Cadet Armoured Drop-Tree -Spine Kit Only- Rimfire (6mm AR450)

$916.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.

SKU: SPI-DRT-CAD-SPINE-AR456-UPG

Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured – AR450) Spine Kit – Replacement Spine for Existing REACK X-BASE Systems

The Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured – AR450) Spine Kit is a replacement spine for the Cadet Drop-Tree System or an upgrade option for shooters who already own a REACK X-BASE. If you have a duelling tree system or any other target setup that utilises the REACK X-BASE, you can simply swap out the spine to convert it into a Drop-Tree target system with enhanced AR450 armour protection for increased durability and closer target engagement.

📌 Spine Only – Does Not Include REACK X-BASE or Target Paddles
📌 Drop-In Compatibility – Works with existing REACK X-BASE systems
📌 Convert Your Existing Target Setup – Swap your duelling tree spine for a Drop-Tree system
📌 Precision Laser-Cut Tubular Track System – Ensures smooth and consistent paddle movement
📌 Black Powder-Coated for Durability – All hardware is zinc-plated or stainless steel

What is the Cadet Drop-Tree?

The Cadet Drop-Tree is a reactive target system designed for .22LR, .22 Magnum, and .17 HMR shooters. Unlike a duelling tree, where paddles flip side to side, the Drop-Tree uses a tubular track system to drop and flip a single paddle downward with each hit. The paddle moves through 9 positions before ejecting on the final shot, creating an engaging challenge for timed drills, competition, and skill development.

Unlike a duelling tree, where some shooters attempt to "ride" the firearm's recoil upward to gain extra time by engaging paddles from bottom to top, the Drop-Tree forces the shooter to track downward, eliminating any ability to use recoil as an advantage. This ensures consistent skill development by reinforcing proper sight tracking and target transitions.

Drop-Tree Paddle Options – Choosing the Right Paddle for Your Setup

100mm Round Profile – 6mm Mild Steel
Budget-friendly option for .22LR shooters. Works in all Drop-Trees but wears faster than AR450 paddles. If using .22 Magnum or .17 HMR, we strongly recommend upgrading to AR450 paddles.
100mm Round Profile – 6mm AR450
Best option for this system! Increased durability for high-volume shooting. Rated for .22LR, .22 Magnum, and .17 HMR, allowing closer target engagement than mild steel paddles.
📌 Using 6mm AR450 paddles extends system lifespan significantly while keeping the calibre rating consistent with the armoured spine.
📌 If using 6mm mild steel paddles, the system is limited to the weakest component—mild steel.
📌 For best results, we recommend pairing the Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured) with 6mm AR450 paddles.
📌 Paddles Sold Separately – To purchase paddles, visit the [Steel Gongs, Paddles & Target Plate Profiles page].

Why Choose the Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured) Spine Kit?

Cost-Effective Replacement – A direct replacement spine for the Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured)
Convert Your Setup – Swap this spine into your existing REACK X-BASE to convert a duelling tree or other compatible system into a Drop-Tree target system
9-Position Drop & Flip Mechanism – Each shot lowers the paddle & flips it to the opposite side
Eliminates Recoil Riding Tactics – Forces shooters to track downward for realistic engagement
Works With Multiple Paddle Options – Choose from 6mm Mild Steel or AR450 paddles
📌 Spine Only – Requires a REACK X-BASE to function
📌 REACK X-BASE & Target Paddles Sold Separately

Calibre Ratings & Shooting Distances – Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured – AR450)

🛑 Handgun Calibres (.22LR, .22 Magnum, .17 HMR)
🔹 Angled Targets (16° to 20°+): 10 metres+
🔹 Vertical (Perpendicular) Targets: 50 metres+

🛑 Rifle Calibres (.22LR, .22 Magnum, .17 HMR)
🔹 Angled Targets: 25 metres+
🔹 Vertical Targets: 50 metres+

🛑 Shotgun (.410, 12 Gauge – Birdshot Only)
🔹 Angled Targets (16° to 20°+): 15 metres+
🔹 Vertical Targets: 20 metres+

🛑 Velocity & Energy Ratings
🔹 Maximum Energy: 300 ft-lbs.
🔹 Maximum Velocity: 2,650 fps at impact
🔹 Minimum Velocity: 700 fps at impact

📌 Not rated for higher calibres or high/lower-velocity ammunition
📌 Rounds below 1,100 fps may not reliably activate the moving paddle
📌 Rounds slower than 500 fps may not fragment properly, increasing ricochet risk

Maintenance & Track Longevity

Although the Drop-Tree track tube is fully protected behind the spine, it experiences wear over time. To extend lifespan:
Lubricate the track periodically with dry-type lubricants like WD-40, Goss Lube, or INOX Lube. Avoid grease-based lubricants.
Monitor the reset stop position. Over time, a small indentation may form where the target lands. If a ledge develops, file it down to maintain smooth actuation.
Check the stop/reset points. Excessive wear may cause the paddle to advance prematurely. If all stop points are too rounded, the spine assembly will need replacement.
Chipping powder coat is normal and part of the break-in process. Temporary sticking may occur but will reduce with use.

📸 Photo Disclaimer: Images may show additional components for reference. This listing is for the Cadet Drop-Tree (Armoured – AR450) Spine KitREACK X-BASE and paddles sold separately.
🇦🇺 Proudly Made in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia