7 Best Clay Pigeon Thrower: Trap and Skeet Thrower Reviews

Let me ask a question, should you buy your own clay pigeon thrower or stick to frequenting your local trap club or gun range?

Of course, the second option sounds enticing as it allows you to mingle with your clay shooting buddies.

But with the best clay pigeon thrower, you can do both.

Really that is, have a good time with your buddies and still have fun on your own without any restrictions. And of course, no more bugging your friends to use their pigeon throwers every time you want to improve your duck shooting skills.

best clay pigeon thrower

Pigeon thrower machines come in all shapes, sizes, and prices, but not all are worth your time and money. In this article, I will be introducing you to seven throwers that I believe are definitely worth your time and money.

But first, below is a comparison chart showing how different throwers compare.

Today’s Top Clay Pigeon Skeet Thrower Comparison Chart

Image
Champion Workhorse Electronic Clay Pigeon Thrower, Compact...
Champion WheelyBird Auto-Feed Trap
Do-All Outdoors Raven Automatic Clay Pigeon Skeet Thrower...
Champion Range and Target WheelyBird 3.0 Auto-Feed Trap - 60...
CHAMPION RANGE AND TARGET Traps and Targets EasyBird...
Trius 10201 One Step Trap, Red ,1 Count (Pack of 1)
Type
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto (Wireless Remote)
Auto Feed (Double Trap)
Manual
Cycle Time
2.5 Second
2 Second
2.5 Second
1.5 Second
1 Second
-
Magazine Capacity
50 clays
50 clays
50 clays
60 clays
100 clays
-
Throwing Range
55-70 yards
55-70 yards
50-80 yards
70 yards
55-70 yards
-
Launch Angle
3 launch angles
30 degrees
5 -35 degree
30 degrees
30 Degrees
-
Weight (lbs)
32
48
48
50
91
21
Image
Champion Workhorse Electronic Clay Pigeon Thrower, Compact...
Type
Auto
Cycle Time
2.5 Second
Magazine Capacity
50 clays
Throwing Range
55-70 yards
Launch Angle
3 launch angles
Weight (lbs)
32
Image
Champion WheelyBird Auto-Feed Trap
Type
Auto
Cycle Time
2 Second
Magazine Capacity
50 clays
Throwing Range
55-70 yards
Launch Angle
30 degrees
Weight (lbs)
48
Image
Do-All Outdoors Raven Automatic Clay Pigeon Skeet Thrower...
Type
Auto
Cycle Time
2.5 Second
Magazine Capacity
50 clays
Throwing Range
50-80 yards
Launch Angle
5 -35 degree
Weight (lbs)
48
Image
Champion Range and Target WheelyBird 3.0 Auto-Feed Trap - 60...
Type
Auto (Wireless Remote)
Cycle Time
1.5 Second
Magazine Capacity
60 clays
Throwing Range
70 yards
Launch Angle
30 degrees
Weight (lbs)
50
Image
CHAMPION RANGE AND TARGET Traps and Targets EasyBird...
Type
Auto Feed (Double Trap)
Cycle Time
1 Second
Magazine Capacity
100 clays
Throwing Range
55-70 yards
Launch Angle
30 Degrees
Weight (lbs)
91
Image
Trius 10201 One Step Trap, Red ,1 Count (Pack of 1)
Type
Manual
Cycle Time
-
Magazine Capacity
-
Throwing Range
-
Launch Angle
-
Weight (lbs)
21


Last update on 2024-03-18 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Types Of Clay Pigeon Throwers: Which One Meets Your Needs?

We all have different reasons for throwing clay pigeons. Some people love dusting clay pigeons as a hobby, some need the best clay throwers to train their dogs in the sport of bird hunting, and others may use it to improve their shooting skills. Whatever your reason is for throwing clay pigeons, you will need a good thrower to get any enjoyment out of it. Three main types of throwers are used to throw clay pigeons.

Hand Clay Thrower:

The first type is a hand clay thrower; it is relatively cheaper and is easy to find. It works by loading the clay pigeon into a small hole on top of the thrower and then throwing it in whatever direction you choose. You can only throw one projectile at a time. It is not perfect for intense training, but it may be a good option for someone who just wants to have some fun with friends. You can throw clay at any speed and angle. The controls are at your fingertips.

Hand Clay Thrower

Mechanical Clay Throwers:

The next type of clay pigeon thrower is a mechanical one. It has been around for many years and can be found in most sporting goods stores. They are functional and can be used to throw practice and just have a good time with friends. They are easy to maintain and reliable. This type of thrower, often called hand-cocked clay thrower, can launch two discs simultaneously, sometimes even more with the higher-end model. The main downside of this kind of thrower is you need to call your friend or others to help with the release.

Some people may think that they are too basic and not challenging enough, but it may be a good option for you to start practicing.
Some mechanical clay thrower model comes with the option to throw tin cans so that you can practice as well even at the time of cartridges shortages.

Automatic Clay Launchers:

They are the most popular clay-throwing devices that can be used for training and hunting practice. These models come in various configurations, including single-throwers or multiple-throwers.

Automatic Clay Launchers

Automatic Clay Throwers are the most expensive type, which may not suit your budget if you’re on a tight one. But it has its advantages such as you don’t need to call your friend like the way of using mechanical or hand clay throwers. Also, you can launch the clay pigeons automatically at various angles, heights, and distances without any hassles.

How To Select the Best Skeet Thrower AKA Clay Pigeon Trap Thrower

Money should only be spent on products that will serve you well for a long time. And pigeon clay throwers are no exception.

Therefore, when shopping for one, there are certain things you ought to consider. Mainly the features that characterize the best trap throwing machines. With that, let us look at some of the things you should consider.

Overall construction

Pigeon clay throwers are mechanical devices, and as with any other automatic device, they are only as good as their construction. And the best clay throwers can be identified by how well they are built.

In particular, the best skeet thrower will feature a steel frame and an aluminum arm swing. There are some cheap throwers that are made of plastic, but I advise staying away from them no matter how affordable they are.

How do you plan on using a thrower

Different people have different reasons for wanting to buy a thrower. On the one hand, some want a thrower for sharpening their clay pigeon shooting skills in their backyard. While on the other, there are those that want a thrower for more competitive purposes.

How you plan on using a thrower

If you want a thrower for yourself, an expensive automatic unit might not be necessary.

However, for more competitive purposes, I recommend an automatic thrower. For beginners who want to try out something new, an inexpensive unit will be an ideal starting point.

Launcher Capacity: How Fast Can a Clay Thrower Shoot?

It depends on device to device. You can imagine a battery-driven automatic thrower must have lots of power to throw than a handheld manual thrower. But if you are going for an automatic thrower check –

  • Is the launcher capable of launching clay targets at different angles?
  • What is the maximum distance that a target can be launched from this type of thrower?
How Fast Can a Clay Thrower Shoot a Target?

The distance that the clay pigeon thrower can project a disc is determined by what launcher comes with the machine. Try to find a device that can throw clay with at least 50 – 80 yards. This range is optimal for most types of clay pigeon throwing. Also, if the launcher can launch the targets at different angles, that can be a nice added bonus.

Check The Cartridge Size Compatibility

The cartridge size affects how many discs you can shoot before having to reload. The more cartridges, the better. Most of the launchers can hold a maximum of four discs, so if you are using your machine for longer sessions or competitions where there is more than one round, try to find one that has at least four slots in order to avoid having to constantly reload it and wasting time between each round.

Check The Type Of Cartridge:

Also, check what type of cartridge you can use with the launcher. Try to figure out if your device is compatible with the standard target discs or for use with more advanced targets. The right product will be able to house standard targets as well as others.

Thrower Cycle Time:

The thrower’s cycle or reset time is the amount of time between discs are firing, ranging from as little as two seconds to thirty seconds per disc.

