Metal target thickness

[manini]

I want to buy some NRA metal animal silhouettes. I only shoot .22 at 100 yards. Wondering if it is okay to get the thin A36 steel or should I get the thicker tempered AR400 steel. Any thoughts?

[SilentPea]

22lr never damaged my 3/8" A36. 223 or the steel core 5.56 made craters when some asshats shot them.

If you have a private range, buy whichever is cheaper. If there's a chance of idiots shooting your targets -- the nicer steel is worth it. The only argument against heavier targets in practicality is that they might not fall over correctly for a 22lr....

[traveler1952]

If I'm reading the site correctly it's 3/8" thick. No way will your little 22 penetrate that, Might possibly make a very small dent. I have shot 22's at 1/4" mild steel plate with out any issues at 50 yds.

[Occams Rasor]

I have some 3/16" AR400 steel round targets. A 22LR just peels off the paint and that is about it. No dents at all.
I don't think a 22LR will knock over a 3/8" steel silhouette at 100yds.

[Rover]

At 100 yards, anything over 3/16" a36 will last forever. I'm not sure I'd use a36, if only for the ability to also shoot them with magnums and centerfire rifles without worrying about dents/holes. If you're planning on cutting them yourself, wear resistant plate is going to be a PITA to cut without a torch.