Abstract: A device for launching at least one clay target, the device includes a clay target thrower, at least three legs, a first leg coupled to the clay target thrower, a movable second leg coupled to the clay target thrower, and a movable third leg coupled to the clay target thrower. The movable second leg is configurable into an operational position and into a folded position. The movable third leg is configurable into an operational position and into a folded position. The folded positions of the movable second leg and the movable third leg facilitate transport and storage of the device.

Abstract: A device for automatically launching hockey pucks includes a vertical holder, a throwing arm, a spring, and a base. The vertical holder is configured to hold a plurality of hockey pucks therein. The throwing arm is positioned underneath the vertical holder and configured to rotate. The spring is connected to the rotating throwing arm and configured to accelerate the rotation of the arm so as to launch a hockey puck of the plurality of hockey pucks off of the arm at a rate of 10-40 mph. The base is configured to support the vertical holder, the throwing arm, and the spring such that the hockey puck is launched substantially horizontally.

Abstract: A micro switch adjustment structure for throwing trap includes an adjustment rod that has a connection hole located on one end thereof and coupled to a fastener that fastened a micro switch to an arched through hole on the front bottom side of the throwing trap body and an outer thread located on an opposite end thereof and inserted through a through hole on a rear bracket plate of the throwing trap body, and an adjustment knob having a screw hole threaded onto the outer thread of the adjustment rod such that the adjustment knob is rotatable clockwise or counter-clockwise to move the adjustment rod axially in adjusting the angular position of the micro switch.

Abstract: A power free step auto reset clay thrower consisting of a base, a stepping rod, a support, a throwing arm holder, a throwing arm and an elastic member is disclosed. When the stepping rod is depressed, the throwing arm is forced by a first spring to move a link and a first linking member in turning the throwing arm forward for causing generation of a centrifugal force to throw a clay away from the throwing arm. When the throwing arm is thrown forward, the eccentric pivot joint stretches the elastic member. When the pedal is stopped, the elastic member restores the pedal, and the throwing arm is also returned to its original position where the rear side of the sidewall of the throwing arm is stopped by the top side of the trigger arm. Since there is no need to additionally install a motor for driving the throwing arm to restore the position, the invention has the advantages of saving power and environmental protection and can save motor assembly and component costs.

Abstract: A system for launching a target disk above a terrestrial surface, including a first support, a first bracket attached to the first support, a second support connected to the first bracket and configured to pivot with respect to the first bracket in a first plane, and a second bracket attached to the second support and configured to pivot with respect to the second bracket in a second plane, the second plane being generally perpendicular to the first plane. A launching structure is attached to the second bracket, and the second support is configured to pivot with the second bracket. A track is configured to hold and direct the target upon launching, the track being configurable to present the target to be launched in a first presentation generally parallel to the terrestrial surface and a second presentation generally perpendicular to the terrestrial surface.

Abstract: A barrel intended to be mounted with the ability to rotate about a median axis of rotation on a target launching machine, said barrel comprising at least one column for the storage of targets in a stack, said at least one storage column being positioned at least partially by a rod extending parallel to the storage column, characterized in that the rod comprises a first portion that is stationary relative to the barrel and a second portion that is configured to be able to move at least translationally along a longitudinal axis of the rod between a position deployed along the storage column and an at least partially retracted position.

Abstract: A step auto clay thrower consisting of a base, a stepping rod, a support, a throwing arm holder, a throwing arm and a mini motor is disclosed. When the stepping rod is depressed, the throwing arm is forced by a second spring to move a link and a first linking member in turning a shaft and a throwing arm forward for causing generation of a centrifugal force to throw a clay away from the throwing arm, and then a motor shaft of the mini motor is driven to rotate the shaft, thereby returning the throwing arm without any manual operation. In the time the throwing arm throws the clay and the throwing arm is returned by the mini motor, the mini motor does not need to overcome the force of the second spring so that the capacity of the mini motor can be minimized.

