Everything about shooting steel targets

Published on October 4, 2014
Duration: 23:13

This video thoroughly examines steel target safety and performance, debunking myths about AR550 superiority over AR500 for most rifle calibers. It highlights the extreme danger of mild steel due to cratering and ricochet risks. Recommendations include specific distances for rifle (100+ yards) and handgun (7-10 yards) use, and proper target canting to deflect fragments safely.

Quick Summary

Mild steel is dangerous for targets because it craters deeply, creating jagged edges that can cause bullet fragments to ricochet back at the shooter. AR500 and AR550 steel offer superior durability with minimal cratering for rifle rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Steel Targets
  2. 01:30The Dangers of Mild Steel
  3. 04:56AR500 vs. AR550 Performance
  4. 08:56Target Thickness and Longevity
  5. 12:11Safe Shooting Distances
  6. 14:35Manufacturing: Laser vs. Water Jet
  7. 15:52Interactive Targets and Mounting
  8. 20:05Cost Effectiveness and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mild steel safe for shooting targets?

No, mild steel is extremely dangerous for target practice. It craters deeply when hit by rifle rounds, creating jagged edges that can trap and ricochet bullet fragments directly back at the shooter, posing a severe safety hazard.

What is the difference between AR500 and AR550 steel targets?

For standard rifle calibers, there is negligible performance difference between AR500 and AR550 steel targets. Both resist cratering significantly better than mild steel, with only minor paint chipping observed in testing.

What are the recommended safe shooting distances for steel targets?

For rifles, maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards to minimize plate wear and fragment risk. For handguns, a safe distance is typically between 7 and 10 yards.

How should steel targets be angled for safety?

Steel targets should be canted forward. This angle helps deflect the majority of bullet fragments and splatter safely into the ground, away from the shooter and bystanders.

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