Collapsible and self-contained target stand

A self-contained and collapsible target stand includes a main body and at least one stand leg insertable into the main body. The target stand is capable of transitioning between an assembled state where the at least one stand leg is inserted into side surface apertures, and a collapsed state where the at least one stand leg is inserted into a cavity defined within the main body. The main body has a top surface with at least one support member aperture. The at least one support member aperture is capable of receiving a support member for a shooting target.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure is generally directed to target stands and, in particular, toward a target stand that is collapsible and self-contained when in either an assembled state or a collapsed state.

Target stands are usable on ranges for pistol and rifle practice. The target stands are configured to support paper printed shooting targets, cardboard printed shooting targets or backers, steel cutouts, plastic cutouts, and other shooting targets. Known target stands have issues with one or more of size, storability, portability, durability, ease of use, use limitations or restrictions, use during inclement weather, and/or safety.

Known target stands are inherently ungainly and/or cumbersome due to non-standard configurations, which have been previously considered necessary to promote stability and to hold a variety of different materials upright as shooting targets for engagement by the shooter. Select shooting targets may be fabricated from materials which are very heavy. The known target stands are similarly very heavy to counterbalance the shooting targets being supported, and/or are very wide or deep (from the shooter's perspective) to spread the weight out over a larger area and keep the shooting target being supported from toppling. Being designed as such, the known target stands are generally large and/or not compact to increase the possibility of success at performing their intended purpose. The known target stands are generally formed from a metal and welded into a specific shape that cannot be altered without damaging their materials and/or function. Known target stands are difficult to transport in a vehicle or move on foot, and are difficult to store without taking up far more space than is actually represented by the materials that make them up. The issues with size, portability, and storability are compounded with having multiple of the known target stands.

Known target stands are generally fabricated to balance weight and size or configuration. In particular, robustness of the fabrication materials used is often reduced as opposed to reducing the size or shape of the known target stands to allow for transportation and/or storage, as reducing the robustness of the fabrication materials generally results in a reduction of weight to accommodate the large size and/or non-standard configuration. Being less robust, the fabrication materials may be more easily damaged during transport or regular use, potentially adversely affecting functionality. The known target stands may also have an increased profile, resulting in more direct impacts from projectiles that miss the shooting targets and may cause increased damage due to the reduced durability.

Known target stands are generally fabricated to be mated with a particular type of shooting target having a particular orientation relative to the target stand. The known target stands are generally not adjustable to accommodate other types of shooting targets in other orientations.

Known target stands are designed to be stable, supporting a heavy load and/or resisting forces put upon them by projectile impacts and/or the wind. Select known target stands, due to their materials and/or design, are unable to function properly in excessive winds and may be blown over, rendering the held shooting targets inaccessible to a shooter. Other known target stands can withstand winds but at a cost of being very ungainly, unnecessarily heavy for the supported type of shooting target with support member (e.g., large surface area targets made of metal, plastic, cardboard, paper, and/or wood), and difficult to transport.

Known target stands may require small parts or fasteners to construct, resulting in lost time during construction and/or the needing to misplaced parts or fasteners if misplaced during construction. In addition, the addition of parts increases potential tolerance issues, which may increase the possibility the components of the known target stands are not able to couple together.

In general, known target stands may pose a number of safety hazards. Sizes, shapes, heavy weights, and general manners of function of the known target stands may lead to issues during storage, transport, movement, set up, use, and disassembly.

As such, it would be beneficial to provide a target stand which addresses the known issues, above.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to a target stand that is collapsible and self-contained when in either an assembled state or a collapsed state. In particular, the present disclosure is directed to a target stand including a main body and at least one stand leg. The main body is operable to receive a support member for a shooting target, where the support member is coupled to the shooting target or where the support member is an integrated component of the shooting target.

In one non-limiting example, the at least one stand leg may be inserted into the main body at a first location when the target stand is in the assembled state. The at least one stand leg may be insertable into an aperture in a first side surface of the main body. The at least one stand leg may pass through the main body and exit an aperture in a second side surface of the main body opposite the first side surface. At least a portion of the body may rest on an edge or surface of the at least one leg when the at least one leg is inserted into the first side surface of the main body.

In another non-limiting example, the at least one stand leg may be insertable into the main body at a second location when the target stand is in the collapsed state. The at least one stand leg may pass through an aperture on a first end into a cavity defined within the main body. It is noted the aperture may be positioned within the first end at a height from a top surface or a bottom surface of the main body that is equal to or greater than a thickness of the at least one stand leg, to cause the at least one stand leg to enter into the cavity at the increased height and drop an amount equal to or greater than at least the thickness of the at least one stand leg (or combined thicknesses, where there are multiple stand legs). A second end of the body opposite the first end may be solid or without an aperture, to prevent the egress of the at least one stand leg from the second end of the body. Insertion of the at least one stand leg into the main body may allow for a single compact arrangement of components during transportation or storage. For example, the target stand may be transported by a user in a compact configuration with the at least one stand leg inserted within the main body, without concern the at least one stand will inadvertently or prematurely fall out of the main body.

