Best 22 Steel Targets for Competitive Shooting: Our Top Picks

Airsoft steel targets have revolutionized the way we practice shooting, offering a durable and realistic training solution. Our detailed roundup examines 22 of the most reliable and effective steel targets available today, comparing their durability, accuracy, and value to help you choose the right one for your shooting setup.

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Reviews

Birchwood Casey USA .22 Sharpshooter Rimfire Spinner Target

Made of sturdy metal with a 18-inch diameter, this. 22 rimfire target spins on impact, giving shooters clear visual and auditory feedback. Available in two sizes - 2” and 3 5/8” - it’s perfect for all skill levels. The heavy-duty steel frame and ground-penetrating footrest make it incredibly reliable for backyard shooting sessions.

Birchwood Casey USA Bushwacker .22 Steel Target

This portable 22 Caliber target features durable AR400 paddles that pop up alternately for realistic shooting practice. With its USA-made construction and simple set-up, it’s a versatile addition to any backyard shooting range.

Birchwood Casey NM500 Steel Target Plate

This chunk of steel stands tall in your backyard, getting a little battered from time to time but keeping its cool. The white coat is pretty to look at when you hit it just right, and it’s got those square holes that make it easy to mount up and get shooting. Whether you’re testing your own skills or beating on it with practice rounds, this trusty target’s got the grit to take whatever you dish out.

SME Steel Resetting Target 22JR

The SME Steel Resetting Target turns your shooting session into a simple reload-and-shoot game. Made from tough steel with a powder coat finish, it can take whatever your 22-caliber firearm dishes out. While it might wobble a bit under heavy fire, the durable target still puts up a good fight after 300 rounds. The self-resetting feature just needs a little helping hand sometimes – you might want to secure those legs with some sandbags for extra stability.

Birchwood Casey Gallery Expert .22 Rimfire Target

The Birchwood Casey Gallery Expert. 22 rimfire target delivers hours of shooting fun with its reliable auto-reset mechanism and solid steel construction. Each target features durable twist-designed paddles that prevent breakage, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. With its heavy-duty build and 18-foot height, this target system provides an engaging shooting experience suitable for both. 22 rimfire and airgun users.

Birchwood Casey Rimfire Dueling Tree

The Birchwood Casey Rimfire Dueling Tree combines durable steel paddles with a practical design that’s easy to transport and assemble. While some users note the stand legs can be finicky, the target’s consistent action and visible hits make it a hit with shooters of all levels. The included carry case and three-point stand setup make it a solid addition to any 22 LR collection.

Origin Tactical Raptor Steel Target

This 22 steel target brings a bit of personality to your range setup with its raptor silhouette, though you’ll really want to get those iron feathers to stay sharp after a few hits. The green coloring makes it easy to spot from a distance, which is perfect for both backyard ranges and outdoor shooting areas. The detailed design gives you plenty of spots to aim for, whether you’re working on your precision shooting or just trying to bag that elusive perfect score.

Caldwell AR500 33% Deer Steel Target

Made from top-quality 3/8” AR500 steel, these durable game targets can handle thousands of shots while their 1/2” x 1” center slots work perfectly with the Caldwell AR500 target post. The steel plates, which come in popular animal shapes, are rated for up to 3000 fps velocity and 3500 ft-lb energy—providing excellent value with their lifetime guarantee.

Champion Shooting Rimfire Orange Targets

I recently started using the Champion Impact Steel TYL Targets Rimfire Orange 44923C in my weekly shooting practice sessions, and I couldn’t be happier. As an avid shooter, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and durability of these targets.

Ever since I swapped out my old paper targets for these steel ones, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my accuracy. The four different sizes (3x1/4, 2.5x1/4, 2x1/4, and 1.5x1/4) make it super easy to practice a variety of shots without getting bored. Plus, the center hole allows me to hang them up on the range with ease.

