How to Adjust a Trap Thrower

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Trap throwers have a wide range of adjustments that allow you to change both the speed and elevation of the clay target. The direction the target flies can be altered simply by placing the target on different areas of the thrower arm. The trap thrower also allows you to throw either one or two clay targets at a time. When throwing two targets, they can be placed side by side. Some throwers allow you to stack two targets. The following instructions apply to a variety of trap thrower styles.

How to Adjust a Trap Thrower

Make sure the thrower is not cocked. Loosen the adjustment knob on the side of the thrower. Swivel the thrower arm to the desired elevation. When level, the targets will fly low. When tipped back, the targets will fly higher.

Adjust the tension nut on the spring. Tightening the nut throws the targets faster. Loosening the nut throws the targets slower. Don't loosen the nut too much or there won't be enough power to launch the target.

Cock the thrower arm by grasping it with a firm, solid grip. Be careful and don't bump the trigger.

Position a clay target on the thrower arm. Putting it forward will make it fly straight or slightly left. Placing it toward the rear will make it fly to the right.

Throw some clays and experiment with different settings.

Position two clay targets on the thrower arm. Tighten the spring tension nut to handle the increased load. Experiment by putting targets in different places on the thrower arm side by side. If your trap thrower can accept stacked targets, try stacking them.

Warnings

  • Always keep safety in mind. Never stand in front of the thrower or to the right side of it where the targets fly off. Keep clear of the thrower arm at all times and make sure you have a steady grip on the arm when cocking. Use a long rope to pull the trigger so you can position the shooter behind the thrower but in front of spectators. Shoot in a safe direction away from people, houses and other objects.

Tips

  • Bolt the trap thrower to a tire to increase stability. Practice throwing targets for the shooter from different angles and from different distances. To make it more exciting, don't let the shooter see how the clays are positioned on the thrower.
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