There have been several incidents of members using inappropriate steel targets on both the rifle range and pistol ranges.
Most of these stem from use of SOFT STEEL targets that can be deformed, cratered or punctured by projectiles. This makes the bullet splatter unpredictable and dangerous for both the shooter and others on the range.
The only steel targets that are acceptable must be HARD STEEL with a Brinell Hardness Level of AR450 to AR550.
For Rimfire and Centerfire Handguns - you should use AR450 or 500 3/8th inch thick targets at a distance of no less than 11 meters. Do not shoot with any round travelling at less than 700FPS or over 1500FPS.
For Centerfire Rifle - you should use 3/8th inch AR500 or 550 at no less than 100 meters. This is suitable for 5.56 * 45 mm, .308 Win, 30-06.
For Big Bore Rifle - you should use 1/2 inch AR550 at no less than 100 meters. This would include .338 Lapua and 300 Win Mag.
Shotgun Slugs can be used on AR550 steel at 100 yards.
Never use armor-piercing, steel-core, green tip, or other hardened ammunition.
Never shoot on steel targets that have been damaged or deformed at distances less than 100 yds. Even at these distances cracked or failing targets should not be used.
You should where wrap-around eye protection with a ballistic rating, such as the OSHA or MIL-PRF-31013 standard.
Make sure that spectators are also wearing proper ear and eye protection.
IN SUMMARY - training on steel targets can be safe if done properly. Take proper safety precautions. Place targets correctly, and make sure you understand the limitation of the steel targets you are using.
The Club has AR550 steel targets placed on the 100 and 200 yard stands on Range B. We would ask you do not use Magnum or Big Bore Rifles on the 100 yard steel targets to save wear and tear. Also note that Magnum Rifles should only be fired through the port on Range B.
You can find information on shooting steel from manufacturers websites, such as: Action Target, Drummond Targets, Grizzly Targets.