This is important to take into consideration because the best machine will have a high cycle time or quick reset time for pro shooters. But if you are a beginner, you should go for something with a lower cycle time; it will give you time to adjust for the next shot.

A quick cycle time is essential to train your reflexes, and it will also help you improve your shooting skill. Choose an automatic thrower that can fire continuously with 2 second cycle time, or choose a manual thrower with an adjustable cycle time.

Weight: Is The Thrower Portable?

Skeet throwers are not the lightest devices out there, and neither are they the most portable. All the same, a more lightweight skeet thrower will be a better option. This is especially if you plan on using your thrower regularly.

Weight-Of-Clay-Pigeon-Thrower-Is-important

Now I know there is always the option of leaving your thrower outside. But, given that modern weather patterns are unpredictable, keeping it out is not the best option. With this in mind, when purchasing a thrower, always consider its weight. A lighter, more compact thrower will be easy to haul outside every time you need it. A bulky thrower, on the other hand, will give you back pains from hauling it around.

What Kind of Thrower Should I Buy: Automatic or Manual?

If you practice alone in the shooting range, then choose the automatic clay pigeon thrower. All you need to turn on the thrower and set it to throw the targets as per your instructions.

It is all automatic and powered by the battery-driven motor, so it’s convenient. Also, you can give instructions to shoot via wireless (if it has that feature) or you with the foot paddles that can be pressed by your foot.

What Kind of Thrower Should I Buy: Automatic or Manual?

On the Other side if you have friends and bother to do some manual tasks such as one is behind the machine to throw the targets. The other one will practice, then it’s okay to have a handheld manual thrower.

Manual skeet throwers are cheaper and less convenient. And all is a manual procedure.

Additional Features

One of the things that can cause a thrower to be heavier is additional features. However, there are some other features that the best automatic clay pigeon throwers must have.

These are things like battery cables and remote controls. Other features that may be of use include extra nuts and bolts and clay guide rods. These additional features will be what you can expect from a high-quality clay pigeon thrower and will make your work much easier.

Price

The last thing you should consider when shopping for a trap thrower is the price. However, it should be noted that price should never be the most important thing to consider.

Nonetheless, even on a limited budget, you can get your hands on the best trap thrower. This means that while it should not be a priority, it is still something to consider.

If you are on a tight budget, look for throwers whose drawbacks you can manage. After all, everything has a price, and there is a price to pay for cheap things.

Best Clay Pigeon Throwers For The Money Reviews

After months of research and experimenting with quite a number of skeet throwers, I have come up with a list of seven that, to me, are the best of the bunch. I have selected these skeet throwers based on their performance, what users said about them, and my personal experiences. I also categorized them from automatic to manual-wise. Well, now, without further ado, let us get into it.

Best Automatic Clay Pigeon Thrower Review

These are the top automatic clay pigeon thrower of today’s market; check them below:

Champion WheelyBird Auto-Feed Trap: Best Automatic Clay Target Thrower For The Money

Quick Specs:
  •  Target capacity: 50
  • Weight: 48pounds
  • Adjustable launch angle: 30 degrees
Short Overview

 Before writing this article, I did extensive research on the automatic clay pigeon thrower, and one of the throwers that kept coming up was the Champion WheelyBird Auto-Feed Trap. And so I decided to try it out myself.

 Powerful, easy to use, and fantastic are just some of the adjectives I can use to describe the WheelyBird. With an easy-to-use magazine that fits all standard-size clay targets, this auto-trap truly deserves first place on any list.

 Excellent Construction

 The wheelyBird auto-feed trap takes portability and construction to the next level. The trap feels very well made. However, it is the trap’s portability that takes the day. Featuring two wheels and a pull handle, moving this trap is a breeze. Also, weighing 48 pounds, it is considerably lighter than most other auto-traps I have come across, some of which weigh up to 80 pounds.

 Easy-to-use magazine

 I have already talked about the magazine on this trap, which is simply a delight. The removable magazine is capable of holding up to 50 clay targets, it can accommodate all standard-sized clay targets. This means there is no stressing about the clay targets to get for your wheelyBird.