Abstract: A launcher for an unmanned aircraft may comprise: a launch rail, a carriage, pair of pulley drivers, and a cable and pulley system. The pulley drivers may produce opposing pulley drive forces, which may be converted into a single launching force via the cable and pulley system for launching the carriage. The cable and pulley system may comprise: launch rail pulleys, pulley block pulleys, cam pulleys, drive cables, and one or more winches. Embodiments of the launcher may apply a constant force to the aircraft uniformly over the launch distance, such that the unmanned aircraft may be propelled within a relatively short distance by applying energy to the aircraft in the smallest period of time and without exceeding the aircraft's acceleration limits.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for throwing targets for shooting sports, with instant projection of the target. The device is characterized in that it comprises means for blocking the movement of the arm in abutment, enabling the arm, to go beyond the “zero point”, by the action of the driving means, while keeping the throwing means in tension, with these blocking means being carried by the driving means and engaging with complementary blocking means carried by the arm, and wherein the throwing arm comprises a rotating shaft, with said shaft carrying a pinion driven by a second drive pinion connected to the output pin of the driving means comprising a geared motor, with the means for blocking in abutment having a stop carried on the periphery of a crank pin rotating about the output pin of the geared motor. Applications in the field of shooting sports, both rifle shooting or revolver shooting and in archery.

Abstract: A ball throwing machine can include a hopper for receiving one or more balls and a ball delivery device. The ball delivery device can be used to throw or pitch a ball from the hopper to a user of the machine. The ball delivery device can include wheels to impart speed to the ball and a direction system to control the projection angle of the ball. The direction system can control at least one of the up and down angle and the side to side angle of the ball as it is thrown, among possibly other throwing parameters. A controller may be provided for controlling operation of the ball throwing machine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for delivering targets (2) comprising at least one column (4) for storing targets (2) capable of receiving a first target (11) at the lowest point of the column (4) and at least a second target (12) stacked on the first target (11), means for delivering the first target (11), and retention means for retaining the second target (12) in the column (4), characterized in that the retention means for retaining comprise a ramp (21) configured to exert a bearing force on the lower face of the second target (12) during the delivery of the first target (11). This invention also relates to a machine for launching targets (2) equipped with a device and a method for distributing the targets (2).

Abstract: A portable and adjustable clay target launching apparatus for use with a clay pigeon launcher includes a framework. A tilt adjustment assembly is coupled to the framework, and includes a shaft and a tilt assembly input member operatively coupled to the shaft such that the shaft is rotated by operation of the tilt assembly input member. A base member is configured to secure the clay pigeon launching device, the base member being operatively coupled to the shaft and configured to tilt side to side when the shaft is rotated by operation of the tilt assembly input member. A rotational adjustment assembly operatively couples the base member to the tilt adjustment assembly, the rotational adjustment assembly being movable between a released configuration at which the base member is selectively rotatable about a sprocket and a locked configuration at which the base member is not rotatable.

Abstract: A machine for launching disk-shaped targets has two faces located on each side of an edge. The machine includes means for loading a target into a launch area, an arm for launching the target placed in the launch area and a surface guiding the target by means of contact with at least one of the aforementioned faces thereof. The guiding surface has at least one portion wherein the areas that come into contact with the face of the target are not continuous. The machine is particularly suitable for shooting practice, such as archery.

Abstract: A clay target trap machine including a clay target throwing machine (1) and associated target hopper or magazine (2) mounted on a base, the base being mounted on a carriage (8) movable automatically on rails (12) and able to throw clay targets from more than one position and at a number of different firing angles and heights.

Abstract: A circuit module for preventing component failure in portable target throwing machines, the circuit module comprising a microcontroller coupled to a power source and a motor, wherein the microcontroller is configured to count a number of clay target throwing cycles and a run time of the motor. The circuit module also comprises a relay coupled to the microcontroller and the motor, wherein the relay is configured to open and interrupt power supply to the motor when at least one of the number of clay target throwing cycles and the run time of the motor exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A launching device for a clay target including a throwing arm supported to be rotatable continuously about an axis, and including means to load a clay target substantially at said axis, wherein the throwing arm includes an escapement mechanism operable between a first position in which a clay target is prevented from being launched from the throwing arm and a second position in which a clay target is permitted to be launched from the throwing arm. Loading means may be provided including a resilient loading receptacle located substantially at the axis to provide cushioning to a clay target as it is loaded. Further, the throwing arm may include a base portion for bearing a clay target and a top cover spaced from the base portion and adapted to disrupt the airflow over the clay target.

