· shooting targets · 13 min read

Steel Shooting Plates

In this comprehensive article, discover the ultimate guide to Steel Shooting Plates. From selecting the perfect set for your needs to maximizing your accuracy and enjoyment, our roundup offers valuable insights for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In this comprehensive article, discover the ultimate guide to Steel Shooting Plates. From selecting the perfect set for your needs to maximizing your accuracy and enjoyment, our roundup offers valuable insights for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Are you a shooting enthusiast looking to enhance your skills and make your practice sessions more exciting? Look no further! Our steel shooting plates collection offers a range of durable steel targets designed to withstand countless rounds while providing instant feedback. Say goodbye to those old paper targets and experience the thrill of high-impact, steel shooting plates. Read on to discover the perfect steel targets for your next shooting adventure.

The Top 6 Best Steel Shooting Plates

  1. Silver AR500 Bulletproof Bullseye Target - Experience the thrill of accurately hitting the 4-inch bullseye with this 1/4 inch AR500 Steel Silver Bullseye Shooting Target for a rewarding and satisfying shooting experience!

  2. Laser Trainer Steel Target [2-Pack] - LaserLyte Steel Tyme TARGET-2 Pack: Versatile, Convenient, and Fun Target Set for Fast and Precise Shot Practice, Works Indoors or Outdoors.

  3. Dialed .22 Spinner Target for Shooting Steel - Unlock shooting thrills with the .22 Dialed Spinner, a 5-area steel target designed to challenge and engage you, boasting a 4.3 rating after 6 reviews.

  4. Durable 9.5” Steel Shooting Gong Target with Stand - The SME 9.5 inch Steel Gong Target offers durability and excitement with its solid steel construction, perfect for centerfire handguns and rifles. Experience shooting you can see and hear, with a stand included for a seamless setup.

  5. AR500 Steel Shooting Target with Loud “Dinging” Noise - Experience professional-grade precision and instant feedback with the 3/8” AR500 Steel Dragon Shooting Target, designed for maximum visibility and performance.

  6. Birchwood Casey 1/2” Steel Round Target Plate for Shooting Practice - Discover the Birchwood Casey .50 round steel target, perfect for personal defense training with a high-vis white paint and compatibility with carriage bolts. Experience the satisfying “clang” of solid striking with centerfire rifles and pistols.

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Reviews

Silver AR500 Bulletproof Bullseye Target

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I recently got myself a set of the 1/4 inch AR500 Bullseye Shooting Targets by ShootingTargets7. I’ve been using them for a couple of months now and let me tell you, these targets are quite the fun addition to my shooting sessions!

The first thing that stood out to me about these targets is the unique bullseye center. When you hit the center, it gives off a distinct ringing sound which adds a fun dimension to shooting. It’s almost like a mini-competition with myself to see how many times in a row I can hit that bullseye.

The second feature that I absolutely love is their durability. I’ve shot hundreds of rounds at them so far and they still look brand new, just with a few paint splatters. This is due to the high-quality AR500 steel used in their construction.

One small issue I encountered was setting up the targets. The instructions could be a bit clearer, especially if you’re not particularly handy. Also, the packaging was a little rough, but that’s pretty standard when it comes to shipping steel targets.

All in all, I’m very happy with my purchase. The AR500 Bullseye Shooting Targets have made my shooting sessions much more engaging and rewarding. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging target to add to your shooting routine, I would definitely recommend giving these a try.

Laser Trainer Steel Target [2-Pack]

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I recently got the LaserLyte Steel Tyme TARGET-2 Pack, and I must say, it’s been a game-changer for my home practice sessions. This innovative system lets me practice my shooting skills without the noise, cost, and time constraints of going to the range. The two steel targets are compact but sturdy, allowing me to set them up on any flat surface or hang them on the wall.

One of the things I love about these targets is how versatile they are. I can practice both fast shots and precise shots, and they even help track my groupings. Plus, the LED lights and metal sound effects make hitting the target feel incredibly satisfying, while also helping me improve my accuracy.

Now, there are a few things I’d like to see improved. First, the grip on the included laser pistol is a bit smaller than most handguns, making it a little less comfortable for some people. Additionally, the trigger on the pistol isn’t as crisp or precise as my real firearms, which can be a bit frustrating when trying to hone my skills.

