Free Steel Targets Testing

Published on August 16, 2024
Duration: 8:02

This video tests the durability of various steel targets, including expensive AR500 and free options like railroad plates, exercise bike flywheels, and bean cans, against .22LR, 9mm, and AK-47 rounds. It highlights that while budget steel can suffice for pistol calibers, rifle rounds necessitate investing in robust AR500 steel for safe and effective use. Proper target angling is emphasized for safety.

Quick Summary

For budget-conscious shooters, free steel targets like railroad plates or exercise bike flywheels can work for pistol rounds and .22LR. However, for rifle calibers, investing in robust AR500 steel is essential for durability and safety. Always angle steel targets downwards to direct ricochets safely into the ground.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Budget Steel Target Options
  2. 00:21Expensive Option: AR500 Steel Plate
  3. 00:33Pistol-Rated Steel Plate
  4. 00:39Free Options: Bean Can & Railroad Plate
  5. 01:10Target Lineup and Setup
  6. 01:25Testing with .22LR Pistol
  7. 02:15Testing with 9mm Pistol
  8. 03:22Testing with AK-47 Rifle
  9. 05:10Rifle Round Impact Analysis
  10. 06:51Target Angling for Safety
  11. 07:13Conclusion: Budget vs. Investment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best free steel target options for budget shooters?

For budget-conscious shooters, free steel targets like old railroad plates, exercise bike flywheels, or even sturdy metal cans can be effective for pistol rounds and .22LR ammunition. However, these are not suitable for rifle calibers.

How does AR500 steel perform against rifle rounds compared to other steel targets?

AR500 steel, particularly 1/2 inch thick, is highly durable and designed to withstand repeated impacts from rifle rounds like those from an AK-47 without significant damage. Thinner steel plates rated for pistols or found steel items will likely be penetrated or severely cratered by rifle fire.

What is the most important safety consideration when using steel targets?

The most critical safety rule for steel targets is to ensure they are always angled downwards towards the ground. This directs any potential ricochets safely into the earth, preventing them from traveling back towards the shooter or bystanders.

Can a simple baked bean can be used as a reliable steel target?

While a baked bean can can be shot, it's not a great target for plinking because it's easily penetrated by most rounds, and the can itself doesn't move much upon impact, making it difficult to verify a hit. It's best suited for .22LR or very light pistol rounds.

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