Frequently Asked Questions – Stag Point Industries Steel Targets
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. What is Stag Point Industries?
Stag Point Industries is an Australian manufacturer of steel shooting targets and training systems based in Gippsland, Victoria. Our products are designed by shooters for shooters with a focus on safety, durability, and practical training performance.
2. Where are Stag Point Industries targets made?
Our products are designed and manufactured in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia.
3. What types of targets does Stag Point Industries manufacture?
We manufacture steel gongs, paddle targets, reactive targets, poppers, duelling trees, target racks, and modular target stand systems.
4. Who are your products designed for?
Our targets are used by recreational shooters, hunters, farmers, firearms trainers, and competition shooters of all skill levels.
5. Why use steel targets instead of paper targets?
Steel targets provide instant feedback when struck and eliminate the need to constantly replace cardboard or paper targets. Also saves time and money from patching holes and and use spray paint to identify precise hit locations on steel.
6. What are reactive steel targets?
Reactive targets move, swing, flip, or fall when struck by a projectile, giving the shooter visual and audible confirmation of a hit.
7. Why do steel targets ring when hit?
Steel plates vibrate when struck by a projectile, producing a clear ringing sound that confirms a hit. (harmonic vibration)
8. Why are steel targets popular for training?
They allow shooters to run drills continuously without walking downrange to patch or replace targets.
9. Are steel targets reusable?
Yes. Steel targets are designed to withstand thousands of impacts when used correctly. depending on the steel grade and calibre.
10. What are steel targets commonly used for?
Training, recreational shooting, competition practice, pest control training, and marksmanship improvement.
STEEL TARGET SAFETY
11. Are steel targets safe to shoot?
Yes, when used correctly with proper ammunition, safe distances, and appropriate target materials.
12. Why are steel targets angled forward?
Forward angles help direct bullet fragments downward into the ground.
13. What is the correct deflection angle for steel targets?
Most steel targets are angled between approximately 17° to 20°+ forward to improve safety and ensure proper activation.
14. What happens when a bullet hits a steel target?
The projectile fragments and disperses outward and downward as small particles known as bullet splash.
15. What is bullet splash?
Bullet splash refers to the small fragments created when a bullet breaks apart on hardened steel. mass, velocity and projectile material will determine the fragment size.
16. Can bullets ricochet off steel targets?
Ricochets are uncommon when steel targets are used correctly with suitable projectile types, proper target material, correct target thickness, safe shooting distances, and well-designed deflection geometry.
In theory, when the wrong projectile type is used, or when the target plate material or thickness is not fit for purpose, impact forces can behave very differently. Rather than fragmenting and dispersing safely, the projectile and plate interaction may create a temporary harmonic concavity or “shimmer” in the steel at the point of impact. This can broaden or alter the deflection path and increase the chance of unpredictable fragment travel or ricochet-like behaviour.
This can be more noticeable with jacketed projectiles, particularly where the jacket retains some elasticity and behaves with a spring-like effect during impact. In that situation, part of the projectile energy may be redirected toward the path of least resistance rather than breaking up and dispersing as intended. This is one of the reasons why safe deflection geometry is so important in steel target design.
It is also worth noting that, in theory, thicker plate is not always automatically better. If a plate is excessively thick for the intended use, and the projectile is sufficiently powerful, the plate may flex less and absorb more of the impact directly into the strike face. Over time, this can contribute to permanent cratering or denting rather than temporary elastic movement. By comparison, a correctly selected hardened plate with the right balance of hardness, toughness, and controlled elasticity may allow a more temporary harmonic response, spreading impact forces over a broader splash area and then returning to shape. This can help reduce concentrated permanent deformation.
Once a plate becomes cratered or dented, that damaged area can permanently act like a shallow bowl, changing the fragment path every time that same area is struck. That is why correct material selection, plate thickness, hardness, toughness, target angle, and overall design all matter together.
17. What causes ricochets?
Damaged targets, incorrect ammunition, targets that are too close, or improper target angles.
