Drop-Tree Paddle - 150mm Round Profile (8mm AR500)

150mm Drop-Tree Paddle – 8mm AR500 Armour Steel

Durable Drop Paddle Optimised for Alpha Drop-Tree Systems

The 150mm Drop-Tree Paddle is specifically designed for shooters seeking a larger and more forgiving target when using Alpha Drop-Tree target systems. Constructed from robust 8mm AR500 armour steel, this paddle provides exceptional durability, impact resistance, and reliable flipping action compared to paddles made from AR450 or mild steel. Suitable for handgun calibres (.22LR to .45 ACP), light rifle calibres (.223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout), and shotgun calibres (.410 and 12 Gauge – birdshot or buckshot), it ensures consistent target feedback and enhanced longevity.

Unlike Duelling Trees, where paddles flip side-to-side, Drop-Tree paddles descend vertically with each hit, promoting better sight alignment, improved tracking, and discouraging reliance on recoil-riding techniques.

💡 Why Choose This Drop Paddle?
The 150mm paddle offers a larger target area for easier impact at distance, while its 8mm AR500 construction perfectly matches the Alpha Drop-Tree’s 8mm AR500 armoured spine. This consistent armour rating ensures optimal durability and reliable paddle performance across all compatible calibres.

📌 System Compatibility & Rating Information:

• When paired with the Alpha Drop-Tree (8mm AR500), this paddle maintains the entire system rating at AR500, maximising durability and performance.
• All systems are rated according to their weakest component. Using this AR500 paddle with the Cadet Drop-Tree (6mm AR450 armour) reduces the overall rating to AR450, reflecting the weakest component.

📌 Recommendation for Centrefire Rifle Users:
Shooters regularly using centrefire rifles (.223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout) should consider our heavier 10mm thick paddles for greater durability. Although the 8mm AR500 paddles offer reliable performance, the higher energy of centrefire rifle rounds may necessitate periodic replacement. If violent flipping is experienced, upgrading to 10mm paddles or increasing shooting distance is recommended. The heavier weight of this 150mm paddle can also assist in reducing overly aggressive paddle flipping, resulting in smoother paddle action.

📌 Alternative Paddle Size Available:
A smaller 100mm round-profile paddle is available for shooters who prefer a more challenging or precision-focused target size.

Key Features:

✔ Designed for Alpha Drop-Tree Systems – Perfect compatibility with 8mm AR500 armoured systems.
✔ 8mm AR500 Armour Steel – Exceptional durability for handgun, shotgun, and light rifle calibres.
✔ Round 150mm Target Profile – Larger profile for easier hits and clear feedback.
✔ Optimised Vertical Drop Mechanics – Precision-engineered for smooth, reliable flipping action.
✔ Tool-Free Installation – Effortless drop-in fitting for quick setup and replacement.
✔ Sold Individually – Available as single paddles for customised setups or easy replacements.

Calibre Ratings & Shooting Distances:

🛑 Handgun Calibres (.22LR to .45 ACP)
✔ Angled (16° to 20°+): 10 metres+
✔ Vertical (Perpendicular): 15 metres+

🛑 Light Rifles (.223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .300 BLK)
✔ Angled Targets: 40 metres+
✔ Vertical Targets: 60 metres+

🛑 Shotgun Calibres (.410, 12 Gauge – Birdshot & Buckshot)
✔ Angled (16° to 20°+): 25 metres+
✔ Vertical (Perpendicular): 30 metres+

🛑 Velocity & Energy Ratings:
✔ Maximum Energy: 1,500 ft-lbs.
✔ Maximum Velocity: 2,750 fps at impact
✔ Minimum Velocity: 750 fps at impact

📌 Velocity Considerations for Proper Actuation:

• Although this paddle withstands .22LR and .17HMR impacts, these calibres typically lack sufficient velocity and energy to reliably actuate the flipping mechanism.
• Small handgun calibres or handgun rounds with lower velocities (e.g., slow or subsonic 9mm rounds) may struggle to consistently actuate the paddle, especially at increased shooting distances. While 9mm rounds generally actuate well, reduced velocity from greater distances or lower-powered ammunition can affect reliable paddle function, similar to heavier 10mm paddles.
• Higher-velocity rifle impacts may cause overly violent paddle flipping. If observed, increase shooting distance or consider heavier 10mm paddles for smoother actuation.

⚠ Important Notes:

• 8mm AR500 paddles are NOT rated for magnum rifle calibres or ammunition outside recommended velocity ranges.
• Subsonic rounds (below 1,100 fps) may fail to activate paddle movement consistently.
• Regularly inspect paddles for signs of pitting or deformation, especially when using higher-impact rifle calibres.

📌 For detailed safety guidelines, visit our Safety, Distance & Calibre Ratings page.

📌 Drop Paddles Sold Individually – Available only as single units.

📌 Product Finish Note:
This paddle is supplied raw and uncoated. Images showing powder-coated finishes are for illustrative purposes only.

🇦🇺 Proudly Made in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia