For example, structural sections 178, 180 such as an “I” or “C” may be provided or alternately, construction blocks or rail road ties may support berm 114 as shown. The base has front valance/mask plate 182 to protect from under rounds. Alternately, the gap between the lower plate and the top of the base may be closed with for example with sand bags. Ventilation portion 166 may be provided adapted to ventilate and filter air from within the bullet containment portion. Lifting points 168, 179 may also be provided coupled to the frame 140.
Referring now to FIG. 10, there is shown a side view of firing berm 200 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. Portable firing berm 200 may have features as described or alternately may have features as described with respect to berm 10, 112, 114, 116, 300 or otherwise. Berm 200 may be configured as a bank of portable firing berms, for example, as seen in FIG. 7 and with features as described with respect to FIG. 7 or otherwise, a number of firing berm modules may be configured where the array of berm modules may be with the mid-modules having open sides in the impact and deflection region to prevent ricochets, for example, from projectiles with a trajectory crossing or coincident with intermediate side walls, between adjoining modules and with the end modules having closed sides depending on which end of side by side array the end module is located. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, exemplary portable berm 200 is shown with closed side(s) 202 and supported by beams 204, 206. Here, one or more closed sides may be provided, for example, an end berm within a range made up of a number of berms may have one closed side. Alternately, an intermediate berm may have open sides. Alternately, a range made up of a single berm may have two closed sides. Side plate 202 may have fastening features, for example, for fastening to frame 202, or impact portions 216, 218. Side plate 202 may have an additional set of fastening holes or features, for example, for fastening side plate 202 to impact portion 216 where impact portion 216 is in a transport position or other configuration as will be described below in more detail. As such, side plate 202 may have fastening features, for example, holes or slots for bolts, for fastening side plate 202 to corresponding members of berm 200 when berm 200 is in any suitable configuration. In the embodiment shown, portable firing berm 200 is shown adapted to capture bullets 212, 214 fired at berm 200. Berm 200 is shown having frame assembly 208 defining exterior boundaries of the berm and forming opening 210 through which bullets fired at berm 210 enter berm 210. Opening 210 may be an opening and funnel portion 210 having funnel sides 216, 218. As seen in FIG. 12, bullet containment portion 220 is shown communicating with opening 210 and arranged such that unspent bullets received impact against, are stopped and contained. As will be described, berm 200 is configurable between a transport and placement configuration and an operating configuration while substantially fully assembled and substantially without removal of parts from berm 200. Here, frame assembly 208 has a moveable wall 216 moveable from a first position to a second position, without removal from frame assembly 208, so that berm 200 is configurable between a transport and placement configuration and an operating configuration while substantially fully assembled and substantially without disassembly of the frame assembly. Here, first impact portion 216 is formed at least in part by the moveable wall or portion 216. As such, frame assembly 208 has a moveable portion 216 moveable from a first position as seen in FIG. 12 with the funnel sides 216, 218 open relative to each other to a second position as seen in FIG. 14 with the funnel sides 216, 218 closed relative to each other, without removal from frame assembly 208, so that berm 200 is configurable between a transport and placement configuration as seen in FIG. 14 and an operating configuration as seen in FIG. 12 substantially without disassembly of the frame assembly. As will be described, a height of first impact portion 216 at opening 210 may be user adjustable when in the operational position, for example as shown in FIG. 12. Referring also to FIG. 11, there is shown a top view of firing berm 200. Referring also to FIG. 12, there is shown a side view of firing berm 200. In the exemplary embodiment portable berm 200 may have frame 208 forming an opening 210 through which bullets 212, 214 fired at the berm enter berm 200. The configuration of the representative berm 200 shown in FIG. 12 is exemplary and in alternate embodiments the berm may have any desired shape and arrangement. Portable berm 200 has first impact portion or directional plate 216 connected to frame 208 and disposed to deflect bullets, towards the containment portion 220, entering opening 210, or chamber 220. Deflector 222 may have plates 224, 226 and may be fixed or movably connected to frame 208 as will be described further below. First or upper directional plate 216 may be made from steel, for example ¼″ plate steel, and is shown inclined, for example at about 20 degrees (though in alternate embodiments the pitch may be different). Second or lower deflection plate or impact portion 218 is shown with an inclined portion 218, 228 and extends in length sufficiently to provide deflection of fragments such that fragments may be deflected into the back containment portion 220. Here, the lower plate or second impact portion 218 may also be connected to the frame 208 and is arranged below the first impact portion 216. The second impact portion 218 is arranged to provide another containment or deflection portion with the second impact portion 218 communicating with bullet containment portion 220. As noted before the second impact portion 218 in the exemplary embodiment may be positioned to prevent undesired escape of bullets, ricochets, and fragments from the berm and facilitate ease of entry into the containment portion 220, such that bullets and bullet fragments may be for example swept or deflected into the bullet containment portion 220. Bullet containment portion 220 communicates with opening 210 with the bullet containment portion 220 having an integral impact section 222 disposed so that unspent bullets received in the bullet containment portion impact against and are stopped by the impact section 222. Impact section 222 forms a steel end plate that stops stray rounds from the front 230 of containment portion 220. Impact section 222 provides an integral rear deflector and stop plate, for example, may be formed from 1.0″ armor plate and be provided at about 60 degrees or otherwise relative to lower plate 232 of containment portion 220. In alternate embodiments the pitch may be different as desired, for example, the impact section may be pitched forwards at a suitable angle. In alternate embodiments, any pitch, thickness or suitable material may be provided. Here, bullet containment portion 220 has an integral bullet containment section 226, 232, 230 arranged to contain bullets and bullet fragments from the impact section 222. In the exemplary embodiment, bullet containment portion 220 and impact portion 222 is accessed by a user through hinged hatch 234. In alternate embodiments, containment portion 220 or at least a portion thereof, may be movably mounted to the frame 208 to move substantially as a unit relative to an opening from one position to another position. Back wall section 236 may have an opening for removal of one or more portions of containment portion 220 of berm 200. For example, the bullet containment portion 220 may have consumable plates where access panel 234, 236 or otherwise may be used for a user to access and replace the consumable plates through the access panel. Alternately, a moveable tray or bucket 238 may interface with a funnel 240 where tray or bucket 238 may be removed with spent bullets from the rear 236 of berm 200. Drawer or bucket 238, for example, a 5-gallon bucket or otherwise may be an option, for example, where a base berm 200 may be provided without either, for example, where lead or fragments are removed from access panel 234, 236 or otherwise. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more gate or access door 234 or 236 may be provided to access all or a portion of chamber 220 and/or tray 238. Tray 238 may be moveable from the interior of berm 200 to the exterior of berm 200, for example at position 238′ or otherwise to remove fragments swept into tray or bucket 238 through funnel 240 where a user may, for example, sweep the fragments from containment portion 220 into funnel 240 by using access hatch 234 for access. In addition, access panel 234, 236 may be used to remove or reposition sacrificial plates and to examine the interior of bullet containment portion 220. Here, access panel 234 or 236 may provide user access to a moveable bullet container of bullet containment portion 220. In alternate embodiments, only a top access panel 234 may be provided, for example, where a drawer or bucket are not provided. Alternately, drawer 238 may be provided below an open trough, or funnel 240 may be provided above a 5-gallon bucket or other suitable container. Alternately, the bullet containment portion may be movable to a position where the containment portion may be accessed for removal of contained bullets and bullet fragments. In the embodiment shown, drawer or bucket 238 may be a slidable drawer mounted for example on rollers or otherwise. In alternate embodiments, any suitable movable system may be used, for example, the embodiment shown is slidable to the back of berm 200 whereas in alternate embodiments, berm 200 could open in any other direction or manner, for example in a drop down or slide out