18. Why should steel targets be inspected regularly?
To identify damage such as cracks, craters, or worn mounting hardware. put a ruler or square edge over the plate surface to see deformation.
19. What is target cratering?
Cratering occurs when steel is dented by impacts, creating pits in the surface.
20. Why should cratered targets be removed from service?
Cratered surfaces can redirect fragments unpredictably.
AMMUNITION
21. What ammunition should not be used on steel targets?
Steel core, armour-piercing, steel-jacketed in some cases, monolithic, or CNC-turned solid projectiles.
22. Why avoid steel core ammunition?
Steel core projectiles can damage hardened targets and increase ricochet risk.
23. Why avoid armour piercing ammunition?
Armour piercing rounds can penetrate or severely damage steel targets.
24. What ammunition is recommended for steel targets?
Lead-core bullets are recommended because they fragment safely. copper plated is ok or powder coted.
25. Can rifle ammunition damage steel targets?
Yes, high-energy rifle rounds can damage targets if used too close or on steel not rated for rifles.
STEEL MATERIALS
26. What materials are your targets made from?
We manufacture targets from premium mild steel, AR450 armour plate, and AR500 armour plate.
27. What mild steel grades are used?
We commonly use structural steel grades 250 and 350.
28. What Australian standard covers these steels?
AS/NZS 3678 covers structural steel plate grades used in Australia.
29. What is AR450 steel?
AR450 is abrasion-resistant steel with approximately 450 Brinell hardness. At Stag Point Industries we treat this value as the minimum hardness requirement verified through laboratory test data by Bisalloy.
30. What is AR500 steel?
AR500 is abrasion-resistant steel with approximately 500 Brinell hardness. We ensure this is the minimum hardness requirement and verify the material through laboratory testing by Bisalloy.
STEEL HARDNESS AND METALLURGY
31. What is Brinell hardness?
Brinell hardness is a measurement used to determine how resistant steel is to indentation and wear.
32. Why is hardness important for shooting targets?
Harder steel resists deformation and cratering from repeated projectile impacts.
33. What happens if steel is too soft?
Soft steel may dent, crater, or allow bullets to penetrate.
34. What happens if steel is too hard?
Steel that is excessively hard can become brittle and behave like glass, potentially cracking under impact.
35. Why must armour plate balance hardness and toughness?
The steel must be hard enough to resist dents while still tough enough to absorb impacts without cracking.
STEEL QUALITY AND SOURCING
36. Where does your armour plate steel come from?
We source recognised armour plate materials such as Hardox and Bisalloy.
37. What industries use Hardox steel?
Mining equipment, truck bodies, and heavy machinery.
38. What industries use Bisalloy steel?
Mining equipment, earthmoving machinery, and defence vehicles in government and ADF.
39. Why is steel consistency important for targets?
Consistent hardness ensures reliable durability and predictable performance.
40. Do you inspect the steel used in your targets?
Yes. We review laboratory hardness testing for each batch of plate. this is apart of a QC process to insure consistency in production. however initially lab results get reviewed before we accept any steel from suppliers, as we do not accept any steel below minimum hardness.
STEEL TRACEABILITY AND TESTING
41. What is a steel heat batch?
A heat batch identifies the specific production batch of steel from the mill.
42. Why track heat batch numbers?
It allows verification of hardness and material quality.
43. What is through-hardness?
Through-hardness means the steel maintains consistent hardness through the entire plate thickness.
44. Why is through-hardness important for targets?
Surface-hard steel with a soft core can fail under repeated impacts.
45. Why do you check laboratory test results?
To confirm the steel meets the expected hardness before manufacturing targets. This is what sets us apart from many other manufacturers in the target industry.
IMPORTED STEEL VS VERIFIED STEEL
46. Why is some imported AR500 steel inconsistent?
Some imported steel is sold around the rating but can fall below the expected hardness.
47. Why is minimum hardness verification important?
It ensures the steel performs consistently under repeated impacts.
48. Have poor-quality imported or local steel targets been observed failing?
Yes. In testing, some low-quality plates marketed as AR500 have allowed mid to high-energy rounds to penetrate/dent on as little as the first initial impact.
