Shooting Steel Safely

Published on September 10, 2016
Duration: 15:27

This guide details safe practices for shooting steel targets, drawing on the expertise of Hickok45. It emphasizes critical safety measures like proper eye protection, minimum engagement distances for both handguns and rifles, and the importance of using AR500 steel to prevent dangerous ricochets and splashback. The video highlights the advantages of swinging targets over flat plates for improved safety.

Quick Summary

When shooting steel targets, always prioritize safety by wearing wrap-around eye protection. For handguns, maintain at least 11 yards, and for rifles, a minimum of 100 yards from AR500 steel. AR500 is preferred over mild steel due to its resistance to cratering, which prevents dangerous splashback and ricochets. Swinging targets are also safer than flat plates.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Steel Safety
  2. 01:45Evolution of Target Design
  3. 03:35The Advantage of Swinging Targets
  4. 05:20Steel Hardness (AR500)
  5. 06:20Distance and Demonstration
  6. 11:00Rifle Considerations
  7. 13:15Final Safety Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum safe distance for shooting steel targets with a handgun?

For handguns, a minimum distance of 11 yards is recommended when shooting steel targets. This helps to mitigate the risk of splashback and ricochets, ensuring a safer shooting environment for everyone on the range.

Why is AR500 steel recommended over mild steel for targets?

AR500 steel is significantly harder and more durable than mild steel. Mild steel can develop craters that act like bowls, potentially redirecting bullets back at the shooter. AR500 resists cratering, causing fragments to splash safely to the sides.

What is the primary safety concern when shooting steel targets?

The primary safety concern is splashback or ricochets from bullet impacts. High-quality, wrap-around eye protection is the most critical safety requirement to prevent serious injury from these deflected fragments.

What is the recommended distance for shooting steel targets with rifles?

For high-powered rifles, it is recommended to engage AR500 steel targets from a minimum distance of 100 yards. This distance helps prevent excessive target damage (pitting) and ensures safety by reducing the velocity of any potential fragments.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from hickok45

View all →