Steel Target Stand Recommendations

[eazy]

My local range is 850 yards, but I need to bring my own steel targets and stands. I'd like to shoot out to 850 yards with .223, .308, and 6.5 creedmoor (and beyond if I find some land).

What type of steel target stand would you recommend to balance the ease of transporting the stand to the range, the ease of moving the stand between distances, and the ease of spotting hits at 850 with .223?

Thank you.

 

[PAYDIRT]

 

[Ankeny]

Is the ground soft enough to drive a stand into the ground, or does the stand need to be free standing?

 

[eazy]

It's all grass, so my guess is that I can drive it into the ground.

 

[padom]

I have a few different setups. But this is my favorite. It is by far the easiest and most stable "portable" rifle steel setup Ive bought or used. 3 pieces easily thrown in the back of your car, truck or SUV. Drive out, throw the stand on the ground, dropped the protected 2x4 post into the stand, then drop the top mount/steel onto the top of the 2x4 post. We are talking setup or tear down in 30sec.

I take these to my local range so portable and easy to setup was my goal and this is it. Now if I had a permanent range where they stayed there then I probably would be using something else.

1/2" Steel Target 12"x 20" Short Range Rifle Target - Complete Package

The ShootSteel.com Short Range Rifle Target is perfect for close quarters rifle training! Recommended for military and law enforcement!

shootsteel.com

 

[padom]

I also have a few of the setups that use a T-Post (Stop Sign Post) that you have to bring a sledge, hammer into the ground, set the mount on the t-post, use wrench to tighten the bolt to hold the mount to the T-post, put your steel on. Works, but takes WAY longer to setup and take down, requires you to bring tools, pain in the ass ripping that post out of the ground after your done. I never use those setups, they sit in the garage now.

 

[Supersum1]

I've really enjoyed TA Targets A-DAP silhouette targets for stands and targets. Just add your own 2x4 and you're ready to go, they're very easy to set up and move around. I have 2 of their mini A-DAPs in 1/2" AR550 that have done very well, even shooting them w/ .223 AR at as little as 30yds. However, it can be difficult to see impacts, especially if hit near the top at the hanger, as they don't swing much.

For gongs, I've made decent, cheap stands with 2x4s and hung the gong with recycled fire hose. Fire hose is a much better hanger than chain as it won't break if hit by a bullet, though the outer sheath is torn up by the lead splatter. They take a bit more to set up, but much easier to see impacts from small calibers at long ranges.

 

[padom]

However, it can be difficult to see impacts, especially if hit near the top at the hanger, as they don't swing much.

Yep, this is why I love the www.shootsteel.com target stand I posted above. Their steel mount angles the steel and is on a big spring allowing the steel plate to float so you get a good report upon impact. I shoot mine with 22LR out to 400yd and hear it no problem

 

[bluegrasspicker]

I've settled on the following...

Start with two ~8 ft lengths of rebar. Heat a short section with a torch to make a sharp bend. Cut two short lengths of rebar to weld across the sharp bend on the inside of the bend.

Those are the legs of a stand. For the cross member (to hang the target from) just slide another piece of rebar between these two legs.

If you have short lengths of tubing they're better welded on the inside of the legs' sharp bends for keeping the cross member in place.

Cheap, easy, light.

 

[luv2hunt6]

Tyler with MK Machining has several options, I think he's a sponsor on here also. I was in a similar situation so I purchased some of his t-post mounts and AR steel. You can find people selling the posts cheap or even sometimes giving them away. Just drive the post in a little bit, slide the mount on, tighten the set screw, and hang the steel. I like that you can vary the height, distance, and target type quickly and easily. He has some of his square steel that's gridded in 1" squares that is handy when you're making adjustments or taking down load specific data for your charts.

 

[Tchitcherine]

If you can use T-posts, the JC Steel T-post brackets are awesome. Once the bracket is bolted to the plate, you can just drop it on the T-post, no additional wrenching. I like using the T-post because it's just 1 piece to carry, and they're positively anchored and stable. But I am leaving them set up semi-permanently.

