· shooting targets · 12 min read

Steel Rifle Targets

Shop the best steel rifle targets available today for optimal precision and durability. Our product roundup offers a curated selection of top steel targets designed to enhance your shooting experience and last through countless rounds.

Shop the best steel rifle targets available today for optimal precision and durability. Our product roundup offers a curated selection of top steel targets designed to enhance your shooting experience and last through countless rounds.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on steel rifle targets. In this article, we’ll discuss the various types, benefits, and safety considerations to keep in mind when choosing the perfect target for your shooting needs. Whether you’re an experienced marksman or just starting, we’ve got you covered. So, buckle up, grab your rifle, and let’s dive into the world of steel rifle targets!

Throughout this article, you’ll find detailed reviews and comparisons of the most popular steel targets on the market, helping you make an informed decision when investing in your next target. Furthermore, we’ll provide useful tips and tricks to get the most out of your steel rifle targets and ensure a safe and enjoyable shooting experience. So, keep reading to discover what steel rifle targets can do for your sharpshooting skills!

The Top 5 Best Steel Rifle Targets

  1. Coyote Shape AR5000 Steel Target for Practicing Pest Control - The CTS Targets AR500 Steel Coyote Target, made from 3/8 inch durable AR500 steel and featuring (2) 1/2 inch carriage bolt holes for easy hanging, is perfect for enhancing your pest control practice with a realistic 40 inch x 22 inch target size.

  2. Birchwood Casey .22 Rimfire Resetting Target - Experience seamless target practice with the Birchwood Casey Gallery .22 Rimfire Resetting Target, a durable steel design featuring automatic reset and compatibility with both rimfire rifles and handguns, offering hours of fun and easy setup.

  3. RangeMaxx Rimfire Triple Spinner Target - Durable Steel Shooting Target - Experience unforgettable accuracy training and fun with RangeMaxx Rimfire Triple Spinner Targets, featuring heavy-duty steel construction and audible-visual hit indicators for satisfying rimfire target practice sessions.

  4. Ping-Pong Interactive Resetting Target for Rimfire or Air Guns - Allen Target-Resetting Steel Target Black: Fun, interactive, and easy-to-set up, perfect for adding a thrilling edge to your target practice.

  5. Birchwood Casey 66% IPSC Rifle Steel Target - Experience the satisfying “clang” of a solid hit with the high-vis, 1/2” steel Birchwood Casey IPSC Silhouette Target, perfect for personal defense and target practice training for centerfire rifles and pistols.

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Reviews

Coyote Shape AR5000 Steel Target for Practicing Pest Control

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I recently got my hands on the CTS Targets AR500 Steel Coyote Target and let me tell you, this is a game-changer in my backyard shooting adventures! The 40 inch x 22 inch size makes it incredibly realistic for pest control practice, adding an extra layer of authenticity to my training sessions.

The AR500 steel construction is no joke, providing maximum durability and a solid feel that instills confidence in every shot. And speaking of shots, the 3/8 inch thick steel stands up to quite a beating. I’ve seen it take hits from. 223 Remington all the way up to. 308 Winchester, with barely a scratch to show for it.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the weight. This bad boy weighs in at 36.5 pounds, so be sure you’ve got some sturdy mounting options ready before you hang it. Trust me, you don’t want to wrestle with this one after you’ve got it all set up!

In terms of user reviews, it’s clear that this target has earned its place in the heart of many shooters. From praising its durability and realism to appreciating its “gong” sound upon impact, it’s hard to find something not to love about this product.

But of course, no product is perfect. Some users have mentioned that the price tag can be a bit steep for some budgets. However, considering the quality and performance you’re getting, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re serious about upping your shooting game.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable and realistic steel target for your shooting practice, the CTS Targets AR500 Steel Coyote Target is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared to handle its hefty weight - both literally and figuratively!

