Armor Piercing Versus Steel

Published on December 19, 2024
Duration: 11:42

This video from T.A. Targets demonstrates the critical differences in steel target plate performance based on material composition and thickness, even when using barrier-defeating ammunition. The instructor, with extensive experience manufacturing steel targets since 2015, highlights that not all steel targets are created equal and unsafe targets can be deadly. The testing reveals that AR550 steel, particularly in thicker variants, significantly outperforms AR500 steel in resisting penetration from advanced military ammunition like M855A1 and M80A1, as well as historical M2 rounds. The video emphasizes the importance of choosing reputable manufacturers and understanding target limitations for safe and effective training.

Quick Summary

Steel targets are not all created equal; safety and durability depend heavily on material composition like AR550 versus AR500 steel, and thickness. Improperly designed targets can be deadly due to ricochets. Choosing reputable manufacturers and understanding target limitations is crucial for safe shooting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Steel Target Dangers
  2. 00:54Steel Targets Aren't Equal
  3. 01:20The Temptation of Price
  4. 02:00Testing Target Limits
  5. 02:21Ammunition Used: M855A1, M80A1, M2
  6. 02:31Target Plates: AR500 vs AR550
  7. 03:18Test Begins: Physics in Action
  8. 04:03Key Takeaways: Not All Steel is Equal
  9. 04:34Exodus Line: 3/8" AR550 C-Zone Performance
  10. 05:03M855A1 vs M2 on AR550
  11. 05:21M80A1 Ammunition Test
  12. 05:483/8" AR550 C-Zone Results
  13. 06:00AR550 vs AR550 Thickness Difference
  14. 06:35AR550 vs AR500 Material Difference
  15. 06:55Genesis C-Zone Plate Performance
  16. 07:00M2 Ammunition Through AR500
  17. 07:21Steel Composition Matters
  18. 07:47Testing Target Angle Impact
  19. 08:39Steeper Angle = Less Damage
  20. 08:53Adap Top Bracket Advantages
  21. 09:16Exodus Line: Premium Performance
  22. 09:21Genesis Line: Budget Entry
  23. 09:39Price Difference Justified
  24. 10:07AR550 Price Point
  25. 10:15Genesis Line: Entry-Level
  26. 10:43Choosing Your System: Genesis vs Exodus
  27. 11:04Find Systems on Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes some steel targets dangerous?

Some steel targets are dangerous due to improper design, leading to ricochets and projectiles returning to the shooter. This can happen with lower quality steel or inadequate thickness, especially when using powerful or barrier-defeating ammunition.

What is the difference between AR500 and AR550 steel for targets?

AR550 steel generally offers superior durability and resistance to penetration compared to AR500 steel, even at the same thickness. This is attributed to differences in the steel's chemical makeup and manufacturing processes, making AR550 a better choice for high-impact applications.

How does target angle affect steel target durability?

Setting steel targets at a steeper forward lean angle, such as 45 degrees, significantly increases their lifespan. This angle allows the plate to move more upon impact, dissipating energy and reducing the direct force on the steel, thus minimizing damage.

What ammunition was used in the steel target test?

The test utilized modern military small arms ammunition, specifically M855A1 and M80A1, alongside a World War II-era armor-defeating round, the M2. This range of ammunition was chosen to stress-test the steel targets.

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