1/2" AR500 Steel Silhouette Gong Target

The 1/2" AR500 Steel Silhouette Gong Target is available in 9"x15", 12"x20" and 18"x30" sizes for pistol, rifle and long-range shooting. Each silhouette is CNC laser-cut from domestic 1/2" AR500 steel and rated for all centerfire handguns and rifle cartridges up to .338 Lapua Magnum when used at the specified minimum shooting distances. Choose the target size that fits your range distance, visibility needs and training setup. Targets ship unpainted without chain, hanger, stand or mounting hardware. Made in the USA.

CNC laser-cutting helps control the heat-affected zone around the plate perimeter and preserve hardness at the edges. These silhouette gong targets are designed to hang from chain, allowing the plate to move when hit while providing visible and audible feedback downrange. LynxDefense reviewed Shoot Steel targets here.

For setup, pair the target with the 15" Steel Chain Mounting Kit and a 2x4 A-frame or Rigid Conduit Gong Stand. The 2" EMT Gong Stand Kit uses 2" EMT for the crossbar and 1.25" EMT for the legs. For the 9"x15" and 12"x20" silhouettes, T-Post Gong Hangers with two standard T-posts and chain provide another portable mounting option.

What's Included

• (1) Silhouette gong target, 1/2" AR500, CNC laser-cut
• Choice of 9"x15", 12"x20" or 18"x30" size
• Not included: Chain, hanger, stand 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 and mounting system 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 the 1/2" AR500 silhouette gong rated for?
The target is rated for all centerfire handguns at a minimum of 10 yards and rifle cartridges up to .338 Lapua Magnum at a minimum of 200 yards. Rifles at or below 3,000 fps muzzle velocity have a minimum starting distance of 100 yards, while rifles above 3,000 fps require at least 200 yards. Increase distance any time you observe pitting on the target face.

What size should I choose?
The 9"x15" provides the smallest strike face for precision-focused drills and more compact range setups. The 12"x20" offers a larger aiming area for mixed pistol and rifle training. The 18"x30" provides the largest strike face for longer distances, faster transitions and setups where increased downrange visibility is important.

What is the best way to hang this target?
The target can be paired with the 15" Steel Chain Mounting Kit and a compatible 2x4 A-frame, Rigid Conduit Gong Stand or 2" EMT Gong Stand Kit. The 9"x15" and 12"x20" sizes are also compatible with T-Post Gong Hangers using two standard T-posts and chain.

Why is the target CNC laser-cut?
CNC laser-cutting helps control the heat-affected zone around the perimeter of the target, preserving hardness at the plate edge while producing a clean, consistent cut.

Does this target include chain or mounting hardware?
No. The silhouette target ships by itself so you can choose the hanging system that works for your range. Chain, hangers, stands and mounting hardware are sold separately.

Does this target ship painted?
No. All Shoot Steel targets ship unpainted. White and bright orange offer strong 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 Shoot Steel safety and distance guidelines, including:

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

Shoot Steel 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.