Understanding Steel Targets

There are so many great benefits of using an AR500 steel target. They provide instant feedback, are efficient when on a range, durable, and can be used in a variety of places. Like with most things, it’s important to understand the steel target to protect yourself and those around you. Alliant Metals wants to provide our customers with as many details as possible about steel targets, and here are a few things you should be aware of:

Target angles

For many steel targets, you don’t necessarily have to place it at an angle to use it safely. These targets are designed for high impact resistance but there are always circumstances where the conditions are not ideal and may lead to injury from ricochet or splatter particularly if the shooter is too close.  Therefore, leaning the target forward anywhere from 5 to 30 degrees can significantly reduce the chance of ricocheted bullets or splatter.  However, it is safer still to hang the target using chains with nuts/bolts as the impact of the bullet hitting the target forces the target to angle and deflects the bullet.

Shooting distances, bullet, speed, and gun considerations

Though steel gong and silhouette targets can be used in a variety of settings, they are created differently and have different specifications for use.  Visit our website to view our product warnings.  This simple step could prevent any potentially dangerous activity or injury.   As a general rule, the higher the caliber ammo the further standing distance away before shooting.  On a static target at least 15 yards from the target is standing distance for a handgun vs 100 yards distance for a rifle shot.

Wear protective clothing

As always, Alliant Metals encourages our customers to practice standard safety precautions while using our steel targets. Long sleeves, pants, safety glasses, and ear protection are suggested and often required at shooting ranges.  Though steel targets are a safe shooting accessory if used correctly, protection should always be a top priority for you the shooter and for all spectators!

Alliant Metals carries a variety of steel gong and silhouette targets to choose from! We provide our customers with the information they need to make an informed decision about their purchase and understand the limitations of our targets to safeguard against injury.

With more questions about our steel targets, please contact our experts today by calling (800) 543-1453.

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