Abstract: The traphouse safety flag is an electromechanical safety device mounted at the roofline of a traphouse intended to replace the traditional safety cone or cloth flag that is commonly used to indicate to the shooters that the traphouse is occupied and shooting cannot commence. A “no flag” detent position energizes the normal trap shooting control mechanism while indicating to the shooters that the traphouse and personnel are secure. The safety flag obscures the entrance to the traphouse in a shooting position and if the flag is moved out of the no flag detent position for any reason, the trap shooting control mechanism is deactivated and will not accept a launch command from the shooter.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for launching targets, retrieval devices and combination target and retrieval devices, wherein the targets and retrieval devices may be irregularly shaped, such as like birds. Multiple targets are held on a carousel delivery system and eventually moved in a launching position by a push arm. A throwing arm is then rotated, pushing the target along a throwing guide until it reaches a launching position, at which point the target is released for use in shooting practice and/or training retrieving dogs.

Abstract: An apparatus for moving a mass, the apparatus having an arcuate track, a clamping member attached to a section of the arcuate track, an arm assembly pivotably connected to the clamping member, and a counterweight connected to the arm assembly. A projectile for use in a mass accelerator having an arcuate track, the projectile having a core and at least one of a low-friction layer, a propellant layer, and a polycarbonate layer.

Abstract: A pitching machine contains a pitching arm that vertically rotates at a speed of about 5 to 15 rpm, picks up a ball from the ball cradle at a pick-up point in its rotation, and then releases the ball at a release point in its rotation to provide a first velocity component to the ball. The pitching machine also contains a wheel that vertically rotates at a speed of about 300 to 3000 rpm. The wheel is positioned at the release point of the pitching arm to provide a second velocity component to the ball and to pitch the ball at an initial launch angle.

Abstract: A circuit module for preventing component failure in portable target throwing machines, the circuit module comprising a microcontroller coupled to a power source and a motor, wherein the microcontroller is configured to count a number of clay target throwing cycles and a run time of the motor. The circuit module also comprises a relay coupled to the microcontroller and the motor, wherein the relay is configured to open and interrupt power supply to the motor when at least one of the number of clay target throwing cycles and the run time of the motor exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A target launcher, as well as a target launcher system and set having versatile mounting configurations, for launching practice targets such as archery targets and “clay pigeons” for skeet shooting. A target launcher includes a pair of spaced-apart triangular frame members, each of which has a nominally vertical mounting leg. A target throwing arm pivots between a cocked position and a throwing position. Vehicle mount and ground stand configurations are disclosed. Disclosed configurations employ from one to six target launchers.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for launching targets, retrieval devices and combination target and retrieval devices, wherein the targets and retrieval devices may be irregularly shaped, such as like birds. Multiple targets are held on a carousel delivery system and eventually moved in a launching position by a push arm. A throwing arm is then rotated, pushing the target along a throwing guide until it reaches a launching position, at which point the target is released for use in shooting practice and/or training retrieving dogs.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a movable operation support system, used in clay target shotgun shooting learning, games and competition, which can be set up and operated in any location of the field. A preferred embodiment of the system is composed of a mobile support device used to transport in any position of the shooting field a multi-target release control panel, a portable safety screen that is carried, positioned at each shooting station to assure safety of the shooting, a plurality of mutable station indicators that can be placed randomly on the course and a release cable assembly that connects the clay target throwing machines to the multi-target release control panel. Further a pivoting arm clears the way for the mobile support device by guiding the cables. Additionally a hulls collection box is attached to the portable safety screen and the mobile support device, helping to maintain a clean field.

Abstract: An electromagnetic coil gun system includes a launcher having a barrel with a longitudinal bore therethrough, and a plurality of longitudinally extending electrical excitation coils arranged circumferentially around the bore of the barrel so that a magnetic field produced by an electrical current in each electrical excitation coil penetrates into the bore. Each electrical excitation coil is independently activated by the electrical current passed therethrough. There is a projectile sized to be received within the bore of the barrel and having a circumferential armature at a tail end thereof, and a nose end.

Abstract: A mounting system for clay target thrower and rifle/pistol rest (10) having a hollow extender (12) which has an elongated square extender male member (12A) having an extender male member opening (12AA) therethrough. An extender horizontal member (12B) is securely fastened at a front distal end to a rear distal end of the extender male member (12A). An extender vertical member (12C) is securely fastened at a bottom distal end to a rear distal end of the extender horizontal member (12B). A mounting system for clay target thrower and rifle/pistol rest (10) having a holder (14) removably insertable into the extender (12). The holder (14) comprises a holder platform (14A) securely attached to a top distal end of a holder upper member (14B) which is attached at a lower distal end to a top distal end of a holder lower member (14C) having a holder ring (14D) therebetween. The holder platform (14A) comprises at least one holder platform opening (14AA) therethrough.

