Patent Document

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims priority from U.S. patent application 62/180,164 filed Jun. 16, 2015, the specification of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    (a) Field 
         [0003]    The subject matter disclosed generally relates to target attachment systems and to methods of using the same. More particularly, the subject matter relates to main frames capable of receiving interchangeable/different target attachment systems, to target attachment systems, to target systems and to methods of using the same. 
         [0004]    (b) Related Prior Art 
         [0005]    Steel targets are targets for firearms made from hardened (i.e., martensitic) steel, and are used in sports, practical/dynamic shooting and for long range shooting. They are popular in both training and competition as the shooter gets immediate feedback on whether it&#39;s a hit or a miss in the form of sound, and one can also often see the bullet getting pulverized and the target move. A common trademark in the USA for hardened steel used in the production of targets is AR500. 
         [0006]    There currently exists on the market a plurality of target attachment systems for receiving one or more steel target(s) and for installation at a particular distance from the shooter. However, these known target attachment systems have some drawbacks. 
         [0007]    For example, almost all target attachment systems require important storage space for storing the targets and the target attachments system separately. 
         [0008]    Also, even if shooters know that allowing for quick turnovers of a range and less down time can make the difference between a successful event and a long day at the range; modifying the target attachment system in different configurations to practice different skills is still a challenge that can be hard, long and require equipment and sophisticated tools. 
         [0009]    Additionally, different types of target attachment systems are often required for different shooting exercises (such as standard plate rack and gravity plate rack), and so different types of main frames are required, which requires important investments and precious time to mount and demount such frames and their target attachment receiving systems. 
         [0010]    There is therefore a need for improved target attachment systems and improved methods of using the same. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0011]    According to an embodiment, there is provided a main frame for mounting target holders, the main frame comprising: 
         [0000]    an elongated target receiving member defining an elongated target receiving member surface;
 
a first elongated projection extending from the elongated target receiving member surface; and
 
a second elongated projection, vertically distant from the first elongated projection, extending from the elongated target receiving member surface,
 
wherein the first elongated projection and the second elongated projection cooperate in mounting the target holders.
 
         [0012]    According to an aspect, the first elongated projection and the second elongated projection comprise channels which are configured in pairs, each of the pairs comprising a first channel defined in the first elongated projection and a second channel defined in the second elongated projection vertically aligned with the first channel. 
         [0013]    According to an aspect, wherein the elongated target receiving member comprises a ricochet face downwardly and forwardly angled, wherein the ricochet face is adapted to ricochet bullets toward a ground surface. 
         [0014]    According to an aspect, at least one of the first elongated projection and the second elongated projection extends horizontally, thereby defining a non-square angle between the at least one of the first elongated projection and the second elongated projection and the elongated target receiving member surface. 
         [0015]    According to an aspect, part of the target holders contact the at least one of the first elongated projection and the second elongated projection thereunder thereby preventing upward movement of the target holders. 
         [0016]    According to an aspect, the main frame further comprises a support member interfacing with a ground surface and on which is mounted the elongated target receiving member at a given distance above the ground surface. 
         [0017]    According to an embodiment, there is provided a target attachment system for mounting to a main frame and for holding a target movable between a shooting position and a shot position, the target having a target body and a target projection extending therefrom, the target attachment system comprising: 
         [0000]    a pair of target holders for mounting to the main frame distant from each other, each one of the target holders comprising:
 
a target mounting face for mounting on the main frame; and
 
a holder body having an opening therethrough;
 
wherein the target holders are mounted as a pair, thereby defining a pair of openings creating a horizontal passage having a rotation axis therein, and
 
wherein the horizontal passage is adapted to receive the target projection and whereby the target, when hit, rotates about the rotation axis from the shooting position to the shot position.
 
