1/2" AR500 Static Silhouette Target | 9"x15" or 12"x20"

The 1/2" AR500 Static Silhouette Target is a no-compromise plate built for shooters who run hard cartridges and need targets that last. Available in 9"x15" and 12"x20", both options are CNC laser-cut from 1/2" AR500 steel to minimize the heat-affected zone and preserve hardness all the way to the edge. That edge quality is what separates these from cheaper plasma-cut targets that soften at the perimeter and wear faster under sustained fire. Independently ranked the number one AR500 steel target by LynxDefense. Manufactured in the United States.

Mount to a steel post, 2x4 or any compatible structure using a standard 1/2" carriage bolt. The pre-drilled mounting hole accepts 1/2" hardware so the target is ready to hang straight out of the box. The silhouette profile works equally well for pistol fundamentals, carbine drills and long-range rifle work, giving clubs, instructors and home range builders one target that covers the full spectrum of centerfire training. Not sure which thickness is right for your cartridge? Consult our Cartridge Guide.

What's Included

• (1) Silhouette target in your choice of size: 9"x15" or 12"x20", 1/2" AR500, CNC laser-cut
• Not included: Mounting hardware, paint

Safety and Usage

Minimum shooting distances:

• Centerfire handgun: 10 yards minimum
• Centerfire rifle at or below 2,800 fps muzzle velocity: 100 yards minimum; increase distance if pitting is observed
• Centerfire rifle above 2,800 fps muzzle velocity: 150 yards minimum; increase distance if pitting is observed
• Long-action rifle cartridges: 200 yards minimum
• Maximum rated cartridge: .300 Win Mag
• Always shoot perpendicular to the target face

Always use quality eye and ear protection. Inspect the target and mounting hardware before every session. Replace any plate that shows cratering or severe pitting. Repaint regularly to track impacts and monitor surface health.

FAQs

What is the difference between the 9"x15" and 12"x20" options?
Both are 1/2" AR500 with the same silhouette profile and mounting hole. The 12"x20" presents a larger strike zone that is easier to see at distance and better suited for high-volume training where target visibility matters. The 9"x15" is more portable at a lighter weight and works well for shooters who prioritize mobility or want a smaller hit zone to increase drill difficulty.

What calibers is this target rated for?
Centerfire handguns at 10 yards minimum and centerfire rifles up to .300 Win Mag. For muzzle velocities above 2,800 fps, increase distance to 150 yards minimum. For long-action rifle cartridges, 200 yards is the minimum. For cartridges above .300 Win Mag, see our 1/2" AR550 target options for maximum longevity.

How do I mount this target?
The pre-drilled mounting hole accepts a standard 1/2" carriage bolt. Mount directly to a steel post, 2x4 upright or any compatible structure. No special brackets or hardware are required beyond a 1/2" carriage bolt and the appropriate fasteners for your mounting surface.

Why 1/2" instead of 3/8" for this target?
The 1/2" thickness extends plate life under sustained rifle fire and handles the higher impact energy of cartridges up to .300 Win Mag that would damage a 3/8" plate over time. For shooters who run primarily pistol cartridges, 3/8" AR500 is sufficient. For anyone pushing into magnum rifle territory, 1/2" is the right choice.

Why CNC laser-cut instead of plasma cut?
Laser-cutting controls the heat-affected zone at the cut edge, preserving AR500 hardness all the way to the perimeter. Plasma cutting introduces more heat, softening the edge and reducing plate life under repeated impact. The difference compounds over thousands of rounds, particularly on the edges and corners of a silhouette profile.

Does it ship painted?
No. The target ships as bare steel so you can apply your preferred color. White and bright orange provide the best downrange visibility.

Is this product made in the United States?
Yes. Our targets are manufactured in the United States using premium 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 from high-volume or high-impact use 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
• Targets 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. Use targets per the safety guidelines on our website and in the included instruction sheet. Need a copy? Email us.

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