Abstract: A target thrower comprising a target turret assembly; a ratcheting assembly; a target positioning component assembly further comprising spring loaded stabilizing fingers, a target lowering assembly and temporary support fingers; and a target launching asssembly further comprising a target launching arm. A target is dropped from the target turret assembly onto a target lowering assembly that lowers the target in position for engagement by the target launching arm that launches the target.

Abstract: A target throwing device, particularly for throwing two frangible targets, such as “clay targets”, comprises a magazine for holding targets having a circular top portion and a depending wall, portion, an essentially planar throwing plane, and an elevator for moving targets from the magazine onto the throwing plane. A throwing arm is mounted above the throwing plane for moving the targets from first positions to second positions and for subsequently throwing the targets when in the second positions. A positioning element is protruding upwardly from the throwing plane within the wall portion of an inner target when it is lowered onto the throwing plate so at to impart to the target a movement in a direction from an outer target during movement of the targets from the first to the second positions. The targets are thereby less prone to breaking and more accurate target trajectories are achieved.

Abstract: A target throwing device, particularly for throwing two frangible targets, such as “clay targets”, comprises a magazine for holding targets having a circular top portion and a depending wall portion, an essentially planar throwing plate, and an elevator for moving targets from the magazine onto the throwing plate. A throwing arm is mounted above the throwing plate for moving the targets from first positions to second positions and for subsequently throwing the targets when in the second positions. A positioning element is protruding upwardly from the throwing plate within the wall portion of an inner target when it is lowered onto the throwing plate so as to impart to the target a movement in a direction from an outer target during movement of the targets from the first to the second positions. The targets are thereby less prone to breaking and more accurate target trajectories are achieved.

Abstract: The throwing arm for a clay target launching machine is designed with an adjustable leading edge or target-engaging edge of the throwing arm. This edge is separately, pivotally mounted on a main body member, which in turn is pivoted to launch the targets. By adjusting the angle of the leading edge of the throwing arm, causing it to be offset from a center line through the central pivot of the main body member of the throwing arm, the angle between two simultaneously released targets can be varied from an angle which is less than that of conventional devices to an angle which is greater than that of conventional devices. A further enhancement includes constructing the leading edge of the throwing arm with materials of different coefficients of friction to provide additional variations in the angle at which targets are released by the machine in which the throwing arm is used.

Abstract: An improved doubles finger, for use in doubles clay target trap machines. The improved doubles finger has a length and shape which is configured to cause a first and a second target each to have a preferred optimum, consistent, reproducible and desirable first target trajectory, second target trajectory, first target velocity and second target velocity. The doubles finger has a target guide portion having an arcuate target contacting and guiding edge. When the doubles finger is assembled onto the trap machine, the contacting and guiding edge is positioned to contact a second clay target, i.e., the outermost clay target of the two clay targets while the second clay target is being launched by the doubles throwing trap machine.

Abstract: A clay target launcher designed to be operated by a single person during target practice includes a base with a rotatable launching arm mounted thereon, which accommodates a clay target, a trigger to latch the arm in a cocked position and movable to release the arm, and a foot pedal. A spring is mounted between the foot pedal and the throwing arm to apply rotational bias to the arm, and a trigger release actuator is attached between the foot pedal and the trigger. When the foot pedal is in its upper position, the spring is not tensioned, so there is no danger of accidentally releasing the target. When the user is ready to release a target, he depresses the pedal with his foot, thus tensioning the spring. When the pedal is fully depressed, the trigger release actuator is effective to move the trigger to allow the throwing arm to rotate and launch the target.

Abstract: A target or rabbit launcher apparatus for firearm shooting exercise comprises a motor (2), a reducer (3) which actuates by a pendular movement of about 180.degree. an arming rod (4, 5) integral with one or a plurality of arming plates (6, 7). Each arming plate (6, 7) acts, through an arming trigger (8, 9), on an ejection arm (18, 19) by winding up an ejection spring; a locking stud controlled by an electromagnetic unit releases or locks each ejection arm (18, 19) in order to control the shooting; each ejection arm (18, 19) has its shooting rotation axis coaxial with the rotation axis of the arming rod (4, 5) integral with the reducer; the invention applies particularly to the launching of targets of the "rabbit" type.