It’s worth mentioning that these targets are specifically designed for 22LR, which means you won’t have any trouble using them with your rimfire firearms. One small issue I encountered was that they’re made of lead, so proper handling and disposal should be exercised to ensure safety.

Overall, I’m extremely satisfied with the Champion Impact Steel TYL Targets Rimfire Orange 44923C. I’ve seen improvements in my shooting skills since incorporating these targets into my training routine. If you’re looking for a reliable and reusable round target, this is definitely worth considering!

22 Auto Reset Trap Junior Target for Outdoor Shooting Practice

I remember the day I finally decided to try the Do-All Outdoors Jr. 22 Auto Reset Target. I was so tired of setting up cans or replacing paper targets every time I wanted to practice my shooting. When I discovered this target, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to use.

With the. 22 Auto Reset Target Jr. , each bullet hit causes a spinning and locking target to appear, which made my practice sessions much more enjoyable and efficient. The fact that it’s made of steel means it’s built to last, even with continuous use.

One minor downside is that after a few shots, the target may start to lean, but with a little creativity, like adding some extra weight at the base, it stays upright just fine. Overall, I’m very happy with my decision to purchase this target. It has made my shooting practice sessions much more fun and effective.

Caldwell Prairie Dog Target AR500 Steel

This bright, long-lasting target features AR-500 steel construction rated for extreme impact loads. With a convenient mounting slot and three hanging options, it’s perfect for any shooting range setup.

Highwild AR500 Steel Target

This 7” by 12” steel target combines durable AR500 construction with neon powder coating for clear hit indications. The 3/8” thick plate handles everything from 9mm to. 308 without deformation, though handguns should stay at least 10 yards away and rifles at 100 yards for optimal performance. The target’s simple mounting design features one central and two side holes, making it a straightforward addition to both indoor and outdoor ranges.

Gallery .22 Resetting Target for Fun Shooting Practice

I recently purchased the Gallery. 22 Resetting Target and have had countless hours of fun shooting it at 25 yards with my. 22 caliber rifle. The reset mechanism works flawlessly, saving me the hassle of walking downrange after each shot.

The construction of this rimfire target is robust and made entirely of solid metal, which gives me confidence in its durability and longevity. The targets hang smoothly and provide a satisfying ‘bang’ when hit, allowing me to keep track of my shots effortlessly. One useful tip is to lean the target slightly forward for the swing arm targets to rotate back and stay in place when struck – this took some adjusting but worked well once set up.

However, I did notice that the paper stickers on the targets tend to peel off or fade quickly with usage. An easy fix was spray painting them with white paint, making them much more visible at longer distances too. One interesting feature I discovered was that you can reverse the design by simply turning around the target if any rounding occurs due to years of use!

Overall, this rimfire target is an excellent value for its price and provides endless entertainment during plinking sessions with friends or family members who also share a passion for shooting sports. Highly recommended product for anyone looking for an enjoyable addition to their range routine!

Origin Tactical Boar Steel Target

The sturdy 3/8-inch AR500 steel construction makes each Boar head target durable enough for serious training sessions with handguns and center-fire rifles. At a practical size of 11.82 inches by 9.24 inches, the targets are compact enough to store but still offer ample impact surface. Made in the USA, these three-hole hanging targets add an engaging challenge to both short and long-range practice drills.

Customizable .22 Rimfire Popper Target for a Fulfilling Shooting Experience

I recently got my hands on the Birchwood Casey World of Targets. 22 Rimfire Popper Target, and I must say it’s been a gamechanger at the range. As a shooter who loves to practice accuracy and quick reflexes, this self-resetting rim fire target has been a must-have.

One of the best things about this target is the 4” target paddle that gives you an ample area to aim at. No more squinting to see where your shots are landing! Plus, the ground stakes provided make setting it up super easy.

The highlight feature of the Birchwood Casey World of Targets. 22 Rimfire Popper Target is definitely how it falls backward when shot and springs right back up. It’s like it’s daring me to take another shot, and trust me, I always rise to the challenge!