sideways manner. Containment portion 220 and tray, drawer or bucket 238 may be dry whereas in alternate embodiments any other suitable media may be used (including liquid media), or no media may be used. Here, bullet containment portion 220 is shown dry and is arranged to absorb and contain the bullets and bullet fragments. Berm 200 is shown movable as a unit without disassembly or re-assembly. Frame 208 has supporting surfaces that allows placement of berm 200 on any support structure with a flat seating surface. For example, structural sections 204, 206 such as an “I” or “C” may be provided or alternately, construction blocks or rail road ties may support berm 200 as shown. The base has front valance/mask plate 228 to protect from under rounds. Alternately, the gap between the lower plate and the top of the base may be closed with for example with sand bags. Ventilation portion 242 may be provided adapted to ventilate and filter air from within the bullet containment portion. Lifting points 244, 246 may also be provided coupled to the frame 208. Referring also to FIG. 13, there is shown a partial side view of firing berm 200. In the embodiment shown, containment portion 220 has a base plate 232, rear impact and impact absorb plates 222 and forward plates 230. Impact section or deflector 222 may have plates 224, 226 that may be sacrificial where retaining angle 248 may be removed through hatch 234 and the plates removed. Alternately, plates 224, 226 may be integral to frame 208. Forward deflection plate 230 has main plate 250 and deflection plates 252, 254 welded or otherwise fastened there to in order to deflect fragments into chamber 220. In the embodiment shown, one or more of the plates forming chamber 220 may be integral with frame 208 or may alternately be replaceable. As can be seen in FIG. 12, berm 200 is shown provided with hinge 260. As will be described, hinge system 260 may be provided as a space-saving feature, for example, when shipping on a flat bed or moving into position for installation, such as being moved through a narrow passageway or lifting with a forklift into an area with low ceiling clearance. As seen in FIG. 14, a collapsed state of the upper deflector plate 216 is shown. Further, hinge system 260 also enables berm 200 to be completely assembled when it arrives on site, for example, as opposed to arriving in multiple parts. Further, latch 260 is provided to lock portable firing berm 200 in the transport and placement configuration as seen in FIG. 14 and the operational configuration as seen in FIG. 12. Here, the transport and placement configuration facilitates both transport and placement of berm 200 inside facilities without interfering with overhead systems and once placed into the facility, berm 200 may be reconfigured to the operational configuration without further assembly. Here, the transport and placement configuration is collapsed, and the operational configuration is erected to suit surrounding facilities. Hinge 260 is shown having pivot point 262 and first and second latches 264, 266. In the embodiment shown, latches 264, 266 may be pins, bolts spring loaded latch members or any suitable latch that holds impact portion 216 in a desired position. Referring also to FIG. 14, there is shown a side view of firing berm 200 in a transport and placement configuration. In the embodiment shown, berm 200 may be capable of having collapsible configurations in different positions. For example, the configuration shown in FIG. 12 has berm 200 in an operating configuration whereas the configuration shown in FIG. 14 has the same berm 200 in a transport and placement configuration. Further, berm 200 is configurable between different configurations, for example, a transport and placement configuration and an operating configuration when substantially fully assembled. For example, when in the transport and placement configuration, pin 266 may be positioned in mating hole or feature 270 whereas when in the operating configuration, pin 266 may be positioned in mating hole or feature 268. Here, first impact portion 216 is connected to frame 208 and disposed to deflect bullets entering opening 210. First impact portion is moveable from an operational position to a transport and placement position where the envelope of berm 200 is larger when first impact portion 216 is in the operational position as compared to when first impact portion 216 is in the transport and placement position. In the embodiment shown, hinge system 260 is shown having two discrete positions. Alternately, hinge system 260 may have more discrete positions. Alternately and as will be described with respect to exemplary berm 300, hinge system 260 may have adjustment, for example, where a user may selectively adjust the height of movable plate 216 at opening 210, for example, to conform to a facility or otherwise. Here, such adjustment may be provided, for example, to aid both