Elevate Your Shooting Experience with The Animal Steel Spinning Target by Taylor Targets

Are you searching for the ultimate reactive target to enhance your rimfire shooting skills, introduce new shooters to the sport, or simply enjoy countless hours of fun plinking? Look no further than The Animal steel spinning target from Taylor Targets. This innovative and durable system is meticulously engineered to provide immediate feedback, unparalleled longevity, and an engaging experience for every rimfire enthusiast. Gone are the days of constantly walking downrange to reset knocked-down targets or struggling to see impacts on paper. The Animal revolutionizes your practice, making every shot count and every session more productive and enjoyable.

This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of The Animal, helping you understand why it's considered an essential piece of equipment for anyone serious about improving their marksmanship or simply having a blast with their .22 caliber firearms.

Unleashing Precision and Fun: What is The Animal Target?

At its core, The Animal is a premium steel spinning target specifically designed for use with rimfire handguns and rifles chambered in .22 Caliber. It stands out from conventional targets thanks to its unique dual-target system and robust construction. Imagine a single, sturdy steel frame supporting two distinct challenges: an upper 3-inch circular target and a captivating lower animal silhouette. This ingenious design offers shooters versatile practice options, allowing them to focus on either pinpoint accuracy with the smaller disc or dynamic target acquisition with the more lifelike silhouette.

The true magic of The Animal lies in its reactive nature. Unlike static targets that offer minimal feedback, this spinner provides instant, undeniable proof of your shot placement. When your projectile strikes either the upper disc or the lower silhouette, the target spins vividly, offering both clear visual confirmation and an unmistakable audible "clang!" This immediate sensory feedback is crucial for rapid skill development, reinforcing good shooting habits, and making every shot feel rewarding.

Why Choose The Animal? Solving Common Shooting Practice Frustrations

Many shooters encounter challenges that can hinder their progress and enjoyment. The Animal is specifically engineered to overcome these obstacles, providing a superior training solution.

• Problem: Lack of Immediate Feedback.
  • Solution: Instant Visual and Audible Confirmation. The spinning motion and clear sound of a hit eliminate guesswork. You know instantly if your shot was true, allowing for immediate adjustments and faster learning. This feedback loop is essential for building confidence and understanding ballistics.
• Problem: Tedious Target Resetting.
  • Solution: No More Walking Downrange. Traditional paper targets or standalone metal targets often require you to walk downrange after a few shots to check impacts or reset them. The Animal's spinning design means it's ready for the next shot as soon as it stops spinning, maximizing your shooting time and minimizing interruptions. This is particularly beneficial during group sessions or when training in challenging weather conditions.
• Problem: Fragile or Single-Use Targets.
  • Solution: Heavy-Duty Steel Construction for Years of Use. Crafted from robust, high-quality steel, The Animal is built to withstand countless impacts from .22 caliber rounds. This durability translates into significant long-term savings, as you won't constantly be buying replacement paper targets or repairing flimsy alternatives. It's an investment that pays for itself over many outings.
• Problem: Static and Unengaging Practice.
  • Solution: Dynamic and Fun Reactive Shooting. The spinning action adds an element of dynamic challenge and excitement that static targets simply cannot match. It makes practice feel less like a chore and more like a game, keeping shooters engaged and motivated to improve. This is especially effective for younger shooters or those new to firearms, fostering a positive initial experience.
• Problem: Difficult Setup and Portability.
  • Solution: Easy Setup with Integrated Foot Rest. The Animal features a sturdy footrest integrated into its heavy-duty steel frame. This design allows you to easily push the target securely into even hard ground, ensuring stability throughout your shooting session. Its portable nature means you can take your advanced target practice system wherever you go, from your backyard (where legal and safe) to your favorite outdoor range.

Optimized for Rimfire: The .22 Caliber Advantage

The Animal is specifically engineered for .22 Caliber rimfire handguns and rifles. This specialization is a significant advantage for several reasons:

• Cost-Effective Practice: .22LR ammunition is one of the most affordable calibers available, making it ideal for high-volume practice. The Animal allows you to maximize this cost-effectiveness by providing a reusable target that doesn't require constant replacement.
• Reduced Noise and Recoil: Rimfire firearms produce less noise and significantly less recoil than centerfire cartridges, making them perfect for new shooters, youth, and extended practice sessions without fatigue. The Animal perfectly complements this by offering a target that is safe and effective for these lower-energy rounds.
• Fundamental Skill Building: The .22LR is an excellent caliber for honing fundamental shooting skills such as stance, grip, sight alignment, trigger control, and breathing. The immediate feedback from The Animal reinforces these fundamentals, helping shooters develop muscle memory and consistency.
• Versatile Training: Whether you're practicing precision shots, speed drills, or simply plinking for fun, The Animal's dual targets and reactive nature make it suitable for a wide range of rimfire training scenarios.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Features & Design Excellence

Taylor Targets has long been synonymous with quality and innovation in the shooting sports world, and The Animal is a testament to that legacy.

• Dual-Target System: The 3-inch upper circular target is perfect for focused precision work, helping shooters tighten groups and refine their aiming. The lower animal silhouette (often resembling a small game animal) provides a more realistic and engaging target for practicing shot placement on various vital zones, enhancing practical shooting skills. This versatility ensures a comprehensive training experience.
• Heavy-Duty Steel Construction: The choice of steel is critical for a reactive target. Taylor Targets uses robust, durable steel that can withstand repeated impacts without deforming or failing. This ensures longevity and consistent performance, even with frequent use. The integrity of the target remains intact, offering reliable feedback shot after shot.
• Secure Ground Installation: The integrated footrest isn't just a convenience; it's a critical design element for safety and stability. A stable target prevents wobbling or falling over, ensuring predictable reaction and reducing the need for constant adjustments. It allows for quick and secure setup on diverse terrain.
• Compatibility with Pro-Series Base: For shooters who prefer a freestanding setup or want to use The Animal on hard surfaces like concrete, its compatibility with the Taylor Targets "Pro-Series Base" (sold separately) offers enhanced versatility. This allows for adaptable use in various range environments, expanding your training options beyond soft ground.

