Which Armour Plates are Used in Shooting Ranges?
Shooting ranges typically use AR500 steel plates or MIL-DTL-46100 ballistic steel as the primary backstop material to safely absorb bullets. These plates are designed to resist repeated impacts from high-velocity rounds without cracking, ricocheting dangerously, or deforming excessively.
Top Plate Options for Shooting Range Backstops
| Grade | Used For | Hardness (BHN) | Bullet Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| AR500 Steel Plate | Civilian & commercial shooting targets | 470–540 BHN | Up to Level III rifle rounds |
| MIL-DTL-46100 Plate | Military, tactical training facilities | 477–534 BHN | Multi-hit & high-velocity |
| MIL-DTL-12560 Plate | Ballistic-rated tanks & high-protection use | 250–500 BHN | Designed for armored vehicles |
| Quardian 500 / Abrex 500 Armor | Training centers, private ranges | 480–540 BHN | Comparable to AR500 |
Why AR500 Is the Most Popular?
- Durable and widely available
- Cost-effective for range setups
- Resists spalling and cratering
- Suitable for handgun and rifle rounds
- Easily cut into gongs, silhouettes, and backstops
Want Full Protection?
Military or tactical facilities prefer MIL-DTL-46100 for its certified ballistic performance and tested durability in combat training zones.
Recommended Thickness
- 10 mm (3/8″) AR500 – Ideal for handguns and light rifles
- 12–15 mm (1/2″–5/8″) MIL-DTL or Quardian – For high-powered rifles
Safety Tip
Always angle plates (15–20° downwards) and use anti-ricochet rubber mats or sand traps to prevent backsplash.
Buy High-Quality Armor Plates for Ranges
At Hindustan Steel Corporation, we supply:
- AR500 & AR600 Plates
- MIL-DTL-46100 and Quardian
- Custom-sized target plates with CNC cut profiles
- Coated / Painted options for extended outdoor use
Final Word
For civilian shooting ranges, AR500 is the gold standard. For military-grade range armor, MIL-DTL-46100 or Quardian 500 is ideal. Choose based on caliber, location, and budget.
Need help choosing? Talk to our team »
Download Plate Comparison Chart PDF »