In another non-limiting example, the top surface and/or the bottom surface of the main body may include one or more apertures. The apertures may be operable to receive the support member for the shooting target. The apertures may be in the top surface opposite a solid bottom surface with no apertures. Where the top surface and the bottom surface include apertures, the respective apertures may be aligned or may be offset at predetermined angles to allow for the addition of an angle or slant to the support member for the shooting target. It is noted the apertures on the top surface and/or the bottom surface may be the same size relative to other apertures in the top surface and/or the bottom surface, and/or may be different in size relative to at least one other aperture in the top surface and/or the bottom surface.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to a configuration or design which reduces or potentially eliminates existing problems with known target stands. The target stand may be made from robust materials which increase durability and increase performance during normal and adverse weather conditions (e.g., based on material weight or other material properties). The target stand may be designed as a small, collapsible, and self-contained to increase portability and increase storability. The target stand may be designed to be used with and support numerous types and/or designs of shooting targets. The target stand may be designed and assembled without small parts or fasteners, reducing the complexity of the design while preventing the loss of parts and promoting increased assembly, transport, movement, use, and/or disassembly. The target stand may be more safe than known target stands by having a smaller, more compact size and a more stable, low-profile design.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to target stand which may be fabricated by any manufacturing process capable of producing a rigid or semi-rigid form or shape. For example, the components of the target stand may be formed from any number of materials capable for producing the rigid or semi-rigid form or shape. The target stand of the present disclosure may be collapsible, self-contained, and compact when not erected for use in the assembled state. The target stand of the present disclosure includes components such as the main body with simple geometric shapes, to allow for increased ease of storage in a number of different configurations based on user preference and available space, and/or to allow for increased ease of transportation in or on any number of vehicles or by the user.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to the target stand being fabricated with thicker, more robust materials to reduce damage during use, transportation, and/or storage. The target stand may be designed with a low profile to reduce inadvertent projectile impacts. Although the thicker, more robust materials may result in an increased weight of the target stand to provide a stable platform for the shooting target, the collapsible, compact design allows for increased ease of transport and/or storage.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to multiple types of shooting targets being insertable in numerous different orientations.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to a heavy, wide, low-profile design when the target stand is in the assembled state, and a compact design when the target stand is in the collapsed state. The target stand of the present disclosure has a low center of gravity, which increases stability to resist the forces of the wind and to prevent large surface area targets (e.g., plastic, paper, cardboard, wood, and other materials) from toppling it over. This results in the target stand of the present disclosure being usable in inclement weather conditions, such as increased wind. The compact size of the collapsed state results in a more storable and transportable design.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to a reduced number of parts that are easily coupled together, reduced amount of time lost and the possibility of misplaced components.

Additional features of the present disclosure are directed to reduced risk of hazard by being collapsible and easy to transport, move and store, as well as increased ease of assembly and disassembly. The target stand of the present disclosure a low profile and is unlikely to topple over and injure a user. The low profile also reduces the chances of it being hit by projectiles, thus reducing an amount of projectile fragmentation that may potentially ricochet back in the direction of a shooter or proximate third-party (e.g., an adjacent shooter at a shooting or target range, or other bystanders.

In this regard, the target stand of the present disclosure improves upon or solves many problems that are inherent with most target stands currently available on the market.

The target stand of the present disclosure target stand is more user-friendly than known target stands, being both uniquely collapsible and self-contained which is novel and non-obvious over known target stands. The target stand of the present disclosure addresses issues related to one or more of size, storability, portability, durability, ease of use, use limitations or restrictions, use during inclement weather, and/or safety found to be both common and problematic. The target stand of the present disclosure offers improvements over known target stands in many areas such as size, storability, portability, durability, ease of use, use limitations, weather limitations, and safety.

Numerous additional features and advantages are described herein and will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following Detailed Description and in view of the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various aspects of the present disclosure will be described herein with reference to drawings that may be schematic illustrations of idealized configurations.

Known target stands for shooting targets have issues with one or more of size, storability, portability, durability, ease of use, use limitations or restrictions, use during inclement weather, and/or safety. Known target stands may increase stability by increasing size of the target stand and/or the shape of the target stand footprint, which results in increased weight and difficulty of storage or transport. To accommodate at least the increased weight, less robust materials may be used which may negatively affect durability. In addition, known target stands may be designed to be limited or restricted in use with select shooting targets.

It is with respect to the above issues and other problems that the embodiments presented herein were contemplated.

FIGS.1-10Cgenerally show exemplary views of a collapsible and self-contained target stand100, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The exemplary target stand100includes a main body102and at least one stand leg104. For example, as shown inFIGS.1-10, the target stand100may include two stand legs104a,104b. It is noted, however, the target stand100may include or only utilize one stand leg104(e.g., in instances where a ground surface105requires only one stand leg104, where a particular angle is desired between the target stand100and the ground surface105which may be achieved through the use of a single stand leg104, or the like), without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it is noted the target stand100may include a main body102capable of receiving three or more stand legs104, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The components of the exemplary target stand100(e.g., the main body102and the at least one stand leg104) may be formed from a material including, but not limited to, a metal, a plastic, a wood, a fiberglass, a carbon fiber, or other material capable of being formed into a rigid or semi-rigid structure for the components of the target stand100. For example, one or more of the components of the target stand100may be fabricated from a metal (e.g., including, but not limited to, a steel) to increase one or more of a durability, stability, and/or ease of production or manufacturing of the components of the target stand100.

The components of the target stand100may be fabricated through the use of any fabrication technique including, but not limited to, casting processes (die casting, injection molding, or the like), forming processes (e.g., extrusion, forging, stamping, additive manufacturing processes such as three-dimensional (3D) printing, or the like), cutting processes, joining processes, or the like. It is noted the fabrication processes may occur simultaneously, near-simultaneously, or sequentially where appropriate. In addition, it is noted the fabrication processes may occur separately on unique portions of the components of the target stand100(e.g., a bend unique to a particular location on a component, or the like), and/or may be applied to the same portion of the components of the target stand100(e.g., extruding or stamping, and then cutting to remove material to form apertures within the extruded or stamped portion, or the like).