 Powerful launcher

 The launcher on this portable auto feed trap is powered by a 12-volt deep cycle battery. With this battery charged up, it can manage up to 3,000 throws. This, combined with its 2-second cycle time, makes for a powerful launcher. In terms of range, the WheelyBird can throw targets up to a range of 55 yards.

Pros Of Champion WheelyBird Auto-Feed Trap
  •  Comes with an adjustable angle
  • It is lightweight and highly portable
  • It is a powerful auto-feed trap
  • Comes with DVD manual for assembly with easy-to-follow instructions
  • It is sturdily and well built
Cons Of Champion WheelyBird Auto-Feed Trap
  •  The metal poles on this trap are not steady
  • The on/off safety switch is not well put together

 The WheelyBird is not as powerful as some of its competitors, but it more than makes up for this with its portability. To put its weight into perspective, the more powerful EasyBirds Auto-feed doubles trap weighs 48 pounds, almost double the weight of the WheelyBird.

 Thus, the latter is best suited for home use. It is the ideal thrower for anyone looking for a portable and easy-to-use thrower for target practice at home. In a nutshell, it is the best automatic skeet thrower for domestic use.

Do-All Outdoors Raven Automatic Clay Pigeon Skeet Thrower

Quick Specs with Short Overview of Do-All Outdoors Skeet Thrower:
  • Weight: 48 pounds
  • Type: Automatic

One of the top-quality automatic skeet throwers with wobbler has to be the Do-all Outdoors Raven automatic clay pigeon skeet thrower. Capable of launching targets up to a distance of 55 yards, it is constructed from heavy-duty materials.

Compact and portable

Compared to other automatic skeet throwers, this Raven Automatic Clay pigeon is quite compact. Weighing 48 pounds, it weighs considerably less than other automatic best clay pigeon throwers. For improved portability, it comes with wheels and a pull handle.

High-quality construction

The frame of the thrower looks very well made. And its textured matte finish makes it look polished. The arm on this skeet thrower is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, which offers durability and toughness.

Safe to use

This skeet thrower is big on safety and comes with a safety pin that ensures the arm does not fire by accident. An attachable safety ring guard is also included in the package, and a foot release pedal adds to the safety features.

Things We Like About Do-All Outdoors Raven Automatic Clay Pigeon Skeet Thrower
  • It is highly portable thanks to its pull handle and wheels
  • It features a low battery indicator light
  • It is compatible with the Do-all outdoors wireless remote and wobbler
  • It is very well made and looks great as well
  • Thanks to its lightweight, it is easy to carry
Things Could Be Better
  • The 12-volt battery that powers it is not included
  • Compared to other throwers, this unit is a bit pricey

There are very few cons with this thrower, and that should tell you a lot about why I have chosen it as the best automatic skeet thrower with a wobbler. It is the perfect tool for improving your duck shooting accuracy in the off-season. And since it is automatic, it is ideal for you and your friends.

Champion Traps and Targets Wheelybird 2.0: Best Automatic Trap Thrower

Quick Specs and Overview:
  • Cycle time: 1.75 seconds
  • Weight: 50 pounds
  • Type: Electric

The WheelyBird 2.0 Automatic trap is an improved version of the WheelyBird auto-feed trap. Thus, this auto feed-trap offers all the excellent features of the WheelyBird and more. To start with, it takes less time to cycle through targets compared to the WheelyBird. While the latter has a cycle time of 2 seconds, the WheelyBird 2.0 has a cycle time of 1.75 seconds.

Portability

Since the WheelyBird 2.0 is an improved version of the WheelyBird, it offers the same portability we get from the original version. This improved version has a wheeled frame and a pull handle that make it easy to move around.

Wireless remote

Another improvement to the original is the inclusion of a wireless remote. With this, you can trigger the trap without being near it. This makes it an excellent option for target practice with your buddies. The remote comes with a pre-programmable delay of up to 15 seconds.