         [0018]    According to an aspect, each opening comprises an interior arch, and wherein each opening has a rest surface within the interior arch on which abuts the target in a rest angle whereby the target is partially facing a ground surface. 
         [0019]    According to an aspect, each opening has an abutment surface in the interior arch where the target abuts to stop a rotation of the target around the rotation axis. 
         [0020]    According to an aspect, the interior arch has an irregularity between the rest surface and the abutment surface, wherein the irregularity provides resistance against the target rotating around the rotation axis away from the rest angle. 
         [0021]    According to an aspect, each of the target holders has an exterior face distant from the target mounting face, the exterior face comprising an exterior arch, and the wherein the target holders comprise a rest surface on the exterior arch on which abuts the target in a rest angle whereby the target is partially facing a ground surface. 
         [0022]    According to an aspect, the target holders further comprise an abutment surface on the exterior arch where the target abuts to stop a rotation of the target around the rotation axis. 
         [0023]    According to an aspect, the exterior arch comprises an irregularity between the rest surface and the abutment surface, wherein the irregularity provides resistance against the target rotating around the rotation axis away from the rest angle. 
         [0024]    According to an aspect, the target attachment system further comprises a mounting member adapted for securing together a first one of the target holders, a second one of the target holders and the main frame. 
         [0025]    According to an aspect, one of the target holders has an open ring-shaped frame portion defining an insert channel creating a passage for the target projection to the opening, the one of the target holders further comprising a retainer portion adapted to be placed in a first position freeing the insert channel and in a second position obstructing the insert channel and thereby preventing the target projection from exiting the opening. 
         [0026]    According to an embodiment, there is provided a target system for receiving a target having a target body and target projection extending therefrom, the target system comprising: 
         [0000]    a main frame comprising:
 
an elongated target receiving member, the elongated target receiving member defining an elongated target receiving member surface; and
 
a first elongated projection extending from the elongated target receiving member surface; and
 
a target attachment system comprising:
 
a first target holder and a second target holder adapted for being distantly and concurrently mounted to the first elongated projection, each one of the first target holder and the second target holder having an opening therethrough;
 
wherein the first target holder and the second target holder are mounted as a pair thereby defining a pair of openings creating a horizontal passage having a rotation axis therein, the horizontal passage being adapted for receiving the target projection, and wherein the target projection operates within the opening so that the target, when hit, rotates freely about the rotation axis.
 
         [0027]    According to an aspect, the target system further comprises a second elongated projection, vertically distant from the first elongated projection, extending from the elongated target receiving member surface, wherein the first target holder and the second target holder are adapted for being distantly and concurrently mounted to the second elongated projection. 
         [0028]    According to an aspect, the target system further comprises a mounting member adapted for securing together the first target holder, the second target holder and the main frame. 
         [0029]    According to an aspect, the target rotates between a rest angle and a hit angle, the target system further comprising a target repositioning mechanism mounted to the main frame, wherein, when a force is applied on the target repositioning mechanism, a rotation of the target is initiated whereby the target rotates back toward the rest angle. 
         [0030]    According to an aspect, the target repositioning mechanism comprises one of a pushing arm and a stopping arm. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0031]    Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which: 
           [0032]      FIG. 1  is a rear perspective view of a main frame capable of receiving different target attachment systems in accordance with an embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 2  is a front elevation view (shooter&#39;s point of view) of a first target attachment system releasably mounted on the main frame of  FIG. 1  in accordance with another embodiment; 
           [0034]      FIG. 3  is rear perspective view of the first attachment system releasably mounted on the main frame of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0035]      FIG. 4  is a close up perspective view of a first attachment system in accordance with another embodiment, showing a plurality of spaced apart target supports; 
           [0036]      FIG. 5  is another close up perspective view of the first attachment system of  FIG. 4 , showing a target support receiving a target projection; 
           [0037]      FIG. 6  is another close up perspective view of the first attachment system of  FIG. 5 , showing the target support receiving a target projection and further showing a retainer portion for retaining the target body; 
           [0038]      FIG. 7  is another close up perspective view of the first attachment system of  FIG. 5 , showing the target support receiving a target projection and further showing a mounting member for mounting the target support to the main frame; 
           [0039]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a first target attachment system releasably mounted on the main frame in accordance with another embodiment, where the main frame further includes a reset mechanism; 
           [0040]      FIG. 9  is a front elevation view (shooter&#39;s point of view) of a second target attachment system releasably mounted on the main frame of  FIG. 1  in accordance with another embodiment; 
           [0041]      FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of the second attachment system releasably mounted on the main frame of  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0042]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a second target attachment system mounted on the main frame in accordance with another embodiment, where the main frame further includes a reset mechanism; 
           [0043]      FIG. 12  is a close up perspective view of the reset mechanism of  FIG. 11 , showing a stopping arm for stopping a target; 
           [0044]      FIG. 13  is another rear perspective view of the second target attachment system mounted on the main frame of  FIG. 11 ; 
           [0045]      FIG. 14  is a close up perspective view of the second attachment system of  FIG. 10 , showing a target support receiving a target projection; and 
           [0046]      FIG. 15  is a close up perspective view of the second attachment system of  FIG. 10 , showing a mounting member for mounting the target support to the main frame; and 
           [0047]      FIG. 16  is a close up perspective view showing a target support receiving a target projection. 
       
