How to Choose the Right Steel Target: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide

Selecting the right steel target requires balancing three factors: Thickness, Type, and Intended Use. Shooters should select 1/4" AR500 for rimfire/light pistol use, 3/8" AR500 for general pistol and rifle use (up to .308), and 1/2" AR550 for high-velocity magnum rifles or heavy commercial range use.

Steel targets have become the standard for modern training because they offer what paper cannot: durability and immediate auditory feedback. However, buying steel involves more than just picking a shape that looks cool.

If you buy steel that is too thin, you will punch a hole through it. If you buy steel that is too thick, you are wasting money on weight you don't need.

Here is the Shoot Steel 3-Step Guide to buying the right gear the first time.

Step 1: Choose Your Armor (Thickness & Material)

The thickness of the steel dictates what calibers it can withstand. This is a safety issue, so don't skimp here.

• 1/4" AR500 (The Lightweight): Designed strictly for Rimfire (.22LR) and standard Handguns (9mm, .45ACP). Do not shoot centerfire rifles at this thickness. Shop Rimfire Targets
• 3/8" AR500 (The Workhorse): The industry standard. Perfect for almost all pistols and centerfire rifles up to .308 at 100+ yards. If you want one target to do it all, this is it. Shop 3/8" Targets
• 1/2" AR550 (The Tank): Designed for heavy magnum rifles (30-06, .300 Win Mag) or high-volume commercial ranges. The AR550 rating makes it harder and more resistant to pitting from high-velocity rounds (like 5.56). Shop 1/2" Targets

Still unsure? Check our detailed Cartridge Rating Guide .

Step 2: Choose Your Mission (Target Type)

Once you know your thickness, you need to pick a shape that matches your training goal.

1. Static Gongs (Precision & Long Range)

What they are: Simple plates with mounting holes hung from chains or straps.

Best For: Long-range rifle work. When you are shooting at 300+ yards, you want a consistent "face" to shoot at. The "ring" is your confirmation.

Recommendation: The 3-Gong Package is the best way to set up a variable distance range instantly.

2. Silhouettes (Tactical & Defensive)

What they are: Targets shaped like a human torso (IPSC/IDPA standards).

Best For: Law Enforcement, Military, and Self-Defense training. They simulate a realistic threat area.

Recommendation: The 1/2″ Short-Range Armadillo is the gold standard for Close Quarters Battle (CQB) training because it safely deflects spall downwards, allowing for closer engagement.

3. Reactive Poppers (Instant Feedback)

What they are: Targets that fall backward, spring back, or spin when hit.

Best For: "Go/No-Go" drills. In a gunfight or competition, you shoot until the threat is down. Poppers teach you to verify the target is neutralized before moving on.

Recommendation: Auto-Poppers are excellent because they reset themselves—no walking downrange required.

Step 3: Choose Your Difficulty (Size)

Size matters, but smaller is often better for training.

• Beginners (12" - 18"): Start large to build confidence and get on paper (or steel) quickly.
• Intermediates (8" - 10"): The sweet spot for general purpose training.
• Experts (4" - 6"): "Aim Small, Miss Small." If you can hit a 4" gong at 100 yards, a deer's vital zone will look massive in the field.

Step 4: Logistics (How will you move it?)

Steel is heavy. Before you buy a 125lb system, ask yourself: "Am I leaving this on the range, or putting it in my trunk?"

• For Portable Ranges: Look for our Static Target Stand or T-Post Hangers. These break down into small pieces and utilize wood/posts you can buy on-site.
• For Permanent Ranges: Invest in the Full-Size Texas Star or heavy Gong Stands that can weather the elements year-round.