recommend portable steel practice targets for 2-gun rimfire competition

[MrBitey]

I'm gearing up to try the 2-gun rimfire competition at DPRC for the first time, and I'd like to get some portable steel targets to practice with. Looking online, I see lots of different stand configurations at a wide range of price points. I don't have a truck, so I need stands that can fit in a car, which probably rules out the fixed H-shape footprints. I'd like stands that can hold steel targets that can handle both 22lr and 9mm. Is there a big weight difference between target steels rated for 22lr vs 9mm?

Most systems I've looked at have a base and a hanger, and then use either a 2x4 or metal post between the two. For the hanger, I see simple hooks as well as bolts with springs, some that angle the target slightly towards the ground. Is one clearly better than the other?

I also saw one system that uses t-posts like you'd get a Lowe's. That seems like a really inexpensive and easily portable solution if it works.

Looking for recommendations. I'd like to eventually get 4-6 targets and I'd rather pick a systems that will last for years and is easy to transport vs. something I'll want to upgrade in a year.

Thanks in advance!

ps. just to be clear, I'm not looking for swinging targets, gongs, etc. The targets are static, typically round or square, probably similar to Steel Challenge targets (I really need to read the rulebook, but hopefully others here who've competed in DPRC's 2-gun rimfire competition can fill in the blanks).

 

[tod0987]

My range banned steel so I had to change over. I had the small Mexican silhouette targets out of steel but had to stop using them. I was pointed to this outfit here and have a few and so far I like them. They're not used daily just when I plink. Given your need for portability these may fit your build.

Kits

throomtargets.com

KNOCKDOWN™ Targets

throomtargets.com

Alpha Stand

throomtargets.com

 

[Button Pusher]

Taylor rimfire and centerfire targets are made in USA with domestic steel and stocked at many gun shops.

products – Taylor Targets

www.taylortargets.com

 

[Bahamadon]

Until you get your steel you could rig up some paper plates or cut out cardboard and paint it white. Masking tape will cover the holes as often as you like. You won't get the sweet clang of steel but good way to practice movement and target acquisition. Plus you won't have to lug all that steel around for a while.
See you in March.

 

[Moose12!]

I’m not sure what shape you want. Look at these, maybe you can press into service. I’m happy with mine. I’ve got some little spinny shit too, no 9mm with them.

Dragon Targets

dragontargets.com

 

[Moose12!]

Taylor rimfire and centerfire targets are made in USA with domestic steel and stocked at many gun shops.

products – Taylor Targets

www.taylortargets.com

That dueling tree is awesome!

 

[0724/1030]

I’ve been pleased with the KYL style targets from https://shootingtargets7.com/. Watch for sales and closeouts. Last month I picked up the below for just over $40 delivered.

 

[mostly22lately]

I’ve been pleased with the KYL style targets from https://shootingtargets7.com/. Watch for sales and closeouts. Last month I picked up the below for just over $40 delivered.

I got the same one. Great deal!

 

[MrBitey]

My range banned steel so I had to change over. I had the small Mexican silhouette targets out of steel but had to stop using them. I was pointed to this outfit here and have a few and so far I like them. They're not used daily just when I plink. Given your need for portability these may fit your build.

I haven't shot steel on a timer often, but my guess is that the visual and audible feedback is important. I agree the Throom would be ultra-portable, through!

 

[MrBitey]

Taylor rimfire and centerfire targets are made in USA with domestic steel and stocked at many gun shops.

The base looks more portable than the H-style bases, but for the money I've seen a few folding bases that look good as well. For example, Superior Ideas has this one for $90.

Compact Combo Target Stand - Superior Ideas, Inc

Compact Combo Target Stand Our innovative Compact Combo Target Stand is one of a kind! The unique design allows you to have one stand for...

sitargets.com

If money were no object, the folding stand from Legion Target Systems looks really nice!

Legion Target Base 1/4” AR500

SKU: Legion Target Stand There could be a 3 to 5 week Lead time on this product. We wanted our target stand to have 4 features: 1. AR500 armored steel 2. Portability 3. Affordability 4. Stability - this base won’t fall! We have hit the bullseye with this target stand. It is constructed from...

www.legiontargets.com

 

[MrBitey]

So I ended up ordering the hanger and plates from Challenge Targets, and a folding base from Action Target. I'll post a review once I get them and try the out.

