$115.61
Availability: In Stock
The Caldwell 3/8" AR500 Steel Target Gong is a hardened steel shooting target built to handle serious volume at the range. If you're training for competition, setting up a permanent range station, or just want a target that won't crater after a few hundred rounds, this gong delivers the durability and feedback you need. The 8-inch size (9.1" L × 8" W) is compact enough for precision work without taking up half your range, and at 7 lbs it's manageable to hang and adjust.
Constructed from full 3/8-inch AR500 through-hardened steel and finished with a powder coat, this target is rated to handle impacts up to 3000 fps velocity and 3500 ft-lbs of energy—the ballistic envelope that covers most centerfire rifle and pistol loads you'll encounter. AR500 steel is the industry standard for reactive targets because it resists pitting, fragmentation, and deformation far better than mild steel or reactive splatter targets. You get audible and visible feedback on every hit, which makes it ideal for both marksmanship practice and diagnosing your shot placement.
The gong design means rounds hit a curved surface, directing energy downward and outward rather than back toward the shooter—a safety feature that matters when you're running high-round-count sessions. The bright finish makes hits easy to spot from downrange, eliminating guesswork about whether you connected. Caldwell offers three hanging solutions across their target lineup, so you can rig this for a swinging mount, a static stand, or your existing range setup.
AR500 targets require proper mounting (the gong should hang freely and be able to swing) and safe shooting distance and angles. This is a serious tool for shooters who want their targets to outlast their ammunition budget.
| Material | AR500 hardened steel, 3/8" thick |
| Size (8-inch gong) | 9.1" L × 8" W × 0.4" D |
| Weight | 7 lbs |
| Maximum Impact Velocity | 3000 fps |
| Maximum Impact Energy | 3500 ft-lbs |
| Finish | Powder coat |
The Caldwell gong is rated for impact velocities up to 3000 fps and energy up to 3500 ft-lbs. This covers most centerfire rifle and pistol loads when fired from typical hunting and range distances. Always follow safe shooting practices: maintain proper distance, ensure a safe backstop, and never shoot from directly in front of the target. Check Caldwell's documentation for specific distance and angle recommendations based on your caliber.
The target itself is a gong without hanging hardware included in this product. Caldwell offers three hanging solutions across their target line, so you'll need to use a separate mounting system—either a swinging rig, a static stand, or your existing range infrastructure. The target should hang freely and be able to move with impact for safety and longevity.
AR500 steel is designed to withstand thousands of rounds without significant degradation. The 3/8-inch thickness and hardness mean it resists pitting and fragmentation far better than mild steel. Lifespan depends on caliber, distance, and angle of fire, but these targets are built for high-volume, long-term use. Eventually the powder coat may wear off and surface texture will change, but the steel itself remains functional.
Yes. The audible and visual feedback from steel targets makes them excellent for competition preparation and shot diagnostics. The compact 8-inch size is practical for precision drills and marksmanship work.
SKU: 115776357 • Width: 8in • Height: 1in • Depth: 9in • Weight: 7.31oz