Shooting Steel Targets
Why Shooting Steel Targets Is More Fun Than Paper
Steve and Caleb hit the Big Springs Range in central Iowa to test several Caldwell steel target systems, including rifle-rated steel plates, a plate rack, a dueling tree, and the Caldwell Flash Bang hit indicator. While paper targets are important for zeroing and accuracy work, steel targets provide instant feedback that makes range time faster, more engaging, and more productive.
The audible ring of steel lets shooters immediately confirm hits, making steel targets popular for competition shooting, training drills, and recreational shooting alike.
Steel Target Safety Rules
Before shooting steel targets, it is important to understand proper safety practices. Steel targets deflect bullet fragments when struck, so shooters need to maintain safe distances and always wear eye protection.
For handgun and rimfire use, Steve and Caleb recommend staying at least 10 to 15 yards from the target. Slower-moving rounds, including some cowboy action loads, can occasionally send fragments back toward the shooter if fired too close.
For rifles, Caldwell recommends distances around 100 yards depending on caliber and velocity. In practical competition settings, shooters may engage steel somewhat closer with AR-15 rifles, but maintaining safe distance is critical.
The Caldwell targets shown in this video are built from heavy-duty 3/8-inch rifle-rated steel capable of handling centerfire rifle impacts.
Caldwell Steel Target Options
Caldwell offers multiple steel target configurations for different types of shooters and range setups. The targets shown include IPSC-style silhouette targets, reduced-size practice targets, and modular plate rack systems.
The plate rack system uses simple 2x4 lumber for assembly, allowing shooters to customize width and height based on available range space. Once struck, the plates fall and can continue swinging for additional shooting practice.
The targets mount using half-inch carriage bolts and are designed for quick setup and durability under repeated rifle and handgun fire.
Testing the Caldwell Dueling Tree
The Caldwell dueling tree is designed for head-to-head shooting competition and fast-paced handgun practice. Each target paddle swings from one side to the other when hit, creating a reactive challenge between shooters.
The system includes adjustable target lean to help lighter calibers, including rimfire ammunition, swing the paddles completely around. The heavy-duty steel construction also allows the system to handle powerful handgun cartridges without damage.
Steve and Caleb quickly discover that shooting steel can burn through ammunition fast because of how addictive reactive targets become on the range.
Suppressed Rimfire Shooting on Steel
One of the standout moments in the video comes from shooting suppressed .22 LR firearms on steel. With the suppressor installed, the loudest sound often becomes the bullet striking the steel target itself.
The steel provides excellent feedback even at distance, making suppressed rimfire shooting especially enjoyable for training, plinking, and introducing new shooters to reactive targets.
The Caldwell steel targets move reliably even under lightweight rimfire impacts, proving their versatility across multiple calibers.
Caldwell Flash Bang Hit Indicator
The Caldwell Flash Bang is designed to provide visual hit confirmation for shooters engaging steel at long range. The unit mounts directly to steel targets using adhesive-backed hook-and-loop material and activates bright LED lights when the target is struck.
The Flash Bang includes multiple flash settings and is bright enough to remain visible at distances out to 500 yards. This makes it extremely useful for long-range rifle shooting where the sound of impact may not be immediately audible.
Steve and Caleb test the Flash Bang using 5.56 NATO, .22 LR rifles, and even handguns at 100 yards. The system responds reliably even to lightweight rimfire impacts.
Shooting Handguns at 100 Yards
The final shooting challenge involves engaging steel at 100 yards using handguns. While difficult, this type of shooting can reveal flaws in trigger control, grip, and overall shooting fundamentals.
Long-range handgun shooting requires careful trigger management and follow-through, and the instant feedback from the Flash Bang makes spotting impacts much easier.
Even experienced shooters quickly realize how challenging consistent handgun accuracy becomes at extended distances.
Final Thoughts on Caldwell Steel Targets
Caldwell steel targets offer a durable and versatile option for shooters looking to improve training, add reactive feedback to range sessions, or simply have more fun shooting. From modular plate racks to dueling trees and illuminated hit indicators, these targets support everything from casual plinking to serious practice.
Whether you're shooting rimfire rifles, suppressed pistols, AR-15 platforms, or centerfire handguns, reactive steel targets create an engaging shooting experience that keeps shooters coming back for more.