However, there have been a few minor issues with this product. Some users have reported receiving the wrong product altogether, which can be quite frustrating. Additionally, the product description seems to be inconsistent with the actual item received in certain cases.

Even though there are some hiccups, I would still recommend the Birchwood Casey World of Targets. 22 Rimfire Popper Target to anyone looking for a quality, reliable target for their rim fire guns. The pros far outweigh the cons, and it’s definitely worth checking out!

Durable and Visible Rimfire Shooting Target

I’ve been using the Champion Impact Steel Coyote Target for a few weeks now, and I must say it’s a game-changer when it comes to honing my shooting skills. This little target is made of super durable AR500 comparable steel, so you know it’s built to last. Plus, setting it up took no time at all - I was able to spend more time on the range and less time fumbling with target set-up.

One major highlight of this target is its high-visibility orange powder coating. Whether I’m shooting at dawn or dusk, that vibrant color always stands out against any background. And speaking of shooting, this 22LR rimfire-rated steel target can definitely take a beating. I’ve had it out for several rounds now, and it’s still holding up strong.

However, there are some cons to consider as well. Some users have mentioned that the target is quite small, making it difficult to see clearly from long distances (around 500 yards with iron sights). Additionally, some might initially be disappointed by its size compared to the Prairie Dog model offered by the same brand.

In conclusion, while there may be some minor drawbacks to this target, its durability and ease of set-up make it a worthwhile addition to any rimfire range. Just remember to keep those expectations in check when it comes to size!

Automatic .22 Caliber Prairie Popper Steel Target

I have been using the Do All Outdoors. 22 Prairie Popper Target in my backyard shooting range for a while now, and it is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining and rewarding targets I’ve come across. The lifelike representation of a prairie dog silhouette adds to its appeal, as does its popping action which never ceases to amaze.

The target is constructed from high-quality steel, making it incredibly durable and long-lasting even with prolonged use. The robust springs built into the base deliver an impressive recoil every time the target is hit, enhancing overall engagement. Despite being rated for. 22 caliber firearms only, I’ve found that it can handle various ammunition types without any issues; though you might need to touch up the paint job occasionally due to hotter loads leaving more marks on the target plate.

One minor issue I faced was mounting it on softer ground but this can be easily resolved with some creativity (such as setting it up on wooden boards). Additionally, these targets can perform well at greater distances than advertised - just note that they might show minor dents instead of popping back up when struck by higher velocity projectiles (like if you try them out with an airgun or. 177 pellets).

In summary, this product has provided countless hours of enjoyment in my backyard range and is definitely worth its price!

High-Visibility AR500 Silhouette Target for Competition and Training

I recently purchased Caldwell’s steel targets for some target practice and competition training, and I must say, I was impressed with their durability. The AR500 hardened steel ensures that the targets can take thousands of rounds without any signs of wear. The bright, easy-to-see target feature is an added bonus as it makes it much easier to track my shots.

The three mounting holes provided on the target make hanging them up a breeze - no fuss or complicated set up required! During my time at the range, I tested these targets with various calibers and distances and found that they held up exceptionally well. Even when shooting from close range, there was no deformation or denting on the target plates.

Caldwell’s products offer great value for money and are perfect for both competition training and casual shooting sessions. If you’re in the market for high-quality steel targets, give them a try - you won’t be disappointed!

Allen Metal Re-Setting Target (For Rimfire or Air Guns)

As an avid shooter, I was excited to try the Allen Metal Resetting Target. . I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to set up and how much it added to my target practice sessions. .

The solid steel construction and the five targets - four gallery targets and one resetting target - made it a fun and interactive experience. . The resetting target in particular was a game-changer for me, eliminating the need to walk down the lane to reset it manually. .

The bright orange center of the targets made them easy to see and aim at, even from a distance. . The only drawback I noticed was that the targets are a bit small for a handgun, but it’s perfect for rimfire or air guns. .