In general, the main body102may be any three-dimensional shape having a known two-dimensional cross-section. In one instance, an exemplary main body102is a cuboid with a rectangular cross-section, which includes a top surface106, a bottom surface108opposite the top surface106, a first side surface110, a second side surface112opposite the first side surface110, a first end surface114, and a second end surface116opposite the first end surface114. One or more of the surfaces of the main body102may include apertures.

The first side surface110and the second side surface112may each be set at an angle to the top surface106and/or the bottom surface108. For instance, the first side surface110and the second side surface112may each be perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the top surface106and/or the bottom surface108.

The first end surface114and the second side surface116may each be set at an angle to the top surface106and/or the bottom surface108. For instance, the first end surface114and the second side surface116may each be perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the top surface106and/or the bottom surface108.

The first side surface110and the second side surface112may each be set at an angle to the first end surface114and/or the second end surface116. For instance, the first side surface110and the second side surface112may each be perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the first end surface114and/or the second end surface116.

It is noted, however, the various angles described above may be any angle without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, any or all of the various angles may range from between 0 degrees to 180 degrees, to the extent the one or more surfaces of the main body102are able to intersect and/or align.

In one non-limiting example, the top surface106may include one or more top support member apertures118dimensioned to receive a support member for a shooting target when the target stand100is in an assembled state. In one instance, an exemplary top surface106includes top support member apertures118a,118b,118c,118d,118e,118f,118g, and118h. In another non-limiting example, the bottom surface108includes one or more bottom support member apertures120dimensioned to receive a support member for a shooting target when the target stand100is in an assembled state. In one instance, an exemplary bottom surface108includes bottom support member apertures120a,120b,120c,120d,120e,120f,120g, and120h.

The support member apertures118,120may be aligned, allowing for the passage of a support member of a shooting target (e.g., as shown inFIGS.11-16Cand described herein) through the top surface106and the bottom surface108. It is noted, however, the support member apertures118,120may be unaligned, such that a support member passing through a support member aperture118makes contact with material of the bottom surface108between or proximate to a support member aperture118. In general, it should be understood the top surface106and/or the bottom surface108may include any number of respective support member apertures118,120without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The support member apertures118,120may be any polygonal two-dimensional shape known in the art with any dimensions, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the support member apertures118on the top surface106and/or the support member apertures120may be different in size relative to at least one other support member aperture118on the top surface106and/or support member aperture120on the bottom surface108. By way of another example, the support member apertures118on the top surface106and/or the support member apertures120on the bottom surface108may be the same size relative to other support member apertures118on the top surface106and/or support member apertures120on the bottom surface108. For instance, a first subset of the support member apertures118,120may be a first shape with a first set of dimensions and a second subset of the support member apertures118,120may be a second shape with a second set of dimensions, where the first shape and the second shape may be the same or different, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In this regard, the target stand100may be usable for multiple different types or designs of a shooting target, as shown inFIGS.11-16Dand described herein.

In another non-limiting example, the first side surface110may include one or more first side stand leg apertures122dimensioned to receive a stand leg104when the target stand100is in an assembled state. In one instance, an exemplary first side surface110includes first side stand leg apertures122aand122b. In another non-limiting example, the second side surface112includes one or more second side stand leg apertures124dimensioned to receive a stand leg104when the target stand100is in an assembled state. In one instance, an exemplary second side surface112includes second side stand leg apertures124aand124b.

It is noted the support member apertures122,124may be aligned, allowing for the passage of a stand leg member104through the first side surface110and the second side surface112. In general, it should be understood the first side surface110and/or the second side surface112may include any number of respective stand leg apertures122,124without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The support member apertures122,124may be set at an angle of insertion125, which positions the at least one stand leg104at a desired angle relative to the ground surface105. For example, the angle of insertion125may range between 0 degrees and 180 degrees. For instance, the angle of insertion125may be less than 90 degrees, greater than 90 degrees, or be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular relative to the ground surface105. In one non-limiting example, where there are multiple stand legs104a,104b, an angle of insertion125amay be less than 90 degrees and an angle of insertion125bmay be greater than 90 degrees. The angles of insertion125a,125bmay be (but are not limited to being) equal and opposite, or substantially equal and opposite.

It is noted the present disclosure is not limited to the orientation or configuration of the stand legs104relative to the main body102including, but not limited to, the angle of insertion125relative to the ground surface105, the direction or order of insertion within the first side surface110and second side surface112, and the like, and that other orientations or configurations are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the stand legs104may be inserted in the second side surface112before the first side surface110, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. By way of another example, the stand leg apertures122,124may be cut within the side surfaces110,112such that the stand legs104may be orientated at a different angle that than exemplarily shown inFIGS.1-16D, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In another non-limiting example, the first end surface114may include one or more end apertures126. The one or more end apertures126may be dimensioned to receive the stand legs104. The one or more end apertures126may provide access to a main body cavity128defined by one or more of the surfaces of the main body102. For example, the stand legs104may be inserted within the one or more end apertures126to be stored within the main body cavity128when the target stand100is in a collapsed state. For instance, the end surface aperture126may have a height that is at least a thickness158of the stand leg104, to allow for passage of the entire stand leg104into the cavity128.

An end surface portion130of the first end surface114may prevent the removal or exit of the stand legs104from within the cavity128, unless the main body102is in a particular orientation and/or unless a force is applied to the stand legs104through one or more of the apertures118,120,122,124. For example, the end surface portion130may have a height that is at least the thickness158of the stand leg104, to prevent the removal or exiting of the stand leg104from the cavity128unless the main body102is in a particular orientation and/or unless a force is applied to the stand legs104through one or more of the apertures118,120,122,124.

