1/2" AR500 6" Steel Gong Target

The 1/2" AR500 6" Steel Gong Target is a compact steel shooting target built for precision pistol drills, carbine transitions and longer-distance rifle shooting. The 6" round gong is CNC laser-cut from 1/2" domestic AR500 steel and gives shooters a smaller strike face when they want a more demanding target. Chain, hangers and mounting hardware are not included. Made in the USA.

The 6" diameter makes this AR500 steel gong a practical choice for accuracy-focused range work without taking up much space in a target setup. CNC laser-cutting controls the heat-affected zone more precisely than plasma cutting, helping preserve hardness around the plate edge while creating a clean perimeter. The target is rated for all centerfire handguns and rifle cartridges up to .338 Lapua Magnum when used at the specified minimum shooting distances.

These plates may have light surface patina from storage. This does not affect the structural integrity, hardness or rated performance of the target. Apply a coat of Shoot Steel Target Paint before your first session for improved visibility downrange and added surface protection.

For chain and mounting hardware, see the 15" Steel Chain Mounting Kit or the Rubber Chain Mounting Kit.

What's Included

• (1) 6" round gong target, 1/2" AR500, CNC laser-cut
• Required, not included: Chain, hangers and mounting hardware
• Not included: Paint

Safety and Usage

Minimum shooting distances:

• Centerfire handgun: 10 yards minimum
• Rifle at or below 3,000 fps muzzle velocity: 100 yards minimum
• Rifle above 3,000 fps muzzle velocity: 200 yards minimum
• .338 Lapua Magnum: 200 yards minimum
• Increase distance any time you observe pitting on the target face

Always shoot perpendicular to the target face. Use at least Grade 5 mounting hardware. Use quality eye and ear protection. Inspect the plate before every session and replace any plate that shows cratering or severe pitting. Repaint regularly to track impacts and monitor surface health. No steel-core, armor-piercing or tracer ammunition.

FAQs

What calibers is this target rated for?
The 6" gong is rated for all centerfire handguns and rifle cartridges up to .338 Lapua Magnum when used at the proper minimum distance. Centerfire handguns require at least 10 yards. Rifles at or below 3,000 fps require at least 100 yards, while rifles above 3,000 fps and .338 Lapua Magnum require at least 200 yards.

Why choose a 6" gong target?
The compact 6" strike face creates a smaller aiming area than larger gong targets, making it useful for precision pistol drills, carbine transitions and longer-distance rifle shooting where tighter shot placement is the goal.

Why might the plate have surface patina?
AR500 steel can develop light surface oxidation when exposed to air and moisture during storage. This is a surface-level condition and does not affect the hardness, structural integrity or rated performance of the plate. Painting the target before use restores visibility downrange and helps protect the surface.

What chain and mounting hardware do I need?
Chain, hangers and mounting hardware are not included. Compatible options include the 15" Steel Chain Mounting Kit and the Rubber Chain Mounting Kit.

Why is the target CNC laser-cut instead of plasma-cut?
CNC laser-cutting provides more precise control of the heat-affected zone than plasma cutting, helping preserve hardness around the plate edge while creating a cleaner perimeter and more predictable splatter behavior on impact.

Does this target ship painted?
No. All ShootSteel targets ship unpainted. White and bright orange offer the best contrast downrange for tracking hits.

Is this product made in the United States?
Yes. This target is manufactured in the United States from domestic AR500 steel.

Do you warranty your products?
Yes. We stand behind our products.

Personal and Recreational Use

• Target plates: covered against manufacturing and material defects for 90 days from date of delivery
• Welds: covered for 1 year from date of delivery
• Coverage includes weld integrity, materials and workmanship

Commercial and Range Use

• All components: covered against manufacturing and material defects for 90 days from date of purchase
• Coverage includes weld integrity, materials and workmanship
• Normal wear, pitting, cratering and target face degradation are not covered

To qualify for warranty coverage, targets must be used and maintained in accordance with ShootSteel safety and distance guidelines, including:

• No steel-core, armor-piercing or tracer ammunition
• Minimum recommended distances observed at all times
• Target mounted to ShootSteel specifications

ShootSteel reserves the right to request photos or inspection of any claimed item prior to approval. Misuse and abuse are not covered. Need a copy of our safety guidelines? Email us.

To start a warranty claim, contact customerservice@shootsteel.com with your order number and photos.