 

[6cmShooter]

I built my own out of some scrap would pieces I had laying around. Used a 4x4, 2x4, 2x2s, some #10x 3in deck screws, and a bike hook lag that I had to heat up and bend so the target would go on. Semi lightweight and sturdy hit it with a 6.5 and 308 at 200 and it held up perfectly

 

[Eoddave27]

Depending on the size of the targets I just use a Shepard’s hook or a steel fence post. Hook for targets under 8” and post for larger.

 

[CageFighter]

I use these from Steel Ops. holds up nice to my 308, 762/39 & 556

https://shop.steelops.com/products/t3rxt3

 

[kriller134]

I’m using MGM targets and this one is super easy to transport and setup. https://mgmtargets.com/product/mls-2x4-package/

 

[eazy]

Yep, this is why I love the www.shootsteel.com target stand I posted above. Their steel mount angles the steel and is on a big spring allowing the steel plate to float so you get a good report upon impact. I shoot mine with 22LR out to 400yd and hear it no problem

Do you have any pics from the side or back? Their site doesn't show the hanger.

 

[padom]

Do you have any pics from the side or back? Their site doesn't show the hanger.

Here you go

 

[eazy]

Thanks!

Is yours 1/2" or 3/8"?

It seems like yours is slightly different than the 1/2" one with 4 bolts going for $345.

They have a 3/8" one with 1 bolt and 2x4 protector for $242. Just wondering if I can get away with that.

3/8" AR550 12"x20" Static - Target Package

This is a complete package containing absolutely everything you will need aside from the wood 2x4. It contains our extremely sturdy static target stand, our simple and easy to use static target hanger which includes all of the necessary mounting hardware including a 1/2" carriage bolt and lock...

shootsteel.com

 

[padom]

Thanks!

Is yours 1/2" or 3/8"?

It seems like yours is slightly different than the 1/2" one with 4 bolts going for $345.

They have a 3/8" one with 1 bolt and 2x4 protector for $242. Just wondering if I can get away with that.

3/8" AR550 12"x20" Static - Target Package

This is a complete package containing absolutely everything you will need aside from the wood 2x4. It contains our extremely sturdy static target stand, our simple and easy to use static target hanger which includes all of the necessary mounting hardware including a 1/2" carriage bolt and lock...

shootsteel.com

I'm running 1/2" AR550 on mine. Not sure about the difference in mounting but mine works great. I've had 2 of them for probably 2yr now...

 

[padom]

Thanks!

Is yours 1/2" or 3/8"?

It seems like yours is slightly different than the 1/2" one with 4 bolts going for $345.

They have a 3/8" one with 1 bolt and 2x4 protector for $242. Just wondering if I can get away with that.

3/8" AR550 12"x20" Static - Target Package

This is a complete package containing absolutely everything you will need aside from the wood 2x4. It contains our extremely sturdy static target stand, our simple and easy to use static target hanger which includes all of the necessary mounting hardware including a 1/2" carriage bolt and lock...

shootsteel.com

Here is the link to the single hole 1/2" steel with holder, stand and 2x4 protector that I have

1/2" AR550 Steel Target 12"x20" Static

For serious rifles, you will want serious targets. These 1/2" AR550 steel targets are built to last, using only the best steel and cutting practices. Do not confuse these targets with cheaper plasma cut targets, these have been precision cut using a CNC laser in order to minimize the heat...

shootsteel.com

 

[eazy]

Thanks for all of the recommendations. I picked up a surplus 3/8" thick 12x20" static target package, a surplus 3/8" thick 5" plate, and a shepherds hook.

