Since its introduction, the HatPoint Target Stand from HatPoint Target Company has been adopted by a wide range of users, including recreational shooters, firearms instructors, and tactical training professionals.
The stand is designed to support multiple training applications, from basic zeroing to complex law‑enforcement scenarios and dynamic shoot house drills. Its construction emphasizes portability, ease of assembly, and adaptability, aiming to streamline setup while maintaining safety and efficiency on the range.
I first came across the HatPoint Target Stand while researching modular target systems that could support a variety of training setups without requiring heavy steel frames or constant maintenance. It looked like just the ticket for my needs, so I reached out to the company and had a couple of its target stands sent out.
DESIGN & FEATURES
The HatPoint Target Stand is constructed from a high-strength polymer that’s engineered to take a beating. Unlike traditional steel stands, which are prone to rust and often require repainting or repair after repeated use, this polymer stand is built to endure multiple hits and still remain functional.
It’s not designed to be shot directly, of course, but in the event of a stray round or fragment, the stand is far more forgiving than metal. It won’t splinter like wood or dent like steel, and it certainly won’t rust. This makes it ideal for outdoor use in all weather conditions.
Another major advantage of the polymer construction is its user-friendliness. The stand won’t scratch your vehicle’s paint or tear up the upholstery. There are no sharp edges, no risk of pinched fingers, and no heavy lifting. This is especially helpful for instructors or shooters who need to transport multiple stands to and from the range.
Each stand arrives disassembled, but don’t let that intimidate you. The package includes the three main polymer components, all the necessary hardware, and even an Allen wrench for assembly. Putting it together is intuitive and takes only a few minutes.
Once assembled, the stand features a stable H-shaped base with a footprint of 20 inches by 28 inches. This compact design is not only stable but also stackable, making it easy to store and transport multiple units.
Uprights and Target Mounting
One of the most innovative features of the HatPoint Target Stand is its socket system. The base includes six upright sockets (three on each side) designed to accept standard 1” x 2” furring strips (actual dimensions 0.75” x 1.5”). These wooden strips are widely available at hardware and building supply stores, typically in 8-foot lengths that cost under $2 each. A single strip can be cut in half to create two uprights, making this a very economical solution.
The sockets feature a patented integrated clip system that holds the furring strips securely in place without the need for thumb screws, bolts, or shims. This not only speeds up setup but also ensures a snug, stable fit.
The uprights stay vertical and don’t wobble, even in windy conditions or when moving the stand. In fact, the entire target setup can be moved as a single unit, which is a huge time-saver when adjusting shooting lanes or repositioning targets during a course of fire.
For those looking for even more durability, HatPoint also offers polymer uprights that are compatible with their stand and other stands that accept 1” x 2” strips. According to the company, these polymer uprights last up to 10 times longer than wood, making them a smart investment for high-volume shooters or training facilities.
The spacing of the sockets allows for a wide range of target widths. By simply choosing different socket pairs, you can mount targets ranging from 6 inches to 24 inches wide without any mechanical adjustments. This flexibility is ideal for everything from narrow silhouette targets to full-size cardboard IPSC or IDPA targets.
Targets and Backers
Attaching targets to the uprights is straightforward. Cardboard targets can be stapled or clipped directly to the furring strips. I personally prefer using large metal binder clips, which are inexpensive, reusable, and available at any office supply store. They make it easy to swap out targets quickly between drills or shooters.
For paper targets, a backer is typically used. These can be affixed to the uprights using staples, tape, or clips. While cardboard is the most common backer material, there are other options worth considering.
Rigid foam insulation and corrugated plastic sheets are both excellent alternatives. Corrugated plastic, in particular, is lightweight, weather-resistant, and easy to cut or shape. It’s often used for yard signs and is readily available at building supply stores. HatPoint also sells pre-cut corrugated plastic backers for added convenience.
These materials are especially useful when constructing shoot-through ports or shoot-around barriers for tactical training. Their rigidity and ease of assembly make them ideal for creating realistic training environments without the weight or cost of plywood or steel.
Self-healing targets, such as rubber or polymer silhouettes, can also be used with the HatPoint stand. These typically require special clips or mounting brackets, but the stand’s stability and upright spacing make it compatible with a wide range of target types.
Stability and Anchoring
Stability is a key concern for any target stand, especially when used outdoors. The HatPoint Target Stand addresses this with five anchor points built into the base. These holes allow you to drive ground stakes or nails through the stand and into the ground, securing it against wind or accidental bumps.
Standard 60d nails with a 6-inch shank length work perfectly for this purpose and are available at any hardware store. If you’re shooting on a surface where stakes aren’t practical, sandbags, rocks, or other heavy objects can be placed on the base to weigh it down.
Even without anchoring, the stand’s low center of gravity and wide footprint provide a surprising amount of stability. However, anchoring is recommended, especially when using larger targets or in breezy conditions.
Final Thoughts
The HatPoint Target Stand is a thoughtfully designed, highly functional piece of range gear that delivers on its promises. It’s lightweight, durable, and easy to use, making it suitable for everyone from casual weekend shooters to professional firearms instructors. Its modular design allows for quick setup and teardown, and its compatibility with inexpensive materials like furring strips and corrugated plastic makes it a cost-effective solution for any budget.
At a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $43.99, the stand is competitively priced. especially when compared to steel stands that can cost significantly more and require ongoing maintenance. It’s available for purchase directly from HatPoint Target Company’s website as well as through various shooting sports retailers nationwide. Best of all, it’s proudly made in the USA.
If you’re in the market for a reliable, portable, and versatile target stand, the HatPoint Target Stand deserves a serious look. It’s a smart investment that will serve you well across a wide range of shooting disciplines and training environments.
