5 Common Mistakes Shooters Make with Steel Targets (and How to Avoid Them)

Steel targets are one of the best investments you can make for your shooting practice. They’re durable, they give instant feedback, and they make training fun. But using them incorrectly can lead to safety hazards, poor accuracy, and damaged equipment.

Here are five common mistakes shooters make with steel targets—and how you can avoid them to get the most out of every range day.

1️⃣ Using the Wrong Ammo

The Mistake: Shooting steel-core, armor-piercing, or ultra-high-velocity rounds at your targets.
Why It’s a Problem: These rounds can crater or pierce even AR500 or AR550 steel, creating dangerous ricochet risks and shortening the target’s life.

✅ How to Avoid It:

• Always use lead-core or copper-jacketed ammo.
• Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for maximum muzzle velocity (typically below 3,000 fps).
• Never shoot steel-core, armor-piercing, or penetrator rounds.

2️⃣ Ignoring Safe Distances

The Mistake: Setting up too close to your targets because you want to see your hits more easily.
Why It’s a Problem: Getting too close dramatically increases the chance of bullet fragments or ricochets coming back toward you.

✅ How to Avoid It:

• Follow safe distance guidelines:
  • Pistols: Minimum 10 yards.
  • Rifles: Minimum 100 yards.
  • Magnum calibers: Minimum 200 yards.
• Use binoculars or spotting scopes to check hits from a safe distance.

3️⃣ Failing to Angle the Target

The Mistake: Hanging targets vertically or letting them swing freely without any angle.
Why It’s a Problem: A flat target face can bounce bullet fragments directly back toward the firing line.

✅ How to Avoid It:

• Tilt targets 10–15 degrees forward so splatter deflects safely into the ground.
• Use mounting solutions designed to maintain a downward angle.

4️⃣ Neglecting Target Inspection

The Mistake: Shooting the same target session after session without checking its condition.
Why It’s a Problem: Small craters or pits become weak spots that can catch and deflect bullets unpredictably.

✅ How to Avoid It:

• Inspect targets after each session.
• Look for craters, deep pitting, and weld fatigue.
• Replace damaged targets right away to maintain safety.

5️⃣ Using Improper Mounting Hardware

The Mistake: Hanging targets with random chains, nails, or ropes not rated for shooting.
Why It’s a Problem: Improper mounting can cause targets to swing unpredictably, break free, or set up dangerous ricochet angles.

✅ How to Avoid It:

• Use high-quality, purpose-built mounting hardware (AR500-rated chains, stands, and hooks).
• Make sure stands are stable and designed for the weight of your targets.
• Keep all hardware in good condition and replace anything that shows wear.

Final Thoughts

Steel targets are an incredible training tool, but only when you use them safely and correctly. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll protect yourself and your equipment while making every session more effective and enjoyable.

Ready to upgrade your range? Explore our full selection of AR500 steel targets and accessories to set yourself up for success.