Got Questions?

FREQUENTLY ASKED

Everything you need to know about our targets, steel grades, shipping, and ordering. Don't see your question? Contact us directly.

Steel & Products
What is AR500 steel? +
AR500 is the industry standard for shooting targets — rated at 500 Brinell hardness, it handles most pistol and rifle calibers up to .308 at appropriate distances. It's tough, durable, and built to take thousands of rounds with proper use.
What is the minimum thickness you offer? +
Our minimum thickness is 1/4" AR500 steel, suitable for pistol calibers and rimfire at appropriate distances. We also offer 3/8" and 1/2" options for rifle calibers and higher-velocity rounds. Each product page lists the recommended calibers and distances for that specific target.
What calibers are your targets rated for? +
It depends on the thickness. Our 1/4" AR500 handles rimfire and handgun calibers. Our 3/8" AR500 handles handguns and most rifle rounds up to .308 at appropriate distances. Our 1/2" AR500 handles higher-velocity rounds. Armor-piercing, steel-core, and green-tip (M855) ammunition should never be used on any steel target.
How long will your targets last? +
With proper use — correct distances, appropriate calibers, and no AP ammo — AR500 targets can handle tens of thousands of rounds. The biggest factor is following the minimum distance guidelines. Shooting too close is the number one cause of premature target wear.
Do you offer custom sizes and shapes? +
Yes — that's one of our strengths. Eli runs a fiber laser in-house, which means we can cut virtually any size or shape with precision. Use our Custom Orders page to describe what you need and we'll get back to you within 24 hours with pricing.
Safety
What are the minimum safe shooting distances? +
Minimum distances vary by caliber and target thickness. As a general rule: handguns — 10 yards minimum; 5.56/.223 — 100 yards minimum; .308 — 100 yards minimum. Always wear eye and ear protection, and always position bystanders behind the firing line. See our full Safety Waiver for the complete distance chart.
What ammunition should I NOT use on steel targets? +
Never use armor-piercing (AP), steel-core, green-tip M855, or any penetrator ammunition on steel targets — regardless of target thickness. These rounds will damage the target and create dangerous ricochet conditions. If you're unsure whether your ammo is safe, don't shoot it at steel.
Is spall dangerous and how do I minimize it? +
Spall — fragments of bullet jacket and steel that scatter on impact — is an inherent risk with any steel target. You minimize it by: shooting at the correct distance, keeping targets angled slightly downward (10–20 degrees) so spall deflects toward the ground, always wearing eye protection, and keeping bystanders behind the firing line.
Orders & Shipping
How long does shipping take? +
Standard orders typically ship within 2–3 business days and arrive within 5–7 business days via ground freight. Bulk and custom orders may require additional lead time — we'll confirm your timeline when you request a quote.
Do you offer free shipping? +
Yes — free shipping on all orders over $199. Orders under $199 are subject to standard ground shipping rates calculated at checkout based on weight and destination.
What is your return policy? +
Due to the custom and made-to-order nature of steel targets, all sales are final unless a product defect is reported within 7 days of delivery. If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, contact us immediately and we'll make it right.
Where are your targets made? +
Every target is cut, formed, and welded right here in Mesa, Arizona by Eli Cardona. We use domestic AR500 plate steel — no imported material, no outsourced production. When you buy from Topshot Targets, you're buying something made by hand in the USA.
Still Have Questions?

We're real people and we actually answer. Reach out anytime.