Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong Review

The Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong Made a Bold First Impression

Steel targets have always held a special allure for me, a veteran of countless hours spent on the range. There’s something deeply satisfying about the immediate feedback – the clang of steel that confirms a hit, far more gratifying than punching holes in paper. This is why I was excited to get my hands on the Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong. I wanted a durable, portable target that could withstand the abuse of regular rifle and handgun practice.

I was tired of constantly replacing paper targets or dealing with reactive targets that couldn’t handle high-volume shooting. The promise of an AR500 steel gong, rated for both rifle and handgun rounds, immediately caught my eye. Compared to smaller, less durable options, or larger, less portable targets, the Birchwood Casey gong seemed to strike the perfect balance between size, durability, and portability. I considered other gongs from ShootSteel.com and AR500 Armor, but the Birchwood Casey offering, at $27.49, felt like the right combination of value and quality for my needs.

The initial unboxing was straightforward. The gong itself is a simple, unpainted steel disc with two pre-drilled holes for hanging. The steel felt substantial, and the edges were clean. My first impression was one of solid build quality – this didn’t feel like a cheaply made product. There was an immediate excitement knowing this target could handle the repetitive impacts of my 5.56 AR-15 and 9mm handgun without issue.

Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was at my local outdoor range, a gravel pit surrounded by scrub oak and mesquite. I hung the Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong from a simple shepherd’s hook using some chain I had lying around. I started with my 9mm handgun at 25 yards. The gong rang out loud and clear with each hit.

The afternoon sun was beating down, and a light breeze kicked up dust, but the target remained unfazed. Moving to my AR-15, I gradually increased the distance to 100 yards. The gong continued to perform admirably, showing no signs of damage after repeated impacts.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Birchwood Casey gong has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve subjected it to hundreds of rounds of various calibers, and it’s still holding strong. The only visible wear is some minor surface discoloration from bullet impacts, which is to be expected.

Maintenance is practically non-existent. I occasionally wipe it down with a rag to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. There’s no need for any special cleaning products or treatments. Compared to my previous experiences with less robust targets, the Birchwood Casey gong is a clear winner in terms of longevity and ease of maintenance. This product has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong

Specifications

  • Material: AR500 Steel. This is crucial for withstanding the impact of rifle and handgun rounds without deformation or damage.
  • Diameter: 6 inches. This provides a good balance between being large enough to easily hit and small enough to remain portable.
  • Hole Quantity: Two. This allows for secure hanging, minimizing target movement upon impact.
  • Rated for: Rifle and Handgun Loads. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of shooting disciplines.
  • Country of Origin: USA. The gong is made in the USA, which speaks to quality and materials sourcing.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the target’s performance and longevity. The AR500 steel ensures durability, while the 6-inch diameter provides a reasonable target size for various distances.

Performance & Functionality

The Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong performs its job exceptionally well. It provides clear audible feedback with each hit, allowing for instant confirmation of accuracy. The gong is reliable and consistent, with no noticeable issues in performance. The only thing to note is that you will see splatter when shooting.

The Birchwood Casey gong meets and exceeds my expectations. I have not had issues hitting it when sighting in rifles.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The gong is a plain, unpainted steel disc, which keeps the cost down and doesn’t detract from its primary purpose. The two pre-drilled holes are precisely placed, making it easy to hang the target securely.

The weight is manageable, making it easy to transport and set up. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The AR500 steel construction ensures that this target will last for a very long time, even with heavy use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris. Proper care and using the correct ammunition will significantly extend the life of the target.

The product has proven to be easy to maintain and has required no repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong itself doesn’t come with any accessories. Hanging chains, stands, and mounting hardware are sold separately. However, the target is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.

Consider chains, springs, and target stands. Investing in quality hanging hardware is essential for ensuring the target is securely mounted and functions properly.

Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong

Pros

  • Audible Feedback: The loud clang of steel provides instant confirmation of hits.
  • Durable Construction: The AR500 steel is capable of withstanding repeated impacts from both rifle and handgun rounds.
  • Portable Size: The 6-inch diameter makes it easy to transport and set up.
  • Easy to Maintain: Requires minimal cleaning and upkeep.
  • Affordable Price: At $27.49, it offers excellent value for the money.

Cons

  • The user will need to get chains or hooks to hang the target from.
  • Surface discoloration from impacts (though this is purely cosmetic).


Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong?

This target is perfect for recreational shooters, handgun enthusiasts, and rifle owners looking for a durable and portable target solution. It’s also a great option for those who want instant feedback on their accuracy. Anyone looking to improve their skills will enjoy the instant feedback.

However, this product may not be ideal for those looking for more sophisticated target systems with electronic scoring or reactive elements. New gun owners may find better options, but it is still a viable training target. A target stand or hanging hardware is a must-have accessory for this target.

Conclusion on Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong

The Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong is an excellent value for the money. For $27.49, you get a durable, portable, and reliable target that will provide years of enjoyment. The audible feedback is incredibly satisfying, and the robust construction ensures it can withstand heavy use.

I would personally recommend this target to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and affordable steel target. It’s a must-have for any serious shooter. So go ahead, add the Birchwood Casey World of Targets 6″ Two Hole AR500 Steel Gong to your cart and experience the satisfying clang of steel for yourself!


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