Why Choose Home Made Steel Targets?
The satisfying *clang* of steel ringing out across the range – a sound that tells a story of hits, improved accuracy, and the sheer fun of shooting. While store-bought steel targets offer this experience, building your own home made steel targets provides a fantastic opportunity to save money, personalize your shooting practice, and take pride in the results. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can safely and effectively create your own durable and reliable targets.
The appeal of steel targets extends far beyond their satisfying sound. They offer a range of advantages over traditional paper targets, and when built at home, these advantages become even more compelling. Let’s explore the key reasons to consider home made steel targets.
Cost Savings
This is perhaps the most significant benefit. Commercial steel targets can be surprisingly expensive. Purchasing AR500 steel, along with the necessary hardware, can be significantly more affordable, especially if you’re building multiple targets or want a variety of sizes and shapes. You’ll find that the initial investment pays off quickly, as these targets are designed for longevity.
Customization
The freedom to design and build targets according to your specific needs is a major advantage. You can choose the ideal size, shape, and design to match your shooting style and training goals. Need a specific size for your pistol practice? Want to challenge yourself with a unique silhouette target? With home made steel targets, the possibilities are nearly limitless. You control the design, making your shooting experience truly personalized.
Durability and Longevity
Unlike paper targets, which deteriorate rapidly, steel targets are designed to withstand countless rounds. The impact of a bullet simply marks the surface, and with proper care, your targets can last for years, even decades. This long-term durability makes them a much more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Immediate Feedback
The instant feedback provided by steel targets is invaluable for shooters of all skill levels. You immediately know whether you’ve hit your target, allowing you to adjust your aim and refine your technique in real-time. This constant feedback helps accelerate the learning process and makes practice sessions more engaging and productive. The instant gratification of the “clang” is also a powerful motivator!
Fun and Satisfaction
There’s a unique sense of accomplishment that comes with building something yourself, and the satisfaction of using your own home made steel targets is undeniable. It combines the joy of the shooting sport with the pride of a successful DIY project. It’s a rewarding experience from start to finish.
Safety First: Essential Considerations
Before you even think about cutting steel, safety must be your top priority. Shooting steel targets is inherently safe when proper precautions are taken, but it’s essential to understand and adhere to these principles.
Eye and Ear Protection
This is non-negotiable. Always wear appropriate eye protection, such as safety glasses or shooting glasses, to shield your eyes from ricochets and debris. Effective hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, is equally crucial to protect your hearing from the loud impacts.
Proper Range Setup
Your range setup directly impacts safety. First, ensure you have a safe backstop. This could be an earth berm, a designated backstop built from steel, or another material specifically designed to contain bullets. The backstop needs to be robust enough to stop any errant shots. Then, maintain safe distances appropriate for the type of firearm and ammunition you’re using. Refer to the caliber chart for recommended ranges. An important consideration is the impact angle. Aim to hit the steel at an angle that helps deflect bullets downward and away from the shooter and other people.
Type of Steel
The steel you use is critical for safety and target longevity.
AR500/AR550 Steel
This is the gold standard for steel targets. AR500 (or AR550, which is slightly harder) is a hardened steel specifically designed to withstand the impact of bullets. It’s incredibly durable and significantly reduces the risk of damage or dangerous fragmentation. Make sure you purchase steel from a reputable supplier to ensure that you’re getting genuine AR500/AR550 steel, it will often be stamped with markings.
Avoid Mild Steel
Avoid using mild steel or other non-hardened steels. Mild steel is too soft and will quickly pit, crater, and even shatter under the impact of bullets, creating dangerous conditions.
Bullet Type Considerations
The ammunition you use also affects safety.
Recommended Ammunition Types
Use ammunition that is appropriate for the steel targets and the range distance you choose. Generally, lead core bullets are safe to use. However, always follow the guidance of your range.
Avoid Steel Core or Armor-Piercing Ammunition
These types of bullets are designed to penetrate hardened steel, and they can damage or even penetrate your targets. They also increase the risk of dangerous ricochets.