installation and performance by eliminating gaps between trap and existing structure. Here, upper deflector plate 216, when installed, may be adjusted in height, for example, up or down within a couple of inches or otherwise so as not to radically change the angle of deflection to meet the ceiling baffle plate. Hinge 260 may therefore aid in the trap's or berm's installation, as well as providing features for shipping and moving and positioning through narrow spaces and low ceilings. Here, berm 200 may be reconfigured from transport configuration to operational configuration and vice versa substantially without removal of parts from assembly 200, for example, removal may be limited to removal of latch pin, or alternately, if an integral latch is provided then there may be no removal. As will be shown in greater detail below, the transport configuration facilitates both transport and placement of berm 200, particularly inside facilities, without interfering with overhead systems, such as vent, ceilings or otherwise. Here, the transport and placement configuration is collapsed, and the operational configuration is erected to suit surrounding facilities. Once, placed into a facility, berm 200 may be reconfigured to its operational configuration, for example by raising upper flap or deflection portion 216 without further assembly. Additional portions, for example, front portion 216′ of impact portion 216 and front portion 218′ of impact portion 218 may similarly be reconfigured for transport and placement, for example by hinged connections, removal and repositioning or otherwise to facilitate a compact and user friendly package for transport, for example, as seen in FIG. 14. In alternate embodiments, any suitable portion may be reconfigurable for transport, storage, placement or otherwise. For example, containment portion 220 or any portion of frame 208 may be reconfigurable to form a more compact and transport friendly envelope.
Referring now to FIG. 15, there is shown a side view of firing berm 300 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. Portable firing berm 300 may have features as described or alternately may have features as described with respect to berm 10, 112, 114, 116, 200 or otherwise. As described with respect to other embodiments, berm 300 may be configured as a bank of portable firing berms and may have no, one or more closed sides as may be provided. In the embodiment shown, portable firing berm 300 is shown adapted to capture bullets 312, 314 fired at berm 300. Berm 300 is shown having frame assembly 308 defining exterior boundaries of the berm and forming opening 310 through which bullets fired at berm 300 enter berm 300. Opening 310 may be an opening and funnel portion 310 having funnel sides 316, 318. Bullet containment portion 320 is shown communicating with opening 310 and arranged such that unspent bullets received impact against, are stopped and contained. As will be described, berm 300 is configurable between a transport and placement configuration and an operating configuration while substantially fully assembled and substantially without removal of parts from berm 300. Here, frame assembly 308 has a moveable wall 316 moveable from a first position to a second position, without removal from frame assembly 308, so that berm 300 is configurable between a transport and placement configuration and an operating configuration while substantially fully assembled and substantially without disassembly of the frame assembly. Here, first impact portion 316 is formed at least in part by the moveable wall or portion 316. As such, frame assembly 308 has a moveable portion 316 moveable from a first position as seen in FIG. 15 with the funnel sides 316, 318 open relative to each other to a second position as seen in FIG. 17 with the funnel sides 316, 318 closed relative to each other, without removal from frame assembly 308, so that berm 300 is configurable between a transport and placement configuration as seen in FIG. 17 and an operating configuration as seen in FIG. 15 substantially without disassembly of the frame assembly. As will be described, a height of first impact portion 316 at opening 310 may be user adjustable when in the operational position, for example as shown in FIG. 15. The configuration of the representative berm 300 shown in FIG. 15 is exemplary and in alternate embodiments the berm may have any desired shape and arrangement. Portable berm 300 has first impact portion or directional plate 316 connected to frame 308 and disposed to deflect bullets, towards the containment portion 320, entering opening 310, or chamber 320. Deflector 322 may have plates 324, 326, 328 and may be fixed or movably connected to frame 308 as will be described further below. Second or lower deflection plate or impact portion 318 is shown with an inclined portion 318 and extends in length sufficiently to provide deflection of fragments such