Birchwood Casey .22 Rimfire Resetting Target

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As a reviewer who has spent hours enjoying my Birchwood Casey Gallery. 22 Rimfire Resetting Target, I can confidently say that this is one of the most entertaining and hassle-free targets I’ve ever used. The innovative twist design allows for quick and easy resetting, making it an excellent choice for those who want a more dynamic shooting experience.

One of the standout features of this target is its rugged construction. The solid steel build not only ensures durability but also adds to the overall appeal of the target. Additionally, the lack of welds contributes to the target’s longevity, as there are no weak points that can easily break.

Unfortunately, setting up the target can be a bit challenging at first. It requires some tweaking to achieve the ideal angle for optimal performance, but once you get it right, the target provides hours of fun and entertainment.

In terms of compatibility, the target works best with. 22 rimfire rifles and handguns. While it does support airguns, it’s crucial to follow the provided guidelines to prevent any unnecessary damage to the target.

Overall, the Birchwood Casey Gallery. 22 Rimfire Resetting Target is an excellent choice for shooting enthusiasts who want to add some excitement to their target practice. Its resettable design, high-quality construction, and compatibility with various firearms make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve their skills or simply enjoy some leisurely plinking.

RangeMaxx Rimfire Triple Spinner Target - Durable Steel Shooting Target

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I recently picked up the RangeMaxx Rimfire Spinner Targets and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer for my rimfire firearms practice. These steel targets are not only a lot of fun but also incredibly practical for improving shot placement. The spinning action on the targets gives both audible and visual feedback when you hit them, making it easy to see how well you’re doing.

One of the best things about these targets is their heavy-duty powder-coated steel construction. This not only ensures they’ll last long but also keeps them looking good after countless shots. The swivel legs are also a nice touch, making setup and storage a breeze.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks. Firstly, the targets are relatively small, which can make them a bit challenging to hit at longer ranges. Secondly, they’re designed specifically for rimfire calibers, so if you’re using anything else, you might need to look elsewhere.

Overall, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the RangeMaxx Rimfire Spinner Targets. They’re well-made, easy to use, and perfect for anyone looking to improve their accuracy and shot placement with rimfire firearms.

Ping-Pong Interactive Resetting Target for Rimfire or Air Guns

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I recently purchased the Allen Target-Resetting Steel Target Black, and I must say, it’s been a game-changer for my weekly target practice sessions. The metal resetting target is not only well-built but also incredibly fun to use. Hitting those four lower gallery targets and then firing at the top one to reset it gives me that satisfying “ping” sound that lets me know I hit my mark.

One of the highlights of this product is undoubtedly its solid steel construction. It’s as sturdy as they come, making it durable enough to withstand countless shots without showing any signs of wear and tear. Plus, setting it up takes mere seconds, and when I’m finished, I can easily fold it flat for convenient storage.

However, there’s a slight downside to this otherwise fantastic target. The targets themselves are about 1” in diameter with a bright orange center, which may be slightly small for some people using handguns. But for those who prefer air guns or rimfire rifles, this shouldn’t be an issue at all.

In conclusion, the Allen Target-Resetting Steel Target Black has definitely added a new level of excitement and challenge to my target practice routine. Its solid steel construction and quick reset feature make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience.

Birchwood Casey 66% IPSC Rifle Steel Target

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I’ve been using the Birchwood Casey 1/2” Steel Target for a while now, and it’s definitely been an enjoyable addition to my shooting range. The high-vis white powder-coat paint makes it super easy to see, even from a distance, and the satisfying clang it emits every time I hit it solidly with my rifle or pistol is surprisingly gratifying.

The sturdy 1/2” steel construction is what really sets this target apart. It’s rated for centerfire rifles and pistols, making it incredibly versatile. Plus, the square mounting holes make it compatible with standard carriage bolts (not included), so setting it up is a breeze.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks. After firing about 50-60 rounds of a mix of different calibers, some users have reported minor damage to the target. One user mentioned that after several rounds of high-caliber shots, the target may become vulnerable to penetration.

