First Look: Caldwell ClayCopter

Caldwell has introduced shotgun shooters to a new spin on "shooting clays", providing an alternative target to traditional clays. The ClayCopter target system includes a powerful, lightweight, motorized handheld launcher that shoots one or two biodegradable discs—called ClayCopters—to distances of up to 100 yards.

For nearly 150 years, traditional clay targets have been the most practical option for shotgun-sports enthusiasts eager to hone their wing shooting skills.  Traditional clay targets typically require heavy throwers that are bulky and cumbersome to store and transport. Clays are notoriously fragile, fly in predictable patterns, and come in heavy containers that often make transportation a real challenge. With the ClayCopter system, taking a thrower and targets to the range couldn't be easier. Designed entirely in-house, the portable launcher is lightweight at only three pounds, and packs the same power of a traditional electric thrower into a handheld motorized design small enough to fit in a range bag or backpack. The ClayCopter target discs are 70-percent lighter than traditional clays without sacrificing distance; are designed to break only when shot; and have a unique flight pattern that mimics real game flight, veering in different directions based on weather conditions and settings controlled by the user operating the launcher. Additionally, ClayCopter targets have obtained the Green Leaf Mark certification from Intertek, as they are constructed from eco-friendly materials that biodegrade faster than traditional clays.

The ClayCopter launcher has an integral high-speed motor capable of spinning the target discs up to 15,000 RPM, launching them in singles or pairs to distances up to 100 yards.  The handheld launcher is designed to feel comfortable and secure when operating, reducing fatigue and freeing the user to fully maneuver the device to easily alter target distance, angle, and direction.  Additionally, the ClayCopter launcher is packed with features, including a speed adjustment knob near the trigger, a removable "mag style" rechargeable lithium-ion battery capable of 300 launches on a single charge, and a status indicator that displays launch power, status and battery health. 

ClayCopter targets come in packs of 50, are sold in lightweight, hard-sided cylinder-shaped containers that resemble tennis ball tubes, and can be shipped and transported safely, unlike traditional clays. Targets are available in two sizes—90mm and 110mm diameter—each offering slightly different flight characteristics depending on the shooter's preference. Both sizes can be thrown alone or in pairs, and are designed to accelerate away from the user like a real flushing bird.

For more information, visit caldwellshooting.com. MSRP: $219.99; 200/ct 90mm Discs: $39.96; 200/ct. 110mm Discs: $51.96 (Smaller amounts of discs also available)