Abstract: A target throwing device, particularly for throwing frangible targets, such as "clay targets", has a first pivotal shaft, an arm mounted to said first shaft for throwing a target, and a spring connected to said first shaft by means of an eccentric wheel for rotation of the throwing arm during a target throwing operation. A second pivotal shaft which is essentially coaxial with said first shaft, has a drive motor coupled thereto for rotation thereof. Furthermore, the first and second shafts are interconnected so as to permit mutually independent rotation of the first and second shafts through an angle of between essentially 180.degree. and 360.degree., whereby the spring can rotate the first shaft at a high speed during the throwing operation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a clay pigeon throwing machine comprising a secondary throwing table (29), elements (130, 154) for placing clay pigeons in a throwing position on the throwing table (29), a throwing arm (75) fixedly secured to a main axle (60), which main axle (60) is connected to an element (70) for urging the throwing arm (75) in a rapid acceleration and thus throwing the clay pigeon from the throwing table (29). The invention is characterized in that the elements (130, 154) are arranged so as to place two clay pigeons in throwing position so that two clay pigeons are thrown simultaneously in the same plane by the throwing arm (75).

Abstract: The apparatus is comprised of two launchers (6, 7) having the same technical characteristics, arranged next to each other. One of the launchers is symmetrical to the other one with respect to a vertical symmetry plane which separates them. Both launchers (6, 7) have their own launching ramp (8 and 9) and their launching arm (4, 5), each at a different level, and are mounted integrally with an oscillating plate (10). The oscillating plate (10) is mounted on an oscillation shaft (11) of a base plate (12) which forms the fixed base of the apparatus. The apparatus is used in sport shooting.

Abstract: An adaptive physical education device has a frame with a variety of attachable components so that the device may be adapted to a variety of sporting applications, such as golf, baseball, and hockey. The frame, in the preferred embodiment, attaches to the front portion of a wheelchair using a pair of adjustable wheelchair brackets. A pivotable "L" shaped post is attachable to the frame so that the pivotable post may be attached pointing upwards or downwards to accommodate different swinging motions of a bat or a club. An elastic spring is attached to the pivotable post at one end and to the club or bat at the opposite end. A handle is attached to the club or bat, so that the wheelchair participant may grasp the handle while seated in the wheelchair, pull back the handle, extending the elastic spring, and let go of the handle, the elastic spring propels the club or bat forward.

Abstract: There is a machine for launching clay shooting targets. The machine comprises a target storage magazine, a delivery plate adjacent the base of said magazine and a user controllable delivery mechanism adapted to unload either one or a pair of said targets from the magazine onto the plane of the delivery plate. There is a throwing arm adapted upon release to move across the delivery plate from a cocked position behind the targets to a discharged position so that the targets are catapulted into the air from the delivery plate. The leading edge of the throwing arm is curved so as to be in contact with or sufficiently closely adjacent the targets when in the cocked position to avoid target breakage upon release and also provide close flight trajectories for said pair of targets.

Abstract: A practice targeting and shooting system having a laser emitter and a light detector which is attachable to a shotgun. Reusable, reflective disc-like targets are launched by a thrower. The shooter arms the shotgun and actuates the emitter. If a predetermined portion of the light beam strikes the target, it is reflected and sensed by the detector which registers a "hit" by a suitable audible and/or visual signal.

Abstract: A tension band comprising a generally rectangular mass of rubber or other suitable elastomeric material for use in lieu of a spring in conventional trap machines. Each end of the band is tapered and has a curvilinear central concave portion. A mounting hole lies adjacent to the central concave portion. The band has a centrally located longitudinal slot extending between the mounting holes. It is also provided with a pair of bushings which are seated in the mounting holes. Each bushing has a bore extending therethrough and is made of a hard plastic material. The diameter of the bushing is larger than that of the bore, such that the bore can be drilled out and enlarged if required.

Abstract: A target trap having a ratchet and pawl mechanism for partial recocking after a target has been thrown is disclosed. The trap includes a frame having a stationary ratchet wheel with contiguous ratchet teeth along a portion of the perimeter of the ratchet wheel. A biased pawl is mounted onto a throwing arm assembly for interacting with the ratchet wheel to hold the throwing arm assembly in a partially cocked position after the trap has been fired. The ratchet and pawl mechanism is arranged such that the throwing arm assembly can always be rotated in one direction so that an operator can move the throwing arm assembly into a cocked position. From the cocked position the throwing arm can move freely in the opposite direction to throw the target.