It is noted the present disclosure is not limited to the location of the one or more end apertures126within the first end surface114, and that other locations or configurations are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the end apertures126may be positioned in the second end surface116, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. By way of another example, the end apertures126may be positioned in either side surface110,112, to the extent the end apertures126do not interfere with the engagement of the stand legs104with the main body102via the stand leg apertures122,124in the respective side surfaces110,112, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Referring now toFIGS.1and9A-9F, the transition of the target stand100between an assembled state and a collapsed state is shown, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

In the assembled state shown inFIG.1, stand leg104bis fully installed in the side stand leg apertures122b,124bin the main body102. Stand leg104ais similarly fully installed in the side stand leg apertures122a,124aof the main body102.

In a first transition state shown inFIG.9A, stand leg104bis fully installed in the side stand leg apertures122b,124bin the main body102, while stand leg104ais being installed or removed from the side stand leg apertures122a,124aof the main body102. Stand leg104bmay be similarly installed or removed from the side stand leg apertures122b,124bof the main body102, either simultaneously, substantially simultaneously, or sequentially with the removal of the stand leg104a.

In a second transition state shown inFIGS.9B and9C, stand leg104ais fully inserted in the main body cavity128defined within the main body102, while stand leg104bis being inserted or removed from the main body cavity128defined within the main body102. Stand leg104bmay be similarly installed or removed from the main body102, either simultaneously, substantially simultaneously, or sequentially with the removal of the stand leg104b. It is notedFIG.9Bshown the top surface106upright, whileFIG.9Cshows the bottom surface108upright. Where the top surface106is upright, the stand legs104a,104bmay be inserted into the first end aperture126and drop into the cavity128, and the end surface portion130holds the stand legs104a,104bin place within the cavity128. In addition, where the bottom surface108is upright, the stand legs104a,104bmay be slid in and out of the cavity128via the aperture126, without interference from the end surface portion130.

In the collapsed state shown inFIG.9D, stand leg104bis fully installed in the main body cavity128defined within the main body102. Stand leg104ais similarly fully installed in the main body cavity128defined within the main body102.

As shown in one non-limiting example inFIG.9E, a user may interact with the target stand100via a support member aperture118,120. In one non-limiting example, the user may insert a hand into the top support member aperture118hto lift the target stand100while in the collapsed state during transport and/or storage. It is noted, however, that any support member aperture118,120may be used, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it is noted that the support member apertures118,120(e.g., the top support member aperture118h, or the like) may be used to position the target stand100when in the assembled state, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in one non-limiting example inFIG.9F, multiple target stands100may be stacked or otherwise arranged during transport and/or storage. It is noted, however, that the multiple target stands100may be stacked or otherwise arranged in a different configuration than that shown inFIG.9F, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In general, due to the compact size and self-contained nature of the target stand100when in the collapsed state, the amount of space necessary to store the target stands100is greatly reduced from known target stands.

Referring now toFIG.10A, an exemplary stand leg104includes one or more stand risers132affixed to a stand body134. For example, an exemplary stand leg104includes two stand risers132positioned proximate to opposite ends of the stand body134. The stand risers132may be formed with the stand body134. Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the stand risers132may be affixed to the stand body134via one or more joining process.

It is noted the at least one stand riser132may have a distal end which is flat, substantially flat, or come to a point depending on an environment300including the ground surface105in which the target stand100may be utilized. For example, as shown inFIG.16C, the at least one stand riser132being flat or substantially flat at the distal end may allow the target stand100to better disperse weight across a hard-packed ground surface105, allowing for increased stability in combination with the low-profile of the target stand100. By way of another example, as shown inFIG.16D, the at least one stand riser132coming to a point at the distal end may allow the stand riser132to at least partially embed in a soft or soft-packed ground surface105(e.g., soil, sand, gravel, or the like), allowing for increased stability of the target stand100.

An exemplary stand body134includes a stand body channel136that leads to a stand body cavity138. The stand body channel136and the stand body cavity138separates at least a portion of the stand body134into a first stand body section140and a second stand body section142. For example, as shown inFIGS.1-9C, the first stand body section140is insertable into the main body102via the first side stand leg apertures122, passes through the main body cavity128, and exits the main body102via the second side stand leg apertures124. It is noted the first stand body section140is insertable in the opposite direction without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. By way of another example, at least one of the one or more stand risers132are proximate to the second stand body section142, and the second stand body section142is proximate to the bottom surface108(e.g., positioned underneath) the main body102when the at least one stand leg104is inserted into the main body102. For instance, the bottom surface108is proximate to and/or makes contact with the second stand body section142when the at least one stand leg104is inserted into the main body102.

The main body102has at least one main body length144, at least one main body width146, and at least one main body thickness148. The support member apertures118,120have various lengths150and/or widths152which make up a portion of the main body length144and/or main body width146, respectively. For example, a first support member aperture118and/or120may be a first shape with a first set of dimensions having at least a first length150and at least a first width152. By way of another example, a second support member aperture118and/or120may be a second shape with a second set of dimensions having at least a second length150and at least a second width152. It is noted the support member aperture lengths150and/or support member aperture widths152may be the same for each support member aperture118and/or120, different for at least one of the support member apertures118and/or120, or different for every support member aperture118and/or120. In addition, it is noted the support member aperture lengths150and/or support member aperture widths152may have perimeters which are straight or substantially straight, and/or may include at least a portion or section of the perimeter which is curved or generally arcuate.

