top of page
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General
What type of ammunition should I use with Reaction Targets to ensure safety and maximum target life?
For the best performance, safety, and longevity of your SR500 reactive steel targets, we recommend using:
Lead-core ammunition
Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
Hollow Point (HP)
Soft Point (SP)
Avoid using:
Steel core ammunition
Armor piercing (AP)
Green tip / penetrator rounds
Tracer or incendiary ammunition
Shotgun slugs at close range
Using prohibited ammunition can damage the target surface, increase ricochet risk, and reduce the lifespan of the steel.
All Reaction Targets systems are engineered around proper target angle, energy dispersion, and reactive movement to reduce wear and improve shooter safety.
What are the recommended shooting distances for different firearms?
Minimum recommended distances:
Handguns
10 yards minimum
Rifle calibers up to .308 Winchester
100 yards minimum
Magnum and high-velocity rifle calibers
200+ yards recommended
Shotguns
Birdshot: 15 yards minimum
Buckshot: 25 yards minimum
Slugs: Not recommended unless specifically approved
Always use quality eye and ear protection and inspect targets regularly for damage or excessive wear.
What target thickness should I choose?
At Reaction Targets, we offer SR500 steel targets in two thicknesses to accommodate various shooting needs: 1/4" & 3/8" with 1/2" being available in the future.
1. 1/4" Thick SR500: These targets are suitable for rimfire and pistol calibers up to .45 ACP. They provide excellent durability and longevity when distance guidelines are followed. It's crucial to avoid using steel bullets, as it will bounce off and pose safety risks, as well as damage the target.
2. 3/8” Thick SR500: These targets are designed to handle all pistol cartridges and rifles up to .308 caliber, with an impact speed of less than 3,000 fps. It's crucial to avoid using steel bullets, as it will bounce off and pose safety risks, as well as damage the target.
3. 1/2” thick SR500: (Currently unavailable)These targets can accommodate all pistol cartridges and rifle rounds, including powerful ammunition such as the .338 Lapua, as long as the impact velocity is below 3,000 feet per second (fps). It's crucial to avoid using steel bullets, as it will bounce off and pose safety risks, as well as damage the target.
For rifle use, we recommend setting up SR500 Steel Targets at a minimum distance of 100 yards or greater. When using a pistol, the targets should be positioned at least than 10 yards away.
These specifications ensure safe and effective use of our SR500 steel targets, catering to various firearms and shooting activities. Please follow these guidelines closely to maintain safety and prolong the life of your Reaction Targets. Always wear hearing and eye protection!
Why are reactive steel targets better than static targets?
Reactive targets provide:
Immediate visual feedback
Audible confirmation on impact
Increased shooter engagement
Faster target acquisition
More realistic training dynamics
Unlike static steel, Reaction Targets systems physically move, reset, drop, or transition when struck, creating a more immersive and performance-driven shooting experience.
Are Reaction Targets safe?
Yes — when used properly.
Our systems are designed with:
Downward energy deflection
Reactive movement to absorb force
Proper target angles
Heavy-duty SR500 steel construction
Always follow:
Recommended shooting distances
Ammunition guidelines
Safe firearm handling practices
Damaged or cratered steel should never be used.
What makes SR500 steel different from AR500 steel?
SR500 is engineered specifically for advanced reactive target systems.
Compared to conventional AR500:
Improved impact resilience
Better energy absorption characteristics
Reduced pitting under proper use
Optimized for dynamic/reactive movement systems
Reaction Targets uses premium-grade hardened steel designed for demanding training environments and high round counts.
Will the targets reset themselves?
Some systems feature:
Gravity reset mechanisms
Spring-assisted movement
Progressive reactive motion
Multi-stage impact reactions
Others may require manual reset depending on the specific model and training application.
Each product page details exactly how that target system functions.
Are your targets weather resistant?
Yes.
All Reaction Targets systems are built for outdoor use and designed to withstand:
Rain
Snow
Mud
Dust
Heat and freezing temperatures
Targets are professionally coated for corrosion resistance, though normal cosmetic wear from bullet impacts is expected over time.
Do your targets work in winter conditions?
Absolutely.
Reactive steel targets are often easier to use in winter than paper targets because they:
Remain visible in snow
Provide audible feedback
Resist wind damage
Continue functioning in cold environments
High-contrast safety yellow components improve visibility in low-light and snowy conditions.
Are the targets portable?
Most systems are designed for field portability and modular setup.
Depending on the model:
Components may separate for transport
Bases may break down
Reactive assemblies can be replaced individually
Larger commercial systems may require vehicle or trailer transport.
Can I replace worn or damaged parts?
Yes.
Many components are modular and replaceable, including:
Target plates
Hardware
Reactive assemblies
Wear components
This reduces long-term ownership cost and keeps your system operational longer.
Do you offer commercial or range packages?
Yes.
We work with:
Private ranges
Public ranges
Firearms instructors
Law enforcement
Training facilities
Multi-unit range packages and custom configurations are available.
Contact us directly for commercial pricing and large-scale range solutions.
How long do Reaction Targets systems last?
With proper ammunition and shooting distances, SR500 target systems are built for extremely long service life.
Longevity depends on:
Caliber
Velocity
Distance
Ammunition type
Shooting frequency
Reactive movement helps distribute impact energy more effectively than static steel, reducing concentrated stress and extending target life.
Where do you ship?
We currently ship throughout the United States.
Shipping is always included.
Tracking information is provided once your order ships.
Do you ship internationally?
Not currently at this time.
What is your lead time?
Each Reaction Targets system is precision fabricated, coated, and assembled in production batches.
Current lead times are typically:
Approximately 3-4 weeks
Lead times may vary during peak demand periods.
What is your return policy?
Due to the custom-built nature of our products, returns are handled on a case-by-case basis.
If there is an issue with your order:
Contact us immediately
Do not use damaged products
We will work to resolve manufacturing or shipping issues quickly
Customer satisfaction and long-term product support are priorities for us.
Do you offer custom target systems?
Yes.
We can develop:
Custom reactive systems
Range-specific layouts
Commercial target packages
Specialized training targets
If you have a concept or training requirement, contact us to discuss a custom build.
Target Chart
bottom of page