Regular Inspections
Inspect your targets regularly before and after each shooting session. Look for signs of damage such as pitting, craters, or bulging. If you find any damage, remove the target from service immediately and either replace it or, if possible, repair it (depending on the severity of the damage).
Materials Needed
Gathering the right materials is the next step. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need to get started.
Steel Plates
AR500/AR550 steel plates are the foundation of your project.
Sourcing
Local steel suppliers are a good starting point. You can usually find them by searching online. Alternatively, online retailers specialize in AR500 steel. Price and availability may vary, so compare options before making a purchase.
Thickness
The appropriate steel thickness depends on the calibers you intend to use. For pistol calibers, plates thick are typically suitable. For rifle calibers, plates thick are generally recommended. Always err on the side of caution and choose a thicker plate if you are unsure.
Cutting and Preparation
You’ll need a method to cut and shape your steel plates.
Cutting Methods
If you have access to a plasma cutter, CNC machine, or water jet, these are all excellent options for precision cutting. Each method offers different degrees of precision and speed.
Alternative Cutting
If you don’t have access to these tools, you can often have your steel plates cut to your specifications by a local metal fabrication shop. Another option is to use a grinder with metal cutting wheels.
Mounting Hardware
Choose the right hardware to hang your targets securely.
Methods for Mounting
You can hang your targets using chains, bolts, or purpose-built target hangers. The choice depends on the design of your targets.
Materials for Hanging Systems
Chains or heavy-duty straps are common choices. For bolt-on systems, you’ll need appropriate-sized bolts and washers. Make sure the hardware is robust enough to withstand repeated impacts.
Tools
You’ll need the right tools for the job.
Cutting, Drilling, and Finishing
A drill, grinder, and potentially welding equipment (if you plan to weld any mounting hardware) are essential.
Safety Equipment
(Mentioned above, but always include here) Make sure you have your eye and ear protection ready.
Building Your Steel Targets: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to building your home made steel targets. Remember to always prioritize safety.
Design and Planning
Before you start cutting, create a plan. Sketch out the size, shape, and design of your targets. Consider what calibers you intend to shoot and determine the appropriate target thickness. Determine how you will attach the mounting hardware.
Cutting the Steel
Using your chosen cutting method, cut the steel plates to your desired shapes. If using a plasma cutter or grinder, follow safety guidelines and take your time.
Drilling Holes
Use a drill to create holes for mounting. Carefully measure and mark the locations for the holes. Make sure the holes are the appropriate size for your mounting hardware. Drilling on a drill press makes this task easier.
Finishing
(Optional) Remove any sharp edges or burrs from the cut edges using a grinder. This will help to reduce the risk of injury. Consider painting the targets to improve visibility and protect the steel from the elements.
Assembly
Attach your mounting hardware to the target. If using chains, attach them using bolts or other appropriate fasteners.
Target Designs and Ideas
Here are some ideas to get you started.
Basic Round Targets
These are simple and easy to make. Just cut a round plate of AR500 steel, drill a few holes for hanging, and you’re ready to shoot.
Silhouette Targets
These are great for practicing with various firearms. Cut steel into the shape of a torso or a complete humanoid silhouette.
Reactive Targets
Swinging and falling plate targets add more fun and challenge to your shooting sessions.
Other target ideas
Gongs, plate racks and dueling trees are also great options. Consider experimenting and trying new designs.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance extends the life of your home made steel targets and ensures safe use.
Inspecting for Damage
Regularly inspect your targets for damage, checking the front and the back.
Cleaning
Remove any debris or lead build-up after each shooting session. This can usually be done by scraping with a putty knife or using a wire brush.
Painting/Coating
Applying paint or a protective coating can improve visibility.
Repainting and Maintenance
Reapply paint as needed to maintain visibility. Replace or repair targets if you find damage.
Conclusion
Building your own home made steel targets is a rewarding project that offers both cost savings and a more personalized shooting experience. With a little effort and attention to safety, you can create a durable, long-lasting target system that will enhance your shooting practice for years to come. So, gather your materials, follow the steps in this guide, and enjoy the satisfying ring of steel.
Remember to always prioritize safety and be responsible with your firearms. Have fun, and happy shooting!
