3/8" AR500 28" Pepper Popper with Base

The 3/8" AR500 28" Pepper Popper with Base is a fall-down steel target built to USPSA Mini Popper dimensions for competition training, handgun drills and rifle practice at the proper distances. The 28" target is CNC laser-cut from domestic 3/8" AR500 steel and mounts to a 9.25"x24" zinc-plated steel base. A solid hit knocks the target flat for clear visual and audible feedback, then it resets manually by tipping it back upright. Made in the USA.

The complete system weighs approximately 29 lbs. and includes all mounting hardware. Four 1/2" stake holes in the base let you secure the system to the ground, while the bottom adjustment bolt allows you to adjust target sensitivity and resistance. The target plate ships unpainted for easy repainting between sessions, while the zinc-plated base provides added corrosion resistance. Not sure which target thickness is right for your cartridge? Check the Shoot Steel Cartridge Guide.

What's Included

• (1) 28" Pepper Popper target, CNC laser-cut from domestic 3/8" AR500 steel
• (1) 9.25"x24" zinc-plated steel base
• Bottom adjustment bolt
• All mounting hardware
• Not included: Paint
• Not included: Stakes

Assembly

Attach the 28" target to the zinc-plated base using the included mounting hardware. The base includes four 1/2" stake holes for securing the system to suitable terrain. Use the bottom adjustment bolt to set the desired target sensitivity and resistance before shooting.

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
• Maximum rated cartridges: .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor
• Increase distance any time you observe pitting on the target face

Always shoot perpendicular to the target face. Use quality eye and ear protection. Inspect the target, base, adjustment hardware and mounting components before every session. Replace any component that shows cratering, severe pitting or structural damage. Repaint regularly to track impacts and monitor surface health. No steel-core, armor-piercing or tracer ammunition.

FAQs

Is this target built to USPSA Mini Popper dimensions?
Yes. The 28" Pepper Popper is designed to match USPSA Mini Popper dimensions for competition-focused training. You can review the USPSA Competition Rules for current competition requirements.

How does the target reset?
This is a manual fall-down target. A solid hit knocks the popper flat. To reset it, walk downrange when the range is safe and tip the target upright again. For a target that remains upright during use, see the 28" Static Pepper Popper.

What does the adjustment bolt do?
The bottom adjustment bolt allows you to change the target's sensitivity and resistance, letting you tune how easily the popper falls when struck.

What calibers is this target rated for?
The target is rated for centerfire handguns and centerfire rifles through .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor when used at the proper minimum shooting distances.

How much does the complete target weigh?
The assembled target and base weigh approximately 29 lbs., providing enough mass for a stable setup while remaining manageable for range setup and takedown.

Does the base need to be staked down?
The zinc-plated base includes four 1/2" stake holes so it can be secured to suitable terrain. HD Spikes are available separately.

Does this target ship painted?
No. Shoot Steel targets ship unpainted. White and bright orange provide strong contrast downrange for tracking hits.

Is this product made in the United States?
Yes. This product 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.