Abstract: A gravity reset target system that includes a target plate assembly that is removably engaged with a base plate assembly. The base plate assembly includes at least two parallel guide plates having grooves cut therein and the target plate assembly includes a target plate secured to a carrier piece having at least one guide rod. The guide rod of the carrier piece is inserted into the grooves in the guide plates to removably engage the target plate assembly with the base plate assembly. The target plate begins in a vertical resting position, rocks backward to a generally horizontal position when struck with a projectile, and then automatically returns to its vertical resting position.

Abstract: A multifunction target actuator allows a bullet target to be selectively presented to a shooter such that a first side may be presented, a second side opposite the first side may be presented, and the target may be oriented so as not to be presented to the shooter. The actuator allows for quick and accurate movement of the target.

Abstract: A handheld electronic device, the device comprising a housing and a retractable handle, the device being arranged to allow the handle to be retracted into the housing along a sliding axis to provide a retracted handle position and extended out of the housing along the sliding axis to provide an extended handle position, and wherein the handle is arranged to be formable to be held by a user in the extended position such that the holding axis of the handle in the extended position is offset from the sliding axis.

Abstract: A multifunction target actuator allows a bullet target to be selectively presented to a shooter such that a first side may be presented, a second side opposite the first side may be presented, and the target may be oriented so as not to be presented to the shooter. The actuator allows for quick and accurate movement of the target.

Abstract: A target apparatus including a portable case; a target; and a drive contained within the portable case, the drive having a drive shaft accessible through an access opening in a side of the portable case. When the target is connected to the drive shaft for rotation relative to the portable case, the portable case provides stable support to the target apparatus.

Abstract: Targets, a target range system, and methods for economical operation of a target range. A preferred method includes providing a target range site; providing a target resembling a conventional target in dimension and appearing, yet having a weight that is substantially less than the weight of the conventional target. The target has a plurality of interconnecting plates made of recyclable material and is devoid of hazards comprising munitions, fuels, and radioactive materials. The ingress and egress routes for the target are reduced as compared to routes for conventional targets and enable cost savings. The targets are also readily recycled, enabling additional economic advantage.

Abstract: A target moving configuration includes a weighted base, a shooter's target, a target-moving assembly rotationally connected to the base and a hinge pivotally connecting the target thereto. A target-fall control device operatively connects the hinge to selectively pivot the target when activated. The control device has a balloon, a lock with a removable key, and a pull cord connecting the balloon to the key, which cord holds the key in the lock while the balloon is intact. A target motion device has a drive shaft, a drive cord connected to the target moving assembly and the drive shaft. An electric motor is connected to the drive shaft for rotating the drive shaft. A controller is operable to selectively and randomly power the motor to, thereby, move the target movement arm with respect to the base. Multiple targets and assemblies are provided and connected to the drive shaft for independent movement.

Abstract: An apparatus for rapidly displacing an object comprises a lever with an object end and a power end. The lever is mounted to a fulcrum between the ends. A driven cam has a trunnion attached proximal to an outer edge thereof, and a tie rod member has an end pivotally attached to the power end of the lever and a second end pivotally attached to the trunnion such that about 180° of rotation of the cam causes about 90° displacement of the power end of said lever. Also, a tension member is coupled to the power end such that restorative force of the tension member contributes to displacement of the power end in one direction. A motor drives rotation of the cam.

Abstract: A self-resetting paddle target is comprised of at least one paddle mounted to a carrier body. The carrier body is rotatably mounted to a support rod such that the carrier body may freely rotate about the support rod. The carrier body is formed as a cam follower configured to engage the upper surface of a carrier support member fixedly fastened to the support rod and that acts as a cam. The interaction of the carrier body and the carrier support member controls the rotation of the carrier body about the support rod and allows the paddle to reset itself after being impacted by a projectile. A plurality of paddles may be disposed along the support rod.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pneumatically operated steel target system that incorporates a polymer-like mannequin molded to an AR500 abrasive resistant material with a 500 Brinell (460-540) rating, which can be clothed for any event, allowing users to practice on human-like targets as opposed to a target with no features where the user's real-life training would be reduced. The target system has a protective chest plate proportionately angled at approximately 12 degrees from center to deflect bullet fragmentations downward and away from the shooter.