    
    
       [0048]    It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0049]    In embodiments, there are disclosed main frames capable of receiving a plurality of target attachment systems, target attachment systems, target systems comprising a main frame and a target attachment system, and methods of using the same. 
         [0050]    Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to  FIG. 1 , there is shown a main frame  10  that can be used for a plurality of different target attachment systems (as it will be described below). 
         [0051]    The main frame  10  includes a first (rightmost) elongated post  12  and a second (leftmost) elongated post  14 , which is distant from the first elongated posts  12 . The main frame  10  further includes an elongated target receiving member  16  which is supported by the first and second elongated posts  12 ,  14 . Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , there is shown that the main frame  10  further includes a first base (rightmost) member  18  which has the role of supporting the first elongated posts  12  and a second (leftmost) base member  20  which has the role of supporting the second elongated post  14 . Therefore, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the main frame  10  is a self-standing frame. 
         [0052]    Still referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , there is shown that the first and second elongated posts  12 ,  14  are removably mounted on their respective base members  18 ,  20 . Moreover, there is further shown that the elongated target receiving member  16  is removably supported by/mounted on the first and second elongated posts  12 ,  14 . Indeed, the first elongated post  12  is supporting a first end  22  of the elongated target receiving member  16  and the second elongated post  14  is supporting a second end  24  of the elongated target receiving member  16 . 
         [0053]    Still referring to  FIG. 1  in addition to  FIG. 3 , there is shown that the elongated target receiving member  16  defines an elongated target receiving member surface  26  and that there exists an angle θ between the elongated target receiving member surface  26  and a horizontal surface (i.e., the ground surface) ( FIG. 3 ). 
         [0054]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , the main frame  10  further includes a first connection frame element  28  for releasably attaching the first end  22  of the elongated target receiving member  16  to the first elongated post  12 . The main frame  10  further includes a second connection frame element  30  for releasably attaching the second end  24  of the elongated target receiving member  16  to the second elongated post  14 . 
         [0055]    The main frame  10  further includes a first elongated projection  32  extending from the elongated target receiving member surface  26  along the length of the elongated target receiving member  16  from its first end  22  to its second end  24 . The main frame  10  further includes a second elongated projection  34 , which is vertically distant from the first elongated projection  32 , and which is also extending from the elongated target receiving member surface  26  along the length of the elongated target receiving member  16  from its first end  22  to its second end  24 . Each one of the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34  include a plurality of spaced apart channels  36 ,  38  (first channel and second channel) and the second elongated projection  34  further includes a plurality of spaced apart slots  39 . It is to be noted that channels  36 ,  38  are configured to be in pairs; i.e., two vertically aligned channels  36 ,  38  as can be understood from the more detailed description below. 
         [0056]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , there is shown that each one of the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34  define an upper surface that is substantially parallel to the ground surface (not shown). 
         [0057]    Still referring to  FIG. 1 , there is shown that the main frame  10  further includes a plurality of extending members  40  which are mounted on (which are extending from) the second elongated projection  34  to extend outwardly from the elongated target receiving member surface  26  (such as to be substantially parallel to the ground surface). Each one of the extending members  40  defines a body  40 A and openings  40 B therethrough for receiving a connector (such as an elongated pin) or a reset mechanism, as it will be described below. 
         [0058]    It is to be noted that the main frame  10  may be made of AR500 steel. However, it is to be mentioned that the main frame  10  may alternatively be made of any other suitable material that may offer appropriate resistance to bullet impacts. 
         [0059]    As mentioned above, and according to its configuration, the main frame  10  is capable of receive a plurality of target attachment systems, as will be described below. 
