Stop Setting Up Your Targets Wrong!

The biggest challenge with moving target systems isn’t the system itself. It’s the cable.

After shipping thousands of X1 Pro systems to customers in over 30 countries, one question comes up more than any other: How do I set it up properly?

The good news is that once your cable is set up correctly, everything else is easy. The X1 Pro clips onto the line in about two seconds, and you’re ready to start training.

If you focus on getting the cable right the first time, the rest of your setup becomes fast and repeatable.

Here are the key things every range should know.

Don’t Change the Cable Diameter

The cable that comes with the X1 Pro kit isn’t random. It’s matched specifically to the pulley system inside the target carriage.

That means changing the cable size can cause problems. Even small differences can affect how smoothly the system runs.

If you ever need a longer cable, the best approach is simple:take the original cable with you to the hardware store and match it exactly. Even a small change in diameter can reduce performance.

Choose the Right End Post Setup

There isn’t one universal way to mount a moving target system. The right solution depends on your range layout.

Some common options include:

1. Portable 4×4 post kits - A portable setup using earth anchors and guy wires. This allows you to install a temporary post without digging holes.

2. Permanent posts - 4×4 post buried in the ground with cross bracing or additional anchoring for rigidity.

3. Trees - If your range has trees positioned on both sides of the firing arc, they can serve as natural attachment points.

4. Berms or earth anchors - Many ranges already have large berms. Anchoring into them can make setup quick and simple.

5. Concrete walls - Concrete eyebolts can be installed in range walls to create solid anchor points.

6. C-clamps - These are useful for indoor ranges or shoot houses where permanent mounting isn’t possible.

There are also collapsible carbon fiber end posts designed for teams that need to fly with their system, although these are typically the last option due to their lower rigidity.

Follow the “Biggest Guy Rule”

One simple rule helps determine whether your setup is strong enough.

Your attachment point should be sturdy enough that the biggest person in your group can put their full weight on it without anything moving.

If the anchor point flexes or shifts, it’s not strong enough. The cable tension and moving target will eventually expose that weakness.

Understand What Comes in the Kit

The standard X1 Pro kit already includes most of what you need to get started:

• 1/8 inch cable

• Two eyebolts

• A pulley

• An 800 lb hand winch

• Cable clips and mounting hardware

With these components, you can build a reliable cable span on most ranges.

Cable Tension Matters

One of the most common mistakes is over-tightening the cable.

The correct tension is easy to test. Move the target system to one end of the cable and let go.

• If it rolls back toward the center, the cable is too loose.

• If it stays in place, the tension is just right.

Tightening beyond that point adds unnecessary stress and can even damage the cable.

Set It Up So You Don’t Need a Ladder

The X1 Pro kit includes an 800 lb hand winch and pulley block so you can raise or lower the cable from ground level.

The winch is mounted at chest height, and the cable runs through the pulley at the top of the post. This lets you tension or release the cable safely without climbing.

It’s a simple design, but it makes range setup much easier.

Get the Cable Right and Everything Else Is Easy

The X1 Pro was designed so the hard part isn’t operating the system. It’s simply making sure you have two solid attachment points and a properly tensioned cable. Once that cable is in place, the rest of the setup takes seconds.

If you’re planning a new range setup or want advice on your current one, reach out to us at info@dynamicrangex1.com and we’ll help you get your system ready to shoot.