Quicker motor

The motor on this improved WheelyBird is better than that on the original. This motor has a cycle time of 1.75 seconds. This means it is faster than the original, which has a cycle time of 2 seconds.

Easy to use

When compared to other auto-feed traps, the 2.0 model is truly easy to use. In addition to the remote control, it comes with a built-in cord wrap. This cord wrap wraps all cords securely so that the cords do not interfere with its functioning.

Advantages of Champion Traps and Targets Wheelybird 2.0
  • It is still relatively lighter than other auto-feed traps
  • It is highly portable
  • Has a faster cycle time compared to the first WheelyBird
  • It is solidly built and is durable
  • Comes with wireless remote control for hands-free usage
  • Has a built-in cord wrap for wrapping cords
Cons About Champion Traps and Targets Wheelybird 2.0

The hand nut sometimes hits bracket support

There is no doubt that the WheelyBird 2.0 automatic trap is an improved version of the WheelyBird and is one of the best automatic skeet throwers on the market. With its remote control, it is ideal for both home use and for more sporting purposes. This is the thrower you get for you and your hunting buddies.

Best Manual Clay Pigeon Thrower Review

These are the top manual clay pigeon thrower of today’s market; check them below:

Trius 10201: Best One-Step Trap Thrower

Quick Specs:
  • Weight: 21 pounds
  • Assembly: partially assembled
  • Type non-electric

If you thought the WheelyBird was lightweight, wait until you meet the Trius 10201 One Step Trap. This inexpensive non-electric trap has a lot to offer for a non-electric trap. For starters, weighing only 21 pounds, it is one of the lightest skeet throwers out there.

One-step clay pigeon shooting

A unique foot pedal launching mechanism guarantees the easy launching of targets without inhibiting your ability to shoot. Thus while it is not an electric thrower, you can launch targets and shoot at them simultaneously, which is pretty impressive.

Durable solid construction

For durability and sturdiness, this one-step trap is constructed from solid steel. Given the rigidity and toughness of steel, you can expect a trap that will serve you for a long time. In addition to steel, Trius uses aluminum in the construction of this trap. In particular, the manufacturer uses aluminum to construct the trap’s throwing arm.

Truespin technology

Speaking of the throwing arm, it features Trius’s Truespin technology that uses the throwing ring to launch targets into the air. This translates to a faster spin and more distance. And since it is manufactured from aluminum, it guarantees years of damage-free performance.

PROS
  • The trap is easy to use and is fully adjustable without tools
  • It is lightweight for easy moving
  • Made from solid steel for impressive durability
  • The throwing arm is made from aluminum for improved durability
CONS
  • It is non-electric, meaning it is not suited for certain demanding tasks
  • Some users have complained of it jumping around and breaking targets at a time

The Trius 10210 is one of the cheapest skeet throwers out there. However, despite its affordable price tag, this skeet thrower does deliver excellently. It is, therefore, ideal for beginners who want an inexpensive yet quality thrower for target practice. For sporting events, this might not be the best clay target thrower, but for at-home use, it really does excel.

WingOne W1-R Clay Target Thrower: Best Handheld Thrower

Quick Specs:
  • Weight: 8 ounces
  • Type: Handheld

Though it is not the most sophisticated thrower out there, the WingOne W1-R Clay Target Thrower is still a handy device to have. It is lightweight and does not bring any of the complications that other more advanced throwers bring.

Innovative design

This thrower is designed to be easy to use. In this regard, its innovative design makes it easy to load and even easier to shoot. It does not have any mechanical moving parts, which may bring complications or which may get damage due to wear and tear.

Ease of use

Unlike other throwers that require a bit of setting up before use, this one requires nothing apart from your hand. Being a handheld device, it can be used literally anywhere. Also, it does not need any cables to function.

Powerful drop-loading

The loading and firing mechanism is easy to use and increases throw power. At the heart of this mechanism is an auto cocking quick snap release which multiplies throwing power. Therefore, while it is a handheld device, you do not have to rely on your muscle strength.