Abstract: A multifunction target actuator allows a bullet target to be selectively presented to a shooter such that a first side may be presented, a second side opposite the first side may be presented, and the target may be oriented so as not to be presented to the shooter. The actuator allows for quick and accurate movement of the target.

Abstract: A moving target system for efficiently improving the accuracy of a shooter. The moving target system generally includes a first outer support, a second outer support, wherein the second outer support is distally spaced from the first outer support and a conveyor system supported by the first outer support and the second outer support, wherein the conveyor system is adapted for movement in an endless loop. A power supply is connected to the conveyor system, wherein the power supply is adapted to move the conveyor system. At least one target is also attached to the conveyor system, wherein the at least one target moves with the conveyor system along the endless loop.

Abstract: An omnidirectional target system includes a target movable between a retracted position and an extended position and an actuation mechanism for moving the target to the extended position, the target and the actuation mechanism being releaseable so that the target can be moved back into the retracted position despite movement of the actuation mechanism.

Abstract: A drop target includes a first target seen by a shooter and a second target concealed behind the first target. When the shooter hits the second target, the first target moves, thereby representing that the shooter as hit a desired “kill zone” and should cease shooting.

Abstract: An adjustable target mount allows the height of the mount to be adjusted. Additionally, the mount is adjustable to accommodate a variety of different targets and target actuators, and may be quickly moved out of the line of fire without requiring disassembly or removal of the target mount.

Abstract: A lighted roping assembly is presented, with a roping target in the form of an animal head which may be lighted from the inside or outside, but preferably from the inside. Replaceable and interchangeable horns are provided, as well as adjustable and retractable legs for roping practice.

Abstract: The present invention discloses novel hangers for hanging shooting targets such as clay targets in place for shooting practice. In addition it relates to a target system which includes hangers of the invention in combination with a horizontal support and optional support stands designed to hang one or more targets during target practice.

Abstract: A modular target system utilizes standard sized pieces which may be releasably attached to form a target system. The size of the target system may be easily customized as well as the number and types of targets which are mounted to the target system.

Abstract: A folding target stand allows a shooter to easily mount a target at a number of different heights without requiring the use of tools and without requiring disassembly of the target stand. The target stand provides increased stability when struck by bullets and may be easily transported and stored without disassembly.

Abstract: A target apparatus includes a first rod having a first end and a second rod having a second end. The target apparatus further includes a tubular target receiver non-rotatably coupled to the first rod and the second rod. The first end and the second end are received within the tubular target receiver. A tubular target dispenser is coupled to the first rod and the second rod. A target is sized to be coupled between the tubular target receiver and the tubular target dispenser.

Abstract: A fixed and portable, remote controlled moving target system to train shooters in marksmanship and correct target recognition comprising supported target assemblies on horizontal cables which are connected to vertical support assemblies. The targets are driven by an operator programmable, electronically controlled, computer based motor drive assembly. The targets are positioned by the operator inputs and the positions of the targets at start and during their movements behind an obscuring medium are programmed into the system. Once inputted into memory, the program can be replayed until it is overwritten. The targets exhibit humanoid movements owing to their unique suspension system and cable attachments.

Abstract: Targets, a target range system, and methods for economical operation of a target range. A preferred method includes providing a target range site; providing a target resembling a conventional target in dimension and appearing, yet having a weight that is substantially less than the weight of the conventional target. The target has a plurality of interconnecting plates made of recyclable material and is devoid of hazards comprising munitions, fuels, and radioactive materials. The ingress and egress routes for the target are reduced as compared to routes for conventional targets and enable cost savings. The targets are also readily recycled, enabling additional economic advantage.

Abstract: An improved drop/turn target is easier to construct and operate than existing drop/turn targets. The drop/turn target may be adjusted for wear, and may easily be configured to operate in a variety of different modes. The drop/turn target may also be raised or lowered during operation and may be automatically reset for subsequent use.

Abstract: A target system for light infantry weapons including a target overturnable by an impact and an actuating mechanism configured to move the target. The target is connected to the actuating mechanism via a pivot structure. Further, the actuating mechanism includes a lifter configured to lift the target to a substantially upright position, a vertical rail system and a carriage vertically moveable along the vertical rail system, and an electric motor configured to move the carriage along the vertical rail system. Also, the pivot structure is arranged on the carriage, and the lifter includes a supporting lifter device, against which the target falls when hit and which, when the carriage is lowered, lifts the target to the substantially upright position utilizing the movement of the carriage and an inertia of the target. In addition, the target system is portable and of modular construction.

