Steel Shooting Targets

Rafael Collier
11 min readMar 22, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the best steel shooting targets! Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a newcomer to the world of target shooting, finding the right gear is essential. In this article, we’ll explore a range of high-quality steel targets that are designed to withstand even the most intense practice sessions. Get ready to hone your skills and make your mark with our top picks for steel shooting targets.

The Top 6 Best Steel Shooting Targets

  1. Realistic Spring-loaded Prairie Dog Target for .22 Caliber Firearms — Experience a true-to-life shooting session with the Do-All Outdoors 22pp .22 Prairie Popper Steel Target, boasting long-lasting, self-resealing target technology and rated for all calibers, rifles, and pistols.
  2. High Visibility Steel Target for Shooting Practice: Full Size IPSC Silhouette Target — Caldwell AR500 Full Size IPSC Steel Target — 1116705: The ultimate bright, easy-to-see, durable, and high-capacity steel target for competition training and recreational use, rated for up to 3,000 FPS impact velocity and 3,500 ft-lbs impact energy.
  3. Durable Rimfire Rifle Steel Target for Precise Shooting — Upgrade your rimfire range with the Champion Impact Steel Coyote Target — AR500 steel, quick set-up, and high-visibility powder coating ensure precise shooting and long-lasting performance.
  4. Multiple Target Dialed Spinner Shooting Steel — Experience precise shooting with the .22 Dialed Spinner, a 5-area steel target designed to help you zero in on your targets!
  5. Rimfire Triple Spinner 22 LR Steel Target — Improve your shot placement effortlessly with the durable RangeMaxx Rimfire Triple Spinner Target, specially designed for rimfire calibers, built for long-lasting accuracy training.
  6. Mobile Steel Shooting Target with 9 Spinning Targets — Develop your sharpshooting skills with the Atflbox Ferris Wheel Metal Resetting Shooting Targets, designed for backyard and outdoor use, perfect for Airsoft, Rifle, and Airgun enthusiasts.

Reviews

Realistic Spring-loaded Prairie Dog Target for .22 Caliber Firearms

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I recently had the opportunity to try out the Do All Outdoors. 22 Prairie Popper Target, and let me tell you, it was a blast! This lifelike prairie dog silhouette target, made of high-quality steel, provided me with a very realistic shooting experience, and it held up well against various calibers of firearms.

One of the standout features of this target is its ability to reset itself after each bullet passes through. I especially liked the fact that it is designed for all calibers, rifles, and pistols, meaning you don’t have to worry about whether your ammo will damage the target.

While the target was fun to shoot at, it did get a bit banged up with some of the rounds. The paint on the target can get scratched off, and after enough impacts, the top can start to bend forward. However, with a little maintenance, the spring can be bent back into shape, and the target can be primed and painted again.

As for its construction, the. 22 Prairie Popper Target is pretty sturdy, and the strong, concealed springs provide some nice popping action when struck. Its dimensions of approximately 5 x 4 x 11 inches make it a perfect size for your backyard range.

Overall, I really enjoyed using the Do All Outdoors. 22 Prairie Popper Target, and I would definitely recommend it to others looking for a fun and interactive way to practice their shooting skills. Just remember to have some spare paint and rust protection on hand to keep your target in top shape!

High Visibility Steel Target for Shooting Practice: Full Size IPSC Silhouette Target

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As a newcomer to the world of competitive shooting, I recently came across the Caldwell AR500 Full Size IPSC Steel Target. I was intrigued by its ease of use, durability, and high visibility. The first time I set it up, I found the target plates to be quite heavy, but that was a testament to their sturdiness. The bright, high visibility finish added a nice touch to the target, making it much easier to see on the range.

One of the most impressive features of this target was its ability to withstand thousands of rounds. I had heard other shooters rave about the AR500 hardened steel used in the construction of these targets, and I had to see it firsthand. After investing in a few rounds of training, I was pleased to see that the target held up perfectly, providing an accurate representation of my progress and helping me to refine my technique.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks I experienced while using this target. Firstly, the powder-coated yellow finish did not hold up as well as I had hoped, with the bullets quickly chipping away at the paint. While it was not a huge detriment to the target’s performance, I would have preferred a more durable coating to help maintain the target’s appearance.

Another minor issue I encountered was the target’s compatibility with different types of stand systems. My first attempt at mounting the target on a T-post stand did not go as smoothly as I had hoped, requiring me to purchase a more robust alternative. Nonetheless, this was a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of things.

Overall, the pros of the Caldwell AR500 Full Size IPSC Steel Target outweigh the cons, making it a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned competitive shooters alike. With its durability, ease of use, and high visibility, it’s a reliable and practical tool for honing your shooting skills.

Durable Rimfire Rifle Steel Target for Precise Shooting

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The Champion Impact Steel Coyote Target instantly became my go-to for a more immersive shooting experience. With its high-visibility orange powder coating, I could easily spot the target from great distances.

The durability of the AR500 comparable steel truly stood out, as it could handle constant abuse without any denting or damage. However, the size of the target was a bit disappointing.

It’s smaller than I initially expected, and the shape made me question its practicality. Nonetheless, the reusable aspect of the target made up for it, as I was able to continue shooting without purchasing additional targets. All in all, the Champion Impact Rimfire Steel Targets are a worthwhile investment for those looking to add a bit more excitement to their shooting range.

Multiple Target Dialed Spinner Shooting Steel

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The. 22 Dialed Spinner is a unique steel shooting target that offers a fun and engaging experience for firearms enthusiasts. One of the best things about this target is its versatility — it features five different areas to aim for, allowing shooters to really hone their skills and practice accuracy.