The hanger and plates are these:

Challenge Targets Steel Challenge Hook Post Cap

Innovative and affordable shooting targets direct from the manufacturer.

www.challengetargets.com

Challenge Targets Steel Challenge | 12" x 3/8" Thick Plate

Innovative and affordable shooting targets direct from the manufacturer.

www.challengetargets.com

Challenge Targets Steel Challenge | 12" Square x 3/8" Thick Plate

Innovative and affordable shooting targets direct from the manufacturer.

www.challengetargets.com

And the folding base is this one:

Steel & Paper Shooting Targets | Targets for Shooting Range

The Action Target shop offers range supplies and is your one-stop shop for paper targets, cardboard targets, steel targets, and shooting equipment.

shop.actiontarget.com

 

[Bahamadon]

Looks like a pretty cool setup. Were you at DPRC last Saturday at the rimfire match.? I thought I heard someone say @MrBitey .

 

[Hellquest]

Once our ar500 shows up we will be making all kinds of targets and stands. Already making some dueling trees and shooting stars. All hand made in NC from local supply.

 

[MrBitey]

Looks like a pretty cool setup. Were you at DPRC last Saturday at the rimfire match.? I thought I heard someone say @MrBitey .

Yep! I met another forum member there and watched the last couple of hours of the match. Everyone was very welcoming and I came away eager to giving it a try!

 

[MrBitey]

Once our ar500 shows up we will be making all kinds of targets and stands. Already making some dueling trees and shooting stars. All hand made in NC from local supply.

I look forward to seeing what you make! Do you have a link to what you're currently making?

 

[Hellquest]

I look forward to seeing what you make! Do you have a link to what you're currently making?

Not yet. AR500 is few weeks out on delivery. And trying to get a dependable source also.

 

[MrBitey]

So I ended up ordering the hanger and plates from Challenge Targets, and a folding base from Action Target. I'll post a review once I get them and try the out.

The plates and base have arrived, and although I haven't shot them yet I'm very impressed with the quality of both. The plates and hanger from Challenger Targets look excellent. I wonder if I could've saves some money by buying one of their larger targets and using it as my pizza steel.



The PT Ranger base is also awesome! It has a really large footprint but folds up to a compact size that will fit in my trunk and easy to store on a shelf in the workshop. I like the built-in carrying handle and the forward angle for the 2x4.

 

[Elenaidan]

I have a good bit of Challenge Target stuff. I really like their equipment. Nice choice.

 

[NCMedic]

I have some 8” round steel plates with eyelets in them. I hang them off of two of the cheap push in shepherd's hook plants hangers from Lowe's for backyard plinking... Works good.

 

[MrBitey]

Right now I'm focused on practicing for the 22lr rimfire challenge at DPRC. When I went to watch the last match, one guy I talked with said they have a waver to shoot targets at less than 15 yards, something about the rules requiring that most competitors can hit something like 90% of the targets. Sadly I didn't pay attention to the targets that day, so I don't know whether they were hanging from hooks or mounted with bolts/springs at a fixed angle.

I'd be interested in any info about how to best approximate the targets that are used at the DPRC rimfire competitions.

 

[mostly22lately]

They're hanging from hooks.

 

[MrBitey]

They're hanging from hooks.

Thanks! What sizes and shapes are most common?

I painted my plates yesterday and cut the 2x4 to 4 feet, so ready to try it out! Let me know if you'd like to meet one day to practice.

 

[mostly22lately]

I will PM you with a schedule suggestion or two.

Tomorrow (2/26) we are both at the Zoo City Steel Challenge, each RFRO and RFPO, all six stages.
Next weekend is Mini Palma; the weekend after that, 2-gun and PBR.

I guess all this explains my screen name, huh?

The modular base I told you I ordered one of, that's still en route from Oregon due to the blizzard they had.
Been weeks so far. Won't be here until Tuesday, if I believe UPS.