         [0060]    According to another embodiment, and referring now to  FIGS. 2-8  and more particularly to  FIGS. 2-3 , there is shown that the main frame  10  receives a first target attachment system  42 . The first target attachment system  42  includes a plurality of spaced apart target supports  44  to be removably mounted on the elongated target receiving member  16  of the main frame  10  along a target mounting face  43 . 
         [0061]    Each one of the target supports  44  includes a first target holder  46  ( FIG. 4 ) which includes a first holder body  48  and a first cam shaped opening  50  therethrough. Each target support  44  further includes a second target holder  52  which is laterally distant from the first target holder  46 . The second target holder  52  includes a second holder body  54  and a second cam shaped opening  56  therethrough. Targets  57  are releasably mounted to the first target attachment system  42 . 
         [0062]    As shown in  FIGS. 2-8  and particularly in  FIGS. 3, 5 and 6 , targets  57 , which are to be releasably mounted to the first target attachment system  42  each includes a target body  58  and a target projection  60 , which extends from the target body  58 . It is the target projection  60  that will cooperate with the first and second cam shaped openings  50 ,  56  of the first and second target holders  46 ,  52  ( FIG. 6 ). The first and second target holders  46 ,  52  are attached together via joining member  71  which has a slot  23  therein. Each one of the first and second holder bodies  48 ,  54  further defines a recess  61  for supporting the target body  58  (just above the target projection  60 ). It is to be mentioned that such recess  61 , combined with the presence of first and second cam shaped openings  50 ,  56 , allows for reduction of risks of an accidental target movement. Indeed, such recesses  61  in first and second holder bodies  48 ,  54  help in maintaining each target  57  in place when in their shooting position (when targets  57  are upwardly extending from their respective target support  44 ) by forcing the target  57  to remain into a small depression (the recesses  61 ) on the top of the first and second holder bodies  48 ,  54  (on the top of the arc defined by the target supports  44 ). Accordingly, if the target  57  is hit, it must first rise out from the recesses  61  to further complete its rotational cycle between the target shooting position (when target  57  is up) and the shot position (when target  57  is down and substantially parallel to the ground surface). Therefore, because of the angle α of about 20° between the target  57  and the vertical  500  ( FIG. 3 ), shooting a given target  57  (but not a portion of the main frame  10 , another target  57 , or a portion of the first target attachment system  42 ) will allow the target  57  to fall backward. 
         [0063]    As best shown in  FIGS. 3 and 5 , because of the angle α of about 20° that is present between the target  57  and the vertical  500 , when a shooter hits the target  57 , an upward vertical component of the force provided by the bullet will allow the target projection  60 , which was laying in the cam recess  11  on the wall  69 , to move up and out of the cam recess  11  in the direction of arrow  1000  (directed by the wall  69 ) over the recess lip  65 . According to the configuration of the wall  69 , which is slightly higher than the recess lip  65 , target projection  60  will travel along the redirection lip  63  and will thereby cause the target  57  to rotate (counterclockwise in  FIG. 5 ) and fall in its substantially horizontal position, so that the target  57  does not rest on the substantially vertical rest surface  45  anymore, but rather on the stopper  17  ( FIGS. 4-5 ). 
         [0064]    Thus, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the interior of the opening  50  features two interior arches along which part of the target projection  60  travels when rotating from its shooting position to its shot position. One interior arch presents a rest surface (the wall  69 ) about an end, which participates in defining the shooting position of the target  57 , and an irregularity (the cam recess  11 ) that provides resistance against the rotation of the target  57 . The other interior arch presents an abutment surface  64  on which will rest the target  57  in the horizontal shot position once shot at the end of its rotation. 
         [0065]    Still referring to  FIG. 5 , the exterior of the holder body  48  distant from the main frame  10  ( FIG. 1 ) also features an exterior face comprising an exterior arch  75  along which part of the target projection  60  travels when rotating from its shooting position to its shot position. The exterior arch  75  presents a rest surface (the vertical rest surface  45 ,  FIG. 4 ) about an end and an irregularity (the recess  61 ) that provides resistance against the rotation of the target  57  when in shooting position. The exterior arch also presents an abutment surface (the stopper  17 ) on which will rest the target  57  in the horizontal shot position at the end of its rotation. 
