3/4" AR500 50 BMG Steel Target | Big Bore Gong

The 3/4" AR500 50 BMG Steel Target is built for shooters who need a reliable, full-size strike zone at the extended distances required for big-bore cartridges. Constructed from 3/4" AR500 steel, this target is designed to handle the extreme impact energy of 50 BMG, .416 Barrett and .408 CheyTac without cratering when used at recommended distances. Ranked the number one AR500 steel target by LynxDefense.

Available sizes:

• 6" Gong
• 12" Gong
• 12" x 20" Silhouette
• 18" x 30" Silhouette

The gong profile keeps the chain and 5/8" mounting hardware behind the target face and out of the direct splash path, protecting components from repeated impact and extending hardware life. Ships unpainted. Not sure which thickness is right for your cartridge? Consult our Cartridge Guide.

Optional Mounting Kit (Add-On)

Add the 50 BMG Gong Mounting Kit for a complete hanging solution compatible with the Complete 60" HD Gong Stand. This kit uses reinforced rubber chain to absorb the extreme energy transfer from big-bore impacts, reducing stress on mounting hardware and allowing the target to swing freely.

Standard steel chain is not recommended for 50 BMG applications, as it transfers impact energy directly into the hardware and accelerates wear. Rubber chain significantly extends the life of your mounting system under repeated heavy impacts.

Rubber chain length: 16" hole-to-hole (18" overall)

What's Included

Target (default):

• (1) 3/4" AR500 steel target plate
• Accepts 5/8" mounting hardware
• Not included: Chain, mounting hardware, paint

Mounting Kit (if selected):

• (2) BMG rubber chains
• (2) 5/8" bolts
• (2) 5/8" Nylock nuts
• (2) 5/8" washers
• (2) 1/2" quick links
• (2) 3/8" quick links
• Not included: Stand, target plate, paint

Safety and Usage

Minimum shooting distances by cartridge:

• 50 BMG ball and brass solids: 300 yards minimum
• 50 BMG AP and API: Not rated
• .416 and .408 lead-core: 300 yards minimum
• .416 and .408 brass solids: 400 yards minimum
• Increase distance based on your specific load and barrel length

Use only lead-core, copper-jacketed or brass solid ammunition. Do not use armor-piercing, API or steel-core rounds. Always wear proper eye and ear protection and ensure a safe backstop is in place. Inspect targets and mounting components before every use. Replace any plate that shows cratering or severe pitting. Repaint regularly to track impacts and monitor surface condition.

FAQs

Do I need the mounting kit?
The target ships as a standalone plate. If you do not already have a compatible hanging setup, the 50 BMG mounting kit is recommended for proper performance and hardware longevity.

Why use rubber chain for 50 BMG?
Rubber chain absorbs a portion of the impact energy before it reaches the mounting hardware, reducing wear and extending the life of your setup. Steel chain transfers that energy directly and fatigues much faster under big-bore use.

What calibers is this rated for?
50 BMG ball and brass solids at 300 yards minimum, .416 and .408 lead-core at 300 yards minimum, and .416 and .408 brass solids at 400 yards minimum. AP and API rounds are not rated.

Can I use smaller calibers?
Yes. This target can safely handle smaller calibers at their recommended distances. The increased thickness simply provides additional durability and longevity.

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 visibility.

Is this made in the USA?
Yes. All ShootSteel targets and mounting solutions are manufactured in the United States.

Warranty

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

Wear items, including mounting components such as rubber chain and hardware, are subject to normal degradation over time and are not covered beyond manufacturing defects.

To qualify for warranty coverage, products 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 and mounting systems installed to ShootSteel specifications

ShootSteel reserves the right to request photos or inspection of any claimed item prior to approval. Misuse, abuse and improper setup are not covered.

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