Overall, I’m extremely happy with the LaserLyte Steel Tyme TARGET-2 Pack. It’s an excellent tool for practicing and refining my shooting skills, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a convenient and cost-effective way to practice at home.

Dialed .22 Spinner Target for Shooting Steel

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As a shooter who enjoys practicing with my. 22 caliber rifle, the. 22 Dialed Spinner Steel Target has been an entertaining addition to my shooting sessions. This isn’t your usual static steel target; it’s designed with five different aiming areas to keep things interesting and challenging. The bright yellow and black design easily catches the eye, making it perfect for spotting where my shots land.

One of the best features of this target is its high-quality steel construction. It’s robust and able to withstand numerous rounds of shooting without warping or breaking. Not to mention that the ringing sound it makes when I hit the target is incredibly satisfying!

However, there are a few cons worth mentioning. Firstly, this target can be challenging to hit accurately due to its size, which might not be suitable for beginners or those with less accurate rifles. Secondly, it’s quite lightweight, making it prone to being blown around by the wind during outdoor shooting sessions.

Overall, the. 22 Dialed Spinner Steel Target is a must-try for seasoned shooters seeking an engaging and diverse practice experience. The combination of its unique design and solid construction makes it an excellent addition to anyone’s shooting range.

Durable 9.5” Steel Shooting Gong Target with Stand

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I’ve been using the SME 9.5” Steel Gong for a while now and although it stands out with its solid steel construction, there are some issues I’ve noticed. The target itself is incredibly sturdy, so much so that you can shoot at it all day with handguns and rifles without causing any damage. This has made our shooting sessions a whole lot more thrilling because we can see and hear how effective our shots are.

However, one major issue is with the stand. As much as I appreciate how easy it is to assemble and how included chains are, it simply doesn’t stay upright when we hit the gong. Even when we tried stabilizing it with stones, it didn’t help much. To make matters worse, after just a few outings, the stand started getting riddled with bullet holes, rendering it useless.

This product has a lot of potential but until they come up with a more durable stand, I wouldn’t recommend it to fellow shooters. If they can fix this issue, the SME 9.5” Steel Gong would be a fantastic addition to anyone’s target practice.

AR500 Steel Shooting Target with Loud “Dinging” Noise

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Sure, I’ll give it a shot!

I’ve been using this Dragon 3/8” AR500 steel shooting target by Dragon Targets for a few weeks now, and I’ve got to say, it’s been a real game-changer for my at-home shooting range.

The first thing that stands out about this target is its size. It’s about 12.75 inches by 11.5, which is perfect for a variety of shooting drills. The American AR500 steel is definitely up to par with what you’d expect from a high-quality target.

One of my favorite features of this target is the way it lets out a loud “ding” when you hit it. It’s super satisfying and lets me know exactly where my shots are going. Plus, the non-reflective white paint means there’s no glare to distract me from my shot.

The only downside for me was the fact that it doesn’t come with a carriage bolt, so you’ll need to have one on hand or order one separately. But other than that, I’ve had a great experience with this target, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to other shooters looking for a reliable and satisfying target.

Birchwood Casey 1/2” Steel Round Target Plate for Shooting Practice

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I recently had the chance to use the Birchwood Casey 1/2” x 10” NM500 Steel Round Target Plate, and I must say it’s been a game-changer for my shooting practice. This target boasts a high-vis white powder-coat paint, making it incredibly easy to see even from a distance.

What stood out most to me was the satisfying clang that echoes every time I hit the target with my centerfire rifle or pistol. It’s quite motivating and gives me immediate feedback on how well I’m doing. The square mounting holes are also a smart design choice, allowing me to secure it with carriage bolts for added stability during my practice sessions.

However, there are some cons to consider. First, the chain kit isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately if you want to hang it up. Additionally, while the target seems solid at first glance, only time will tell if it can withstand consistent shooting without becoming dented or damaged.

Overall, I’d recommend the Birchwood Casey 1/2” x 10” NM500 Steel Round Target Plate for anyone serious about their shooting practice. Its visibility, audible feedback, and secure mounting options make it a valuable tool in enhancing your skills. But remember, always practice gun safety no matter what kind of target you’re using!

Buyer’s Guide

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Important Features to Consider

When choosing steel shooting plates, there are several key features that you should consider. Firstly, look for plates made of high-quality steel with a strong thickness to ensure durability and resilience against impacts. Secondly, consider the size and weight of the plate. Larger and heavier plates can offer more area for shooting but may be more challenging to move or position at your range. Thirdly, pay attention to the coating on the steel. A good-quality coating can provide corrosion resistance and increase the longevity of your shooting plate.