It is noted the support member apertures118,120may provide added benefit in terms of weight reduction and/or part interaction by a user, without reducing the stability or robustness of the target stand100as a whole. As one feature of the present disclosure, at least one of the support member apertures118,120may be of a length or width that may allow for increased ease of interaction by a user to insert their hand and lift or move the target stand100during relocation (e.g., in an assembled state), during transportation (e.g., in an assembled state, or in a collapsed state) and/or when placing in or removing from storage (e.g., in a collapsed state).

The at least one stand leg104has at least one stand leg length154, at least one stand leg width156, and at least one stand leg thickness158. In general, due to the arrangement of the main body102at the at least one stand leg104when the target stand100is in the assembled state, the at least one stand leg length154may be greater than the at least one main body width146, and the at least one stand length width156may be greater than the at least one main body thickness148. In this regard, a support member of a shooting target may be insertable into the main body102, pass through support member apertures118,120, and travel an additional distance downward before making contact with the ground surface105due to the increased height of the target stand100afforded by the stand risers132below the main body102and the stand body134which promotes stability and robustness of a complete shooting target and target stand system (e.g., as shown inFIGS.11-16D).

At least a portion of the at least one stand leg104may include at least one stand leg cutout160. For example, the at least one stand leg cutout160may be at least partially positioned within the one or more stand risers132and/or the stand body134. The stand leg cutout160has at least one cutout length162and at least one cutout width164which make up a portion of the stand leg length154and/or stand leg width156, respectively. Where there are multiple stand leg cutouts160, the stand leg cutout lengths162and/or stand leg cutout widths164may be the same for each stand leg cutout160, different for at least one of the stand leg cutouts160, or different for every stand leg cutout160. It is noted the stand leg cutouts160may provide added benefit in terms of weight reduction and/or component interaction by a user, without reducing the stability or robustness of the target stand100as a whole.

The stand body channel136has at least one stand body channel length166and at least one stand body channel width168along at least a portion of the stand body channel136. For example, the stand body channel136has a single stand body channel length166and a single stand body channel width168along the entire stand body channel136. By way of another example, the stand body channel136has a first stand body channel length166and a first stand body channel width168along a first portion of the stand body channel136. In this example, the stand body channel136has a sloped channel edge170in a second portion of the stand body channel136, where the sloped channel edge170is set at a channel edge angle172, which increases the stand body channel136from the first stand body channel width168to a second stand body channel width168. It is noted this increase of width168may result in a decrease of a first stand body section width174and/or a second stand body section width176. For instance, the decreasing of the width of the first stand body section width174may occur at a distal end178of the first stand body section140which is inserted into the side stand leg apertures122,124, resulting in the distal end178coming to a point or a narrowed section. This decrease may assist in the alignment and insertion of the stand leg104(and exemplarily the first stand body section140) into the side stand leg apertures122,124.

The stand body cavity138has at least one stand body cavity length180and at least one stand body cavity width182. In one example, the stand body cavity width182is greater than the stand body channel width168by an amount or difference184. This difference184may allow for the main body102to rest within the stand body cavity138at a height lower than the stand body channel136. This may prevent the shifting of the main body102relative to the at least one stand leg104, reduce the possibility of the main body102and the stand leg104separating in inclement weather, and/or increase the general stability and robustness of the target stand100when in the assembled state.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the first body section140may include a notch or recess186in a stand body exterior edge188opposite the at least one stand riser132. The recess186may be approximately aligned with the stand body cavity138, or alternatively be at least partially offset from the stand body cavity138without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The recess186has a recess length190and a recess width192. In one non-limiting example, the recess length190and the stand body cavity length180are approximately equal (e.g., where the recess186and the stand body cavity138are approximately aligned), with both the recess length190and the stand body cavity length180being equal to or greater than the main body width146. The combination of the recess width192and the aligned, similarly dimensioned recess length190and stand body cavity length180may allow for the main body102to further rest within the stand body cavity138at a height lower than the stand body channel136. This may further prevent the shifting of the main body102relative to the at least one stand leg104, further reduce the possibility of the main body102and the stand leg104separating in inclement weather, and/or further increase the general stability and robustness of the target stand100when in the assembled state.

Referring now to10B, an alternative exemplary stand leg194is shown. Unless otherwise noted, the stand leg194ofFIG.10Bhas features that are the same as, or similar to, the stand leg104ofFIG.10Aand operates in the same or similar manner. In this regard, aspects or features to the stand leg194ofFIG.10Bshould be interpreted as being applicable to the stand leg104ofFIG.10A, and vice versa, unless otherwise noted. In addition, the stand leg194ofFIG.10Bshould be interpreted as being operable with the main body102, similar to the stand leg104ofFIG.10A, unless otherwise noted.

The stand leg194includes at least one groove196in the stand body exterior edge188opposite the at least one stand riser132. The at least one groove196includes a groove width198which is at least the thickness of the material from which the main body102is formed. Where there are multiple grooves196, the multiple grooves196may be spaced apart an amount approximately equal to the main body width146, less an amount approximately equal to once or twice the thickness of the material from which the main body102is formed, to ensure the main body102rests at least partially within the multiple groove widths198. In this regard, when the stand leg194is inserted into the main body102, the main body102will rest within the groove (or grooves)196. This may reduce the possibility of the main body102and the stand leg194separating in inclement weather, and increase the general stability and robustness of the target stand100when in the assembled state.

In one non-limiting example, the stand body134may include a stand body channel136and a stand body cavity138with respective widths168,182that are approximately equal. It is noted this feature may be applicable to the stand leg194including the groove196or the recess186. In addition, it is noted this feature may be applicable to the stand leg104including the recess186or the groove196.

