Category: Portable Targets

What is a gong target?

Posted on by Troy Olson

A steel gong shooting target is a simple yet effective target characterized by its flat, metal surface, typically made of steel. When struck by a bullet, the gong produces a distinct and satisfying “gong” sound, indicating a successful hit. These targets come in various sizes and shapes, making them versatile for different shooting scenarios. Steel gong targets are widely used in marksmanship training and shooting competitions for their audible feedback and durability.

Action Target - Large Gong Steel Shooting Target

Why is a Gong Target Important?

Gong targets play a vital role in marksmanship training due to their immediate and unmistakable feedback. The audible response provides instant confirmation of a successful hit, allowing shooters to assess their accuracy and make rapid adjustments. This real-time feedback enhances the learning experience, enabling shooters to refine their aim, trigger control, and follow-through techniques. The simplicity and reliability of gong targets make them indispensable tools for both novice and experienced marksmen.

When Should I Use a Gong Target at My Shooting Range?

Gong targets are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into various shooting scenarios. They are perfect for long-range shooting practice, allowing shooters to challenge their accuracy and precision at extended distances. Gong targets are also popular in competitions, providing an exciting and engaging experience for participants. Additionally, they are valuable in training sessions focused on target transition and multiple target engagements, helping shooters develop their skills in dynamic shooting environments.

Gong Target and Action Target

At Action Target, we recognize the significance of steel gong targets in honing marksmanship skills. Our gong targets are meticulously engineered for durability and acoustic precision, ensuring a consistent and satisfying “gong” sound with every hit. Action Target’s gong targets are designed to withstand the impact of high-caliber ammunition, offering a reliable and long-lasting solution for shooters seeking unparalleled feedback in their training sessions. Experience the resonance of precision shooting with Action Target’s innovative gong targets, setting new standards for marksmanship training.

How to hang a gong target

Hanging a gong target properly is essential for a safe and enjoyable shooting experience. Here’s a simple guide to help you set up your gong target efficiently and correctly:

1. Choose the Right Location
First, select a safe and clear area for shooting that complies with local regulations. Ensure there’s a sufficient backstop to catch any missed shots. The area should be free of rocks and other hard surfaces to minimize the risk of ricochet.

2. Gather Your Materials
You will need the gong target, a sturdy chain, S-hooks or carabiners, and a target stand or a durable frame from which to hang the gong. Ensure all materials are rated for the caliber of firearm you plan to use to avoid damage and ensure longevity.

3. Prepare the Gong and Chains
Attach the chains to the gong target. Most gong targets come with holes at the top; simply thread an S-hook or a carabiner through each hole, and then connect your chain. It’s advisable to use a double chain setup—one on each side of the gong—for stability and to ensure it hangs flat.

4. Secure the Target Stand
If you’re using a portable stand, make sure it’s on stable ground and can withstand the impact of your shots without tipping over. For a permanent setup, a well-anchored wooden post or a metal frame can be ideal. Ensure the frame is high enough so the gong hangs at a safe height, typically between waist and chest level.

5. Hang the Gong
Attach the other ends of the chains to the frame or stand. Adjust the chain length so the gong target hangs at the desired height and swings freely. The freedom of movement helps absorb the impact of the bullets, reducing wear and tear on the chains and the gong.

6. Test and Adjust
Safely test the setup with a few shots, observing how the gong swings and sounds. If it moves too much, shorten the chains to reduce swing. Conversely, if it doesn’t move enough, you might want to lengthen the chains. Fine-tuning these adjustments will enhance the target’s lifespan and your shooting experience.

7. Safety Checks
Regularly inspect the chains and the gong for wear and tear, especially if you use high-caliber firearms. Replace any components as soon as they show signs of damage or excessive wear.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your gong target is set up safely and effectively, providing you with many sessions of rewarding target practice. Remember, the key to any successful shooting activity is safety and preparation. Happy shooting!

For similar targets, check out Action Target’s full line-up of steel targets

What is AR500 steel?

Posted on by Marketing Action Target

AR500 Steel: A specific type of high-carbon steel known for its hardness and durability. The “AR” stands for “Abrasion Resistant,” and the “500” refers to its Brinell hardness number. This makes AR500 a superior steel, especially when it comes to handling the intense impact of bullets.

