Frequently Asked Questions

At a distance the launcher doesn't rotate Most likely your remote receiver is not receiving a signal from your transmitter to allow the launcher to start. You can verify by pressing the noise button on your transmitter to hear if the receiver picks up the signal. For maximum distance it is best to mount the receiver so that it's antenna extends beyond the case of the machine. See photo.

What makes this launcher different from previous versions?
The launcher has been redesigned based on a simple principle, take the best of all previous versions over the past 10 years and add additional technology to enhance reliability. The launcher is all aluminum with a powder coated exterior. The tripod legs fold easily into the body for storage.

What separates this launcher from the competition?
Quality, ease of use, reliability, and price. This is the easiest to operate multiple shot launcher on the market and made from the highest quality industrial materials and components to withstand the demands of outdoor field use and provide years of maintenance free service. It has withstood rainstorms, freezing rain, mud, and other outdoor variables and continued to fire every time. It can be reloaded in less than 5 seconds and requires no carrying case to move or store. Just fold the bipod legs into the body and carry on your shoulder or vehicle.

How big are the launchers?
T500 launcher - 11" x 11" x 19", 18 lbs
T1000 launcher - 13" x 13" x 19", 24 lbs

What makes the launcher so durable and reliable?
The launcher is made from 100% solid aluminum sheeting and powder coated. It's enclosed case makes it almost impervious to rain (See our testimonial section). It has withstood thunderstorms and still shot flawlessly. Being fully enclosed shields it from dust, debris, mud, weeds, etc. that are encountered in a normal days training. It will reliably launch bumpers in any temperature between 25 - 100 degrees F.

Can you adjust the throws?
Yes. There is nothing to buy and no charges to switch. Within one turn of the side handle you can throw long or short marks. To use the variable distance feature turn the distance valve to the off position and then open about 1/4 turn. Delaying the amount of time the launcher stays in the cocked position will vary the throw distance. For a very short throw cock the launcher and then fire almost immediately. For a longer throw all the launcher to stay cocked for about 2-3 seconds. You can play with the timing to get just the right throw.

What is the launch sound like?
The launch sound was designed to mimic a shotgun blast (see pro testimonials). The sound is much more realistic than primers or blanks. The machine can actually be used as a shotgun simulator. Do not stand close to the launcher when firing without proper ear protection.

NOTE: During periods of high humidity and/or temperature the launcher may sound a little muffled or not be quite as loud. You can compensate for this by turning the gas valve down below 1/2 open and limiting your time in the "cocked" position to around 2 seconds. In times of extreme cold you can open the gas valve fully and let the system sit "cocked" for a little longer. This is just another great benefit of the new system and allows variable options for year round training.

How long does it take to load and reload?
It takes less than 2 minutes to load and less than 5 seconds to reload. Once you have shot all of the bumpers you only need to slide the bumpers on the tubes and walk away. It is reloaded and ready to shoot.

How do the bumpers fire?
The launcher uses a product called MAPP gas that is very similar to propane except is is normally sold in a yellow container. The cylinder is 13" long - 3" diameter and is readily available at any large retail store like WalMart, Lowes, Home Depot or local hardware store.

How many shots will it fire?
A standard gas cylinder should fire between 600 - 800 shots before needing replaced. This averages to less than 1 cent per shot.

What electronics are required?
The launcher uses the same electronics from TriTronics and Dogtra that power any other remote launching systems including Zinger Winger and Gunners Up. If you are using older Etch Marc products or single shot release systems your electronics are fully compatible with the new system.

What are the bumpers like?
The bumper size has not changed. It is exactly the same as ones that have been sold for the past 10 years. They are made from a plastic material and have a softer core. They are 13" long (about the same length as a standard throw bumper) and 2 1/2" diameter (between the large and small throw bumper diameter). If you have older Etch Marc bumpers they may be worn but should work as backup bumpers if required.

What makes the bumpers unique?
The soft core of the bumpers retains a large amount of scent while the outer covering is durable to withstand the rigors of training. The wrap material is UV resistant and will hold it's original color for many years. It is extremely durable and will not rip apart with average dog mouthing. Like any bumper, if a dog tries hard enough they can ruin, but the bumpers are very durable.

Will the launcher perform in the cold and rain?
Thousands of rounds have been fired in temperatures from 20 - 90 deg F and the launcher has been soaked with rain and freezing rain and continued to perform flawlessly. This is especially true due to the variable gas system which allows for unlimited setting options and accommodates for the widest temperature variations.