FIG.10Balso shows an alternative exemplary main body102. Unless otherwise noted, the main body102ofFIG.10Bhas features that are the same as, or similar to, the main body102ofFIG.10Aand operates in the same or similar manner. For example, the main body102ofFIG.10Bshould be considered equivalent to the main body102ofFIG.10Aexcept for a difference in the number, positioning, size, and/or shape of the top support member apertures118in the top surface106and/or bottom support member apertures120in the bottom surface108, respectively. In this regard, aspects or features to the main body102ofFIG.10Bshould be interpreted as being applicable to the main body102ofFIG.10A, and vice versa, unless otherwise noted. In addition, the main body102ofFIG.10Bshould be interpreted as being operable with the stand leg104or stand leg194as shown throughout the present disclosure, unless otherwise noted.

Referring now to10C, another alternative exemplary main body102is shown. Unless otherwise noted, the main body102ofFIG.10Chas features that are the same as, or similar to, the main body102ofFIGS.10A and/or10Band operates in the same or similar manner. For example, the main body ofFIG.10Cshould be considered equivalent to the main body102ofFIGS.10A and/or10Bexcept for a difference in the number, positioning, size, and/or shape of the top support member apertures118in the top surface106and/or bottom support member apertures120in the bottom surface108, respectively. In this regard, aspects or features to the main body102ofFIGS.10A and/or10Bshould be interpreted as being applicable to the main body102ofFIG.10C, and vice versa, unless otherwise noted. In addition, the main body102ofFIG.10Cshould be interpreted as being operable with the stand leg104or stand leg194as shown throughout the present disclosure, unless otherwise noted.

FIGS.11-16Dgenerally illustrate a system200for target practice including the collapsible and self-contained target stand100, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

The system200includes a support member202coupled to or integrated with a shooting target204. The support member202may be fabricated from a same, similar, or different material as one or more components of the target stand100. For example, the support member202may be formed from a material including, but not limited to, a metal, a plastic, a wood, a fiberglass, a carbon fiber, or other material capable of being formed into a rigid or semi-rigid structure for the support member202. For example, the support member202may be a sourced item fabricated from wood such as a section of pre-cut lumber (e.g., 1×2, 1×3, 1×4, 1×6, 1×8, 2×2, 2×3, 2×4, 2×6, 2×8, 4×4, or the like) to increase an ease of production or manufacturing and reduce costs of the components of the system200.

In one non-limiting example, at least the top support member aperture118(e.g.,118a,118c, and/or118eas described throughout the disclosure) may be operable to receive a support member202fabricated from a 2×2, a 2×3, and/or a 2×4 piece of pre-cut lumber. In another non-limiting example, at least the top support member aperture118(e.g.,118b,118d, and/or118fas described throughout the disclosure) may be operable to receive a support member202fabricated from a 1×2, a 1×3, and/or a 1×4 piece of pre-cut lumber. In this regard, the target stand100is capable of being usable with numerous types or builds of shooting targets204with support members202.

The shooting target204may be fabricated from a same, similar, or different material as one or more components of the target stand100. For example, the shooting target204may be formed from a material including, but not limited to, plastic, paper, cardboard, wood, or steel. The shooting target204may be coupled to or integrated with one or multiple support members202.

It is noted it may be preferable to have shooting targets204fabricated from different materials be in different orientations relative to the target stand100. In one non-limiting example, a paper or cardboard printed target may be oriented in a direction toward a long edge of the target stand100. In another non-limiting example, a metal target may be oriented in a direction toward a short edge of the target stand100. In this regard, the target stand100may be usable for any number of types of shooting targets204oriented in multiple different directions.

One or more of the support member apertures118,120may be dimensioned to receive the support member202. For example, where the support member202is pre-cut lumber (e.g., a 2×4, or the like), the support member apertures118,120may include at least one support member aperture length150and at least one support member aperture width152which is equal to or greater than the dimensions of the pre-cut lumber. For instance, the support member apertures118,120(e.g., exemplary support member apertures118a-118e,120a-120e, or the like) may include a single support member aperture length150and a single support member aperture width152to orient the support member202(and shooting target204) in a single direction. In addition, the support member apertures118,120(e.g., exemplary support member apertures118f-118g,120f-120g, or the like) may include a first support member aperture length150(or first section of a length150) and a first support member aperture width152(or first section of a width152) to orient the support member202(and shooting target204) in a first direction, and may include a second support member aperture length150(or second section of the length150) and a second support member aperture width152(or second section of the width152) to orient the support member202(and shooting target204) in a second direction different from the first direction. It is noted the dimensions of the support member apertures118,120may allow for increased ease of interaction by a user to insert their hand and lift or move the target stand100during relocation (e.g., in an assembled state or disassembled state), during transportation (e.g., in an assembled state, or in a collapsed state) and/or when placing in or removing from storage (e.g., in a collapsed state).

It is noted the reference to dimensions150,152have been removed from the example configurations of the system200inFIGS.11-16Dsolely for purposes of clarity, and may be referred to in at leastFIGS.10A and10B.

Referring now to the example configuration of the system200shown inFIG.11, a first support member202is inserted in the support member aperture118aand a second support member202is inserted in the support member aperture118c, with a shooting target204spanning between the first and second support members202. The length150of the support member apertures118a,118care longer than the length of the support members202, but the width152is approximately equal to the width of the support members202. In this example configuration, the shown set of support members (or another set of support members having a greater length) may be used with the support member apertures118a,118c. The shooting target204is oriented facing the long edge or length of the main body102.