AR500 Steel Target

Why is AR500 steel important?

When it comes to shooting targets, safety and durability are paramount. AR500 steel’s extreme hardness makes it resistant to pitting and deformation. This means when a bullet impacts an AR500 steel target, it doesn’t cause significant damage to the target’s surface. Instead, the bullet fragments safely, reducing the risk of ricochets or splatter back towards the shooter. Its lasting durability also means that targets made from AR500 steel will have a longer lifespan, offering shooters more value for their investment.

When should I use AR500 steel targets?

Using AR500 Steel Targets: AR500 steel targets are perfect for:

  • High-Volume Shooting: Due to their resilience, these targets can withstand extensive shooting sessions without significant wear or tear.
  • Training Facilities: Many law enforcement and military training centers prefer AR500 steel targets because of their longevity and reliability.
  • Rifle Shooting: The hardness of AR500 makes it ideal for rifle rounds, which have a higher velocity and can cause more damage to softer targets.
  • Personal Use: For enthusiasts looking for a target that will last and offer consistent performance.

However, as with any shooting target, always follow proper safety guidelines, such as ensuring adequate distance and using appropriate ammunition.

Action Target Steel Targets with AR500 Steel

AR500 steel and Action Target

At Action Target, we understand the need for top-quality, reliable shooting equipment. We’ve built our reputation on delivering products that not only meet but exceed industry standards. Our decision to use AR500 steel in many of our target designs stems from our commitment to quality and safety. We employ state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to ensure that every AR500 steel target we produce provides consistent and safe performance. Our extensive range of AR500 steel targets is a testament to our belief in the material and its benefits for the shooting community.

In conclusion, AR500 steel stands as a beacon of durability and safety in the shooting world. As a trusted name in the industry, Action Target is proud to provide our customers with products made from this outstanding material. Shoot with confidence, shoot with the best, and always aim for excellence!

Action Target Announces New Product, Show Specials and Celebrity Appearances For The 2018 NRA Show

Posted on by Marketing Action Target
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACTION TARGET ANNOUNCES NEW PRODUCT, SHOW SPECIALS,
AND CELEBRITY APPEARANCES FOR THE 2018 NRA SHOW

 

PROVO, Utah – May 3, 2018 – Action Target INC., the leading manufacturer of modern shooting ranges, has announced that they will be exhibiting at the NRA Annual Meetings in Dallas, Texas with industry leading new shooting range technology, show specials and celebrity appearances by world champion shooter Max Michel.
Innovative products on display at the show will include AutoTargets an intelligently connected target system that allows shooters to interact with their targets in a way never before possible. The recently launched new steel target, the PT Scout will also be on display. Stop by to learn more of Action Target’s innovative shooting range technology including: The AWD Pro retriever, Steel Bullet Traps, Rubber Berm Bullet Traps, Shooting Range Ventilation, Metals Recycling and more innovative solutions for modern shooting ranges.
World champion shooter Max Michel will be at the Action Target booth #3956 on Friday, May 4, 2018 and Saturday May 5, 2018 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Michel will be be giving shooting tips and discussing his experience in helping design the perfect steel target, The PT Scout. Michel will be signing autographs and taking pictures each day. Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the very best shooters in the world.
To celebrate the NRA Annual Meetings, Action Target is offering 20% OFF all of their Steel and Paper Targets until May 31, 2018 as part of the NRA Show Special. Action Target will also be accepting new dealers at the NRA Show. Visit booth #8457 to sign up!
About Action Target, Inc.
Action Target Inc. is a privately owned business headquartered in Provo, Utah. As a world leader in modern shooting range technology with more than 4,000 products and 40 patents for the systems it designs and manufacturers, Action Target has installed thousands of shooting ranges across the United States and in 25 other countries around the world. Action Target also designs systems and conducts firearms training for law enforcement and various military divisions. For more information on Action Target, visit ActionTarget.com. To learn more about Action Target products or to purchase items online, visit shop.ActionTarget.com
###
Media Contact:
Jonathan Turnbow, Marketing Communications, Contact Information
Action Target
3411 Mountain Vista Parkway
Provo, Utah
84606
Tel: 801-396-1202

