The AR500 Gong Target 3/8" is engineered to meet the demands of both casual shooters and professionals. Its robust construction and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for honing shooting skills across various disciplines.
Premium AR500 Steel Construction
Constructed from 3/8-inch thick AR500 ballistic steel, this gong target boasts a Brinell hardness (BHN) of 477-534, ensuring it can withstand repeated impacts from a variety of calibers without compromising its integrity. The steel is meticulously sandblasted to remove mill scale before cutting, enhancing its durability and longevity.
Multiple Size Options for Customized Training
To accommodate different training needs and preferences, the AR500 Gong Target is available in multiple sizes: 4", 6", 8", 10", 12", and 16" diameters. This range allows shooters to select the appropriate target size for their specific practice scenarios, whether it's precision shooting or general marksmanship.
Versatile Compatibility with Various Calibers
This target is designed to handle a wide array of calibers. It's suitable for pistol calibers such as .22 LR, .380, 9mm, .40 and .45 ACP at 10–15 yards, plus magnum handguns like .357 Mag and .44 Mag from 25 yards or more. .500 S&W and similar big magnums are not recommended on 3/8" steel. For rifle enthusiasts, it accommodates calibers including .22 LR, .17 HMR, .22-250, .223/5.56, 7.62, .243, .260, and .30-06 at 100+ yards (200 yards for loads over 3,000 fps at the muzzle, and farther for very fast varmint rounds like .22-250 until impact speed is under 3,000 fps). Magnum rifles like .300 Win Mag are not recommended on 3/8" steel. Additionally, it's compatible with shotguns firing .410 or 20-gauge lead slugs from 100 yards minimum (never steel shot).
Immediate Audible Feedback
One of the standout features of the AR500 Gong Target is its ability to produce a loud, clear ring upon impact. This immediate auditory feedback allows shooters to quickly assess their accuracy without the need for visual confirmation, enhancing the training experience.
Easy Mounting and Setup
Each target comes with 1/2-inch mounting holes, facilitating straightforward and secure attachment to various mounting systems. This design ensures that shooters can set up their targets with minimal effort, allowing more time for practice.
Caliber & Distance Guide – 3/8" AR500 Steel
Maximum impact velocity 3,000 fps / 3,500 ft-lbs of energy. Inspect your target before each session and retire any plate showing pitting or cratering.
| Firearm / Caliber |
Minimum Distance |
Notes |
| .22 LR Rimfire |
10 yards |
|
| Non-Magnum Pistol (9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .38 Special) |
10–15 yards |
Lead or copper-jacketed ammunition only |
| Magnum Handgun (.357 Mag, .44 Mag) |
25 yards |
3/8" steel only; lead or copper-jacketed ammunition only |
| Big-Bore Magnum (.500 S&W and similar) |
Not recommended |
Not recommended on 3/8" steel |
| Centerfire Rifle, loads under 3,000 fps at the muzzle (.308 Win, .30-06 class) |
100 yards |
Keep impact velocity under 3,000 fps |
| High-Velocity Rifle (over 3,000 fps at the muzzle, including many 55-grain .223/5.56 loads like M193) |
200 yards |
Allows velocity to drop below the 3,000 fps impact threshold |
| Very Fast Varmint Rounds (.204 Ruger, .220 Swift, .22-250) |
Beyond 200 yards |
Back up until impact velocity is under 3,000 fps |
| Shotgun Lead Slugs (.410, 20-gauge) |
100 yards |
Lead slugs only; never steel shot |
| Magnum Rifle (.300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua, .50 BMG) |
Not recommended |
Not recommended on 3/8" steel; warping risk |
| Steel-Core / Armor-Piercing / Green Tip / Tracer / Incendiary / Steel Shot |
Never |
Damages plate, creates ricochet hazard; tracer and incendiary rounds can start fires |
Shooting Targets USA is not responsible for injuries, damages, or accelerated target wear resulting from use that does not follow these guidelines.
Proudly Made in the USA
Manufactured in King, North Carolina, the AR500 Gong Target reflects Shooting Targets USA's commitment to quality and American craftsmanship. Each target undergoes a rigorous quality assurance process to ensure it meets the highest standards.
Why Choose the AR500 Gong Target 3/8"?
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Durable Construction – Built from high-quality AR500 steel for long-lasting performance.
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Size Variety – Offers multiple size options to suit different shooting practices.
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Wide Caliber Compatibility – Accommodates a broad spectrum of pistol and rifle calibers.
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Instant Feedback – Provides clear auditory signals upon successful hits.
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Easy to Mount – Designed with convenient mounting holes for quick setup.
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American Made – Proudly produced in the USA with meticulous attention to detail.
