AR500 vs. AR550 Steel Targets: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?
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AR500 vs. AR550 Steel Targets: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

AR500 vs. AR550 Steel Targets: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

When you’re investing in steel targets, durability and performance are everything. Two of the most popular materials are AR500 and AR550 steel. While they share many similarities, the differences between them can make a big impact on your shooting experience.

Below, we’ll break down how AR500 and AR550 targets compare in hardness, use cases, and cost, so you can choose the right steel for your needs.

What Do AR Ratings Mean?

“AR” stands for Abrasion Resistant, a designation given to high-strength steel designed to withstand heavy wear and impact. The number—500 or 550—refers to the Brinell Hardness Number (BHN), a scale used to measure hardness.

  • AR500 steel has a nominal hardness of 500 BHN.
  • AR550 steel has a nominal hardness of 550 BHN.

This higher rating means AR550 is harder and more resistant to pitting and cratering, especially under repeated impacts from high-velocity rounds.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature AR500 Steel AR550 Steel
Hardness ~500 BHN ~550 BHN (10% harder)
Durability Excellent for most calibers, including pistols and non-magnum rifles Superior resistance to wear; better for magnum calibers and extreme use
Caliber Compatibility Ideal for handgun rounds, shotgun slugs, and standard rifle rounds up to ~3,000 fps Designed for higher-velocity rifle rounds and magnum calibers
Cost More affordable; best balance of price and performance Higher price point due to increased hardness and manufacturing complexity
Impact Resistance Great impact resistance when used with proper stand-offs and distances Even better impact resistance and longevity, especially at closer distances (with safe shooting practices)

Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a simple way to decide:

✅ Choose AR500 if you:

  • Primarily shoot pistols or standard rifles (e.g., .223, .308)
  • Want a balance of durability and budget-friendliness
  • Are setting up a casual or recreational range

✅ Choose AR550 if you:

  • Regularly shoot magnum or ultra-high-velocity calibers
  • Need targets that will last under heavy professional or competitive use
  • Want maximum resistance to pitting and deformation

Tips for Safe Use

Regardless of which steel you pick:

  • Always maintain minimum safe distances (typically 10 yards for pistols, 100 yards for rifles—check your manufacturer’s recommendations).
  • Use appropriate ammo (lead core, no steel-core or armor-piercing rounds).
  • Angle targets slightly downward to help deflect bullet splatter safely.

Final Thoughts

Both AR500 and AR550 steel targets offer outstanding performance, but understanding their differences can help you get the best results—and the most value—for your specific shooting needs.

Ready to upgrade your range? Browse our AR500 steel targets here and find the perfect setup for your next session.

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