Steel targets have become a popular kind of target practice for gun enthusiasts all over the world, and for good reason.
Steel targets are created exclusively for target practice and are engineered to optimize usability while minimizing dangers. Are steel targets safe? Many people who are unfamiliar with steel targets ask how safe they are to shoot.
This article will go through all of the dos and don'ts of shooting steel targets in greater detail. Let's get into it.
General Firearms Safety Rules
1) Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.
2) Wait until you're ready to fire before pulling the trigger.
3) Don't load the firearm until you're ready to use it.
Steel Target Safety Rules
1) Always use a high-quality target made of AR500 steel with solid functionality for deflecting bullet splatter in a safe direction.
2) Always use authorized safety glasses and ear protection, as well as side shields.
3) Armor-piercing, steel core/steel jacket, solid copper bullets, and other toughened bullets are prohibited. Welding or modifying the plate is not permitted.
4) Bullet lead splatter can be extremely hot; do not use steel targets in dry grass owing to the risk of fire; exercise caution.
5) Stick to safe distances — we can't stress enough how crucial it is to stick to all acceptable distance rules to guarantee your and others' safety.
6) Replace the target if it becomes bent, cratered, or damaged.
7) Keep an eye out for ricochets and shoot steel targets from afar to minimize damage and ensure that you shoot steel targets straight.
8) Steel targets should never be shot with BBs, steel shots, or air gun pellets.
9) Never use penetrator ammunition on steel targets, including armor-piercing, steel core, green tip, and other types of penetrator ammunition.
10) Always put the target on a soft surface that is free of large pebbles or other ricochet dangers.
11) To limit the danger of getting struck by fragments, use hangers, and stands that allow optimal target angles or allow them to move freely.
12) Shoot steel targets at your own risk. Shooting steel targets can be dangerous.
Reasons To Use Steel Targets
1) Immediate confirmation of whether the target was struck or missed.
2) A pleasing ring tone with a clear target reaction.
3) Steel targets allow you to spend more time shooting and less time fiddling with targets. They also last for a longer time.
4) They are fun to use.
Minimum Safety Distances for Steel Targets
Each gun and situation is different. As a result, depending on the gun you're using, there are various minimum distances to keep in mind when shooting steel targets.
Handguns
Depending on the ammo, the absolute minimum suggested distance for handguns is 15 yards (9.14 m). To avoid ricochets or fragment wounds when shooting a high-caliber pistol or high-velocity ammo, shoot from 15 to 25 yards (13.72 to 22.86 m).
Rifles
Because rifles are far more powerful than pistols, the minimum distance required is substantially greater. The minimum distance allowed for shooting a steel target with a rifle is normally 100 yards (91.44 m).
Because not all rifles have the same amount of firepower, this may not always be necessary, but if you're not sure about the target's quality, 100 yards (91.44 m) should suffice.
Shotguns
To be safe with shotguns, keep a gap of at least 25 yards (22.86 m) between yourself and your steel target. You should also inspect the target carefully after each shot to ensure that the steel hasn't dented.
Ricochets and fragment spreads can be unpredictable if the target has dents.
Things To Keep in Mind While Shooting Steel Targets
1) The ringing on long-distance shooting targets is usually quieter.
2) The ring is usually louder on larger targets.
3) The ring is pitched higher on thinner targets.
3) Remember that steel targets should be hung at a 20 or 30-degree inclination to deflect the bullet towards the earth.
4) The closer you approach the steel target, the more it tends to deviate toward the ground.
5) The target's powder coat may be peeled away after many rounds have been fired at it. Repaint the target hits using an orange or white bright spray.
6) Use closed handgun targets since they are louder and easier to hear the hits.
Summary
Steel shooting targets can be dangerous. These safety rules will ensure that you are safe while shooting steel targets.
When shooting steel targets, the most important thing to remember is to always be on the side of caution. Replace your steel target with a newer one if you have any reservations about its quality.
If you're concerned that the bullets you're using are too soft or hard for a particular target, switch to a different bullet or find a new target. Accidents utilizing steel targets are most commonly caused by carelessness and indifference. If you're afraid to use steel targets or don't think you're ready yet, EasyShot offers premium quality paper targets for all your shooting needs. Contact us today.