Overall, the Birchwood Casey 1/2” Steel Target is an excellent choice for personal defense training, as well as just having some plain old fun at the shooting range. It’s durable, easy to set up, and highly visible. With a little care and some good quality ammo, this target should provide hours of enjoyment and challenging practice.

Buyer’s Guide

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Important Features

When choosing steel rifle targets, consider these important features:

  • Size of the target: Steel targets come in various sizes. Choose a size that suits your shooting distance and skill level.

  • Sturdiness: Durable steel targets can withstand high-velocity shots without warping, dinging, or getting damaged too quickly.

  • Thickness: Thicker steel targets provide more impact resistance and can last longer than thinner ones.

  • Safety Features: Some steel targets have features like self-healing or bullet-traps to contain ricochets, making them safer to use.

Considerations

Before purchasing a steel rifle target, think about:

  • Your Budget: Steel targets can range from affordable to expensive depending on size, thickness, and added safety features.

  • Your Shooting Needs: Determine the type of shooting you’ll be doing and the distance you’ll be shooting from.

  • Storage and Transport: If you frequently move to different shooting locations, opt for a lightweight or foldable target.

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General Advice

Here are some tips for using and maintaining your steel rifle targets:

  1. Wear Eye Protection: Steel targets can occasionally throw metal fragments when hit, so always wear protective eyewear.

  2. Avoid Overheating: After prolonged use, steel targets can become too hot to touch. Allow them to cool down before resuming firing.

  3. Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your target for signs of wear or damage, including rust, dents, or warping. Replace it if necessary.

Conclusion

Steel rifle targets offer a satisfying way to practice shooting accuracy and enjoy the thrill of hitting a steel plate. By considering the important features, your needs, and following these general guidelines, you’ll be able to choose the right steel target for your shooting experience.

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FAQ

What are steel rifle targets?

Steel rifle targets are sturdy, metal targets specifically designed for shooting practice with firearms such as rifles. They are built from high-quality steel and usually come in various shapes, sizes, and designs to cater to different skill levels and shooting requirements.

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How do steel rifle targets benefit shooters?

Steel rifle targets offer several benefits to shooters. They provide instant audio feedback upon being hit, helping shooters to adjust their aim and technique. Steel targets are extremely durable and can withstand hundreds of shots, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. In addition, steel targets can be easily reset, providing a continuous shooting experience.

What types of steel rifle targets are available?

There are several types of steel rifle targets available in the market. Some popular options include:

  • Gongs: These are circular targets with various diameters, ranging from 4 to 12 inches.

  • Plates: Flat, square or rectangular targets that come in various sizes and configurations.

  • Poppers: These are spring-loaded targets that pop back up or fall when shot, offering a unique and exciting shooting experience.

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The recommended shooting distance for steel rifle targets depends on the target’s size and design. Generally, it is advisable to maintain a safe distance of at least 100 yards for large targets (12-inch gongs or larger) and 50 yards for smaller targets (4-inch gongs or smaller). However, always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure that you are following proper safety guidelines when engaging in shooting practice.

Are steel rifle targets safe for indoor use?

It is not recommended to use steel rifle targets indoors. Steel targets can produce sparks and fragments upon being hit, which could be hazardous in enclosed spaces. To ensure the safety of yourself and others, always use steel rifle targets in outdoor settings, away from flammable materials and structures.

How should I maintain my steel rifle target?

To maintain the longevity and performance of your steel rifle target, it is essential to inspect it regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Keeping the target clean and free of debris is crucial, as accumulated dirt and grime can reduce the accuracy of your shots. Additionally, apply a protective coat of paint or rust-resistant treatment to the target to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance.

What is the ideal caliber for shooting steel targets?

The ideal caliber for shooting steel targets varies depending on the target’s size and design. In general, it is recommended to use calibers between. 22 and. 308 for shooting at steel targets. However, always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure that you are using an appropriate caliber for your specific target to prevent damaging it or posing a safety risk.

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