that fragments may be deflected into the back containment portion 320. Here, the lower plate or second impact portion 318 may also be connected to the frame 308 and is arranged below the first impact portion 316. Bullet containment portion 320 communicates with opening 310 with the bullet containment portion 320 having an integral impact section 322 disposed so that unspent bullets received in the bullet containment portion impact against and are stopped by the impact section 322. Impact section 322 forms a steel end plate that stops stray rounds from the front 330 of containment portion 320. Impact section 322 provides an integral rear deflector and stop plate, for example, may be formed from 1.0″ armor plate and be provided with plates 324, 326, 328 that scroll as shown relative to lower plate 332 of containment portion 320 forming a clearance space between plate 328 and 332 allowing access of plate 328 from the rear of berm 300. Here, bullet containment portion 320 has a bullet containment section arranged to contain bullets and bullet fragments from the impact section 322. In the exemplary embodiment, bullet containment portion 320 and impact portion 322 is accessed by a user through hinged hatch 334. In alternate embodiments, containment portion 320 or at least a portion thereof, may be movably mounted to the frame 308 to move substantially as a unit relative to an opening from one position to another position. Back wall section 336 may have an opening for removal of one or more portions of containment portion 320 of berm 300. For example, the bullet containment portion 320 may have consumable plates where access panel 334, 336 or otherwise may be used for a user to access and replace the consumable plates through the access panel. Alternately, a moveable tray or bucket 338 may interface with a funnel 340 where tray or bucket 338 may be removed with spent bullets from the rear 336 of berm 300. Drawer or bucket 338, for example, a 5-gallon bucket or otherwise may be an option, for example, where a base berm 300 may be provided without either, for example, where lead or fragments are removed from access panel 334, 336 or otherwise. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more gate or access door 334 or 336 may be provided to access all or a portion of chamber 320 and/or tray 338. Tray 338 may be moveable from the interior of berm 300 to the exterior of berm 300, for example at position 338′ or otherwise to remove fragments swept into tray or bucket 338 through funnel 340 or from the rear of plate 332 where a user may, for example, sweep the fragments from containment portion 320 onto plate 332 by using access hatch 334 and into tray 338 by using access hatch 336 for access. In addition, access panel 334, 336 may be used to remove or reposition sacrificial plates and to examine the interior of bullet containment portion 320. Here, access panel 334 or 336 may provide user access to a moveable bullet container of bullet containment portion 320. In alternate embodiments, only a top access panel 334 may be provided, for example, where a drawer or bucket are not provided. Alternately, drawer 338 may be provided below an open trough, or funnel 340 may be provided above a 5-gallon bucket or other suitable container. Alternately, the bullet containment portion may be movable to a position where the containment portion may be accessed for removal of contained bullets and bullet fragments. In the embodiment shown, drawer or bucket 338 may be a slidable drawer mounted for example on rollers or otherwise. In alternate embodiments, any suitable movable system may be used, for example, the embodiment shown is slidable to the back of berm 300 whereas in alternate embodiments, berm 300 could open in any other direction or manner, for example in a drop down or slide out sideways manner. Containment portion 320 and tray, drawer or bucket 338 may be dry whereas in alternate embodiments any other suitable media may be used (including liquid media), or no media may be used. Here, bullet containment portion 320 is shown dry and is arranged to absorb and contain the bullets and bullet fragments. Berm 300 is shown movable as a unit without disassembly or re-assembly. Frame 308 may have ha supporting surfaces or structure that allows placement of berm 300 on any suitable support structure. Ventilation portion 342 may be provided adapted to ventilate and filter air from within the bullet containment portion. Lifting points 344, 346 may also be provided coupled to the frame 308. Referring also to FIG. 16, there is shown a partial side view of firing berm 300. In the embodiment shown, containment portion 320 has a base plate 332, rear impact and impact absorb plates 322 and forward plates 330. Impact section or deflector 322 may have plates 324, 326, 328 that may be sacrificial where the plates may be removed and inspected through access hatch 334. Alternately, plates 324, 