Referring now to the example configuration of the system200shown inFIG.12, a first support member202is inserted in the support member aperture118band a second support member202is inserted in the support member aperture118d, with a shooting target204spanning between the first and second support members202. The length150and width152of the support member apertures118b,118dare approximately equal to the length and width of the support members202. In this example configuration, the shown set of support members (or another set of support members having a lesser length and/or width) may be used with the support member apertures118b,118d. The shooting target204is oriented facing the long edge or length of the main body102.

Referring now to the example configuration of the system200shown inFIGS.13and14, a support member202is inserted in the support member aperture118g. The support member aperture118gis a complex shape with a first length150and first width152, and a second length150and second width152(or first and second portions of a length150and width152). As illustrated inFIG.13, the first length150and first width152are approximately equal to the width and length of the support member202, such that the support member202is oriented in a first direction facing the short edge or width of the main body102. As illustrated inFIG.14, the second length150and second width152are approximately equal to the length and width of the support member202, such that the support member202is oriented in a second direction facing the long edge or length of the main body102, different from the first direction.

Referring now to the example configuration of the system200shown inFIG.15, a support member202is inserted in the support member apertures118h,120h. The support member118hincludes at least a first length150and at least a first width152(or at least a first portion of a complete length150and complete width152). The at least a first length150is greater than the width of the support member202, allowing for an angle, while the at least a first width152and the length of the support member202are approximately equal. The support member202is oriented in a first direction facing the short edge or width of the main body102, and angled toward the short edge or width of the main body102.

Referring now to the example configuration of the system200shown inFIG.16A-16D, a support member202is inserted in the support member apertures118h,120hat a second orientation or direction different from the first orientation or direction shown inFIG.15. The support member118hincludes at least a second length150and at least a second width152(or at least a second portion of a length150and width152). The support member202(and the shooting target204) are oriented in a second direction facing the long edge or length of the main body102, different from the first direction, but angled toward the short edge or width of the main body102. The at least a second length150is equal to or greater than the length of the support member202, allowing for an angle where the shooting target204leans toward a short edge, while the at least a second width152and the width of the support member202are approximately equal which prevents the shooting target204from leaning at a second angle (e.g., toward one long edge or the other).

It is noted the angles shown inFIGS.15-16Dmay be accomplished due to the spacing between the bottom surface108of the main body102and the ground surface105afforded by the increased height of the stand risers132, and/or by the support member apertures118h,120hbeing offset (e.g., not fully aligned) from one another. The angles may be particularly important to direct fragmentation from a projectile striking the shooting target204toward the ground beneath the target, thus reducing the possibility of potential send-back ricocheting in the direction of the user or another third-party in the surrounding area. In addition, it is noted the of the support member202within the target stand100may be in addition to or instead of an angle between the support member202and the shooting target204.

It is noted at least a portion of the support member apertures118h,120hmay be arcuate, allowing for an increase comfort and ease when a user interacts with the support member apertures118h,120hto insert their hand and lift or move the target stand100during relocation (e.g., in an assembled state or disassembled state), during transportation (e.g., in an assembled state, or in a collapsed state) and/or when placing in or removing from storage (e.g., in a collapsed state).

It should be understood that portions of the target stand100may not form part of the claimed invention or design but rather is only a portion of an environment in which the claimed invention or design operates. In one non-limiting example, one or more aspects of the main body102and/or the at least one stand leg104may not form part of the claimed invention or design but rather is only a portion of an environment in which the claimed invention or design operates. In one instance, one or more of the apertures118,120,122,124,126may not form part of the claimed invention or design but rather is only a portion of an environment in which the claimed invention or design operates. Therefore, the description through the present disclosure should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure but merely an illustration.

A number of variations and modifications of the disclosure can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the disclosure without providing others. In addition, it would be possible to combine some features of the disclosure without combining all.

References in the specification to “being operable” or “is operable” may be understood as “being configured to” or “is configured to, “being capable of” or “is capable of”, and the like.

References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with one embodiment, it is submitted that the description of such feature, structure, or characteristic may apply to any other embodiment unless so stated and/or except as will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the description. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations, and subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the systems and methods disclosed herein after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various embodiments, configurations, or aspects hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease, and/or reducing cost of implementation.

Exemplary aspects are directed toward:A self-contained and collapsible target stand, comprising:a main body comprising:a top surface including at least one top support member aperture, wherein the at least one top support member aperture is dimensioned to receive a support member for a shooting target;a first side surface including at least one first side stand leg aperture; anda second side surface opposite the first side surface, the second side surface including at least one second side stand leg aperture opposite the at least one first side stand leg aperture,wherein the top surface is set at an angle relative to each of the first side surface and the second side surface, and wherein the top surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface define a main body cavity; andat least one stand leg comprising:a stand body, wherein the stand body defines a stand body channel leading to a stand body cavity; andat least one stand riser affixed to the stand body,wherein the target stand is capable of transitioning between an assembled state and a collapsed state,wherein the at least one stand leg is inserted into the at least one first side stand leg aperture and the at least one second side stand leg aperture when the target stand is in the assembled state, andwherein the at least one stand leg is inserted into the main body cavity when the target stand is in the collapsed state.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the stand body includes a first stand body section and a second stand body section separated by the stand body channel leading to the stand body cavity, wherein the first stand body section is inserted into the at least one first side stand leg aperture and the at least one second side stand leg aperture when the target stand is in the assembled state, and wherein the bottom surface is proximate to the second stand body section when the target stand is in the assembled state.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the main body is configured to seat within a recess in an exterior edge of the first stand body section, wherein the seating of the main body within the recess prevents a shifting of the main body relative to the at least one stand leg when the target stand is in the assembled state.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first stand body section has a first width proximate to the stand body cavity and a second width at a distal end of the first stand body section, wherein the second width is less than the first width.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the main body is configured to seat in the stand body cavity at a first height in the at least one stand leg relative to a ground surface that is less than a second height of the stand body channel in the at least one stand leg relative to the ground surface, wherein the lesser first height prevents the shifting of the main body relative to the at least one stand leg when the target stand is in the assembled state.

