Hardox® 1/2″ AR550 5" Steel Target with Rubber Strap

This AR550 steel target package includes a 5" static steel target cut from Hardox® 1/2" AR550 steel, along with an 8" rubber chain mounting system and all required hardware for 2x4-based installation.

The 8" rubber strap creates a highly reactive target system that delivers strong visual and audible feedback on impact. The design requires drilling a mounting hole through a standard 2x4, with clearance underneath to allow the rubber strap to flex and absorb energy. This setup keeps the chain seated flush against the 2x4 for a consistent swinging motion while preventing lateral shifting of the target face during use.

For best performance and stability, use standard 2x4 lumber or EMT conduit for your stand system. Our 2x4 gong brackets work well for dedicated wood setups, while 2x4 hybrid brackets allow integration with conduit legs for increased durability and longer service life, especially on shorter crossmember builds.

Designed for rugged field use, this system is rated for all centerfire handgun cartridges and rifle cartridges up to .338 Lapua Magnum at 200 yards minimum. AR550 steel provides improved resistance to pitting compared to AR500, particularly with higher velocity rounds such as .223/5.56 NATO. If you are unsure about appropriate target thickness for your caliber, consult our Cartridge Guide. Targets ship unpainted. Manufactured in the United States.

What's Included

• (1) 5" static steel target, Hardox® 1/2" AR550 steel
• (1) 8" rubber chain mounting system
• Mounting hardware for 2x4 installation
• Not included: 2x4 lumber or stand structure

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
• .338 Lapua Magnum: 200 yards minimum

Always shoot perpendicular to the target face. Use quality eye and ear protection. Inspect all components before each session and replace any part showing damage, cracking or excessive wear. Do not use steel-core, armor-piercing or tracer ammunition.

FAQs

What makes Hardox® AR550 different from standard AR500?
Hardox® AR550 steel offers increased hardness and improved resistance to surface deformation and pitting, especially under higher velocity rifle impacts.

How does the rubber chain mounting system work?
The rubber strap absorbs impact energy while allowing controlled movement of the target. This reduces stress on mounting hardware and produces consistent reactive feedback.

What lumber do I need?
Standard 2x4 lumber is required for mounting. You may also use EMT conduit with compatible brackets for increased durability.

Is this system compatible with rifle use?
Yes. This package is rated for centerfire rifles up to .338 Lapua Magnum when used at recommended distances.

Does this product ship painted?
No. All targets ship unpainted. High-visibility paint is recommended for impact tracking.

Is this product made in the United States?
Yes. All components 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 and mounting components: covered for 1 year from date of delivery
• Coverage includes materials and workmanship

Commercial and Range Use

• All components: covered against manufacturing and material defects for 90 days from date of purchase
• Coverage includes materials and workmanship
• Normal wear, pitting and surface degradation are not covered

To qualify for warranty coverage, products must be used in accordance with safety guidelines, including:

• No steel-core, armor-piercing or tracer ammunition
• Minimum recommended distances observed at all times
• Targets mounted to specifications

ShootSteel 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.