3/8" AR500 16" Steel Static Popper

The 3/8" AR500 16" Steel Static Popper is a portable steel target system built for high-volume pistol training and short-action rifle use. The 16"x8" target mounts to a stab-in base that drives directly into suitable ground, giving you a fast setup without a separate target stand. High-strength springs between the target and base absorb impact energy while helping keep the plate upright through repeated hits. Made in the USA from domestic AR500 steel.

The target is CNC laser-cut from 3/8" AR500 steel and includes pre-cut mounting points for the included Grade 5 1/2" hardware. Each hit produces audible steel feedback, while the spring-mounted design helps reduce stress transferred into the base and mounting hardware. The target is rated for all pistol cartridges and short-action rifles through .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor at the proper minimum distances. Not sure which thickness is right for your cartridge? Check the Shoot Steel Cartridge Guide.

What's Included

• (1) 16"x8" popper target, CNC laser-cut from domestic 3/8" AR500 steel
• (1) Stab-in base with high-strength springs
• Grade 5 1/2" mounting hardware
• Not included: Paint

Assembly

Drive the stab-in base securely into suitable soil, then attach the target using the included Grade 5 1/2" mounting hardware. The base requires ground soft enough to accept the stake and is not designed for concrete, gravel or other surfaces where the base cannot be driven securely into the ground.

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, springs, base and mounting hardware 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

How does the stab-in base work?
The base drives directly into suitable soil, eliminating the need for a separate stand. Once the base is secure, attach the target and mounting hardware. Hard-packed ground, gravel and concrete are not compatible with the stab-in design.

What do the springs between the target and base do?
The springs absorb some of the impact energy transferred from the plate, reducing stress on the mounting hardware and base while allowing slight target movement and audible feedback.

What calibers is this target rated for?
The target is rated for all pistol cartridges at 10 yards minimum and short-action rifles through .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor at 100 yards minimum. Rifles above 3,000 fps require at least 200 yards.

What size is the target?
The AR500 popper target measures 16"x8" and is 3/8" thick.

What mounting hardware is included?
The target includes Grade 5 1/2" mounting hardware for attaching the plate to the stab-in base.

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.