Reefinmike
Member
I just bought my first set of 3/8" AR500 steel plates and while they handled most everything well with no indication of denting including 500 magnum, I was surprised to see my 357 magnum lead cast loads denting the plate so badly. I shot a few 147gr 300blk FMJ @1925fps and I did get some very minor dents(you can see 4 in the picture). I brought out the 357 levergun and was a bit upset to see them denting the surface so badly. I shot from about 25 yards and the loads are a 164gr ~10bhn soft cast bullet going 2,000fps at the muzzle. I was surprised to see so much damage from such a soft bullet.
I also shot these plates with 350gr xtp mag jacketed 500 magnums @~1,700fps without any indication of denting. Is velocity the only thing that really affects steel? regardless of bullet construction?
This was my first time shooting steel. Those 357 loads were a hoot, they would flip a 6" plate and heavy chain completely around on the target holder. The 500 mag would make it do two complete flips!
I also shot these plates with 350gr xtp mag jacketed 500 magnums @~1,700fps without any indication of denting. Is velocity the only thing that really affects steel? regardless of bullet construction?
This was my first time shooting steel. Those 357 loads were a hoot, they would flip a 6" plate and heavy chain completely around on the target holder. The 500 mag would make it do two complete flips!