In terms of size, it’s quite compact, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. When fully assembled, it measures approximately 14.5 inches in height, 11.75 inches in width, and 1.25 inches in depth. This makes it easy to transport and store when not in use.

However, one potential downside worth mentioning is that this target only measures 7½ inches in diameter, which might not be enough for some shooters who are looking for a more challenging experience. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a fun and versatile target to practice your. 22 skills with, the. 22 Dialed Spinner is definitely worth considering.

Rimfire Triple Spinner 22 LR Steel Target

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I’ve been using the RangeMaxx Rimfire Spinner Targets for a few weeks now and they’ve become a staple in my target practice routine. The heavy-duty powder-coated steel construction ensures these targets can handle even the most rigorous sessions.

What stood out for me, though, was the audible spin, which provides a clear indication of a successful hit. While the swivel legs make setup and storage a breeze, some users have mentioned that it’s quite a small target, making it a bit challenging to hit, especially at longer distances.

Mobile Steel Shooting Target with 9 Spinning Targets

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The Atflbox Ferris Wheel Metal Resetting Shooting Targets are a unique addition to any backyard or outdoor shooting range. Boasting 9 spinning, bright orange targets, these steel shooting targets offer a consistent target practice experience. One improvement is the curved axis design, ensuring better target rotation and plinking.

Designed for use with. 177 airguns or air rifles, these targets are easy to flip after a hit, making target adjustments simple. However, one downside is their inconsistent spinning motion, which may make it challenging for users to accurately hit the moving targets. Additionally, high-power PCP airguns should be avoided for optimal performance. Overall, the Atflbox Ferris Wheel Metal Resetting Shooting Targets offer a decent target practice experience for those willing to deal with some minor drawbacks.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to the buyer’s guide section for steel shooting targets. In this section, we will discuss the key features, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing steel shooting targets.

Important Features

Material

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Steel shooting targets must be durable and resistant to wear and tear. High-quality targets will be made from thick, hardened steel to withstand countless rounds of ammunition without deforming or breaking. Look for targets that are rated for high-velocity rounds to ensure they can handle hotter loads without any issues.

Size

The size of the target will depend on your shooting preferences and the type of gun you plan to use. Small targets will require better accuracy and finesse, while larger targets are suitable for beginners or those who prefer a more leisurely shooting experience. Ensure the target you choose is appropriate for the distance from which you’ll be shooting.

Design

Steel shooting targets can come in various shapes and designs, such as silhouettes, animal shapes, or even targets shaped like popular landmarks. The design you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the specific skills you want to practice, whether it be shooting small or large targets, high or low, or left or right.

Durability

A good steel shooting target should be able to withstand multiple rounds of ammunition without any significant damage. Look for targets that are robustly constructed and designed to last longer.

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Considerations

Purpose

Before purchasing a steel shooting target, consider the purpose of your shooting practice. Are you looking to improve your accuracy, work on quick draw, or just have a fun and engaging target to shoot at? The target design and size will depend on your specific objectives.

Shooting Range

The shooting range will also impact the choice of target. For indoor ranges with limited space, smaller targets may be more suitable. On the other hand, outdoor ranges with longer distances might require larger targets to properly test your accuracy and skill.

Safety

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Safety is a crucial aspect when it comes to shooting targets. Make sure the target you choose is designed to stop bullets effectively and won’t cause any ricochets or deflections that could pose a risk to others. Additionally, follow all safety guidelines and use appropriate protective gear when handling firearms.

General Advice

It’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable manufacturer for your steel shooting targets. High-quality targets will provide better performance and longevity. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for assembly, maintenance, and usage.

Additionally, consider investing in a quality target stand or holder to ensure your targets are appropriately positioned and stable during your shooting practice. The last thing you want is a wobbly or unsteady target affecting your accuracy.

By focusing on these key features, considerations, and pieces of advice, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best decision when choosing steel shooting targets for your shooting practice.

FAQ

What are Steel Shooting Targets?

Steel shooting targets are durable, long-lasting, and high-quality targets made from steel material. They offer excellent accuracy and are highly reliable for target shooting activities.

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Why choose Steel Shooting Targets over other materials?

Steel targets offer several advantages over other materials. They are more durable, have a longer lifespan, and are less prone to degradation due to weather conditions. Steel targets also provide better sound and visual feedback, which is essential for accurate shooting.

What sizes and shapes are available for Steel Shooting Targets?

Steel shooting targets come in a variety of sizes and shapes to cater to different shooting activities. Common sizes include 3-inch, 5-inch, and 8-inch, while shapes can include round, square, and diamond.

How do Steel Shooting Targets work?

Steel targets work by absorbing the impact of a bullet, causing them to deform or break upon impact. This deformation or break provides the user with visual and auditory feedback, allowing them to determine if their shot is accurate or not.

What safety precautions should be taken when using Steel Shooting Targets?

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  • Ensure that the target is at a safe distance from the shooter.
  • Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, such as ear and eye protection.
  • Avoid shooting at steel targets that have already absorbed multiple impacts, as they may become unstable and cause serious injury.
  • Be mindful of the target’s surroundings, including other people and objects, before and during shooting.

How long do Steel Shooting Targets typically last?

The lifespan of a steel shooting target depends on various factors such as the quality of the target, the type of ammunition used, and the frequency of use. Generally, high-quality steel targets can last several hundred rounds before requiring replacement.

What is the process for replacing a damaged Steel Shooting Target?

Replace damaged steel targets with new ones as soon as possible to continue the practice safely. Choose a durable, high-quality target that can withstand multiple impacts and provide accurate feedback.

Are Steel Shooting Targets suitable for all types of shooting activities?

Yes, steel targets are suitable for various shooting activities, including handgun, rifle, and shotgun shooting. However, it is essential to choose the appropriate size and shape target to match the type of firearm being used.

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