What is AR500?
AR500 steel has a long-standing reputation for toughness, originally developed for use in heavy industrial applications such as mining equipment, truck beds, and construction machinery. The term “AR” stands for “abrasion resistant,” and the “500” refers to its Brinell hardness rating (around 500), indicating high resistance to wear and impact. It became widely adopted in the mid-to-late 20th century as industries demanded materials that could handle intense friction and force.
Transition to Shooting Targets
In the early 2000s, AR500 steel gained popularity among shooting enthusiasts and professionals for use in steel targets. Before that, most shooting targets were made from softer steel or other materials that degraded quickly under repeated gunfire. AR500’s high hardness and ability to resist deformation made it ideal for withstanding high-velocity rounds from rifles and handguns.
Its use was further popularized by competitive shooting sports, law enforcement training programs, and military drills, where durability and safety were critical. The steel's ability to "ping" and deflect bullets cleanly when angled properly gave instant feedback to shooters and minimized the risk of ricochet, especially when used with appropriate ammunition and distance.
Modern Use
Today, AR500 targets are a staple in shooting ranges across the world. They come in various shapes and thicknesses, tailored for different calibers and shooting styles. Companies now mass-produce AR500 targets for everything from backyard plinking to tactical training and professional competition.
Thanks to its toughness and reliability, AR500 has not only transformed industrial durability standards but also revolutionized the shooting target market.
Advantages of Using AR500 Steel for Shooting Targets
AR500 steel has become the gold standard for shooting targets—and for good reason. Here are the key advantages that make it a top choice for shooters of all levels:
1. Exceptional Durability
AR500 is a hardened steel with a Brinell hardness rating of around 500, meaning it can withstand repeated impacts from high-velocity rounds without warping, cracking, or deforming. This makes it ideal for long-term use, even under heavy fire.
2. Cost-Effective Over Time
While AR500 targets may have a higher upfront cost than softer alternatives, they last significantly longer. The ability to endure thousands of rounds means less frequent replacement, saving money in the long run.
3. Safe Bullet Deflection
When used at the proper angle and distance, AR500 targets are designed to safely deflect bullets downward, reducing the risk of dangerous ricochets or splatter. This makes shooting safer for users.
4. Instant Feedback
Shooting AR500 steel targets gives immediate audio ("ping") and visual feedback upon impact. This is especially useful for improving accuracy during training, competition, or recreational shooting.
5. Versatility
AR500 targets come in various thicknesses and shapes, making them suitable for different calibers—from handguns to high-powered rifles. Thicker plates (like 3/8" or 1/2") can handle larger calibers, while thinner options are ideal for pistols.
6. Low Maintenance
Unlike paper or plastic targets, AR500 steel doesn’t need constant resetting or replacing. It stands up to the elements and requires minimal upkeep, making it ideal for outdoor ranges.