Abstract: A sports training target system is disclosed. The system includes a target anchor having a support post that includes a slight angle in the forward direction. The system includes a target section having at least one target arm which is rotatably secured to the anchor support post. When a ball is thrown by a pitcher and it strikes the target arm, the target section will partially rotate around the anchor support post. The angle in the support post, together with gravity, will force the taret section back to its original position facing the user.

Abstract: A target system provides a unified target solution where a plurality of targets are fixed to a base member. This base member allows, for example, easy portability of the plurality of targets as well as provides a mechanism for allowing multiple targets systems to be interconnected and interchanged.

Abstract: A modular target system includes a plurality of targets mounted on a center support so that the targets rotate between opposing sides of the center support. Preferably, the targets rotate about an axis which is between about 5 and 30 degrees less than vertical, and have faces which are disposed at an angle between about 5 and 30 degrees less than vertical.

Abstract: A target system includes a plurality of targets mounted on a center support so that the targets rotate between opposing sides of the center support. Preferably, the targets rotate about an axis which is between 5 and 30 degrees less than vertical, and have faces which are disposed at an angle between 5 and 30 degrees less than vertical.

Abstract: A target holding device is disclosed. Preferred embodiments of the invention includes one or more of the following features. First, an automatic reloading feature of the invention allows a first replacement target stored in a target storage region of the device to slide down into a target exposure region of the device after an initially exposed target in the target exposure region is destroyed. Second, a ricochet feature of the invention deflects an incoming projectile to ricochet in a direction away from the shooter of the projectile. Third, a spare target viewing feature enables the shooter to determine whether additional targets are present within the target storage region. Fourth, the mounting feature of the invention positions the target storage region above the target exposure region. Fifth, the target storage region of the device has the capacity to store two or more additional targets.

Abstract: A target system provides a unified target solution where a plurality of targets are fixed to a base member. This base member allows, for example, easy portability of the plurality of targets as well as provides a mechanism for allowing multiple targets systems to be interconnected and interchanged.

Abstract: A multiple part telescoping game housing is disclosed having an upper housing with a game site thereon and a lower housing. The upper housing is movable relative to the lower housing to permit easy positioning and secure locking of the upper housing in a game play position in which the upper housing extends vertically upward from the lower housing, and a retracted storage or transport position in which the upper housing is positioned substantially within the lower housing.

Abstract: A roping training apparatus provides a target moving along a substantially level track from a starting end to a stopping end. The target, such as a calf figure, is mounted on a wheeled platform and connected to one end of at least one tensioning member the other end of which is fixed to the stop end of the track. Guide means, such as cables, are connected between the ends of the track and engage and guide the target in its passage along the track. The actuating mechanism, in addition to the at least one tensioning member, includes latching assembly at the starting end of the track to engage the target assembly and hold it against the force of the at least one tensioning member. When the target is positioned in the actuating mechanism and then released, it moves along the track, under the influence of the at least one tension member, and a roper attempts to rope the target before it comes to a stop at the end of the track.

Abstract: The present invention is a portable pneumatic target device for raising and lowering a target. With the target raising and lowering device of the present invention, a target can be selectively stopped at any point of extension or retraction. The target raising and lowering device of the present invention includes a support frame secured to a base, a horizontal target carrier assembly mounted to the support frame and moveable on the frame, and in air actuated cylinder operably attached to the target carrier assembly. The target is mounted to the target carrier assembly and is raised and lowered through the action of the air actuated cylinder. Pressurized air is selectively admitted into the cylinder by a solenoid operated valve. The solenoid is energized, after actuation of a manual switch or an infrared switch for a predetermined period under control of a programmable timer.

Abstract: A target apparatus comprises a supply rod having a first portion and a second portion. A receiver rod has a third portion and a fourth portion. A tubular target dispenser has a hollow portion and has a number of targets and receives the supply rod. The target is coupled over the dispenser and extends to the receiver rod. The first, second, third and fourth portions are sized to be received within the hollow portion.

Abstract: The present invention is a portable pneumatic target device for raising and lowering a target. With the target raising and lowering device of the present invention, a target can be selectively stopped at any point of extension or retraction. The target raising and lowering device of the present invention includes a support frame secured to a base, a horizontal target carrier assembly mounted to the support frame and moveable on the frame, and an air actuated cylinder operably attached to the target carrier assembly. The target is mounted to the target carrier assembly and is raised and lowered through the action of the air actuated cylinder.