         [0066]    It is to be noted that both the inside and the outside profiles of the holder body  48  are provided to control the course of the target  57  from a shooting position and a shot position, as to prevent accidental movement of the target  57 . However, one may decide to incorporate only one of these profiles (i.e., only the inside profile or only the outside profile) in some circumstances. 
         [0067]    It is to be mentioned that the first and second cam shaped openings  50 ,  56  may be embedded in other suitable holder bodies  48 ,  54 , as shown in  FIG. 16 . Indeed, as shown in  FIG. 16 , again, because of the angle of about 20° that is present between the target  57  and the vertical, when a shooter hits the target  57 , a vertical component of the force provided by the bullet will allow the target projection  60 , which was laying in the cam recess  11  on the wall  69 , to move up out and out of the cam recess  11  in the direction of arrow  1000  (directed by the wall  69 ) over the recess lip  65  ( FIG. 5 ). According to the configuration of the wall  69 , which is slightly higher than the recess lip  65 , target projection  60  will travel along the redirection lip  63  and will thereby cause the target  57  to rotate (counterclockwise in  FIG. 16 ) and move up in its substantially horizontal position, so that the target  57  does not rest on the substantially vertical rest surface  45  (best shown in  FIG. 4 ) anymore. 
         [0068]    Still referring to  FIG. 5 , in combination with  FIGS. 1 and 2 , it should be noted that the substantially horizontal blocking portion  47  of the first and second holder bodies  48 ,  54  will force the target support  44  to remain under the first elongated projection  32  of the elongated target receiving member  16  and hence prevent the target support  44  from moving under the force of the bullet impact. 
         [0069]    Particularly referring to  FIGS. 1 and 7 , it is to be mentioned that the first and second target holders  46 ,  52  are releasably mounted on the elongated target receiving member  16  of the main frame  10  using the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34 . Indeed, a first target holder  46  will be received in the channels  36 ,  38  in between the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34 . Furthermore, a second target holder  52  will be received adjacent the first target holder  46  in channels  36 ,  38  in between the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34  of the elongated target receiving member  16  of the main frame  10 . 
         [0070]    Still referring to  FIGS. 2-8  and particularly to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , there is shown that each target support  44  further includes a retainer portion  68 . The retainer portion  68  is pivotably mounted on the second target holder  52  and takes the shape of half a ring-like portion (best seen showing equivalent retainer portion  268  on  FIG. 14 ). It is shown that for allowing the user to introduce a target  57  in between the first and second target holders  46 ,  52 , the retainer portion  68  is pivotable relative to the second target holder  52  between an opened position (insertion of a target  57  position) and a closed position (in use position). Therefore, to lock the target projection  60  in between the first and second target holders  46 ,  52  and within the first and the second cam shaped openings  50 ,  56 , the user needs to introduce a first side (rightmost side) of the target projection  60  within the first cam shaped opening  50  and then to introduce a second side (leftmost side) of the target projection  60  within the second cam shaped opening  56  via the insert channel  53  of the second target holder  52 . Afterward, the user will need to lock the retainer portion  68  in its closed position (in use position) with the second target holder  52 , thereby rendering nonfunctional the insert channel  53 , using a connector (such as an elongated pin  70 ). 
         [0071]    Now referring to  FIGS. 2-8  and particularly to  FIG. 6 , there is better shown that each target support  44  further includes a mounting member  62  from which the first and second target holders  46 ,  52  extend and for mounting on the second (lowermost) elongated projection  34  of the elongated target receiving member  16 . Indeed, the first and second target holders  46 ,  52  will interface with two adjacent channels  38  (from  FIG. 1 ) on second (lowermost) elongated projection  34 , while a portion of the mounting member  62  will be received in the slot  39  (from  FIG. 1 ) defined in that second (lowermost) elongated projection  34  and in the slot  23  in joining member  71 . The mounting member  62  defines a connection opening  66  which will receive a connector (such as an elongated pin  67 ) to mount the target support  44  (the first and second target holders  46 ,  52 ) on the second elongated projection  34  and therefore, on the elongated target receiving member  16 . 