49. Why does Stag Point Industries verify steel batches?
To maintain consistent quality and performance in every target plate produced.
50. How does this benefit shooters?
It ensures predictable durability and improved safety.
TARGET DESIGN
51. Why do many steel targets swing when hit?
Swinging targets absorb energy and reduce stress on mounting hardware.
52. Why are chains used to hang targets?
Chains allow targets to move freely and absorb impact energy.
53. What are gong targets?
Steel plates that hang and swing when struck.
54. Why are gong targets popular?
They provide loud audible feedback and visible movement.
55. Why use recoil springs in target systems?
Recoil springs absorb energy and improve controlled deflection behaviour.
REACTIVE TARGET SYSTEMS
56. What are popper targets?
Popper targets are steel targets generally identified by their upright popper-style silhouette rather than only by how they move when struck. Depending on the design, they may fall backward, fall forward, react, or remain fixed while still presenting a popper-style profile.
Standard popper shapes and sizes can be referenced through IPSC Australia or the IPSC rulebook/handbook. Stag Point Industries also offers products that are inspired by the popper format but branch away from the traditional design, using a similar target presentation with different shapes, mechanisms, or operating styles. This allows for a more universal approach rather than strict shapes only for IPSC.
57. What are auto-reset poppers?
Targets that return upright automatically after being hit.
58. What is a duelling tree?
A reactive target system with paddles that flip from one side to the other when struck.
59. Why are duelling trees popular?
They create competitive head-to-head shooting challenges.
60. What skills do duelling trees improve?
Speed, accuracy, and target transitions. For some, it improves adaptability under pressure. for example, where recoil is a components to overcome, some use recoil as an advantage, turning a weakness into a strength. shooting targets from the bottom and up known as "riding the recoil".
IPSC TRAINING TARGETS
61. What are IPSC steel targets?
Steel targets shaped like competition silhouettes or dimensionally correct poppers set out in the IPSC rulebook.
62. Why train with IPSC steel targets?
They simulate realistic target shapes used in practical shooting.
63. Can steel IPSC targets replace cardboard targets?
For many training drills they can, eliminating the need to patch targets.
TARGET MAINTENANCE
64. Do steel targets rust?
Surface rust can occur but usually does not affect performance.
65. Should steel targets be repainted?
Repainting improves visibility and helps track impacts.
66. What colours are commonly used for targets?
White, yellow, orange, and red. We like red because red is fast! ;)
67. How often should targets be inspected?
After regular shooting sessions and before any shooting commences.
TARGET STANDS AND TIMBER
68. Are timber posts included with stands?
Usually not unless specified.
69. What timber sizes are commonly used?
GP10 90x35mm, 90x45mm, 70x35mm, and 19x42mm timber strips. Just regular Pine.
70. Why are timber posts used?
They are inexpensive, widely available, and easy to replace. Well relatively cheap-ish these days.
SHIPPING AND ORDERS
71. Do you ship steel targets Australia-wide?
Yes.
72. How are targets packaged for shipping?
Using boxes, tubes, satchels, and protective wrapping depending on size and weight.
73. How long does shipping take?
Shipping times depend on location and order size. Shipping info can be seen on the shipping info page, or just give us a call or email for an update or lead time on your order.
WARRANTY
74. What warranty do your products include?
Select products include a 12-month limited warranty.
75. What does the warranty cover?
Manufacturing defects and weld failures under normal use.
76. What is not covered under warranty?
Normal wear, paint coatings, misuse, or unsafe ammunition.
TRAINING BENEFITS
77. Why are reactive targets good for drills?
They provide instant hit confirmation.
78. Why do steel targets improve training efficiency?
Shooters spend more time shooting and less time resetting targets.
BUYING STEEL TARGETS
79. What should be considered when buying steel targets?
Material hardness, thickness, mounting design, and safety features.
80. Why choose AR500 steel targets?
They offer high hardness and durability for repeated impacts.
