Safety Rules For Steel Targets
- Always follow all firearms safety rules at all times when shooting.
- Always use certified eye protection (ANSI Z87.1) with side shields and ear protection.
- Pistol Distance: 10 yards minimum distance from the target; Maximum 1,500 fps lead ammo
NOTE: IDPA Rule 2.15 requires steel targets to be engaged at 10 yards or more. - Rifle Distance: 100 yards minimum distance from the target; Depends on rifle, caliber & ammo; Maximum 3,000 fps.
NOTE: Back up until bullet speed is generally below 2,850 fps at the target to avoid pitting; If a bullet leaves a mark, increase your distance from the target. - Do not shoot armor-piercing, steel core/steel jacket, solid copper bullets, or other hardened bullets. Do not weld or modify the plate.
- Shoot steel targets straight on, not at steep angles; Consider many uncontrollable directions and dangers of flat steel splatters (your decision).
- Ensure the target face is angled downward so bullet splatter can be directed toward the ground.
- Watch for ricochets; Shoot at longer distances to prevent damage to the target.
NOTE: Bullets can deflect and go in unknown and unpredictable directions; Bullets can penetrate the wrong type of target. - Never Shoot BBs, pellets, or Air Soft at thicker targets, since they do not have sufficient force to splatter and will bounce back.
- Shoot frangible ammo on steel to generate less fragmentation, but regular jacketed handgun ammo may also be considered (your decision).
- Bullet lead splatter may be hot; do not use in dry grass due to fire risk; Use caution
- If the target becomes bent, cratered, or damaged in any way, replace it.
- Shoot steel targets at your own risk; Make your own smart choices and decisions.
- Use hangers and stands that allow proper target angles or allow them to move freely to reduce the chance of being hit by fragments.