Action Target Announces Innovative New Everyday Carry Steel Target, The PT Scout

Posted on by Marketing Action Target
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACTION TARGET ANNOUNCES INNOVATIVE NEW 
EVERYDAY CARRY STEEL TARGET, THE PT SCOUT

 

PROVO, Utah – May 3, 2018 – Action Target INC., the leading manufacturer of modern shooting ranges and innovative target systems has announced the release of a tool-free target system designed to utilize a 2×4, ring louder, maximize portability and allow for predictable splatter patterns.The PT Scout is Action Target’s first steel target that utilizes a 2×4. This innovative steel target stand can quickly collapse and locks together for easy storage and transport. Because it can break down into such a small profile and weighs as much as a gallon of milk, it allows for maximum portability for every shooter.

“When developing The PT Scout with Tom Yost and World Champion Speed Shooter Max Michel, we set three objectives; that it would ring louder, be more portable, and be more safe for shooters to use than any other steel targets that are offered today, we met each objective.” Chris Hess, Product Marketing Manager, Action Target.

The PT Scout is designed with a forward leaning 2×4. The smooth target plate sits on top in a bracket parallel to the wood. This means that bullets striking the plate are directed towards the ground and safely away from shooters, splatter and spall do not chew up the 2×4, a common problem in other 2×4 target stand systems. The target is also designed with a smooth target surface, integrating high-strength weld studs on the back of the target plate allowing sound waves to reverberate loudly, giving the shooter a much louder ring.

World Champion Speed Shooter Max Michel explains, “As a Pro Shooter, I get to shoot a lot but don’t have the ability to store all my gear at the range. Therefore, I’m looking for something mobile and easy to set up. It’s extremely light weight and easy to store in the back of the car. Once it’s ready to go, it’s the loudest ringing steel target I’ve shot yet. Not to mention the flat faced plate and angled design base makes it the safest target in the industry. I’m excited to get my season kicked off and training with the new PT Scout.”

The PT Scout will be available this summer from Shop.ActionTarget.com. Multiple head plates will be available with package pricing for clubs and teams who compete in Steel Challenge, 3-Gun and Scholastic Action Shooting Program events.

About Action Target, Inc.
Action Target Inc. is a privately owned business headquartered in Provo, Utah. As a world leader in modern shooting range technology with more than 4,000 products and 40 patents for the systems it designs and manufacturers, Action Target has installed thousands of shooting ranges across the United States and in 25 other countries around the world. Action Target also designs systems and conducts firearms training for law enforcement and various military divisions. For more information on Action Target, visit ActionTarget.com. To learn more about Action Target products or to purchase items online, visit shop.ActionTarget.com

###
Media Contact:
Jonathan Turnbow, Marketing Communications, Contact Information
Action Target
3411 Mountain Vista Parkway
Provo, Utah
84606
Tel: 801-396-1202

MATCH™ (MODULAR ARMORED TACTICAL COMBAT HOUSE)

Posted on by Marketing Action Target

Action Target’s Shoot House featuring Auto Target Hit Sense Technology.

Action Target’s MATCH™ is a 360°, live-fire, ballistically safe, shoot house designed for teaching and learning close quarter skills, like room clearing and hallway navigation, with realism and safety.

AutoTargets enhances training and the shooting experience. Each lift unit can be placed as a stand-alone target, or daisy-chained from a single air supply. Because AutoTargets is portable, it can be placed in any configuration or incorporated into any terrain. It is effective in shoot houses, Hogan’s alleys, and other close quarters combat environments, as well as open- eld, long distance training courses. A pressure sensitive target version is also available for use with non-lethal ammunition projectiles.

AutoTargets™

MATCH™ (Modular Armored Tactical Combat House)

Portable Bullet Trap

IDPA teams with Action Target to create official steel practice target

Posted on by Marketing Action Target

PT IDPA Practice Torso [square]Action Target announced today that it has partnered up with the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) to create the organization’s official steel practice target named the PT IDPA Practice Torso.

