Can AR500 handle armor piercing rounds?

Published on December 6, 2024
Duration: 0:59

This video from TA Targets tests the durability of their 3/8 inch AR500 Genesis C-Zone steel target against armor-piercing rounds, specifically M855A1 and 30 caliber black tip AP. While the AR500 plate shows significant resistance, it is explicitly not rated for AP rounds. The test demonstrates that M855A1 rounds deform the plate, while 30 caliber AP rounds cause a pass-through and deep gouging, highlighting the limitations of even high-quality AR500 steel against specialized ammunition.

Quick Summary

AR500 steel targets, like the 3/8 inch TA Targets Genesis C-Zone, are highly durable but not designed to stop armor-piercing (AP) rounds. Tests show M855A1 deforms the surface, while 30 caliber AP rounds can penetrate and cause significant gouging, highlighting the limitations of AR500 against specialized ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Testing AR500 Against Armor Piercing Rounds
  2. 00:15Shooting Demonstration on Steel Target
  3. 00:27Impact Analysis and Results
  4. 00:39Genesis Target Quality and Limitations
  5. 00:54Conclusion on Genesis Line

Frequently Asked Questions

Can AR500 steel targets stop armor-piercing rounds?

While AR500 steel, especially 3/8 inch thickness, is highly durable, it is not rated to stop all armor-piercing (AP) rounds. Tests show that while some AP rounds like M855A1 may deform the surface, more potent AP rounds can penetrate and cause significant damage to AR500 targets.

What is the difference between M855A1 and 30 caliber black tip AP rounds on AR500 steel?

In testing, M855A1 rounds tended to deform and 'chew up' the surface of a 3/8 inch AR500 steel target. In contrast, 30 caliber black tip armor-piercing rounds were shown to cause a pass-through and significantly gouge the target plate.

Are TA Targets Genesis AR500 steel targets safe for all types of ammunition?

TA Targets states that their Genesis line of 3/8 inch AR500 steel targets are robust and high-quality, but they are explicitly not rated for armor-piercing rounds. They are designed for standard rifle and pistol calibers within specified distance ratings.

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