         [0072]    Referring particularly to  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7 , it is to be noted that the first holder body  48  of the first target holder  46  takes the shape of a closed ring-like portion, but that the second holder body  54  of the second target holder  52  (the fixed part) takes the shape of an opened ring-like portion (defining the insert channel  53 ) for allowing the target projection  60  extending from the target body  58  to pivot about horizontal rotation axis  72  defined by the first and second cam shaped openings  50 ,  56  of the first and second holder bodies  48 ,  54 . 
         [0073]    Referring particularly to  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 3 , the mounting member  62  allowing the connection between a target support  44  and the main frame  10  allows for maintaining each target support  44  in place and further allows to mount and/or to demount the first target attachment system  42  on the main frame  10  rapidly and/or easily. Furthermore, it is to be mentioned that mounting member  62  is positioned at an optimal position (hidden behind the elongated target receiving member  16 , ( FIG. 1 )) so that it is not constantly hit by bullets coming in from the direction of main frame  10  and of first target attachment system  42 . Because only elongated pins  67  are required to attach each target support  44  on the main frame  10 , it is easy and user friendly to mount and/or demount the first target attachment system  42  to main frame  10 . 
         [0074]    Now referring to  FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 , it is to be mentioned that the first and second cam shaped openings  50 ,  56  defined within the first and second holder bodies  48 ,  54  are configured such as to control the movement of the target  57  (or of the target projection  60 ) about horizontal rotation axis  72  in between the first and second target holders  46 ,  52  of a target support  44 . This configuration allows the targets  57  to maintain their initial position (so that they do not fall down accidently) even if the main frame  10  itself is hit by a bullet. 
         [0075]    Therefore, according to the configuration of the first target attachment system  42 , it is only when a user/a shooter hits a target  57  that the target will undergo enough force to be displaced from its shooting position to its hit or shot position (i.e., that the target  57  will “fall”). 
         [0076]    According to another embodiment and referring to  FIGS. 3 and 8 , the main frame  10  may further include a reset mechanism  74 , a.k.a. target repositioning mechanism, such as to reset the initial configuration of the targets  57 . The reset mechanism  74  includes a lever  76  mounted on the first elongated post  12  of the main frame  10 . The lever  76  includes a first segment  78  with a first end  80  and a second end  82 , a second segment  84  with a first end  86  and a second end  88 , a third segment  90  with a first end  92  and a second end  94  and a fourth segment  96  with a first end  98  and a second end  100 . 
         [0077]    The lever  76  further includes a second segment cover  102  for covering the second segment  84 . The first segment  78  includes at its first end  80  an opening  104  for allowing the user/shooter to attach a rope or any other suitable equipment. The second segment  84 , at its first end  86 , pivotably extends from the second end  82  of the first segment  78 . The third segment  90 , at its first end  92 , pivotably extends from the second end  88  of the second segment  84 . The fourth segment  96 , at its first end  98 , pivotably extends from the second end  94  of the third segment  90 . The second segment cover  102  is fixedly mounted on the first elongated post  12  and allows pivot of the third segment  90  relative to the second segment  84 . 
         [0078]    Still referring to the reset mechanism  74 , the reset mechanism  74  further includes an elongated rod member  106  extending from the second end  100  of the fourth segment  96 . The elongated rod member  106  is releasably mounted on the plurality of extending members  40  of the main frame  10 . The reset mechanism  74  further includes a plurality of ring portions  108  for receiving the elongated rod member  106  and for releasably connecting with the plurality of extending members  40  of the main frame  10 . 
         [0079]    The reset mechanism  74  further includes a plurality of push arms  110  extending from the elongated rod member  106  away from the elongated target receiving member  16 . Each push arm  110  extending from the elongated rod member  106  is aligned with an independent target support  44  such that when the user/shooter pulls on the first segment  78  of the lever  76  (via a rope for example), the elongated rod member  106  will rotate about a rotational axis R within the plurality of ring portions  108 . Therefore, the push arms  110 , which are fixedly extending from the elongated rod member  106 , will rotate between a first position (where at least one of the targets  57  is laying substantially parallel to the ground surface) and a second push position (where at least one of the targets  57  will be pushed to its initial shooting position substantially perpendicular to the ground surface). Therefore, push arms  110  apply a force on the targets  57  forcing movement of the targets towards their shooting position. It is to be mentioned that the push arms  110  may take any other suitable shape or configuration such as to be capable of displacing the targets  57  from their shot position and to their shooting position. 
