Let’s face it, hearing the ringing of steel makes shooting a far more enjoyable experience. Sadly, the issue with steel targets is that they can be a pain to lug around and set up. Not only do they take up tons of space, steel targets are also heavy and awkward. They also often get covered in bullet fragments, so they end up getting discarded and left behind. The Action Target PT Ranger solves these problems. It’s compact, easy to transport and set up, plus it doesn’t get covered in shrapnel.
What is the PT Ranger?
The PT Ranger is a lightweight, portable and tooless steel target system. Its base folds into a small footprint with a built-in handle that makes it easy to store, transport, carry and set up in seconds.
Unlike traditional wooden target stands, the steel base doesn’t collect bullet fragments, so there’s no risk of dangerous shrapnel when moving it around. The setup process doesn’t require any tools, plus it’s fast and simple. All it requires is to lay out the target base, insert a 2×4 and then mount the top cap—and add your target of choice.
Action Target offers multiple target options, from a simple 6-inch gong to reactive hostage and critical shot targets. PT Ranger targets are manufactured with AR550 and AR500 steel. If you’re not familiar with the difference, AR550 is harder and more durable making it ideal for rifle calibers. Additionally, the PT Ranger is designed to lean 15 degrees forward, which directs splatter and ricochets into the ground instead of back toward the shooter.
Benefits of the PT Ranger
Due to its collapsible and tool-less design, the PT Ranger Target System costs more than traditional steel target systems, with a starting retail price of $527. Your actual price can vary depending on your target choice. Like most things, you have to ask what the extra cost provides. Off the bat, the PT Ranger’s steel base and 15-degree lean angle enhance safety. The chance of being hit by bullet fragments is significantly lower and you won’t have to worry about cutting your hands on shrapnel filled wooden bases (which has happened to me on numerous occasions). Having that peace of mind makes shooting at closer distances more enjoyable and the AR550 option ensures your targets withstand rifle rounds without gouging or degrading over time.
PT Ranger Use Cases
If you shoot on public land or at a club that doesn’t provide targets, having a target system that is easy to transport and deploy is a game-changer. There have been plenty of times I didn’t bring as many targets as I wanted. Fitting everything into the truck, hauling them out and dealing with set-up can be such a hassle! The PT Ranger’s unique design takes up far less room and isn’t awkward to carry. And set-up and takedown is instantaneous.
The ease of carrying the PT Ranger system is especially valuable for long range shooting because it’s easy to reach more remote areas while carrying it along with a firearm. Since the base folds into a small footprint, you can toss it in a pack or use the carry handle to hike to your target location with ease.
I’ve used the PT Ranger by loading my rifle, ammo, tripod, 6-inch target, 2×4, and the top cap into my pack, then carrying the base by its handle to find a remote shooting and target position. Even though it sounds like a lot, it was actually extremely manageable. The light footprint allowed me to hike a few hundred meters to set up the target. I then headed up a nearby hill to a firing position with all of my gear in one trip. Lugging around a traditional target system this way would have been a nightmare.
Target Storage
Garage space is precious. Between vehicles, shooting supplies, tools, lawn equipment and everything else, finding room for bulky items can be another hassle. Again, the PT Ranger takes up far less space and is easier to store in tight spots compared to traditional target systems. I set up heavy duty wall hooks in my garage to hang the entire PT Ranger array off the floor; it works great. This has made it so easy to grab everything and go on range days.
Is It Worth It?
Sure a product like the PT Ranger isn’t the cheapest target system. But is it worth it? If you set a conventional steel target system in place and never move it, maybe it isn’t. But if you travel to and from ranges with your targets, it’s hard to beat a highly mobile and portable target system. You’re better off paying a bit more for a target system that’s safer and more convenient, rather than one you avoid using due to the hassle.