81. What are the best steel targets for rural backyard/property shooting?
Small gong targets, paddle targets, and rimfire-rated reactive targets are commonly used for backyard or small-range practice where it is safe and permitted. Always ensure safe backstops and follow recommended shooting distances.
82. What thickness steel is best for shooting targets?
The correct thickness depends on the calibre being used and the steel hardness. Hardened armour plate such as AR450 or AR500 is typically used for handgun and reactive target applications.
83. How long do AR500 steel targets last?
When used within their correct calibre ratings and distances, AR500 targets can withstand many thousands of impacts and last for years of regular shooting. Some of our targets can last a lifetime!
84. Are steel targets reusable?
Yes. Steel targets are designed to be used repeatedly. Unlike paper or cardboard targets, they do not need to be replaced after every shooting session.
85. What colour should steel targets be painted?
Bright colours such as white, orange, yellow, or red are commonly used. These colours improve visibility and make it easier to see fresh impacts on the target.
86. Are steel targets good for long-range shooting?
Yes. Steel targets are widely used for long-range shooting because the audible impact allows shooters to confirm hits even at very long distances.
87. What steel targets are best for training?
Reactive targets such as gongs, paddles, poppers, and duelling trees are excellent training tools because they provide instant feedback.
88. What steel targets are best for shooters in Australia?
Targets manufactured from verified armour plate such as AR450 or AR500 and designed with proper deflection angles are well suited to Australian shooting conditions.
89. Why buy Australian-made steel targets?
Australian-made products often provide better material traceability, quality control, and customer support compared with unknown imported products.
90. What are gong racks?
Gong racks are target systems that hold multiple hanging gongs on a frame, allowing shooters to engage several targets at different positions or sizes.
91. What are 22-delta racks?
These racks feature progressively smaller targets designed to increase difficulty and test shooting precision.
92. What are spinner targets?
Spinner targets rotate around a central axis when struck. They are often used for recreational shooting and reactive training drills.
93. What are paddle targets?
Paddle targets are reactive plates that swing or flip when struck, providing visible movement and audible feedback.
94. What are plate racks?
Plate racks consist of several steel plates that fall when struck. They are commonly used in competition-style shooting drills.
95. What makes a good steel target stand?
A good stand should be stable, durable, portable, and designed to support targets at safe angles for proper bullet deflection.
96. Why choose modular target systems?
Modular systems allow users to replace individual parts, expand their setup, or adapt the system for different types of targets.
97. What steel targets are commonly used in competitions?
Many shooting competitions use steel gongs, falling plates, poppers, and reactive targets for various stages.
98. How do steel targets improve marksmanship?
Instant feedback allows shooters to confirm hits immediately, helping them refine accuracy, timing, and shooting technique.
99. Why are reactive steel targets fun to shoot?
Movement and audible feedback make shooting more interactive and rewarding compared with static targets.
100. Why choose Stag Point Industries steel targets?
Stag Point Industries targets are designed in Australia with a focus on durability, verified materials, safe deflection angles, and practical shooting performance. Our systems are built to provide reliable training tools for shooters across a wide range of applications.
101. What thickness steel is typically used for shooting targets?
Target thickness depends on calibre ratings and target design. Thicker plates generally handle higher-energy impacts.
102. Why does target thickness matter?
Thicker plates help resist deformation and cratering when struck by higher-energy projectiles.
103. Are thicker targets always better?
Not always. Correct steel hardness and target design are just as important as thickness.
104. What happens if steel targets are too thin?
Thin steel can bend, crater, or allow projectiles to penetrate.
105. What happens if targets are too thick?
Overly thick targets may reduce reactive movement and increase system weight.
106. Can steel targets bend over time?
Yes, particularly if used outside their rated calibre or with improper ammunition.
107. Can steel targets crack?
Poor-quality or overly brittle steel may crack if it lacks proper balanced toughness.
108. Why is toughness important in steel targets?
Toughness allows the steel to absorb impacts without cracking.
109. How do hardened steels resist impacts?
Through controlled hardness and heat treatment processes. Q and T.
110. Why is proper heat treatment important for armour plate?
It ensures consistent hardness and durability throughout the plate.