326, 328 may be integral to frame 308. Forward deflection plate 330 has plates 350, 352, 354 welded or otherwise fastened there to in order to deflect fragments into chamber 320 as shown. In the embodiment shown, one or more of the plates forming chamber 320 may be integral with frame 308 or may alternately be replaceable. As can be seen in FIG. 15, berm 300 is shown provided with hinge 360. As will be described, hinge system 360 may be provided as a space-saving feature, for example, when shipping on a flat bed or moving into position for installation, such as being moved through a narrow passageway or lifting with a forklift into an area with low ceiling clearance. As seen in FIG. 17, a collapsed state of the upper deflector plate 316 is shown. Further, hinge system 360 also enables berm 300 to be completely assembled when it arrives on site, for example, as opposed to arriving in multiple parts. Further, latch 360 is provided to lock portable firing berm 300 in the transport and placement configuration as seen in FIG. 17 and the operational configuration as seen in FIG. 15. Here, the transport and placement configuration facilitates both transport and placement of berm 300 inside facilities without interfering with overhead systems and once placed into the facility, berm 300 may be reconfigured to the operational configuration without further assembly. Here, the transport and placement configuration is collapsed, and the operational configuration is erected to suit surrounding facilities. Hinge 360 is shown having pivot point 362 and latch 364. In the embodiment shown, latch 364 may have bolts as will be described or any suitable latch that holds impact portion 316 in a desired position. Referring also to FIG. 17, there is shown a side view of firing berm 300 in a transport and placement configuration. In the embodiment shown, berm 300 may be capable of having collapsible configurations in different positions. For example, the configuration shown in FIG. 15 has berm 300 in an operating configuration whereas the configuration shown in FIG. 17 has the same berm 300 in a transport and placement configuration. Further, berm 300 is configurable between different configurations, for example, a transport and placement configuration and an operating configuration when substantially fully assembled. Here, first impact portion 316 is moveable from an operational position to a transport and placement position where the envelope of berm 300 is larger when first impact portion 316 is in the operational position as compared to when first impact portion 316 is in the transport and placement position. In the embodiment shown, hinge system 260 is shown having adjustment, for example, where a user may selectively adjust the height of movable plate 316 at opening 310, for example, to conform to a facility or otherwise. Here, such adjustment may be provided, for example, to aid both installation and performance by eliminating gaps between trap and existing structure. Here, upper deflector plate 316, when installed, may be adjusted in height, for example, up or down within a couple of inches or otherwise so as not to radically change the angle of deflection to meet the ceiling baffle plate. Hinge 360 may therefore aid in the trap's or berm's installation, as well as providing features for shipping and moving and positioning through narrow spaces and low ceilings. Here, berm 300 may be reconfigured from transport configuration to operational configuration and vice versa substantially without removal of parts from assembly 300, for example, removal may be limited to removal of latch pin, or alternately, if an integral latch is provided then there may be no removal. As will be shown in greater detail below, the transport configuration facilitates both transport and placement of berm 300, particularly inside facilities, without interfering with overhead systems, such as vent, ceilings or otherwise. Here, the transport and placement configuration is collapsed, and the operational configuration is erected to suit surrounding facilities. Once, placed into a facility, berm 300 may be reconfigured to its operational configuration, for example by raising upper flap or deflection portion 316 without further assembly. In alternate embodiments, additional portions of berm 300 may similarly be reconfigured for transport and placement, for example by hinged connections, removal and repositioning or otherwise to facilitate a compact and user friendly package for transport. In alternate embodiments, any suitable portion may be reconfigurable for transport, storage, placement or otherwise. For example, containment portion 320 or any portion of frame 308 may be reconfigurable to form a more compact and transport friendly envelope. Referring also to FIG. 18, there is shown a side view of hinge 360. Hinge 360 provides adjustment of the height of deflection portion 316 at the opening 310 of berm 