         [0080]    According to another embodiment, and referring now to  FIGS. 9-15 , there is shown that the main frame  10  receives a second target attachment system  242 . According to the second target attachment system  242 , the targets  57  are installed on the main frame  10  using a different set of target holders that are inverted (i.e., when in their shooting positions, the targets  57  are extending downwardly from the elongated target receiving member  16  of main frame  10 ). The second target attachment system  242  includes a plurality of spaced apart target supports  244  to be removably mounted on the elongated target receiving member  16  of the main frame  10 . Each one of the target supports  244  includes a first target holder  246  which includes a first holder body  248  and a first opening  250  therethrough. Each target support  244  further includes a second target holder  252  which is laterally distant from the first target holder  246 . The second target holder  252  includes a second holder body  254  and a second opening  256  therethrough. 
         [0081]    As shown in  FIGS. 9-15 , targets  57 , which are to be releasably mounted to the second target attachment system  242 , each includes a target body  58  and a target projection  60 , which extends from the target body  58  (as described above). It is the target projection  60  that will cooperate with the first and second openings  250 ,  256  of the first and second target holders  246 ,  252 . The first and second target holders  246 ,  252  are attached together via joining member  271  which has a slot  269  therein (not shown). 
         [0082]    It is to be mentioned that the first and second target holders  246 ,  252  are releasably mounted on the elongated target receiving member  16  of the main frame  10  using the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34  ( FIG. 1 ). Indeed, a first target holder  246  will be received in the channels  36 ,  38  ( FIG. 1 ) in between the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34 . Furthermore, a second target holder  252  will be received adjacent the first target holder  246  in channels  36 ,  38  in between the first and second elongated projections  32 ,  34  of the elongated target receiving member  16  of the main frame  10 . 
         [0083]    Still referring to  FIGS. 9-15 , there is shown that each target support  244  further includes a retainer portion  268 . The retainer portion  268  is pivotably mounted on the second target holder  252  and takes the shape of half a ring-like portion. As shown, for allowing the user to introduce a target  57  in between the first and second target holders  246 ,  252 , the retainer portion  268  is pivotable relative to the second target holder  252  between an opened position (insertion of a target  57  position) and a closed position (in use position). Therefore, to lock the target projection  60  in between the first and second target holders  246 ,  252  and within the first and the second openings  250 ,  256 , the user/shooter needs to introduce a first side (rightmost side) of the target projection  60  within the first opening  250  and then to introduce a second side (leftmost side) of the target projection  60  within the second opening  256  via the insert channel  253  of the second target holder  252 . Afterward, the user will need to lock the retainer portion  268  in its closed position (in use position) with the second target holder  252  using a connector (such as an elongated pin (not shown) to be inserted in a connection opening  270 ). 
         [0084]    Now referring to  FIG. 15  (and  FIG. 1  for parts  16 ,  34 ,  28 ,  39 ,  58  and  60 ), there is better shown that each target support  244  further includes a mounting member  262  from which the first and second target holders  246 ,  252  extend and for mounting on the second (lowermost) elongated projection  34  of the elongated target receiving member  16 . Indeed, the first and second target holders  246 ,  252  will interface with two adjacent channels  38  on second (lowermost) elongated projection  34 , while a portion of the mounting member  262  will be received in the slot  39  defined in that second (lowermost) elongated projection  34  and in the slot  269  in joining member  271 . The mounting member  262  defines a connection opening  266  which will receive a connector (such as an elongated pin  267 ) to mount the target support  244  (the first and second target holders  246 ,  252 ) on the second elongated projection  34  and therefore, on the elongated target receiving member  16 . 
         [0085]    It is to be noted that the first holder body  248  of the first target holder  246  takes the shape of a closed ring-like portion, but that the second holder body  254  of the second target holder  252  (the fixed part) takes the shape of an opened ring-like portion (defining the insert channel  253 ) for allowing the target projection  60  extending from the target body  58  to access the passage  272  defined by the first and second openings  250 ,  256  of the first and second holder bodies  248 ,  254 . 