Target Setup and Use
111. What is the best way to set up steel targets?
Mount targets securely with proper deflection angles and safe distances.
112. Why should steel targets be angled downward?
This helps direct bullet fragments safely toward the ground.
113. Can steel targets be mounted vertically?
Vertical mounting is generally not recommended unless designed specifically for it.
114. Why are hanging targets popular?
They allow movement that absorbs bullet energy.
115. Why do swinging targets last longer?
Movement reduces the impact force transferred to the mount.
116. Can steel targets be mounted on posts?
Yes, many systems use timber posts for mounting.
117. Why are modular target systems useful?
They allow components to be replaced or upgraded easily.
118. What are portable steel targets?
Targets designed for easy transport and quick setup.
119. Why are portable targets useful?
They allow shooters to set up ranges in different locations.
120. Are steel targets good for temporary ranges?
Yes, portable systems make them ideal for temporary setups.
Training Benefits
121. Why are steel targets good for speed shooting?
Instant feedback allows shooters to move quickly between targets.
122. How do steel targets improve reaction time?
Reactive targets require quick follow-up shots and transitions.
123. Why are steel targets good for competition practice?
They replicate many match-style targets used in shooting competitions.
124. What drills can be done with steel targets?
Transition drills, speed drills, precision shooting, and competitive challenges.
125. Why are duelling trees good for competitions?
They create head-to-head shooting challenges.
126. What skills do duelling trees improve?
Speed, accuracy, and target transitions.
127. Are reactive targets more engaging than static targets?
Yes, movement makes training more interactive.
128. Why are audible targets useful?
Shooters can hear hits without needing visual confirmation.
129. Can steel targets improve shooting confidence?
Yes, instant feedback helps shooters quickly confirm performance.
130. Why do shooters enjoy reactive targets?
They add movement and challenge to training sessions.
Target Durability
131. How long do steel targets last?
When used correctly, armour plate targets can withstand many thousands of impacts.
132. What affects target lifespan?
Calibre, ammunition type, distance, and frequency of use.
133. Why avoid shooting targets too close?
Close distances increase impact energy and can damage targets.
134. Why avoid high-velocity ammunition?
Excess velocity increases the risk of cratering.
135. What signs indicate a target should be replaced?
Deep craters, cracks, or excessive deformation.
136. Can targets be repaired?
Minor hardware issues can be repaired, but damaged plates should be replaced.
137. What parts of a target system wear out first?
Chains, bolts, springs, and mounting hardware.
138. Why use replaceable components?
They extend the life of the entire system.
139. How often should hardware be checked?
Regularly, especially after heavy use.
140. Why keep spare parts available?
To quickly repair and maintain target systems.
Target Types
141. What are 22-delta racks?
racks feature progressively smaller targets.
142. Why are 22-delta racks challenging?
Targets decrease in size, increasing difficulty.
143. What are gong racks?
Multiple gongs mounted on a frame for varied shooting practice.
144. What are plate racks?
Targets that fall when hit and must be reset.
145. Why are plate racks good for drills?
They encourage fast and accurate shooting.
146. What are silhouette targets?
Targets shaped like a known object/animal.
147. Why train with silhouette targets?
They simulate realistic engagement targets.
148. What are spinner targets?
Targets that rotate when struck.
149. Why are spinner targets useful?
They provide dynamic movement and challenge.
150. What are reactive poppers?
Targets that fall when struck.
Outdoor Use
151. Can steel targets be used outdoors year-round?
Yes, but proper storage helps extend their lifespan.
152. Should targets be stored indoors?
Storing them dry helps prevent rust.
153. Does rust affect target performance?
Light surface rust usually does not affect function.
154. Can targets be painted to reduce rust?
Yes, paint provides temporary protection.
155. Why paint targets bright colours?
Bright colours improve visibility.
156. What colours are commonly used?
White, yellow, orange, and red.
157. Why repaint targets regularly?
To track fresh impacts.
158. Can targets be left outside permanently?
They can, but periodic maintenance is recommended.
