Most steel targets stop at .338 Lapua. The 6" 3/4" AR500 50 BMG Steel Target does not. Built from 3/4" AR500 steel, this gong is engineered specifically for the extreme impact energy of 50 BMG, .416 Barrett and .408 CheyTac at extended distances. It is the thickest, hardest target in the ShootSteel lineup and the only one rated for the calibers that end conversations about what a steel target can handle. Ranked the number one AR500 steel target by LynxDefense.
The gong design positions the chain and mounting hardware behind the target face rather than in the impact zone, which protects them from splash and keeps your setup running without hardware failures or unplanned downtime. The 6" face accepts 5/8" mounting bolts and ships unpainted so you can apply your preferred color before the first session. Every round counts at these distances and on these cartridges. Use standard lead-core, copper-jacketed or brass solid ammunition only. Armor-piercing, API and steel-core rounds are not rated for this target regardless of distance. Not sure which thickness is right for your cartridge? Consult our Cartridge Guide.
What's Included
- (1) 6" gong target, 3/4" AR500, accepts 5/8" mounting bolts
- Not included: Chain, mounting hardware, 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 if pitting is observed
Always verify safe distances based on your specific load and barrel length. Always use quality eye and ear protection. Ensure a proper backstop is in place behind the target. Remove nearby objects to prevent ricochet or splash damage. Inspect the target and all mounting hardware before every session. Replace any plate that shows cratering or severe pitting. Repaint regularly to track impacts and monitor surface health.
FAQs
Why does this target require 3/4" steel when most targets use 1/2"?
50 BMG and comparable big-bore cartridges generate impact energy levels that exceed what 1/2" AR500 can absorb safely over time. The 3/4" thickness provides the additional mass and depth needed to handle that energy without cratering or penetrating. Attempting to shoot 50 BMG at a 1/2" target, even at distance, risks plate failure and creates unsafe splash conditions.
What is the difference between ball, brass solid and AP ammunition on this target?
Ball ammunition uses a standard lead-core copper-jacketed projectile, which deforms on impact and transfers energy across the plate face. Brass solids are harder and denser, which is why they require greater minimum distances even though they are not armor-piercing. AP and API rounds are specifically engineered to penetrate hardened steel and are not rated for this target at any distance. Using AP or API ammunition on any steel target is a safety violation regardless of range.
Why does the gong design protect the chain and hardware?
At 50 BMG distances, splash from a direct hit still carries significant energy when it contacts hardware in the impact zone. Chains and quick links mounted in front of the plate face on a standard hanging setup get hit repeatedly and fatigue quickly on big-bore targets. The gong profile on this target keeps the chain and mounting hardware behind the face and out of the direct splash path, extending hardware life and reducing the frequency of replacements.
Can I shoot smaller rifle cartridges at this target?
Yes. The 3/4" AR500 plate handles any cartridge rated for thinner AR500 targets within the standard minimum distances. The 3/4" thickness simply means the target will outlast lighter-spec plates under the same fire. It is over-built for pistol and standard rifle use, which is not a problem.
What mounting hardware does this target require?
The target accepts 5/8" mounting bolts. Chain, quick links and mounting hardware are not included and are sold separately.
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 at extended distances.
Is this product made in the United States?
Yes. Our targets are manufactured in the United States.
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.
- Heavy-duty steel target rated for 50 BMG, built from 3/4” AR500 steel. Designed to protect chains and hardware, reducing downtime and extending lifespan. Ideal for long-range shooters using big bore calibers.