Who Benefits Most from The Animal Steel Target?

The Animal is a versatile tool that caters to a broad spectrum of shooters:

• New Shooters & Beginners: The instant feedback builds confidence and helps them quickly understand the effects of their aiming and trigger control. The engaging nature keeps them motivated.
• Youth Shooters: Provides a safe, fun, and highly interactive introduction to responsible firearm handling and marksmanship principles with low-recoil .22s.
• Experienced Marksmen: Ideal for refining precision, practicing speed drills, and maintaining proficiency without the cost of centerfire ammunition. It's excellent for warm-up or cool-down sessions.
• Competitive Shooters: A fantastic, cost-effective tool for consistent practice, working on transitions between targets, and improving shot timing in a reactive environment.
• Hunters: Perfect for practicing ethical shot placement on small game silhouettes, helping to develop the precision needed for responsible hunting.
• Families & Groups: Offers an incredibly engaging and competitive activity that can be enjoyed by multiple participants, fostering camaraderie and shared learning experiences.
• Anyone Looking for Fun: If you simply enjoy plinking and want to make your range time more exciting and rewarding, The Animal delivers pure, unadulterated fun.

Setting Up Your Taylor Targets Animal: Best Practices for Safety and Performance

Using The Animal is straightforward, but adhering to fundamental safety rules and best practices will ensure the safest and most effective experience.

1. Read All Instructions: Always begin by reviewing the manufacturer's guidelines included with your target.
2. Location, Location, Location: Choose a safe shooting location with a reliable and adequate backstop to capture all rounds. Ensure there are no valuable objects or living beings beyond or around your target.
3. Proper Distance: While .22 LR is low energy, follow standard safety distances for steel targets to prevent ricochets or splash-back. A general rule of thumb for steel targets with rimfire is a minimum of 7-10 yards, but always verify specific safety recommendations and adjust based on your environment and ammunition.
4. Secure Installation: Use the integrated footrest to firmly push The Animal into the ground. Ensure it is stable and won't tip over during shooting. If using the optional Pro-Series Base, ensure it is set up on a flat, stable surface.
5. Eye and Ear Protection: Always wear appropriate eye and ear protection when shooting.
6. Ammunition Type: Only use .22 Caliber rimfire ammunition as specified. Using larger calibers or high-velocity ammunition not designed for this target can damage the steel and create dangerous ricochets.
7. Inspect Before Use: Before each shooting session, quickly inspect the target for any signs of damage or wear.

Maintenance for Longevity

The heavy-duty steel construction means The Animal is built to last, but a little care can extend its life even further:

• Cleanliness: After use, especially in wet conditions, wipe down the target to remove dirt, mud, or moisture.
• Rust Prevention: While durable, steel can rust. Consider applying a light coat of rust-inhibiting oil (like WD-40 or a gun oil) to the target surfaces, particularly after cleaning or if storing in humid environments.
• Proper Storage: Store The Animal in a dry place when not in use.

The Animal vs. Other Target Systems: Why It Stands Out

When comparing The Animal to other target options, its advantages become clear:

• Compared to Paper Targets:
  • Durability: Infinite shots vs. single use.
  • Feedback: Instant spin/sound vs. holes to examine.
  • Cost: One-time investment vs. recurring paper purchases.
• Compared to Other Reactive Targets (e.g., cans, bottles, balloons):
  • Consistency: Predictable reaction vs. erratic movement.
  • Reusability: Unlimited vs. single use or limited life.
  • Professionalism: Designed for shooting vs. improvised items.
  • Safety: Engineered steel vs. potential for unpredictable fragments.
• Compared to Static Steel Targets:
  • Feedback: Dynamic spin vs. static clang. The visual spin adds a layer of satisfaction and training benefit not present with static steel.
  • Engagement: More interactive and fun.

The Taylor Targets Promise: Quality and Performance

Taylor Targets has built a reputation for crafting high-quality, reliable shooting accessories. The Animal steel spinning target embodies this commitment, offering a product that is not only effective for training but also built to withstand the rigors of consistent use. It’s a testament to thoughtful design and robust engineering, ensuring that your investment provides years of trouble-free practice and many outings of fun with family and friends. This commitment to durability and performance means you can trust The Animal to be a dependable companion for all your rimfire shooting endeavors.

Whether you're looking to refine your precision, practice quick target acquisition, or simply enjoy the satisfying "clang" of a well-placed shot, The Animal provides an unparalleled shooting experience. It's more than just a target; it's a dynamic training partner that makes every moment at the range more productive, enjoyable, and rewarding. Experience the difference a truly reactive and durable target can make for your rimfire shooting.

Product Specifications & Details

Feature	Description
Target Design	One-disc with lower animal silhouette, steel spinning target
Target Sizes	Upper: 3 inches (diameter), Lower: Animal silhouette
Caliber Compatibility	Rimfire Handguns and Rifles, .22 Caliber (e.g., .22LR, .22 Short, .22 Mag)
Feedback Mechanism	Spins visibly and produces audible "clang" upon impact
Material	Heavy-duty steel frame
Portability	Yes, designed for easy transport and setup
Installation	Foot rest for easy insertion into ground
Additional Features	No resetting required; Compatible with "Pro-Series Base" (sold separately)
SKU	TTAT
UPC	013964506686