         [0086]    Still referring to  FIG. 15 , the mounting member  262  allowing the connection between a target support  244  and the main frame  10  maintains each target support  244  in place and further allows to mount and/or to demount the second target attachment system  242  on the main frame  10  rapidly and/or easily. Furthermore, it is to be mentioned that mounting member  262  is positioned at an optimal position (hidden behind the elongated target receiving member  16 , ( FIG. 1 )) so that it is not constantly hit by bullets coming in from the direction of main frame  10  (elongated pin  267  is now mounted above the second elongated projection  34 ) and of second target attachment system  242 . Because only elongated pins  267  are required to attach each target support  244  on the main frame  10 , it is also easy and user friendly to mount and/or demount the second target attachment system  242  to main frame  10 . 
         [0087]    According to another embodiment and referring to  FIGS. 10, 11 and 13 , the main frame  10  further includes a reset mechanism  274 , a.k.a. a target repositioning mechanism, such as to reset the initial configuration of the targets  57  (The shooter may want to bring back the targets  57  down). The reset mechanism  274  includes a reset target  276  pivotally mounted on the first elongated post  12  of the main frame  10 . Reset target  276  is the trigger for the auto reset system that stops the six targets from falling back in shooting position helping the shooter to see if he has hit the targets  57 . The reset target  276  is held in a bracket that is welded to the shaft so that when the reset target  276  (the seventh target) is hit, the elongated rod member  306  will simply spin and release the other targets  57 . Still referring to the reset mechanism  274 , the reset mechanism  274  further includes an elongated rod member  306  extending from the reset target  276  in a direction parallel to the elongated target receiving member  16 . The elongated rod member  306  is releasably mounted on the plurality of extending members  40  of the main frame  10 . The reset mechanism  274  further includes a plurality of ring portions  308  for receiving the elongated rod member  306  and for releasably connecting with the plurality of extending members  40  of the main frame  10 . The reset mechanism  274  further includes a plurality of stopping arms  310  extending from the elongated rod member  306  towards the elongated target receiving member  16 . Each stopping arm  310  extending from the elongated rod member  306  is aligned with an independent target support  244  such that when the user/shooter shoots on the reset target  276 , the elongated rod member  306  will rotate about a rotational axis R within the plurality of ring portions  308 . Therefore, the stopping arms  310 , which are fixedly extending from the elongated rod member  306 , will rotate between a first position (where at least one of the targets  57  is laying substantially parallel to the ground surface) and a second push position (where at least one of the targets  57  will be pushed to its initial shooting position substantially perpendicular to the ground surface and downwardly extending from the elongated target receiving member  16 ). It is to be mentioned that the stopping arms  310  may take any other suitable shape or configuration such as to be capable of stopping the targets  57  between their shooting position and their shot/hit position. The mechanism stopping the targets  57  from falling back is a free floating ring with a stopper welded that is long enough to stop the targets  57  on their way back to their shooting positions. The installation of the reset mechanism  274  is therefore performed easily with five elongated ball pins and can be made without tools. 
         [0088]    The main frame  10  and the target attachment systems  42 ,  242  described above provides a complete target system for shooting ranges that is user-friendly, that is tough and that offers multiples uses using a single main frame  10  (offers a plurality of different scenarios to the shooters). 
         [0089]    It is to be mentioned that the second target attachment system is mostly for longer range and higher power rifles. 
         [0090]    The main frame  10  and the target attachment systems  42 ,  242  and the target systems combining them described above provide greater flexibility to the users/shooters. 
         [0091]    The main frame  10  and the target attachment systems  42 ,  242  described above may be used as a standard plate rack or, in only a few minutes and without any tool, may be transformed to a full size gravity plate rack with an auto-reset (and vice versa). 
         [0092]    While preferred embodiments have been described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made without departing from this disclosure. Such modifications are considered as possible variants comprised in the scope of the disclosure.

Technology Category: 2