3/8" AR500 12"x20" Static - Target Package

Perfect for short action rifle use and high-volume pistol use, these 3/8" AR500 steel targets are made to last. Like all our targets, they have been precision cut using a CNC Laser to reduce any heat affected zone leaving you with the most durable and longest lasting target on the market - do no...

shootsteel.com

3/8" AR500 Steel Target - 5" Static

Perfect for short action rifle use and high-volume pistol use, these 3/8" AR500 steel targets are made to last. Like all our targets, they have been precision cut using a CNC Laser to reduce any heat affected zone leaving you with the most durable and longest lasting target on the market - do no...

shootsteel.com

 

[striped1]

MGM makes some easy take down gongs.

 

[jsel10]

Get some t posts with the hooks that go on top. They are easy to transport and they take a beating.

 

[Halfnutz]

I had a set similar to the "Hang and Hook" laser cut at work. Lightweight and uses 1" conduit.

 

[usmc45]

always liked the T-post set up from JC Steel

 

[plinkin]

Easy

Thanks for all of the recommendations. I picked up a surplus 3/8" thick 12x20" static target package, a surplus 3/8" thick 5" plate, and a shepherds hook.

3/8" AR500 12"x20" Static - Target Package

Perfect for short action rifle use and high-volume pistol use, these 3/8" AR500 steel targets are made to last. Like all our targets, they have been precision cut using a CNC Laser to reduce any heat affected zone leaving you with the most durable and longest lasting target on the market - do no...

shootsteel.com

3/8" AR500 Steel Target - 5" Static

Perfect for short action rifle use and high-volume pistol use, these 3/8" AR500 steel targets are made to last. Like all our targets, they have been precision cut using a CNC Laser to reduce any heat affected zone leaving you with the most durable and longest lasting target on the market - do no...

shootsteel.com

[/QUOTE

If you're referring to Bradford's people bring the post and stand types, I would try and stick with stands those posts can be a bear to get out. I built 5 20x20 bases that use a 2x4 for a post and picked up a set of targets off Amazon. They work pretty good and are fairly cheap to make. I've got enough to go every hundred yards or so, which makes it nice so you dont have to move them constantly.

 

[eazy]

@plinkin yes, these are for Bradford Sportsman's Farm. I bought a static stand similar to your photo for the silhouette. I bought a shepherds hook at the hardware store to hang the 5" plate. We'll see how it works out... I may need to bring a mallet...

 

[PDXGS]

Damn guys...here in Oregon we use the steel plate to bash the T-posts into the ground......you guys have fancy tools.

 

[Mooncake]

Is the ground soft enought to drive in a T-post and extract it without too much difficulty? Easy peasy.

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jcsteeltargets.configio.com

You'll need to pick up one of JC's targets with the slot, too. Best system going.

 

[Praeger]

T-Posts all the way with a hanger on top. No issues with slopes or uneven ground. I shoot on farm fields so the ground is generally soft enough to get them in the ground easily. Rock them back and forth and they'll come out without much of a fight. I usually set up at least 4+ at a time, so carrying a small sledge hammer is still lighter than 4+ stands.

If you have the extra coin, go for the flasher on the distant targets.

 

[SFree]

Ya’ll makin the t-post thing a lot harder than it has to be. Get ya a post driver and a t-post puller. Post will pull out a fully driven post in 2 seconds...

 

[BisSilent]

View attachment 7320083View attachment 7320084

Is the rubber a better choice than chain??? Making my dyi target stand. Thanks

 

[TRyanOC]

I use two T posts driven with a post driver about 24"apart. Two pieces of 12" chain holds the steel gong in between the posts. There are some AR500 brackets on Amazon that are about $25 which connect chains to the posts. Works really well and easy to install/ set up, good movement on bullet impacts.

 

[BisSilent]

I use two T posts driven with a post driver about 24"apart. Two pieces of 12" chain holds the steel gong in between the posts. There are some AR500 brackets on Amazon that are about $25 which connect chains to the posts. Works really well and easy to install/ set up, good movement on bullet impacts.

I was planning on putting a 8" plate in the center, 2- 6" plates on each side of that then, 2- 3" plates on the outside of those. Triyng to decide on using rebar or schedule 40 pipe as the frame. It will be permanent install.

