steel target minimum distance

[Ibefuz]

I've been wanting to get some steel targets for some time that will mostly be used for close range pistol shooting. I want to know what the minimum safe distance to shoot them because I've been to 25 and 30yd indoor ranges and have been hit by lead core ricochets on the arm and face on 2 seperate occasions and it was not fun to say the least. Thanks for the info

[vintagearms]

Slight angle downwards of the target and 25 yards is where I would feel comfortable at. Ricochets usually happen when the targets are at 90 degress.

[Ubermcoupe]

Slight angle downwards of the target and 25 yards is where I would feel comfortable at. Ricochets usually happen when the targets are at 90 degress.

This.

If they can be canted I would highly recommend it. I’ve shot steel and cast iron as close as 5-7 yrds but would get hit with occasional back-splash it they weren’t canted and I usually never shoot it straight on.

[Ibefuz]

Thanks for the tips. Regarding the cast iron, does it crack when shot at? I've been been going thrift stores looking for old cast iron pans to shoot at. What calibers do you shoot cast iron with?

[Ubermcoupe]

Thanks for the tips. Regarding the cast iron, does it crack when shot at? I've been been going thrift stores looking for old cast iron pans to shoot at. What calibers do you shoot cast iron with?

[damndave]

25 yrds and angled downward like others have said. Or just use frangible ammo.

[kmca]

Steel challenge and USPSA routinely shoot plates and poppers at 21 feet. I'd be leery of a pot, too many angles and edges for ricochets.