Abstract: Apparatus for launching targets for trap shooting whose speed and distance of projection are variable, of the type using a rotatable drum (1)into which are loaded movable targets (2). The movable targets (2) are superposed on each other in columns (3), maintained by tubes or vertical rollers, disposed between a recessed upper holding plate or having radial arms for the storage of movable targets and a lower recessed holding plate (4) for each column (3) of targets (2), or having radial arms between each column (3) of targets (2). The lower plate (4) is above and parallel to a fixed base plate which comprises a single recess (5) so as to permit the passage of movable targets (2) which are received on a launching plate (6) disposed before an ejection arm (7). One or several motors ensures the rotation of the drum (1) and the movement of the ejection arm (7).

Abstract: Clay target/pigeon throwing machines/traps used is the activity of sport shooting. The clay targets being circular and somewhat disc shaped. More particularly, the clay target throwing machine is adapted to optionally and automatically throw, simultaneously, two targets. When the machine is set to throw one target it is designed so that each successive target which is thrown is directed in a direction which is randomly generated so that the target direction is not predictable by the shooter as he/she is triggering the throw of the target by the machine. Additionally, a plurality of targets may be loaded into an indexing carousel which automatically indexes either one or two of the targets to the load position and stays in position while an "elevator" lowers the target or targets into the firing or throwing position.

Abstract: The invention is an adjustable portable trap stand which can be easily anchored, allows the mounting of a trap to the stand, and provides for easy adjustment and locking so that the trap can be securely oriented in the desired direction. Briefly, the adjustable portable trap stand comprises a mounting plate to which a trap can be attached, a base which allows the trap stand to be securely anchored, adjusting means which permit the mounting plate to be oriented through a wide range of directions with respect to the base, and locking means that substantially fixes the orientation of the mounting plate in spite of recoil forces applied to it by operation of an attached trap.

Abstract: A throwing arm for a target throwing device the arm including upper and lower plates which receive respective targets so that in operation two targets are thrown simultaneously. The arm is formed as an extrusion for strength lightness and ease of fabrication. A novel magazine is also disclosed which utilizes extruded elements which are shaped and disposed so as to hold targets in columns in the magazine.

Abstract: A disk launcher includes a generally cylindrical housing having a handle depending downwardly therefrom. The housing further defines an interior cavity within which a launching shuttle is pivotally movable under the urging of an internal power spring. An opening in the housing is provided through which a disk may be inserted. A trigger mechanism permits the swept launching member to be locked in a launching position in which the inserted disk is positioned for launch. As the trigger mechanism is released, the launcher sweeps through a pivotal motion and hurls the disk outwardly through an exit slot in the housing. A magazine apparatus is provided which provides for the serially launching of a succession of disk objects.

Abstract: A magazine for targets to be thrown from a throwing device having a rotatable throwing arm mounted for rotation with a shaft is disclosed. The magazine comprises a stationary plate having a transfer opening therein and a holding member for holding a plurality of columns of targets. The columns are supported by this stationary plate except at the transfer opening. An indexing mechanism selectively rotates the holding member about the shaft in synchronism with the throwing arm so that when one of the columns passes over the transfer opening, the lowermost target in the column passes through the opening and onto the throwing arm. The indexing mechanism is arranged to arrest movement of the holding member relative to the shaft in a position where the targets cannot pass through the opening. A restraining mechanism prevents all but the lowermost target in each column from passing through the transfer opening, as the columns pass above the transfer opening.

Abstract: A clay pigeon target launching device has a launching arm supported on a pivot shaft that is received in a unidirectional bearing housing. The launching arm is biased into a tensioned position and held in that position by a pair of levers that are pivoted and which engage a stop abutment that is coupled to the shaft of the launching arm. The arrangement is such that both levers must be released before the launching arm can rotate which keeps both hands out of the path of the launching arm as a safety feature.

Abstract: This trap shooting machine dispenses clay pigeons onto its flinger arm at random locations so that when the flinger arm is activated, the pigeons are projected successively in random directions to be more challenging to the marksman. This is accomplished by a carriage which moves back and forth over the flinger arm, the carriage supporting a supply of pigeons and dispensing them onto the flinger arm at random spots, one for each "pull".

Abstract: A target projecting apparatus having a main support housing assembly, and a target conveyance assembly mounted to the main support housing assembly. Also mounted or connected to the main support housing assembly are a target drive assembly, a releasing assembly, and a switch for interrupting power to a sprocket support that is included in the target drive assembly. A method for throwing targets comprising interrupting power to stop the sprocket support from rotating, and tripping a safety latch to release a spring biased crank shaft in order to propel a target.