Overall, I would definitely recommend the Allen Metal Resetting Target for anyone looking to spice up their target practice sessions. .

Caldwell AR500 Full Size IPSC Steel Target for Shooting Practice and Competition

I recently started using the Caldwell 500 Steel - Full Size IPSC for my shooting practice, and I’m impressed with its quality and performance. The target’s 3/8” steel plates can withstand thousands of rounds from rifles and pistols, making it a reliable and durable option.

This steel target is easy to spot in low light conditions thanks to its bright yellow finish, which may flake off after use but doesn’t affect its overall durability. Mounting and hanging options make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Plus, the ringing sound after each hit provides instant feedback on your accuracy.

While setting up this steel target is relatively easy, I do wish that the yellow powder coating was more long-lasting. However, this minor issue can be fixed with a touch-up of spray paint if desired. Overall, the Caldwell 500 Steel - Full Size IPSC Target has been a great addition to my shooting gear collection as it offers reliable performance at a competitive price point.

Buyer’s Guide

Steel targets offer an engaging way to measure shooting accuracy and improve marksmanship skills. When selecting a 22 steel target, consider several key factors to ensure it meets your training needs and environmental requirements.

Size and Weight

22 steel targets are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 6 to 12 inches in diameter. The target’s weight affects its durability and performance. Heavier targets are more stable and resist deformation from repeated hits, making them suitable for repeated shooting sessions.

Material Quality

Steel composition impacts target longevity and effectiveness. Higher-quality targets use thicker steel plates (minimum 12-gauge) and may incorporate premium coatings for rust resistance. The backing material (wood, concrete, or metal) should be robust enough to prevent target instability during use.

Mounting Options

Securing the target properly is crucial for safe shooting. Common mounting methods include tripods, wall mounts, and portable stands. Consider the target’s base design to ensure stability in different environments, especially when shooting outdoors or on uneven surfaces.

Environmental Factors

Weather resistance affects target longevity. Look for targets with protective coatings or enclosures designed to withstand exposure to rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Consider storage options for protecting the target between shooting sessions, particularly in harsh climates.

FAQ

What makes steel targets ideal for 22 rifles?

Steel targets offer superior durability and consistent performance when used with 22 rifles. Their thin gauges can resist deformation from lighter rounds, while their reflective surfaces help align shots accurately.

Opt for targets with gauges between 12-18 gauge for 22 LR and 22 Magnum, as these provide the right balance of strength and weight retention.

How do I properly mount a steel target?

Use a sturdy tripod or frame to support the target, ensuring it’s at least 30 feet from the firing line for safety. Secure the mounting structure on concrete or heavy-duty stands.

Always point the target away from populated areas and buildings. Check local regulations before installation, as some communities have restrictions on target shooting.

What maintenance do steel targets require?

Regularly inspect targets for cracks, rust, or dents. Clean rust and debris promptly to maintain surface integrity and visibility.

Store targets in a dry place when not in use. Consider applying a rust-inhibiting coating for extended protection, especially in humid environments.

Are steel targets environmentally friendly?

Steel targets minimize environmental impact compared to traditional clay targets, as they can be reused countless times. Proper disposal of spent ammunition and cleanup of bullet fragments are still important.

Choose targets with eco-friendly features like recycled materials or non-toxic paint options to further reduce environmental impact.

How do I choose the right size target?

Standard 22 targets measure 18 inches in diameter, suitable for most practice needs. Consider larger sizes for longer ranges or when shooting at higher velocities.

Use smaller targets for building accuracy and quicker target acquisition. Experiment with different sizes to find what works best for your practice sessions.

What safety considerations should I keep in mind?

Always keep other people and vehicles at least 100 feet beyond the target. Use backstops to prevent ricochets and direct all impacts away from populated areas.

Wear appropriate eye and ear protection during shooting. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times, even when not firing.

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