Abstract: An automated indoor pistol range target carrier has an overhead power rail along which a target-supporting, -lighting and -rotating carriage travels toward and away from the firing line. The carriage supports, rotates, repositions and lights the target and is controlled by and feeds back information as to the target's position to a central controller. Portions of the power rail are electrically insulated one from the other and function as bus bars to carry d.c. current used to operate motors and circuits in the trolley without using electrical cables. Electrical pickups in the form of wheeled trolleys wipe the bus bars to supply power to motors and lights to operate the various target carrier systems. All system components are located within the carriage which may easily be removed from the rail for service without requiring the disconnection of any power cords or cables.

Abstract: An improved track-mounted movable target system is disclosed. Power is inductively transferred to a target carrier movable between first and second locations. The transferred power is used to power electrical equipment on board the target carrier. The electrical equipment may include electric motors, lights, solenoids, and control circuitry for the motors and solenoids. Preferred embodiments of the invention are implemented as track-based systems, as the track provides not only stability to the target carrier, but also protection from stray bullets to the conductive cable. For a first embodiment of the invention, power is transferred to a target carrier via a stationary inductor and a movable cable, which also provides motive force to the target carrier. For a second embodiment of the invention, power is transferred to a target carrier via a stationary cable and an inductor movable with the target carrier.

Abstract: The invention relates to a target arrangement having a carrier frame which includes a housing receiver for a control unit located in a cuboidal housing, and which furthermore includes a housing-receiver for two drive units one beside the other, said drive units being accommodated in a cuboidal drive housing, or for one such drive unit in a central position, a shaft of the drive unit projecting out of the drive housing on one side, and it being possible for the drive housing, which is square on the two opposite end sides adjacent to the side on which a shaft projects, to be received by the housing-receiver with said shaft projecting laterally or upwardly, it being possible for the shaft to have connected to it a target-retainer, which is fastened on an angled arm or an adapter piece, it being possible for the arm and the adapter piece to be plugged onto the shaft.

Abstract: A movable target for shooting practice, comprising a multiplicity of railtrack sections, which can be joined together, and a carriage which can be displaced along the assembled rail-track sections by means of a carriage drive and receives a target arrangement, whose target-retaining means, which receives at least one target such that it can be exchanged, can be moved between a neutral position and a target position by means of a target drive. The rail-track sections exhibit feet, which can be stacked one inside the other, and complementary connecting parts at the ends, and provision is made for end-side buffer stops with corresponding connecting parts, the carriage exhibiting, at one end, transporting wheels which are connected releasably to said carriage and of which the diameter is greater than that of the carriage wheels, and, at the opposite end, a handle.

Abstract: The invention is a pop-up target system wherein a three-dimensional target is raised by a knee-like action. The target may take the form of a head and torso manufactured in two parts, a front half and a back half, which are hinged at the top of the head portion and may incorporate a thick, relatively massive material which will absorb incoming bullets. The bases of the torso halves are each mounted through hinges to two separate four-wheeled platforms or trucks which are constrained by tracks or guide cables to move linearly to move the bases of the torso halves together in an upright position or apart in a flat horizontal position. The linear relative position of the torso halves is controlled by linear moving means attached to the wheeled platforms or trucks such that at the maximum separation between the torso halves, the two halves of the target lays inclined on a brace so as to be out of horizontal alignment, preferably 5 to 10 degrees out of alignment.

Abstract: On a base plate 13 there are provided L-shaped posts 16 and 17 having horizontal arms 16a and 17a and upright portions 16b and 17b, respectively, and a shooting target 11 is provided exchangeable manner between the upright portions. On the base plate 13 there is arranged a video camera 14 obliquely with respect to the shooting target 11. A picked-up image of the shooting target 11 is supplied to a processing device 15. On the horizontal arms 16a and 17a, there is arranged a reflection mirror 18 movably. The mirror 18 is adjusted such that light scattered by the mirror is made incident upon the video camera 14 through a bullet hole C formed in the shooting target 11 with a bullet A discharged from a gun P. An image of the bullet hole C is picked-up as a bright spot, so that a position of the bullet hole in the shooting target can be detected accurately and easily.