300. Hinge 360 has first hinge portion 370 fastened to moveable deflection portion 316, portion 370 has pivot point 372 and cantilevered portion 378 having slot 374 and bore 376. Second hinge portion 380 is coupled to frame 308 and has pivot point 382 and threaded portion 384. Pivot 362 joins pivot points 372 and 382. Jacking screw 386 is threaded into frame 308 and when drawn down causes portion 316 to rise and when drawn up causes portion 316 to drop. Bolt 364 is threaded 384 into portion 380 where slot 374 moves relative to bolt 364. When tightened, bolt 364 locks portion 370 with respect to portion 380. In operation, a user loosens bolt 364 and adjusts bolt 386 until the desired elevation of deflection portion 316 is obtained. Bolt 364 is then locked to maintain the position of deflection portion 316. In practice, two or more hinge assemblies 360 may be provided on berm 300 to provide selectable adjustment of the height of portion 316. In alternate embodiments, any suitable adjustment may be provided such that berm 300 may be reconfigured to its operational configuration or any suitable configuration, for example by raising upper flap or deflection portion 316 without further assembly.
Referring now to FIG. 19, there is shown a side view of firing range 400 with berms 300′ shown in a transport and placement configuration. Referring also to FIG. 20, there is shown a side view of a firing range 400 with berms 300′ shown in an operational configuration. In the embodiment shown, multiple berms 300′ may make up a firing line or range. Here, the range may be set back on floor 402 5′6″ or otherwise from wall 404 with the inside of the top 406 of the range being 9′ or otherwise as determined by the user. Here, the berm fully extended may be 8-feet high or otherwise at the mouth which is the front opening of the berm. Each berm may be 15-feet or otherwise deep. Any suitable number of multiple berms having different widths or other dimensions may be provided, for example as shown in FIG. 7 or otherwise. By way of example, a berm footprint may be 4 feet wide by 15 feet long for 8 units and 5 feet wide by 15 feet long for 2 units, for a total width of 42 feet for the range. Each berm may be fastened or bolted together for one continuous berm. The berms may sit on 2 parallel 6-inch I-beams that are perpendicular to the direction of fire. The rear of the bullet traps may require a 4-foot or other suitable clearance for removing and emptying the bullet containment portions, drawers or 5-gallon buckets for disposal, for example, into a 55-gallon drum or otherwise. With the exception of the end berms, end walls are not required. For example, connected to the 5-foot left end unit may be a detachable left end wall and connected to the 5-foot right end unit may be a detachable right end wall. In alternate embodiments, more or less berms with differing dimensions may be provided. By way of example, for a total width of 42 feet across a firing range, 8 berms at 4 feet width may be provided with 2 berms at 5 feet width may be provided, making the left and right end traps. Here, the end units may have a removable side wall and may come with side walls and may include removable side panels as well. Range 400 may be provided with a firing line 408, ceiling baffles 410, 412, 414 and ventilation equipment 416. As seen in FIG. 19, when in the transport and placement configuration, berm 300′ may be moved into position without interference with ceiling baffles or HAVC equipment 416. As seen in FIG. 20, a user may selectively adjust the height of front deflection portion 316′ of berm 300′ such that it seamlessly interfaces with ceiling baffles 410. In alternate embodiments, any suitable combination of features may be provided.
Referring now to FIG. 21, there is shown a side view of stacked portable firing berms 510, 512. Portable firing berms 510, 512 may have features as described or alternately may have features as described with respect to berm 10, 112, 114, 116, 200, 300 or otherwise. Further, the features as described with respect to portable firing berms 510, 512 may be incorporated into berm 10, 112, 114, 116, 200, 300 or otherwise. Here, berms 510, 512 may be a modular firing berm having a number of stacked firing berm modules where the portable firing berms as described, for example, in the transport and placement configuration form at least one of the firing berm modules. Berms 510, 512 may be transportable on a transport surface 516 where surface 516 may be a flatbed trailer, truck, aircraft, or any suitable transport. Berms 510, 512 have features as will be described that facilitate the transport and movement of berms 510, 512 from one location to another. A first transport feature may be lifting eyes 520, 522 as seen on the upper surface of berm 512 where four lifting eyes may be provided. Alternately, more or less lifting features may be provided. Similarly, a set of lifting