159. Does weather affect steel targets?
Weather may cause surface rust but usually does not affect durability.
160. Why inspect outdoor targets often?
Environmental exposure can loosen hardware.
Shipping and Orders
161. Do you ship targets across Australia?
Yes, we ship nationwide.
162. How are heavy targets shipped?
Using protective packaging suited to weight and size.
163. What packaging materials are used?
Boxes, tubes, satchels, and protective wrap.
164. Can multiple targets ship together?
Yes, depending on order size.
165. How are large target systems shipped?
Large items may be shipped in multiple packages.
166. How long does order processing take?
Most orders ship within a few business days.
167. Can customers track shipments?
Tracking is provided when available.
168. Can shipping be combined for multiple items?
Yes where practical.
169. What affects shipping costs?
Weight, size, and delivery location.
170. Can orders be shipped to rural areas?
Yes, we ship Australia-wide.
Customer Support
171. How can customers contact Stag Point Industries?
Customers can contact us through our website,phone or email.
172. Do you offer product support?
Yes, we assist with setup and usage questions.
173. Can customers request advice on target selection?
Yes, we help recommend suitable systems.
174. Do you provide safety guidance?
Yes, safety information is available on our website.
175. Can customers request replacement parts?
Yes, many components are available separately.
176. Do you provide assembly instructions?
Yes, instructions are available online.
177. Can instructions be downloaded?
Yes, from our instruction manuals page.
178. Are safety guides available online?
Yes, through the Safety, Distance & Calibre Ratings page.
179. Can customers request technical information?
Yes, material and product information can be provided.
180. Do you assist with troubleshooting target setups?
Yes, we help customers resolve setup issues.
Final Questions
181. Why choose Australian-made steel targets?
They offer better quality control and material traceability.
182. Why is steel traceability important?
It ensures the plate meets expected hardness and performance standards.
183. What sets Stag Point Industries apart?
Material verification, consistent steel quality, and practical target designs.
184. Why is verified hardness important?
It ensures targets perform safely and consistently.
185. Why avoid inconsistent steel?
Inconsistent hardness can lead to premature failure.
186. Why choose verified armour plate?
It provides predictable durability and safety.
187. Why are steel targets good long-term investments?
They are reusable and durable.
188. Why do shooters prefer reactive targets?
They provide immediate feedback and make training engaging.
189. What makes a good steel target system?
Quality steel, proper design, safe angles, and durable mounts.
190. Why invest in quality targets?
Higher-quality materials and design improve safety and lifespan.
191. Are steel targets widely used around the world?
Yes, they are used globally for recreational shooting and training.
192. Why are steel targets used in competitions?
They provide clear hit confirmation and dynamic shooting stages.
193. Why do steel targets improve practice efficiency?
Shooters spend more time shooting and less time resetting targets.
194. What makes reactive targets enjoyable?
Movement and sound make shooting more engaging.
195. Why are steel targets effective training tools?
They combine durability, feedback, and challenge.
196. Why are steel targets popular with farmers and rural shooters?
They provide convenient practice without constant target replacement.
197. Why choose modular target systems?
They allow easy upgrades and replacements.
198. Why maintain targets regularly?
Maintenance ensures long-term safety and reliability.
199. What is the goal of Stag Point Industries products?
To:
🔹 Empower Every Shooter – We design rugged, portable systems that make transport, setup, and pack-up effortless—so shooters of all levels, from casual plinkers to competitive marksmen, can focus on what matters most: improving their skills.
🔹 Make Quality Accessible – By delivering affordable, Australian-made products without compromising on performance, we’re helping make shooting sports more inclusive—because quality gear shouldn't come with an elite price tag.
🔹 Support Sharper Shooting – We’re here to back the community with the tools, targets, and knowledge needed to hit the mark—whether you're zeroing a scope, teaching a mate, or chasing personal bests.
200. Why choose Stag Point Industries steel targets?
Our targets are designed in Australia with a focus on safety, material quality, durability, and practical shooting performance. Built for shooters, by shooters, and trusted for results!