The new target, which is available for sale on Action Target’s online store (www.letargets.com), features a regulation torso shape including scoring zones with reactive swinging plates to provide instant visual and audible feedback for accurate shots.

“We were really excited to work with Action Target on this project because of their ability to take our requirements and come up with an innovative solution,” IDPA Executive Director Joyce Wilson said. “Specifically, we wanted a steel target that encourages shooters to focus on accuracy. To do this, we diminished the sizes of the down zero zones by two inches to encourage tighter groupings in training which can lead to better scores in competition.”

While the PT IDPA Practice Torso is designed specifically for competitive handgun training, it is built with 3/8-inch AR550 armor steel which can withstand any standard handgun round and is also rated for rifle use at 100 yards. It is also designed with the safety of the shooter in mind with no exposed bolts, clamps or brackets for a completely flat shooting surface that produces predictable splatter patterns and reduces the risk of ricochet coming back at the shooter.

The patent pending target hinge design of the PT IDPA Practice Torso.
The patent pending hinge design of the PT IDPA Practice Torso.

“A lot of work went into the design of this target,” Chris Hess, Action Target’s product marketing manager over steel targets, said. “Not only did we ensure that the torso dimensions of the target perfectly match IDPA regulation, we also created a new patent pending hinge design for the reactive plates that minimizes the number of parts needed and provides consistent reaction on every shot. This new design will soon be used on all of our reactive steel targets.”

The PT IDPA Practice Torso made its first debut at the 2014 IDPA National Championship held in Tulsa, Okla., where the prototypes were tested by competitors and IDPA executives. Two-time national IDPA champion and member of the Smith & Wesson shooting team Tom Yost was especially influential in the creation of the target and suggested improvements that led to the final patent pending design.

“As a competitive shooter, this is exactly the kind of target I want to train with,” Yost said. “Practicing on steel helps build muscle memory for accurate shots better than anything else because it provides instant feedback that you can hear and see. Those habits built shooting on steel transfer perfectly to the official cardboard target.”

The PT IDPA Practice Torso comes with the buyer’s choice of a 1-foot, 2-foot, 3-foot or 4-foot stand and will begin shipping March 13.

Product Specifications:
–          As Low As: $339
–          Height: 5’ (with recommended 3’ stand)
–          Weight: 59 lbs.
–          Torso Dimensions: 12” x 25.75” (adjusted for target angle)
–          Reactive -0 Square Dimensions: 3” x 3”
–          Reactive -0 Circle Dimensions: 6”
–          Steel Grade: 3/8” AR550
–          Handgun Shooting Distance: 10 yards+
–          Rifle Shooting Distance: 100 yards+ using ammunition below 3,000 fps

 

About Action Target Inc.

Action Target Inc. is a privately owned business headquartered in Provo, Utah. As a world leader in shooting range technology with more than 4,000 products and 40 patents for the systems it designs and manufactures, Action Target has installed thousands of shooting ranges across the United States and in 40 other countries around the world. Action Target also designs systems and conducts firearms training for law enforcement and various military divisions. For more information on Action Target, visit www.ActionTarget.com. To learn more about Action Target products or to purchase items online, visit www.LETargets.com.

-30-

Action Target Inc., 3411 S. Mountain Vista Pkwy, Provo, Utah 84606 USA
Contact: Laren Helms (801) 396-1212 Office / [email protected]

Help Shape the Changing Face of Shooting Sports

Posted on by Marketing Action Target

A young woman practices correct form at an Action Target shooting range.According to a recent study done by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), “the landscape of target shooters has shifted.” With 20% of current shooters having taken up the sport in just the last five years, a new generation has emerged with a completely different demographic profile.

The study compares established shooters (more than five years of experience) with new shooters and shows that this new wave of shooting enthusiasts is often younger, female, and urban. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers:

Younger: 66 percent of new shooters fall into the 18-to-34-year-old category compared to 31 percent in the same age category for established shooters.

Female: 37 percent of new target shooters are female compared to 22 percent of established target shooters.

Urban: 47 percent of new target shooters live in urban/suburban settings versus 34 percent of established target shooters.

Miles Hall poses with his wife at H&H Shooting Sports in Oklahoma City.
Miles Hall poses with his wife at H&H Shooting Sports.

