While many people fear shooting steel targets because of the risk of ricochets, they can be extremely safe when used correctly. Always use proper ammunition, a suitable target holder, and a safe shooting distance.
Whether you’re practicing for self-defense or looking to add challenge and fun to your range practice, steel targets are a great option.
Table of Contents
What Is AR500 Steel?
AR500 steel is a high-grade, impact-resistant, heat-treated material used for various applications. Its hardness, measured by Brinell, is around 500 on the scale, significantly higher than the 120-180 BHN of mild steel.
The defining ingredient of AR500 is carbon, which helps explain why it can withstand so much impact and abrasion. The high level of carbon also makes it tough to corrode.
Always opt for Origin Target Systems AR500 plates that have been appropriately heat-treated when purchasing targets. Cheaper targets may be made with laser cutters and don’t meet the same standards.
Investing in quality AR500 steel targets will ensure they can withstand thousands of rounds while providing valuable feedback and challenge for everyone from hobby shooters to government agencies. Remember to hang your targets correctly and to observe a minimum safe distance to avoid dangerous ricochets. Also, regularly inspect your targets for damage like dents and pitting.
What Is The Hardness Of AR500 Steel?
AR500 is a brutal metal that resists impacts very well. This makes it an excellent material for shooting targets that take a beating and must be durable. It also means that they can be used with handgun and rifle calibers without needing to be replaced frequently.
Following manufacturer guidelines and using common sense when shooting steel targets is essential. It’s important to avoid using armor-piercing ammunition and stand a sufficient distance from the target to reduce the risk of ricochet accidents.
An adequately mounted target should be angled so that any ricochet hits the ground at an angle that will not affect the shooter or anyone nearby. This angling also reduces distortion of the target and prolongs its lifespan. Moving the target regularly and keeping it clean is also an excellent idea to minimize the chances of a dangerous ricochet accident.
How Do AR500 Targets Work?
Many types of ammunition are safe to shoot at steel targets, but some rounds, such as hollow-point or steel core ammo, will damage the target and possibly harm people behind it. The thickness and hardness of the steel target will determine how it reacts to bullet impact. In general, a steel target that can be hit repeatedly should be at least 10 yards from the shooter to prevent ricochets that could be dangerous.
The more complex the target, the more likely it will be to rebound a bullet in a safe direction after being hit. It is also essential that the target is hung or mounted properly to avoid potentially dangerous ricochets. If a target can swing, for example, it should be angled downward to help reduce the risk of ricochets that may strike the shooter or bystanders. Steel targets are easy to set up and take down, so you can spend more time shooting and less time preparing and repairing them.
What Is The Best AR500 Target?
Depending on the type of target you are looking for, there is a wide variety to choose from. The best AR500 targets are 3/8’’ thick and robust enough to handle bullet impacts without denting or damaging the target. A 6’’ gong is perfect for pistols, while rifle calibers do fine with a 12’’ target. Your target will depend on the firearm you are shooting, as certain ammunition types (including armor-piercing) may cause dangerous ricochets.
Always shoot steel targets safely away from others at the range to reduce the risk of ricochets. Also, remember to clean your targets regularly to prevent lead accumulation and other debris. Steel targets are an excellent way to improve your training and have more fun at the range.