Considerations for Safety and Maintenance

Safety is paramount when using steel shooting plates. Look for plates with a bright color or reflective tape, making them highly visible and easy to spot during shooting sessions. In terms of maintenance, ensure that you store your steel shooting plates in a dry and protected area when not in use, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rusting. Periodically inspect your plates for signs of damage or wear and replace them if necessary.

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Choosing the Right Configuration

Steel shooting plates come in various configurations, such as single stand-alone plates, multi-plate racks, or dueling tree setups. Consider your intended use and available space when selecting the appropriate configuration. For example, multi-plate racks are ideal for practice sessions with multiple targets, while dueling tree setups can offer more dynamic shooting experiences by simulating moving targets.

Benefits of Steel Shooting Plates

  • Provide instant visual and auditory feedback upon being hit, allowing you to improve your accuracy and timing while shooting.

  • Can be used with a variety of firearms and ammunition types, making them versatile tools for practice.

  • Offer a more environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional paper or cardboard targets, as they are reusable and reduce waste.

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FAQ

What are steel shooting plates and how are they used?

Steel shooting plates are steel targets designed for firearms practice or competition. They are used to enhance accuracy and range proficiency by simulating real-world shooting scenarios. Some common uses for steel shooting plates include training for self-defense, tactical scenarios, and sport shooting competitions.

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What are the benefits of using steel shooting plates over paper or cardboard targets?

Steel shooting plates offer several advantages over traditional paper or cardboard targets. Steel targets provide instantaneous feedback on shot accuracy, as they ring or visibly move upon impact. Additionally, they can withstand more shots without needing replacement, making them cost-effective in the long run. Lastly, steel targets are more environmentally friendly, as they prevent the waste generated by disposing of paper or cardboard targets.

What are the different types of steel shooting plates?

There are several types of steel shooting plates, including:

  • Round gongs: Most commonly used and available in various sizes, these circular targets offer versatility for shooters.

  • Poppers: Designed to fall or pivot when struck, these targets add an element of excitement and challenge to shooting practice.

  • Swingers: Similar to poppers, these targets swing back and forth when struck, offering another engaging option for shooters.

  • E-targets: Electronically activated steel targets that light up or emit a sound upon impact, making them ideal for low-light conditions or night shoots.

  • Dueling trees: A series of vertical paddles that rotate upon being hit, dueling trees test a shooter’s speed and accuracy in a unique and entertaining format.

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How should steel shooting plates be maintained to ensure longevity?

To prolong the life of steel shooting plates, it’s essential to follow proper maintenance procedures. This includes:

  • Store targets in a manner that prevents rust or corrosion, such as using a waterproof cover or keeping them in a controlled environment.

  • Regularly inspect targets for signs of damage or wear, and replace any severely damaged components.

  • Only use lead-free ammunition to prevent damage to the target surface and to minimize environmental impact.

  • Clean targets by wiping them with a soft cloth and an appropriate cleaner, ensuring that the surface remains free of debris and contaminants.

What safety precautions should be taken when using steel shooting plates?

It’s crucial to prioritize safety when using steel shooting plates. Observe the following guidelines:

  • Always wear appropriate eye and ear protection while engaging targets.

  • Maintain a safe distance from the target to minimize the risk of ricochets or flying debris, typically at least 10 yards for handguns and 100 yards for rifles.

  • Store and transport targets in a secure manner, preventing unintended movement or potential injury.

  • Adhere to all local, state, and federal firearms laws and regulations, including those pertaining to noise management and proper disposal of spent ammunition.

How are steel shooting plates installed and cared for at an outdoor range?

To install and care for steel shooting plates at an outdoor range, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a suitable location that meets minimum safe distance requirements and does not present hazards to nearby property or individuals.

  2. Set up a stable, secure support system for the targets, using materials such as steel posts or heavy-duty mounts that can withstand impact forces.

  3. Periodically inspect targets and support systems for signs of wear or damage, ensuring that they remain safe and functional for use.

  4. Clean and maintain the range area, removing any debris, vegetation, or other obstructions that could obstruct visibility or hinder safe shooting practices.

  5. Properly dispose of spent ammunition and other waste materials, following all applicable environmental protection guidelines.

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