PROS
  • Lacks mechanical moving parts and therefore is maintenance-free
  • It is lightweight and can be used anywhere
  • The fact that it is a handheld thrower it can be used by anyone
  • It is offered at a budget-friendly price
  • Does not require electricity or cables to function
CONS
  • Being a handheld device, it can only be used with one hand
  • It is not ideal for extended use

If you do a quick search of the best handheld clay target thrower, you will realize that this handheld thrower is one of the most popular. And for good reasons, it’s easy to use and has a minimalistic design. This makes it appealing to beginners and pro shooters alike. It is, therefore, worth its price tag, which is below reasonable.

Champion Traps and Targets 40901 Champion High FlyString Release

Quick Specs and Overview:
  • Manual Trap
  • Type; manual
  • Weight: 9.95 pounds

I bought this thrower after reading many positive reviews on it online. And I must admit at; first I was a bit worried about buying a manual thrower. However, given its price tag, I didn’t have much to lose by buying it. And so far, so good.

Ease of use

The first thing I loved about this thrower was how easy it was to use. It is very well-balanced and did not give me any problems when setting up. When it comes to using it, all I had to was pull a string, and the clay targets went flying in the air.

Target clip

The targets are secured by a target clip, which I found to be a great addition to the device. The target clip ensures the targets are securely placed and have a consistent flight path. This, combined with the balanced design of the machine, guarantees a good throwing range.

Balanced design

The balanced design of this thrower is thanks to its legs. The legs are designed to be staked to the ground. Thus, these legs ensure it is not wobbly and stays rooted to the ground at all times. The trap can also be mounted on a tire.

PROS
  • It is easy to use
  • It is offered at a reasonably affordable price
  • Comes with a target clip for positioning the targets securely
  • It is easy to operate
  • It is easy to assemble
CONS
  • Does not have wheels which can hinder its mobility
  • While it is easy to assemble, it can be tricky if done wrong

With an affordable price tag and quality to match, very few manual throwers can match the Champion High Flying strings release. Hailed as the best clay target thrower among manual throwers, it is pretty awesome for a manual thrower. Ideally, this is a machine that will appeal to beginners looking for an inexpensive option.

Trius 2 Birdshooter Trap

Overivew and Quick Specs of Trius 2:
  • Weight; 1.19 pounds
  • Type: Manual

Another Trius creation that deserves a spot on my list is the Trius 2 Birdshooter Trap. This trap looks very much like the Champion HighFlying release. And just like its other Trius sibling on this list, it offers a lot in terms of quality and performance.

Sturdy construction

The Birdhsooter Trap weighs less than the Trius One-step. Nonetheless, it is manufactured from the same heavy-duty steel as its sibling. Meaning that it is sturdy and will serve you well for a very long time.

Adjustable launch mechanism

Given its price tag, do not expect this thrower to be able to shoot more than two targets rapidly. All the same, this is not to say that it is of lower quality. On the contrary, this device can launch a target of up to 50 yards. And that is not all; the distance can be dialed back for beginners to get a feel of the device.

All-around stability

The shooter is designed to work with a tire mount or be held to the ground. Whichever route you opt for, though, this shooter will have you launching targets in no time. Also, it does not move about; thus, all targets are launched from a stable platform.

PROS
  • It is lightweight for portability
  • Build from heavy gauge steel and aluminum for enhanced durability
  • It is offered at an affordable price tag
  • Does not require any tools to adjust
CONS
  • Can only fire one target at a time
  • The spring and screw adjustments are not well designed

Despite its few drawbacks, the Trius 2 shooter has a lot to offer. Due to it being adjustable, it can be used by both beginners and experienced shooters. It is one of the best clay pigeon throwers for the money. If you are used to using automatic throwers, this might not be the one for you.

Conclusion

Finding the best skeet thrower should not have to be a headache. With the right information, you can find a good skeet thrower in any price range. It is my belief and hopes that this article has been of great help to you.

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