I sure like the nice ones you picked up.

"What sizes and shapes are most common?"

8" round and 12" rectangles are the most common.

 

[MrBitey]

Here's a brain dump from what I've learned and bought so far:

• ¼” AR500 is fine for 22lr and 9mm, but I bought ⅜” AR500 targets since they are supposed to sound better.
  
  
• Bought hanging targets rather than static targets (bolt and spring mount) since they are supposed to sound better, and no tools are needed to change targets.
  • I'm really happy with the Challenge Target 2x4 hangers, I've bought three so far.
• I considered T-post and other mounts but ended up going with 2x4 vertical supports since that allowed me to mix-and-match bases and target mounts.
  
  
• I wanted portable bases. I found the following:
  • Legion Target Solutions. Looks like a favorite base, but it costs $275. Made of AR500 steel. I may try this at some point, but I was annoyed that they don’t also sell simple hanging plates.
    https://www.legiontargets.com/products/legion-target-base-1-4-ar500
  • I ended up ordering one of these, but the wait time so far is long. I'm ready to order another PT Ranger (see below).
  • Target Solutions PT Ranger. This is what I ended up ordering. It’s pretty similar to the Legion system in terms of being tool-less and folding. Didn’t get the AR500 version.
    https://shop.actiontarget.com/pc_product_detail.asp?key=48598E4467C74B619F11BF0A3B405563
  • Superior Ideas also makes a folding base that looks good:
    https://sitargets.com/product/compact-combo-target-stand/
  • This one looks good at a very affordable price:
  • https://www.bluesteeltargets.com/products/tactical-2-x-4-stand
  • Others I looked at:
    • Direct Hit targets – aluminum legs, very expensive
    • US Metal Works, looks good, good price, available on Amazon.
• I bought targets and hanger from Challenge Target:
  • https://www.challengetargets.com/product/K-48326-R.html
  • https://www.challengetargets.com/product/80119-R.html
    
• shootsteel.com looks fine for static targets and reactive targets, but I didn’t see any hanging-from-hook type targets.
  
  
• Haven’t found octagon or diamond targets yet.

[edited indentation]

 

[Pineoak]

my suggestions as I own and use everything I recommend below, get at least 2 set, but best to have 3 of each (don't really need more than 3 for practice)

start with one if one a budget. Look into the Brownells "Edge" program as well if purchasing from them. Great vendor.

$31 for a 33% IPSC target (10 inches tall)

CALDWELL SHOOTING SUPPLIES 33% IPSC AR500 Steel Target SKU: 100041989 | Brownells

Check out the CALDWELL SHOOTING SUPPLIES 33% IPSC AR500 Steel Target SKU: 100041989 available Online at Brownells Today and many more Steel Targets products are available in our Gear Department.

www.brownells.com

$40

CHAMPION TARGETS 2x4 Target Stand Base SKU: 100026635 | Brownells

Check out the CHAMPION TARGETS 2x4 Target Stand Base SKU: 100026635 available Online at Brownells Today and many more Target Stands & Accessories products are available in our Gear Department.

www.brownells.com

$21 target holder

CHAMPION TARGETS 2x4 Target Stand Topper SKU: 100026633 | Brownells

Check out the CHAMPION TARGETS 2x4 Target Stand Topper SKU: 100026633 available Online at Brownells Today and many more Target Stands & Accessories products are available in our Gear Department.

www.brownells.com

2x4 from Home Depot or Lowes, cut to about your heart height/appropriate for safety at your specific range

 

[mostly22lately]

This eBay vendor sells octagons, diamonds, squares, circles, IDPA, etc, with one hole for hanging.
Pretty much all sizes available, but only 1/4" AR500.

Quality Motor Parts

The US-sourced steel is surface prepped there and then coated black, in some very durable finish I don't know what it is.
The coating is on both sides and through the holes. And their prices are rather lower than usual, as well.

The catch is, you have to put in the 'note to seller' that you want just one hole.
No extra charge. They don't (yet) show the one-hole option as stand alone items except for circles.
Vendor is very responsive and shipped quickly, USPS.