TA Targets Genesis System User Manual

Introduction to the Genesis System

The TA Targets Genesis Family offers American-manufactured AR500 steel target systems, serving as an entry point into steel target shooting. The Genesis line features various target plate shapes and sizes, with identical installation procedures and consistent recommended calibers and distances across all shapes.

Important Pre-Shooting Instructions

Before shooting: Fully read this manual and the included Safe Shooting Pamphlet. Additionally, read the sticker on the back of your target plate. Always obey TA Targets' safety requirements. Never alter or misuse the systems. Always wear approved hearing and safety gear when handling firearms.

For questions, contact TA Targets via email at info@tatargets.com or call 1-833-746-4785 (M-F business hours). Cease use if questions arise until concerns are addressed.

Note: The Genesis line has different caliber and distance ratings compared to the Exodus Line (A-DAP Systems, Vital Zones, VTAR Poppers, Phoenix, Falling Tree, Dueling Trees, etc.). Critically important to follow requirements and never engage with improper ammunition or at closer distances than specified.

Lost Components and System Components

Lost Components: During setup, tear-down, and transport, it is crucial to keep track of all hardware and components. Be mindful of where you disassemble the base to prevent loss.

A Complete Genesis System Includes:

• Single Hole Top Bracket (with all necessary hardware, powder coated Grey Beige)
• ARK Base (with all necessary hardware, powder coated Grey Beige)
• Gong (shape and size depend on order, Powder Coated Mineral Bronze)

I. Single Hole Top Bracket Assembly

Note: The Single Hole Top Bracket (SKU: 2X4-SH-BRKT) ships pre-assembled.

Assembly Steps:

1. Verify all components are present.
2. Slip the Single Hole Bracket over a 2X4 bracket as shown in diagram (referencing diagram #1 & #2).
3. Insert 3/8" Carriage bolts (#8).
4. Place washers, then locking nuts.
5. Torque to approximately 12 ft/lbs. For a more permanent fastening, use blue Loctite.
6. Back out thumb screws to allow room for the 2X4 board.
7. Remove the longer carriage bolt, spring, and nut.
8. Install the target plate as shown in the target plate section.
9. Slide over the 2X4 board, hand-tighten thumb screws.

Hardware and Component Table (Single Hole Top Bracket):

II. ARK Base Assembly

Note: The ARK Base (SKU: ARK-BASE) ships unassembled and requires assembly before use. A Breakdown Base Tool is included.

Assembly Steps:

1. Verify all necessary ARK base components are included. Contact info@tatargets.com for missing items.
2. Find a flat, level place on your range.
3. Lay out the left leg, right leg, and 2X4 tube in the correct orientations as shown in the diagram (note orientation of the 2X4 base tube).
4. Slide 3/8" X 3" carriage bolts through the left leg, 2X4 tube, and right leg.
5. Install 3/8" Locking nuts.
6. Torque to 15 ft/lbs. For more permanent installations, consider a small amount of blue Loctite on the nut and bolt (red Loctite is not recommended).
7. Install thumb screws into holes: 1" Thumb screw into the side of the 2X4 tube; 1½" Thumb Screw into the rear of the 2X4 tube. Ensure bolts are only started to allow the 2X4 to slide past.
8. Install the 2X4 into the base.
9. Fully tighten the rear thumb screw, ensuring the post is fully pushed to the front of the tube.
10. Fully tighten the side thumb screw, ensuring the 2X4 is fully pushed to the side of the tube.
11. Install the Top Bracket onto the 2X4 with the desired Target Plates. The ARK base is compatible with the Single Hole Bracket, Gen 5 A-DAP Bracket, and the Mini Popper Bracket.
12. Follow separate top bracket and target plate mounting instructions.
13. Optional: Stake the target base down using the extra holes (stakes sold separately).
14. Optional: Install paper holders if purchased separately. Follow diagram for hardware orientation. Note: Paper holders and necessary hardware are not included standard with the ARK Base.

Hardware and Component Table (ARK Base Assembly):

III. Genesis Target Plates

The Genesis line offers various gong target plates in different shapes and sizes. All plates (single hole, two-hole, and three hole) are compatible with the Single Hole and Tee Post Top Brackets.

Mounting Notes:

• For 2-hole square gongs, mount as a square or diamond (from the corner).
• For 2-hole round gongs, use the hole that best centers the plate on the bracket.
• For 3-hole gongs of any size, use the center hole for mounting to the top bracket.

Materials Used and Distance Ratings

Genesis gongs are made from economical domestic AR500 steel. This steel is subject to specific caliber, velocity, and distance restrictions. Failure to adhere to these requirements can result in damage to the target system, property, and serious injury or death. Always follow safety requirements.

Distance Ratings:

Additional Notes:

• Rifle calibers must be 3,000 FPS or less muzzle velocity.
• If over 3,000 FPS, increase distance by 25 yards for each additional 100 FPS velocity increase over the advertised distance.

Distance Considerations and Bullet Construction

Velocity impacts target damage. For any rifle, ensure muzzle velocity is 3,000 FPS or less. Disobeying distance ratings can cause damage. The Genesis Line is designed for affordability; for high-volume shooting, consider the Exodus Line AR550 gongs.

Approved Bullet Types:

• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
• Ballistic / Plastic tip hunting ammunition
• Match Grade ammo (Boat Tail Hollow Points)
• Hollow Point Ammunition
• Soft Point Ammunition
• Bi-Metal Ammunition (provided velocity is 3,000 FPS or less muzzle)

Incompatible Bullet/Ammo Types:

The following types should NEVER be fired at a Genesis plate:

• M855 Steel Core Projectiles
• Solid Copper Machined Bullets (non-expanding solid copper)
• Expanding solid copper bullets over posted velocity limits
• SS109
• Russian Steel Core Ammunition
• Incendiary projectiles
• Tungsten core projectiles
• M855A1
• Any Armor Piercing or penetrating bullet construction not listed.
• Stainless Steel shotgun shot (Never acceptable on steel targets)

Special Notes and Considerations:

• Hollow point ammunition, especially in larger calibers, may leave slight impressions on steel. This is normal and safe. If impressions exceed 1/32" depth, increase distance until they cease. Shotgun slugs may show similar tendencies.

Expected Wear and Tear, Maintenance, and Other Accessories

Expected Wear and Tear:

Normal use will result in wear and tear. Expect:

• Chipped powder coat or paint
• Worn hardware/nuts/bolts
• Edge chips from close impacts
• Chips around unused holes on target plates
• Worn 2X4 posts
• Surface deformations on strike plate (usable unless craters are 1/8" or deeper)

TA Targets guarantees systems arrive in working order. Normal wear and tear is excluded from warranty claims. The Genesis system has a 1-year limited warranty. Gongs purchased separately have a 30-day warranty. Visit https://tatargets.com/warranty/ for full warranty information.

Maintenance Considerations:

The Genesis System is serviceable. For missing or damaged components, contact customer service or check the website for replacements. Powder coat chipping on bases and top brackets is normal. Spray paint is available on the website for touch-ups.

Other Accessories:

Explore other products in the TA Targets Genesis Line for your range. Train with purpose!

Contact Information

For any additional questions or assistance with setting up your target system, please contact the TA Targets team.

Customer Service Email: info@tatargets.com

Mailing Address:

TA Targets
PO Box 212
Womelsdorf, PA 19567