 

[264win]

I was planning on putting a 8" plate in the center, 2- 6" plates on each side of that then, 2- 3" plates on the outside of those. Tring to decide on using rebar or schedule 40 pipe as the frame. It will be permanent install.

Neither will stand up to many direct hits with a rifle. The rebar is likely the best of the two.
The fire hose/ heavy rubber strap seems to hold up better than chain.

 

[PAYDIRT]

Is the rubber a better choice than chain??? Making my dyi target stand. Thanks

Yes. All my stuff is that rubber belt. Basically my stands are set up to easily change targets without tools.

 

[TRyanOC]

I shot the first link once, just shortened one link and kept shooting.
I set a 10" @ 700, 12"@ 800 and 14" @ 900yds.

 

[C.R. Adams]

the idea of having a "clanker" behind the actual target is very helpful............. as simple as hanging from a T-post helps audible identification of hits. or a clanker hanging down behind your taget

 

[Joeydias3]

Floral hooks. That your wife hangs her potted plants from. They’re like 7 bucks at Home Depot. I hang 8” all the way up to 24” 3/8” gongs on them. 2 for each plate. They’re super light, and hold up surprisingly well. I’ve hit them with creedmoors, 308s, 300 winmags. and they never fall or fold over.

 

[LooseGoose]

Five 48" x 1/2" black iron pipe lengths

Two 90° elbows.

Two T fittings.

Two black iron nipples.

Old 4" ratchet strap for hangers

3/8" hardware.

Easy assemble/disassemble and around $60.

 

[BisSilent]

Neither will stand up to many direct hits with a rifle. The rebar is likely the best of the two.
The fire hose/ heavy rubber strap seems to hold up better than chain.

So.....high tensile strenght chain became the MISSING LINK Going to get rubber belting

 

[LooseGoose]

View attachment 7366775
So.....high tensile strenght chain became the MISSING LINK Going to get rubber belting

4" ratchet strap works nicely too.

 

[BisSilent]

4" ratchet strap works nicely too.

Next time I see one on the side of the highway that has fallen off a truck I'm gonna pick up some litter

 

[Steel head]

Fire hose, conveyor belt and HD straps are far better than chain

 

[BisSilent]

Fire hose, conveyor belt and HD straps are far better than chain

Local Agri Supply has 4"and 5" wide conveyor belt available, gonna pick some up on Monday!! Was thinking I could use a 2x4 mounted between 2 trees since it will be a semi-permanent installation to hang them from???

 

[Jigstick]

These are Nice.

Hang n' Hook "Setup" Guide

The Hang 'N Hook Target Stand Setup Instructions Buy 1-inch EMT electrical conduit at your local hardware store. (We usually buy 2 of the 10-foot sticks.) Cut 4 legs and 1 crossbar. (If you bought 2 of the 10 foot sticks you can cut 4 legs at 40", and you'll have an 80" crossbar left over!)...

www.yankeethunder.com

 

[PAYDIRT]

Next time I see one on the side of the highway that has fallen off a truck I'm gonna pick up some litter

Bullet frag cuts it like butter.

 

[johnrice]

T-Post Hook Mount

CNC Laser cut AR500 steel hook Barbed hook keeps your target secure without dampening its ring like chain, belt or springs Unlike many designs that have to sit at the top of the t-post, these fit anywhere so you can have multiple per t-post or simply have them at the height you want the target...

www.atlastargetworks.com

i like this type

 

[LooseGoose]

Bullet frag cuts it like butter.

How are you hanging it that the frag touches it? Mine is bolted to the back and the frag doesn't touch it.

 

[PAYDIRT]

How are you hanging it that the frag touches it? Mine is bolted to the back and the frag doesn't touch it.

Might work on an ipsc where the "head" covers most of it but it doesn't work on a round plate. Probably more the fact that I tried it on my practice plate that gets about 100 rounds or more a week on it, some impacts are high because it's positional practice. The belts I use are hay baler belts, I have plenty I've kept throughout the years.