Steel Target Selection
🔫BULLETS VS AR500🎯
TARGET THICKNESS CALCULATOR
Calculate Your FPE
Use the bullet energy calculator above to find your bullets energy.
Enter bullet speed at target or muzzle velocity for a worst-case scenario.
Tip: If you don’t know bullet speed or weight, Google “[Your Ammo] + Ballistics” or check the ammo box.
Chatbot: Our chatbot (lower left) knows all popular ammunition and what thickness targets you'll need.
Just ask it.
The Case For Steel Targets
🗽Veteran Owned & Operated | USA-Made AR500
Steel targets have a higher upfront cost than paper, but they’re a lifelong investment in sharpening your shooting skills.
Ammo is expensive, have more fun shooting and get better training in less time with steel targets!
Instant feedback as sound and movement
Shooting steel is far more engaging than paper
Experts agree steel provides better training in less time
🎯 Target Thickness Guide
| Steel / Thickness | AR400 1/8" | AR400 3/16" | AR500 1/4" | AR600 5/16" | AR500 3/8" | AR500 1/2" | AR500 5/8" |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Bullet Energy | 150 ft lbs | 300 ft lbs | 700 ft lbs | 1750 ft lbs | 2100 ft lbs | 4000 ft lbs | 8000 ft lbs |
| Max Bullet Speed(at Target) | 2850 fps | 2850 fps | 2850 fps | 3000 fps | 2850 fps | 2850 fps | 2850 fps |
| Typical Use | PCP / Pellet / .22LR | .22LR / Air < 300 fpe | Pistol < 700 fpe | Rifle / Pistol < 1750 fpe | Rifle < 2100 fpe | Rifle < 4000 fpe | Rifle < 8000 fpe |
Golden Rules
Follow the golden rules and your targets will last a lifetime.
No steel-core or steel-jacketed ammo
Keep bullet speed under 2850 fps at impact
Choose target thickness to match your ammo (see table)
Angle targets downward to improve safety and longevity
Ball ammo is easiest on targets
Always wear safety glasses
