question about steel targets

[realmswalker]

Hello,

I have a question about steel targets and didn't know where to put this.

I know someone who can make me 1/4 inch thick with a36 steel for handgun targets for a very good price. pretty much any design.

Up to what caliber can I use on these plates?

Whats is the minimum distance that I should be using these plates at?

What degree down angle should I make the plate?

Where can I get an example of a good base to build to go along with these?

will a36 steel hold up to 270 win or 30-06 at 100 yards?

Thank you.

 

[Uglyoldpoorman]

First, I would go to MGM targets..http://www.mgmtargets.com/ and steal their designs and the type of steel that they use.

Second, Then I would send them a check for the amount of guilt that you feel for ripping them off.

Third, I would call them and get them to answer any questions that you have.

Fourth, Wish I had a cutting rig and a welder.

 

[EHCRain10]

have to agree that mgmtargets has good prices, I have some 8inch round plates that I got from somewhere else (my computer deleted all of my favorites so I cant say were exactly) and paid a few dollars more.


As to distance, I would stay at least 50ft away
also if you plan on ever using the plates with rifles, just get the rifle plates anyways they still work for pistol rounds and I would guess that they will last longer due to the increased strength

 

[Aguila Blanca]

A36 is standard, structural grade steel -- the stuff they used to use in beams and columns for buildings about 30 years ago.

Subjected to rifle fire, I would expect it to survive for approximately one round.

For steel plate targets, you should probably be looking at T-1 steel plate. And for rifles at 100 yards you'll need a lot thicker than 1/4"

 

[realmswalker]

Thank you for the info. so forget rifle rounds on this thing.

What pistol caliber can I use on these things? up to 44 mag?

 

[Encoreman]

Okay I will put in my 2cents. In USPSA matches a minimum of 8 yards, I prefer 10-15 yards. Always, always wear good eye protection. Don't shoot at these with any 22's as they tend to richochet. No rifles either. If plates get bent, they will put bullet or parts thereof back toward shooter. I would use 3/8 T-1 minimum. Thanks Mac

 

[jkingrph]

I do not know what 36 steel is, but I do know 5/8 " boiler plate will not stop a 400 gr Nosler hollow point out of a 458 Win Mag. I drilled a clean hole and acutally engraved rifeling marks from the bullet into the hole in the boiler plate.