Any one or more of the above aspects include the main body further comprising a bottom surface opposite the top surface, wherein the top surface and the bottom surface are both set at an angle relative to each of the first side surface and the second side surface, wherein the top surface, the bottom surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface define the main body cavity.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the bottom surface includes at least one bottom support member aperture opposite the at least one top support member aperture, wherein the at least one bottom support member aperture is dimensioned to receive the support member.

Any one or more of the above aspects include the main body further comprising a first end surface, wherein the first end surface is set at an angle relative to each of the top surface, the bottom surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface, wherein the top surface, the bottom surface, the first side surface, the second side surface, and the first end surface define the main body cavity.

Any one or more of the above aspects include the first end surface having a first end aperture and an end surface portion, wherein the at least one stand leg is inserted into the main body cavity via the first end aperture when the target stand is in the collapsed state.

Any one or more of the above aspects include the main body further comprising a second end surface opposite the first end surface, wherein the second end surface is set at an angle relative to each of the top surface, the bottom surface, the first side surface, the second side surface, and the first end surface, wherein the top surface, the bottom surface, the first side surface, the second side surface, the first end surface, and the second end surface the define the main body cavity.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture includes a perimeter, wherein at least a portion of the perimeter is arcuate.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture includes a first length and a first width configured to receive the support member.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture includes a first portion with a first length and a first width configured to receive the support member in a first orientation, and a second portion with a second length and a second width configured to receive the support member in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture is configured to receive the support member at an angle relative to a ground surface.

Exemplary aspects are directed toward:A system for target practice, comprising:a self-contained and collapsible target stand, comprising:a main body comprising:a top surface including at least one top support member aperture, wherein the at least one top support member aperture is dimensioned to receive a support member for a shooting target;a first side surface including at least one first side stand leg aperture; anda second side surface opposite the first side surface, the second side surface including at least one second side stand leg aperture opposite the at least one first side stand leg aperture,wherein the top surface is set at an angle relative to each of the first side surface and the second side surface, and wherein the top surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface define a main body cavity; andat least one stand leg comprising:a stand body, wherein the stand body defines a stand body channel leading to a stand body cavity; andat least one stand riser affixed to the stand body,wherein the target stand is capable of transitioning between an assembled state and a collapsed state,wherein the at least one stand leg is inserted into the at least one first side stand leg aperture and the at least one second side stand leg aperture when the target stand is in the assembled state, andwherein the at least one stand leg is inserted into the main body cavity when the target stand is in the collapsed state;at least one support member insertable into the at least one top support member aperture; and a shooting target couplable to the support member. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture includes a first length and a first width configured to receive the support member.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture includes a first portion with a first length and a first width configured to receive the support member in a first orientation, and a second portion with a second length and a second width configured to receive the support member in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the at least one top support member aperture is configured to receive the support member at an angle relative to a ground surface.

Exemplary aspects are directed toward:A self-contained and collapsible target stand, comprising:a main body comprising:a top surface including at least one top support member aperture, wherein the at least one top support member aperture is dimensioned to receive a support member for a shooting target;a bottom end surface opposite the top surface;a first side surface including two first side stand leg apertures;a second side surface opposite the first side surface, the second side surface including two second side stand leg apertures opposite the two first side stand leg apertures;a first end surface including a first end aperture and an end surface portion; anda second end surface opposite the first end surface,wherein the top surface and the bottom surface are both set at an angle relative to each of the first side surface, the second side surface, the first end surface, and the second end surface, andwherein the top surface, the bottom surface, the first side surface, the second side surface, the first end surface, and the second end surface define a main body cavity; andtwo stand legs, each of the two stand legs comprising:a stand body, wherein the stand body defines a stand body channel leading to a stand body cavity; andat least one stand riser affixed to the stand body,wherein the target stand is capable of transitioning between an assembled state and a collapsed state,wherein the two stand legs are inserted into the two first side stand leg apertures and the two second side stand leg apertures when the target stand is in the assembled state, andwherein the two stand legs are inserted into the main body cavity via the first end aperture when the target stand is in the collapsed state.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the bottom surface includes at least one bottom support member aperture opposite the at least one top support member aperture, wherein the at least one bottom support member aperture is dimensioned to receive the support member.

Any one or more of the above aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

Any one or more of the aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein optionally in combination with any one or more other aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

One or means adapted to perform any one or more of the above aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

Any one or more of the features disclosed herein.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “include,” “including,” “includes,” “comprise,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Accordingly, the terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof can be used interchangeably herein.

The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim, but does not exclude additional components or steps that are unrelated to the disclosure such as impurities ordinarily associated therewith. The transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions, conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” or “approximately”. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions, conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in the specification and claims may be increased or decreased by approximately 5% to achieve satisfactory results. Additionally, where the meaning of the terms “about” or “approximately” as used herein would not otherwise be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the terms “about” and “approximately” should be interpreted as meaning within plus or minus 5% of the stated value.

All ranges described herein may be reduced to any sub-range or portion of the range, or to any value within the range without deviating from the invention. For example, the range “5 to 55” includes, but is not limited to, the sub-ranges “5 to 20” as well as “17 to 54.”

It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every lower numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every higher numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.