The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red Made a Bold First Impression
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless iterations of target systems, from paper silhouettes to reactive steel targets. However, the Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red promised a level of durability and immediate feedback that piqued my interest. This isn’t just another piece of steel; it’s a tool designed for serious practice, offering both auditory and visual confirmation with every successful shot.
I was tired of constantly replacing paper targets at my range. I wanted a solution that was not only more durable but also offered a more satisfying shooting experience. The promise of “thousands of impacts” from conventional ammunition, as stated by the Manufacturer, Bash Target Supply, immediately grabbed my attention.
The Bash Target Supply gong arrived well-packaged and ready for action. Lifting it, I immediately appreciated the heft of the AR500 steel; it felt substantial and built to last. The red powder coat finish was evenly applied and gave it a professional, high-visibility look.
Compared to cheaper, thinner steel targets I’ve used in the past, the Bash Target Supply gong felt like a significant upgrade. The 5/16″ AR500 steel promised to withstand calibers that would warp or damage lesser targets. The three pre-drilled mounting holes also gave it a versatility that single-point hanging targets often lack. My initial impression was one of genuine excitement; this felt like a serious piece of kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red was at my local outdoor shooting range. I set it up at 50 yards using a simple A-frame target stand and some chain, ensuring it had plenty of swing. The weather was clear and sunny, perfect for an afternoon of testing.
I started with a .22LR rifle to get a feel for the gong’s reaction. Even with the relatively low-powered rimfire round, the gong produced a satisfying “clang” with each hit. Moving up to a .45 ACP handgun, the feedback was even more pronounced; a loud ring and a noticeable swing confirmed each successful shot. There were no issues with denting or warping after the first few magazines.
It was surprisingly easy to get used to shooting at the gong. The bright red color made it easy to spot against the natural background, and the instant feedback allowed me to quickly adjust my aim. There were no unforeseen issues; the gong performed exactly as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red continues to impress. It has withstood hundreds of rounds from various handguns (.22LR, 9mm, .45 ACP) and rimfire rifles (.22LR, .17 HMR) without any signs of significant wear or damage. The powder coat finish has held up well, with only minor chipping around the edges where it’s been directly impacted by bullets.
The gong has proven to be incredibly durable. The AR500 steel shows no signs of warping, pitting, or cracking, even after repeated use with .45 ACP rounds. Maintenance is incredibly simple; I occasionally wipe it down with a cloth to remove any lead residue or debris.
Compared to other steel targets I’ve used, the Bash Target Supply gong is a clear winner in terms of durability and longevity. Cheaper targets would have shown signs of damage long ago. This gong is an investment that will likely last for years to come.
Breaking Down the Features of Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red
Specifications
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red is constructed from 5/16″ thick AR500 steel, a material known for its exceptional resistance to impact and abrasion. Its 8″ diameter provides a substantial target area while remaining compact and portable. The gong features three mounting holes, allowing for versatile hanging options.
These specifications directly translate to the gong’s performance and user experience. The thickness of the steel is crucial for withstanding repeated impacts from bullets without deforming. The 8″ size offers a good balance between visibility and portability, making it suitable for various shooting distances and scenarios. The three mounting holes provide stability and prevent excessive swinging, improving accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red excels in providing immediate auditory and visual feedback. Each successful hit produces a loud “clang” and a noticeable swing, allowing shooters to instantly confirm their accuracy. The gong is rated for rimfire and centerfire handguns up to .45 ACP, as well as rimfire rifles up to .17 HMR and .410 bore slugs, offering versatility for various firearms.
The gong’s strengths lie in its durability, reliability, and ease of use. It consistently provides clear feedback and withstands repeated impacts without damage. A potential area for improvement could be offering different color options for the powder coat finish to suit different environments. Overall, the gong exceeds expectations in terms of performance and value.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red boasts a simple yet effective design. The red powder coat finish enhances visibility in various lighting conditions. Its weight, while substantial, is manageable and contributes to its overall durability.
The gong is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no setup beyond hanging it securely. There is no learning curve involved; it’s ready to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red, constructed from AR500 steel, is designed to last for thousands of rounds. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand repeated impacts without significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove lead residue or debris. The gong’s simple design and durable materials contribute to its long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with various hanging systems, such as chains, straps, and A-frame target stands.
While there are no direct customization options for the gong itself, shooters can personalize their setup by choosing different hanging methods or painting the target a different color (though this may void the powder coat’s protective benefits). The compatibility with standard hanging systems makes it easy to integrate into existing shooting ranges or setups.
Pros and Cons of Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The AR500 steel construction ensures it can withstand thousands of impacts.
- Immediate Feedback: Provides clear auditory and visual confirmation of hits.
- Versatile Caliber Compatibility: Rated for various handgun and rimfire rifle calibers.
- Simple Setup: Easy to hang and use with minimal effort.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the level of quality and durability.
Cons
- Powder coat finish can chip over time with repeated direct hits.
- Limited customization options beyond hanging methods.
Who Should Buy Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red?
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red is perfect for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone looking for a durable and reliable target system. It’s also ideal for firearm instructors who need a target that can withstand frequent use.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals seeking a highly customizable or visually elaborate target system. Those who primarily shoot long-range with high-powered rifles (beyond the specified caliber ratings) should also consider thicker steel targets designed for those applications.
A must-have accessory for this gong is a robust hanging system, such as heavy-duty chains or straps, to ensure it remains securely in place during use.
Conclusion on Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red
The Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red is a well-built, durable, and reliable target system that offers exceptional value for the price. Its robust construction, immediate feedback, and versatile caliber compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for any shooter.
The price of $24.99 is more than justified given the gong’s longevity and performance. Cheaper targets simply cannot compare in terms of durability.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Bash Target Supply 8″ Round Gong 5/16″ AR500 Red to anyone seeking a reliable and satisfying shooting experience. Upgrade your range today and experience the instant gratification of steel target shooting!