Description

Built for high-volume training and close-range precision. The Hardox® ½″ AR550 Short Range Rifle Target delivers unmatched durability for law enforcement, military, and professional range environments. The 12″ x 20″ plate and all-steel base are designed for repeated rifle impact at 50 yards and beyond, with a fixed 40° forward angle that deflects energy and minimizes pitting.

Each component is CNC laser-cut from premium Swedish AR steel to maintain hardness, control heat-affected zones, and ensure consistent performance under heavy fire. The system assembles using two 3/4″ wrenches, sets up and takes down tool-free, and features a wide, low-profile stance for exceptional stability on uneven ground.

This setup eliminates wood posts, bolts, target mounting and weak points found in traditional designs, resulting in a cleaner ring on impact and minimal maintenance between sessions. Manufactured in the United States under U.S. Patent No. 10,001,350.

*Distance and Use Guidelines:

• Centerfire rifles up to .308: 50 yards minimum.
• Increase distance if you observe pitting or cratering.
• Always maintain a 40° forward angle for safe splatter deflection.
• Use only high-quality, lead-core ammunition.

Use quality eye and ear protection, inspect targets before use and replace any plate that shows cratering or severe pitting. Repaint regularly to track impacts and surface health.

What’s Included

• (1) 12″ × 20″ Target, ½” AR550, CNC laser-cut
• (1) All-steel base with fixed 40° angled mount
• (1) Upright assembly, 3/8″ AR500
• (1) Hardware kit
• Not included: Paint

FAQs

Why is this package designed for short-range rifle use?
The 40° forward tilt directs energy downward, allowing safe engagement at closer distances while preserving target life. It’s ideal for controlled environments where professional shooters train with rifles at 50 yards or greater.

Why AR550 instead of AR500?
AR550 offers greater surface hardness and impact resistance, reducing pitting and maintaining a smooth face even under high-velocity fire.

Can I use pistols on this target?
No. We do not recommend using pistols on this target. It is optimized for rifle training. See our other static targets designed specifically for handgun use.

How is laser-cutting better?
CNC laser-cutting tightly controls the heat-affected zone, preserves hardness at the edge and yields a cleaner perimeter than plasma cutting. This means longer plate life and safer splatter.

What makes this system easy to use?
This system is built for fast, hassle-free setup. The base and upright lock together without tools, bolts, or wood posts, creating a solid steel frame that’s ready in seconds. The target plate drops securely into place and automatically tilts forward at the correct angle, so you spend more time shooting and less time adjusting or repairing your setup.

Does it require tools to assemble?
Yes. Assembly requires two 3/4″ wrenches. Once assembled, no tools are needed for regular setup or takedown.

Does it ship painted?
No. We ship unpainted so you can apply your preferred color. White or bright orange offer the best contrast downrange.

Is this product made in the United States?
Yes. This product is manufactured in the United States using premium Swedish AR550 steel.

Do you warranty your products?
Yes. We stand behind our products.

Personal/Recreational Use

• Products used for personal or recreational shooting are covered against manufacturing or material defects from the date of delivery as follows: wear items, including target plates, for 90 days; welds for 1 year. This warranty covers weld integrity, materials and workmanship.

Commercial/Range Use

• Products used in a commercial range or training environment are covered against manufacturing or material defects for a period of 90 days from the date of purchase. This warranty covers weld integrity, materials and workmanship.
• Due to the high-volume and high-impact nature of range use, normal wear, pitting, cratering, or target face degradation are not covered under this warranty.

To qualify for coverage, targets must be used and maintained in accordance with ShootSteel safety and distance guidelines, including:

• No use of steel-core, armor-piercing, or tracer ammunition
• Minimum recommended distances observed
• Target mounted to ShootSteel specifications

ShootSteel reserves the right to request photos or inspection of any claimed item prior to approval.

Misuse or abuse is not covered. Use targets per the safety guidelines on our website and in the instruction sheet. Need a copy? Email us.

Start a claim: Contact customerservice@shootsteel.com with your order number and photos.