For owners of shooting ranges and gun shops, this means that it is no longer “business as usual.” As customer demographics change, so must the industry.

Innovative shooting ranges and gun shops across the country have taken notice of the trend and are adjusting the way they do business. One such innovator is Miles Hall, owner of H&H Shooting Sports in Oklahoma City.

“Shooting is not a men’s only club anymore,” Hall said. “47 percent of our customer base is women.”

In response to the shift, Hall has made a concerted effort to upgrade his shooting range facilities and provide firearms training that meets the demands of the new generation of shooters.

“There’s a huge audience out there who want to shoot, and you’re going to have to have the right equipment to take care of them,” Hall said. “The shooting sport has changed, and you have to either be changing with it or you’re going to die in the past.”

How You Can Help

A young woman points a semi-automatic handgun downrange.
(Photo taken remotely with an unloaded gun)

As a company that not only manufactures shooting range equipment but also consults with range owners on every aspect of their businesses, we try to provide the most accurate information to help them succeed. In response to the industry’s shifting demographics, Action Target has created a survey to better understand the preferences of women when it comes to shooting range equipment, technology, and amenities.

Take the survey here.

Survey participants who qualify will receive a one-time use 20% discount to Action Target’s online store. The discount will be available through the end of the year.

The Truth About Steel and Steel Targets, Pt. 2

Posted on by Marketing Action Target

When it comes to steel targets, it is important to understand there are crucial differences in the quality of the steel used to make the targets and the design of the targets themselves. In an age where it seems everyone “knows a guy” who can make steel targets for them out of a welding shop, understanding the facts about steel is even more important. Steel targets can be perfectly safe and a fantastic training tool if done right, but they can also be extremely dangerous if done wrong. Here at Action Target, we have been designing and manufacturing steel targetscart Small and tactical training systems for nearly 30 years. Here are some of the things we’ve learned along the way.

TRUTH – THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE IN THE QUALITY OF STEEL BEING USED

Unfortunately, there are steel targets out there that are poorly designed and are made of inferior steel. Homemade targets from local welding shops are usually the culprits, but some commercial target manufacturers use inferior steel as well. Because these targets are vulnerable to cratering, pocking, and general deformation, they are very dangerous and should be avoided. Any steel with a Brinell hardness rating under 400 falls into this category, including standard “T-1” steel with a hardness rating in the 300 range.

LETC 007
Action Target centerfire handgun targets (like this 8″ circle) are all made of 3/8″ AR500 armor steel. Our rifle targets are made of 3/8″ AR550 armor steel.

After many years of experimenting to find the best solution, most major manufacturers of dependable, high quality steel targets now use steel with a Brinell hardness rating of at least 400. A few premium quality manufacturers use steel with a higher Brinell hardness rating of 500 or even 550. Fewer than 10 steel mills in the world can provide quality AR500/550 steel. Action Target has direct relationships with many of these suppliers which allows us to purchase steel mill direct. Steel of this quality is always certified by the plant that created it, however, at Action Target we conduct independent hardness testing on every shipment we receive. If the steel does not meet our ballistic standards, we reject the entire order and send it back.

Other steel certifications like “Magnum Steel” or “Extreme Steel” are merely marketing terms added by the manufacturer. When all the rhetoric is boiled away, there are manufacturers who use steel that is not appropriate for targets, and there are those who use steel that is. Make sure you know the difference.

PROPER DESIGN IS CRITICAL

Even the best steel can’t compensate for poorly designed targets. There are several unavoidable principles that must be followed to create targets that are as safe and durable as possible.

PT Torso (all sides) [web]
All Action Target steel targets are designed for predictable splatter. There are never any exposed bolts, clamps, or brackets on the shooting surface, and the target leans forward slightly to dissipate some of the bullet’s energy.

