The Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow Made a Bold First Impression
Steel targets are a staple for serious shooters, offering instant feedback and a satisfying clang that paper targets simply can’t match. The Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow aims to deliver that experience in a unique, eye-catching package. Caldwell, known for their affordable and practical shooting accessories, throws their hat into the ring with this distinct target shape.
I’d been searching for a steel target system that could withstand the abuse of high-volume shooting with both rifles and pistols. Paper targets are fine for zeroing, but for practicing rapid target acquisition and transitions, nothing beats the immediate feedback of steel. My old mild steel targets were cratering after only a few sessions with .223, so I needed something tougher.
The target arrived in a plain cardboard box, well-protected by packing material. My initial impression was positive: the bright yellow finish was vibrant, and the steel felt substantial. Its coffin shape was definitely unique, adding a bit of personality to the otherwise utilitarian world of steel targets.
I was also considering a standard square AR500 target from Rifle Dynamics and a circular gong target from ShootSteel. I ultimately chose the Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow because of its unique shape. The coffin shape would offer me a varied target silhouette for more realistic training scenarios and at a compelling price point.
I was genuinely excited to get this target out to the range. The shape was cool and the bright color was attention-grabbing, piquing my interest, and I wanted to see how it held up to some serious rounds. The promise of AR500 steel and its impact rating made it an exciting and satisfying unboxing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow to my local outdoor shooting range, setting it up at 100 yards using a simple A-frame target stand I built from lumber. My first shots were with a .223 AR-15, followed by a 9mm pistol at a closer 25 yards.
The target performed admirably, with each hit producing a satisfying clang and minimal movement. The bright yellow paint made it easy to spot impacts, even at that distance. There were no signs of deformation or damage after about 100 rounds of each caliber.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use (2-3 range trips per month), the Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow is showing minimal wear. The paint has chipped in a few spots, especially around the edges where rounds have impacted, but the steel itself remains perfectly flat and unmarred.
Maintaining the target is simple: I occasionally wipe it down with a cloth to remove any bullet splatter or debris. I also plan to repaint it with high-visibility paint to maintain its visibility. It has held up well, far exceeding my expectations compared to the old mild steel.
Breaking Down the Features of Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow
Specifications
- The Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow is constructed from AR500 hardened steel, a crucial material for withstanding high-velocity impacts. This ensures the target’s longevity and prevents dangerous fragmentation.
- It boasts a 3/8″ thickness, providing ample resistance to deformation from rifle rounds. This thickness is a sweet spot, offering durability without excessive weight.
- The target is rated up to 3,000 fps impact velocity, allowing for use with a wide range of calibers and loads. This rating provides flexibility for various shooting disciplines.
- It’s also rated for up to 3,500 ft lbs impact energy, offering additional assurance against high-powered rounds. This offers protection from rounds like .308.
- 1/2″ Carriage Bolt Mounting Holes allow for easy and secure attachment to target stands. These provide a standard, versatile mounting solution.
- The unique 10″ Coffin Shape provides a distinctive aiming point and adds visual interest. This varied target offers a more realistic training experience.
- The Yellow color provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. This high-visibility paint makes it easier to acquire the target at long distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow performs exactly as advertised. It withstands repeated impacts from both pistol and rifle rounds without showing signs of significant damage.
Its strength is its robust construction and clear feedback. The only area needing improvement would be the paint’s durability, though that’s easily remedied. The target has met and exceeded my expectations, especially considering the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Caldwell target is impressive. The steel is precisely cut and the yellow paint is evenly applied. It’s a relatively heavy target, which helps to reduce movement upon impact.
It is easy to set up with standard target stands and requires no special tools. It is simple to use, even for novice shooters. The coffin shape provides a more interesting and varied target silhouette.
Durability & Maintenance
With AR500 steel construction, this target is built to last for years. Regular cleaning and occasional repainting are all that’s needed. The robust design minimizes the risk of needing repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The target itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but the 1/2″ mounting holes allow for compatibility with a wide range of target stands and hanging systems. I’ve successfully used it with both chain and rubber straps, depending on the stand I’m using. While no official customization options exist, the user can always apply their own paint schemes or add reactive stickers to the target’s surface.
Pros and Cons of Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow
Pros
- Durable AR500 steel construction ensures a long lifespan, even with frequent use.
- High-visibility yellow paint makes it easy to spot impacts at various distances.
- Unique coffin shape adds visual interest and a varied target silhouette.
- Rated for both pistol and rifle calibers, providing versatility for different shooting disciplines.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
Cons
- Paint finish chips relatively easily, requiring occasional touch-ups.
- Does not come with a mounting system, requiring a separate purchase or DIY solution.
Who Should Buy Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow?
Perfect for: Recreational shooters who want instant feedback and a durable target solution, budget-conscious shooters who need a robust AR500 target at a reasonable price, and anyone who appreciates a bit of visual flair in their range setup. This is great for anyone running drills, or shooting any kind of firearm at the range.
Who should skip this product? Those who require a complete target system with integrated stand, or those seeking a target with a more complex reactive design.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A sturdy target stand or hanging system, and high-visibility paint for touch-ups.
Conclusion on Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow
The Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow is a solid choice for anyone seeking a durable, affordable, and visually appealing steel target. While the paint finish could be more robust, the core AR500 steel construction delivers on its promise of withstanding repeated impacts.
The price is definitely justified, offering excellent value compared to other AR500 targets on the market. I would absolutely recommend it to fellow shooters looking for a reliable and fun target for the range.
If you’re ready to ditch the paper and experience the satisfying clang of steel, the Caldwell AR500 10″ Coffin Steel Plate Target Yellow is a fantastic place to start. Grab one, set it up, and start sending rounds downrange!