First Thoughts on the Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel
Steel targets have become an essential part of modern firearms training. They offer instant feedback, are more durable than paper, and, when properly maintained, can last for years. The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel promises to deliver a challenging practice experience in a convenient, ready-to-use package.
I’ve been working with steel targets for over a decade, both in professional tactical training environments and on personal ranges. I needed a target that could simulate shooting at greater distances without physically increasing the range. The promise of simulating a man-sized target 1.5 times further away intrigued me, as it offers a novel way to practice target acquisition and shot placement under increased difficulty.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the target’s heft. The 7/16″ thick steel felt substantial, promising excellent durability against common pistol and rifle calibers. The pre-painted finish was a welcome touch, saving me the time and effort of applying a protective coating myself.
Compared to other IPSC targets I’ve used, like the Action Target PT IPSC Steel Target or the MGM Targets IPSC AR500 Torso, the Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel stood out due to its scaled-down size for perceived distance. The others are full size. This unique scaling sets it apart, offering a specific training advantage.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the scaled size truly delivered on its promise of enhanced training and simulated distance, but also concerned about the long-term durability of the pre-painted finish under heavy use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel at my local shooting range, which offers a dedicated steel target bay. I used a variety of firearms, including a 9mm pistol, a .223 AR-15, and a .308 rifle, adhering to safe shooting distances for each caliber. The weather was clear and sunny, with a slight breeze.
The target performed admirably under these conditions. The instant feedback of the steel ringing was satisfying, and the scaled-down size did indeed present a greater challenge than a full-size IPSC target at the same distance. The square holes designed for carriage bolt assembly made mounting it to my existing target stand a breeze.
Initially, I noticed some minor paint chipping around the impact areas, especially with the .308 rounds. This was expected, though, and didn’t affect the target’s functionality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel has held up remarkably well. The steel itself shows no signs of deformation or damage, even after repeated impacts from various calibers. The pre-painted finish, however, has continued to degrade, with significant paint loss in the central impact zone.
Despite the cosmetic wear, the target’s functionality remains unaffected. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a cloth removes any bullet splatter or debris. Compared to paper targets, the Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel offers a significantly more durable and cost-effective solution over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel
Specifications
The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel is constructed from 7/16″ thick steel. This thickness provides excellent resistance against deformation from common pistol and rifle calibers.
It simulates a man-sized target at 1.5 times further from the shooter’s vantage point. This unique scaling increases the difficulty of target acquisition and shot placement, enhancing training effectiveness.
The target comes pre-painted and ready to use. This saves time and effort compared to targets that require users to apply their own protective coating.
Square holes are included for easy assembly with carriage bolts. This makes mounting the target to existing stands quick and straightforward.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the target’s durability, training effectiveness, and ease of use. The steel thickness determines its resistance to damage, while the scaled size provides a unique training challenge.
Performance & Functionality
The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel performs its job admirably. It provides instant feedback with a clear, audible ring upon impact. The scaled-down size effectively increases the difficulty of shots, forcing shooters to focus on accuracy and precision.
The target’s main strength is its ability to simulate shooting at a greater distance without physically increasing the range. A weakness, though, is that the pre-painted finish degrades over time.
The target definitely met my expectations in terms of durability and training value. The scaled size presented a greater challenge than anticipated, making it a valuable tool for improving marksmanship skills.
Design & Ergonomics
The target’s design is simple and functional. The 7/16″ thick steel ensures long-lasting durability.
The pre-painted finish, while aesthetically pleasing initially, is prone to chipping and wear with repeated use. The square holes for carriage bolts make mounting easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel is built to last. The 7/16″ steel construction can withstand repeated impacts from various calibers without significant deformation.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe down the target as needed to remove bullet splatter or debris. Repainting may be necessary over time to maintain a protective coating.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel does not come with any accessories. However, it’s compatible with standard target stands designed for IPSC-style targets.
Users can customize the target by repainting it with their preferred color or adding additional protective coatings.
Pros and Cons of Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel
Pros
- Durable 7/16″ thick steel construction for long-lasting use.
- Scaled-down size simulates a greater distance for enhanced training.
- Pre-painted finish for immediate use.
- Easy to mount with square holes designed for carriage bolts.
- Provides instant audible feedback for immediate shot confirmation.
Cons
- Pre-painted finish is prone to chipping and wear over time.
- No included stand or mounting hardware.
Who Should Buy Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel?
The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel is perfect for competitive shooters looking to improve their accuracy and speed at perceived longer distances. It also benefits law enforcement and military personnel seeking realistic training scenarios.
This product might not be ideal for beginners who are just learning the basics of marksmanship. They might find the smaller target size too challenging initially.
A sturdy target stand is a must-have accessory for this target. I recommend a stand specifically designed for steel targets to ensure stability and safety.
Conclusion on Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel
The Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel is a well-built, durable steel target that offers a unique training advantage. The scaled-down size effectively simulates shooting at a greater distance, enhancing accuracy and precision.
While the pre-painted finish is not the most durable, the target’s overall value proposition is excellent. At $139.99, it provides a cost-effective and long-lasting solution for serious shooters.
I would definitely recommend the Ar-mor Mil41600 66% Ipsc Torso Target 7/16″ Thick Steel to anyone looking to improve their marksmanship skills. Get yours today and experience the difference!