eyes 524, 526 may be provided on the upper surface of berm 510. Mating recesses 528, 530 may be provided in the frame of berm 512, where mating recesses 528, 530 may mate with eyes 524, 526 such that when berms 510, 512 are stacked, recesses 528, 530 locate eyes 524, 526 such that berm 512 may be captured and not be moveable laterally with respect to berm 510. In addition, pins 534, 536 may be provided in a bore of the frame of berm 512 and through the bore of eyes 524, 526 such that both berms 510, 512 are moveable as a unit or may be lifted as a unit, for example, berms 510, 512 may be lifted as a unit with a sling or otherwise from eyes 520, 522. Similarly, a set of lifting eyes and pins may be provided on or with transport surface 516 and interfacing with mating features 540, 542 of berm 510 to positively lock berms 510, 512 relative to transport 516. Alternately, any suitable locating and/or lifting feature and mating feature may be provided, for example, lifting handles 544, 546 or tees or other suitable feature may be provided in any suitable orientation. Additionally, Forking slots 550, 552 may be provided in berm 512 and forking slots 554, 556 may be provided in berm 510 to further facilitate handling. In alternate embodiments, forking slots or other handling features may be provided is any suitable location or orientation on berms 510, 512, for example in the back portions 560, 562 of berms 510, 512. Folding transport ribs 566, 568 may be provided in berms 510, 512 to stiffen the assembly for transport. In alternate embodiments, any suitable locating, fastening or transport features may be provided to facilitate the efficient transport of berms 510, 512. Although two berms 510, 512 are shown, more berms may be transportable as a group, for example, where additional berms are provided adjacent to or interleaved with berms 510, 512. In alternate embodiments, any suitable features may be provided.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, a portable firing berm adapted to capture bullets fired at the berm is provided. The portable berm has a frame assembly defining exterior boundaries of the berm and forming an opening through which bullets fired at the berm enter the berm. A bullet containment portion is provided communicating with the opening, the bullet containment portion arranged such that unspent bullets received in the bullet containment portion impact against, are stopped and contained by the bullet containment portion. The frame assembly has a moveable wall moveable from a first position to a second position, without removal from the frame assembly, so that the berm is configurable between a transport and placement configuration of the berm and an operating configuration of the berm substantially without disassembly of the frame assembly.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, a portable firing berm is provided adapted to capture bullets fired at the berm. The portable berm has a frame assembly defining exterior boundaries of the berm and forming an opening and funnel portion having funnel sides through which bullets fired at the berm enter the berm. A bullet containment portion is provided communicating with the opening and funnel portion, the bullet containment portion arranged such that unspent bullets received in the bullet containment portion impact against, are stopped and contained by the bullet containment portion. The frame assembly has a moveable portion moveable from a first position with the funnel sides open relative to each other to a second position with the funnel sides closed relative to each other, without removal from the frame assembly, so that the berm is configurable between a transport and placement configuration of the berm and an operating configuration of the berm substantially without disassembly of the frame assembly.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, a portable firing berm is provided adapted to capture bullets fired at the berm. The portable berm has a frame assembly defining exterior boundaries of the berm and forming an opening through which bullets fired at the berm enter the berm. The frame assembly has a first impact portion disposed to deflect bullets entering the opening. A bullet containment portion is provided communicating with the opening, the bullet containment portion arranged such that unspent bullets received in the bullet containment portion impact against, are stopped and contained by the bullet containment portion. The first impact portion is moveable from an operational position to a transport and placement position. The envelope of the portable firing berm is larger when the first impact portion is in the operational position as compared to when the first impact portion is in the transport and placement position.
It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the invention. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variances.
