Cast bullets denting AR500 plate?

[Reefinmike]

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!

 

[243winxb]

Velocity from a 7mm Rem mag did more damage then a 300 win mag or 458 win.mag

 

[ericuda]

I noticed the same thing shooting 357 mbc lswc loads. Mine were moderate loads around 1100 fps. I only got slight pock marks on 3/8 ar500 plate at 10 yards and was disappointed to get the same marks at 35 yards. I blamed plates first since I purchased from ebay but the seller was very honest and showed me the steel mill certifications. Still I ordered some 1/4" ar500 plate from a seller mentioned here to confirm and same results. I was looking for more of a ring and got a little better. I also have a 1/2" playe at 75 yards and a 55 fmh 223 at 2900 fps puts a pock mark too.

Still way cheap fun and much better than shooting paper.