TRUTH – SMOOTH AND TOTALLY FLAT SHOOTING SURFACES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR CONSISTENT SPLATTER PATTERNS

There are two things manufacturers can do to ruin the smoothness and flatness of a steel target. First, they can use inferior steel that will crater, pock, and deform. Second, they can put brackets, clamps, or bolts in the way of the shooting surfaces. Remember, anything that can be shot will be shot. Why is this an issue? Because you can do a reasonable job of predicting and protecting against a bullet’s splatter pattern when it hits a flat, uniform surface. If the steel is damaged or if anything else is in the way, all bets are off. Bullet fragmentation and ricochet are inherent and acknowledged issues when shooting on steel targets. Proper target design helps you address those issues with the highest degree of safety possible.

TRUTH – DISSIPATING A BULLET’S ENERGY IS SAFER AND HELPS YOUR TARGETS LAST LONGER

When a bullet strikes a steel target that is completely stationary at a 90-degree angle, all the bullet’s energy goes directly to weakening that point on the steel. If the target is completely stationary but is positioned at less than a 90-degree angle, a portion of the bullet’s energy at impact is deflected rather than absorbed. If the target is positioned at slightly less than a 90-degree angle AND the target is able to move on impact, a much larger portion of the bullet’s energy is deflected rather than absorbed.

NO STEEL TARGET IS INDESTRUCTIBLE

Without exception, every steel target out there today can be damaged. Steel hardness and proper design can both be defeated by misuse and/or abuse of the target.

TRUTH – THE BASIC DESTRUCTIVE FORCE GENERATED BY BULLETS STRIKING STEEL TARGETS IS HEAT

Excessive concentrated heat alters the steel’s hardness properties and results in damage to the target’s face. The amount of heat generated is proportional to the speed of the bullet, which is why rifles cause more damage to steel targets than handguns.

TRUTH – RIFLE DISTANCE ON STEEL TARGETS IS NOT AN EXACT SCIENCE

LETC 169
Even though this target is made of AR550 armor steel, shooting too close or shooting with piercing rounds has caused severe damage to its shooting surface.

No matter what anyone tells you, shooting a steel target with a rifle – even at 100 yards – can damage your target, even if it has a Brinell hardness rating of 550. You must be very careful about your choice of steel and ammunition! Even with 550 Brinell steel and the target mounted at a significant angle, some damage is still possible, even at 100 yards. For best results, use only steel targetscart Small that are specifically designed for use with rifles.

With so many complex variables like ammunition type, rifle manufacturer, barrel length, bullet velocity and so on, it is virtually impossible to establish a set distance for shooting rifles on steel targets. To determine what works best with your specific equipment, we suggest the following: Fire a test shot from 100 yards and then examine the target. If there is no damage, move in a few yards and fire another test shot. Repeat the process until you find the optimal distance for your combination of rifle and ammunition. Some people may be comfortable with a certain amount of dimpling on the steel. Minor damage to the shooting surface will not create a shooting hazard if you are shooting at 100 yards, but if can be very dangerous if you choose to shoot at close range with a handgun on the same target. Even if your steel targets have only minimal rifle damage, they should never be used for closer distance handgun training.

TRUTH – SHOTGUN SLUG DISTANCE ON STEEL TARGETS MEANS 100 YARDS MINIMUM

Shotgun slugs have the greatest potential for bodily harm to the shooter due to the sheer volume of lead that can be returned from damaged or poorly designed steel targets. Stay back!

TRUTH – FRANGIBLE AMMUNITION REQUIRES THE SAME QUALITY STEEL AS REGULAR AMMUNITION

Many types of frangible ammunition, particularly for rifles, are lighter than regular lead ammunition. Remember that lighter bullets can mean greater speed, which means more heat, which can mean damage to your steel target. Just because frangible ammunition is designed to break up on impact doesn’t mean the distance requirements do not apply. You should follow the exact same rules with frangible ammunition as you do with any other.

TRUST THE EXPERTS

When it comes to your safety, don’t settle for the advice of your local welder. Steel targets can be fun and safe as long as they are made of quality steel and designed to produce predictable splatter. In fact, steel targets can be one of the greatest tools for firearms training, but they have to be manufactured correctly. Shooting on poorly designed targets made of inferior steel can result in severe bodily harm. Here at Action Target, your safety is our biggest concern. We have decades of experience manufacturing steel targets, and we constantly conduct ballistic research to make sure the steel we use meets our standards and your expectations. If you are looking for a steel target, trust us to point you in the right direction.