Abstract: A portable target assembly including a target plate having both a vertical orientation and a horizontal orientation. Further included is a drive mechanism adapted to effect raising of the target plate upon the receipt of a target raise signal and further effect lowering of the target plate upon the receipt of a target lower signal. For controlling the present invention, a control mechanism is adapted to transmit to the drive mechanism a target lower signal upon the target being hit. Also, the control mechanism is adapted to transmit to the drive mechanism a target raise signal upon the receipt of proper indication from a user with a hand-held transmitter. In an alternate embodiment, a timer is connected to the control mechanism in lieu of utilizing a transmitter. In such embodiment, the control mechanism is adapted to transmit to the drive mechanism a target raise signal after a predetermined amount of time after the target is hit.

Abstract: A portable target stand for placement on the ground for supporting a target, the portable target stand comprising a collapsible support defining an unobstructed opening, a plurality of clamps for adjustingly suspending the target within the unobstructed opening in spaced apart relation relative the collapsible support, and a collapsible base operative for holding the collapsible support in a generally upright configuration.

Abstract: An improved firearm target apparatus (10), including a base member (20) for pivotally supporting an elongated target support member (30) having a pair of support arms (39) for supporting a target body member (50); wherein, the base member (20) is provided with an adjusting unit (14) for varying the vertical orientation of the support member relative to a portion (24) of the base member (20).

Abstract: A Human Assailant Simulator Target for firearms training is disclosed. This target consists of a wire frame torso which may be supplied with arms and legs or used without limbs. The target frame may then be fitted with a bullet strike recorder paper having human vital areas or various targets imprinted thereon. Furthermore this paper may easily and inexpensively be replaced. The users of the target may then fit the target with clothes, facial features, hair wigs, masks, or various articles to simulate a person carrying weapons and or goods. The use of the wire frame provides a target that is ninety-eight percent open space in the primary bullet impact area, while the recorder paper allows a user to check accuracy, and quickly renew the target for the next user, while still giving a realistic target for practice.

Abstract: A sports target system adapted for use in connection with a backdrop, is generally composed of at least one resiliently stretchable cord having hooks at each end thereof, such as a conventional stretch cord, and at least one flaccidly flexible target, such as a cloth material having a predetermined color and/or indicia thereupon. The target is provided with a loop for receiving slidably therein the resiliently stretchable cord. In operation, the user places one or more targets onto the resiliently stretchable cord by passage of the resiliently stretchable cord through the loop of each of the targets. The hooks at each end of the resiliently stretchable cord are then hookably engaged with the left and right sides of the backdrop, such as the frame of a hockey goal. The one or more targets which hang downwardly from the resiliently stretchable cord, are now slid into a selected target practice position.

Abstract: A dart game apparatus comprises a T-shaped track structure for a reciprocating, retrievable primary target. The transverse portion Of the T-shaped track has a moveable, secondary target which may be used by a visually challenged player in simulating that player's targeting of the primary board. The apparatus may include a definitive start or toe line to assist the challenged player in placing his or herself in proper orientation for play.

Abstract: An improved impact target, the instant response target system, has a base frame, an independent power source, and a support frame. An electrically energizing snap switch is carried on a bracket connected to the base frame. An electrical power source is independent and connected by wires to the snap switch. A target and an impact plate are carried on the support frame by two pillow blocks and two steel pins counter balanced by a counter weight and counter weight adjuster. The bullet impact pushes the target off the snap switch energizing the light.

Abstract: A hand-held multi-function target presentation control system with interchangeable operator control modules for communicating with at least one wireless target control modules. The operator control module having a user interface for selectively controlling a plurality of stations, each station having at least one target launch machine, for inputting and tracking a plurality of shooters, and for inputting a target launch sequence and a score for each shooter.

Abstract: An improved track-mounted movable target system is disclosed. Power is inductively transferred to a target carrier movable between first and second locations. The transferred power is used to power electrical equipment on board the target carrier. The electrical equipment may include electric motors, lights, solenoids, and control circuitry for the motors and solenoids. Preferred embodiments of the invention are implemented as track-based systems, as the track provides not only stability to the target carrier, but also protection from stray bullets to the conductive cable. For a first embodiment of the invention, power is transferred to a target carrier via a stationary inductor and a movable cable, which also provides motive force to the target carrier. For a second embodiment of the invention, power is transferred to a target carrier via a stationary cable and an inductor movable with the target carrier.