A few months ago we did a field review on a Grizzly Target (more like a torture test) the full review can be seen here anyway the good folks at Grizzly asked if I would be interested in reviewing another one of there other targets the IPSC Steel Target.
Like the first target it is made of AR500 3/8" steel plate which in itself is 'bullet proof' (pun intended) and then hot dipped galvanized to keep it from rusting.
It comes as seen here with a base along with spikes to anchor it to the ground and the upper part which is the target.
The 2"X4" post you will need to supply yourself which makes it easy to break down and transport as well as replace when it gets all shot up, this also allows you to use any length in to suit your need.
I shot this target at 7 yards with FMJ 45 ACP and 9mm and 38 special with no hint or worry of ricochet as you might have with a rigid mount plate. This target also exposes no moving parts to projectiles which keeps it easy to maintain.
From the experience on the first target I knew this one could take any thing we threw at it so I opted to just enjoy some casual shooting.
Below is a picture of the target after about 30 rounds of various calibers and even after a hundred or so more it showed no sign of fatigue. All the testing done here was between 7 to 25 yards however it would also make an excellent 100 yard target for rifle practice.
Observations... It functions very well, because of it's weight it does not swing as much as the first target we tested but still enough for you to see it's hit. It's also nice to hear an audible response to impact as well.
I really like the fact it controls back splatter especially considering I almost never use eye protection when shooting (I know, not too smart) but between of all my years growing up and shooting without it and it was never required on military ranges either I guess old habits die hard.
Paper targets are needed for sighting in weapons and qualifying but mostly I like to just blast away at something because it provides more of a real world feel and this target fits the bill. I have no doubt you gun will wear out before this target does.
I intend to do further testing and will update the results here.
That's good that it directs the 'splash' down. Should set up at least 20 degrees down. The only worry I'd have is it 'locking' at vertical...
ReplyDeleteOld NFO, Thanks. In order to lock it in the vertical the pivot bolt would have to be very tight because it naturally hangs at a an angle and does a good job of 'scrubbing energy' from the round.
DeleteSince things didn't work out, bring it out next time and let us do a Part Deux to the first one. I can bring that stuff that did damage.
ReplyDeleteSenior, I will definitely bring it back to the range and do a follow up.
DeleteThere is still an area immediately above, below, and in line with the hinge, small though it is, that would allow a ricochet. A hit there would be the same as if the target were locked vertical.
ReplyDeleteMuddyValley, It is true that in the area you indicate it would allow for a ricochet (I guess any deflection off the target is technically a ricochet) but given the target does not hang vertical but rather approx 25 degrees off vertical the round still deflects down and into the ground and that angle of rebound most of the energy is scrubbed from the round.
DeleteI bought one based on your review. Its built like a tank. The target sits at a 25 degree angle. It safely deflects the bullets and bullet energy into the ground. The angle also contributes to much longer target life than other AR500 targets I've shot. Thanks for the review!
ReplyDelete