Why AR500 Steel Is the Gold Standard for Shooting Targets
If you're serious about shooting practice, you already know that paper targets get old fast. AR500 steel shooting targets are the go-to choice for competitive shooters, hunters, and range enthusiasts who want instant audible feedback, durability that lasts thousands of rounds, and targets that don't need constant replacement.
But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best AR500 targets for your setup? This guide breaks it all down.
What Makes a Great AR500 Steel Target?
Not all steel targets are created equal. Here's what separates the best from the rest:
- Steel Grade: True AR500 steel is hardened to 500 Brinell hardness. Avoid cheaper AR400 or mild steel — they dent, pit, and become dangerous much faster.
- Thickness: 3/8" is the sweet spot for most rifle calibers up to .308 Win at 100+ yards. Thinner steel is fine for pistol calibers at close range.
- USA Manufacturing: Domestically made targets use certified AR500 plate and consistent quality control. Imported steel often has inconsistent hardness ratings.
- Target Shape: Silhouettes, gongs, and combo sets each serve different training purposes. Silhouettes are great for realistic practice; gongs give satisfying audible feedback at distance.
Our Best AR500 Steel Targets – Reviewed
1. 3/8" AR500 Steel Static Silhouette Shooting Target Package – USA Made
This is our most popular target for a reason. The full-body silhouette shape gives you realistic training feedback, and the 3/8" AR500 plate handles everything from 9mm to .308 Win. Made right here in the USA from certified AR500 steel plate. Perfect for IDPA practice, law enforcement training, or just having fun at the range.
Best for: Rifle and pistol practice, realistic silhouette training
Caliber rating: Up to .308 Win at 100+ yards
2. 3/8" AR500 Steel Shooting Target Gong Sets – 4, 5 & 6 Piece – USA Made
Our gong sets are the best value for shooters who want variety. Choose from 4-piece, 5-piece, or 6-piece sets with multiple gong sizes. The satisfying "ring" of steel on impact makes these a range favorite. All gongs are laser-cut from certified 3/8" AR500 plate and include hanging hardware.
Best for: Distance shooting, audible feedback, group range days
Caliber rating: Up to .308 Win at 100+ yards
3. 3/8" AR500 Steel Shooting Target Bundle – 21 Piece – USA Made
The ultimate range setup. This 21-piece bundle includes silhouettes, gongs, and all the hardware you need to get shooting immediately. If you're outfitting a range or want the most complete AR500 target system available, this is it.
Best for: Range owners, serious shooters, gift sets
Caliber rating: Up to .308 Win at 100+ yards
Safe Distances for AR500 Steel Targets
Always follow safe standoff distances to prevent dangerous spatter:
- Pistol calibers (.45 ACP, 9mm, etc.): Minimum 10 yards
- .223 / 5.56: Minimum 100 yards on 3/8" AR500
- .308 Win / 7.62: Minimum 100 yards on 3/8" AR500
- Magnum rifle calibers: 200+ yards recommended
Never shoot steel targets with steel-core or armor-piercing ammunition.
How to Hang AR500 Steel Targets
The best setup uses a slight forward angle (5–20 degrees) so spatter deflects downward rather than back toward the shooter. Our target packages include hanging chain and hardware designed for this purpose.
Why Buy from EricEiz.com?
All of our AR500 steel targets are USA made from certified AR500 plate — not imported knockoffs. We cut, finish, and ship from the US, so you get consistent quality every time. Plus, our bundles include the hardware you need to get shooting the same day your order arrives.
Ready to upgrade your range setup? Shop our full AR500 target collection and find the best AR500 targets for your caliber, distance, and budget.