I was going to pick up a 40% scale IPSC target in 3/8" AR500 Steel and was wondering what ammo was OK to use. Would surplus steel 5.45 AK74 rounds be OK? Also what are Russian .223 (Wolf, Barnaul, etc.)made of? Also is 50 yards too close?
Barnaul is copper over lead, can’t say for sure on Wolf, but assume the same. My dad is a Bear dist. so that’s the one I know. IIRC most steel target makers say 100yrds. for Centerfire rifle, however I’ve done closer, I think it’s a liability thing. YMMV.
I’ve hit my gongs with M856 tracers at long range. The jackets on those are steel, and they didn’t do anything out of the ordinary to the plate.
I’ve never fired a 5.45… let alone at a gong so I’m not sure. I’d bet that it’s not an issue.
Depends on the target. Some manufacturers make steel that can be shot with rifles at very close ranges. The manufacturer should give you a minimum engagement distance.
I’ve shot a lot of 55 grain PMC Bronze at an AR500 1/2 inch thick gong from 50 yards. Hasn’t damaged the gong, but I’ve been hit with a little spatter on more than one occasion.