Defense Targets

Plate Rack Assembly Instructions

Build your plate rack with confidence. Follow each step to ensure a stable frame, smooth reset linkage, and secure strike plates before you hit the range.

Range‑ready steel targets Built to run hard

Before You Begin

Carefully unpack all components and verify that all parts and hardware are included. Assemble the rack on a clean, level surface. Do not fully tighten hardware until instructed to do so during the steps below.

Safety & Setup

Always follow firearm safety rules. Confirm the rack is stable and all hardware is correctly installed before live fire training.

Step 1

Position the Main Beam

Frame

Plate rack assembly diagram - Step 1 positioning the main beam

Place the main beam upside down on a flat surface as shown in the assembly diagram. Confirm that all mounting points and hardware locations are accessible before proceeding.

Step 2

Install the Left Leg

Frame

Plate rack assembly diagram - Step 2 installing the left leg

Attach the left leg (the leg without the reset arm) to the main beam using:

(4) ½‑13 × 1¼" bolts
(4) flat washers
(4) lock washers

Install all hardware but do not fully tighten at this time.

Step 3

Install the Right Leg

Frame

Plate rack assembly diagram - Step 3 installing the right leg

Attach the right leg (the leg with the reset arm) to the main beam using:

(4) ½‑13 × 1¼" bolts
(4) flat washers
(4) lock washers

Install all hardware but do not fully tighten at this time.

Step 4

Install the Rebar Braces

Frame

Plate rack assembly diagram - Step 4 install rebar braces

Attach the left and right rebar braces using the supplied hardware as shown in the assembly diagram. Ensure both braces are aligned and fully seated in their mounting locations before tightening.

Step 5

Tighten the Frame

Frame

Once both legs and rebar braces are installed and properly aligned, securely tighten all twelve frame bolts. Verify that the frame is square and stable after tightening.

Step 6

Stand the Rack Upright

Frame

Carefully flip the completed frame into its upright operating position. Use two people whenever possible and maintain control of the frame throughout the movement.

Step 7

Install Reset Arm – First Pivot

Linkage

Plate rack assembly diagram - Step 7 reset arm first pivot

Attach the short end of the reset arm first.

Install one flat washer on each side of the reset arm.
Secure with the supplied Nylock nut.

Tighten the nut only until the washers are snug. Do not overtighten; the arm must pivot freely for proper reset operation.

Step 8

Install Reset Arm – Second Pivot

Linkage

Plate rack assembly diagram - Step 8 reset arm second pivot

Attach the opposite end of the reset arm.

Install three flat washers behind the arm.
Install one flat washer on the outside.
Secure with the supplied Nylock nut.

Again, tighten only until the hardware is snug while allowing the arm to move freely.

Step 9

Install Remaining Reset Linkage

Linkage

Attach the remaining reset linkage components using the supplied hardware as shown in the assembly diagram. After installation, cycle the linkage to ensure all components pivot smoothly with no binding.

Step 10

Install Strike Face Plates

Targets

Insert the strike face plates into the rack as shown in the assembly diagram. Cycle the reset mechanism several times to verify proper operation of the plates and linkage.

Important: Tighten the linkage hardware only enough to stabilize the components. The linkage must move freely without excessive friction. Overtightening may restrict movement and prevent proper reset operation.

Final Inspection

Final Inspection Checklist

Verify all frame hardware is fully tightened and secure.
Confirm all linkage components move freely without binding.
Ensure the reset mechanism operates smoothly when cycled.
Check that all strike face plates are fully seated and secure.
Perform a final inspection to verify assembly is complete and all components are correctly installed.