Frequently Asked Questions

What are CITTAC Steel Targets made of?

CITTAC targets are made of AR 500 steel on the Brinell hardness scale. “AR” or “Abrasion Resistant” steel is a high-carbon steel. High-Carbon Steel is steel with more than 0.3% carbon. The more carbon that is dissolved in the iron, the tougher and less formidable the steel becomes. High-carbon steel’s hardness makes it suitable for severe, high-wear applications such as target shooting. There is no surface treatment or chemical application that can affect the steel’s hardness.

What is the Brinell hardness number?

Brinell Hardness Number (BHN) – The Brinell hardness test depends upon the resistance offered to the penetration of a carbide steel ball (1.6 mm diameter) when subjected to a weight of 12.6 kg. The resulting hardness value is computed as the ratio of the applied load to the area of the indentation produced. This test is accepted as a worldwide standard for measuring the hardness of steel.

Where does CITTAC get their steel?

There are only a few plants that make this kind of heavy-duty steel. Most all target manufacturers must get their supply from one of these plants. Steel of this quality and reputation is always certified by the plant that creates it regardless of where it is shipped. CITTAC only uses certified, high quality AR500 steel.

How do bullets damage steel targets?

The biggest enemies to steel targets are speed, heat, and force. When a bullet strikes the target face it generates heat and force. The amount of heat generated is proportional to the speed of the bullet, which is why rifles cause more damage to steel targets than handguns. If you can reduce the amount of speed, heat and force to the target it will extend the target’s life. That is why design is so important in a quality target system.

How important is design when it comes to steel target systems?

Proper steel target design is crucial. CITTAC steel target systems are designed to reduce heat and force by allowing the target to move when struck by a bullet. The movement helps to mitigate the negative effects of the energy from the bullet. CITTAC’s downward angle design helps to deflect the bullet’s energy and fragments down away from the target and the shooter. By deflecting the bullet energy, rather than absorbing it, the target will last much longer. Bullet fragmentation and possible ricochets are inherent and recognized dangers associated with shooting steel targets. CITTAC address both of these issues by designing a Patent Pending stand and target system, that when used together, deflects energy and fragmentation rather than absorbing it.

What is the minimum safe distance for handgun shooting on CITTAC 3/8″ AR500 steel targets?

Minimum safe distance on most common handguns when shooting steel targets is 15 yards. Splatter or fragmentation from the copper jackets separating from the lead core could ricochet back and injure yourself or others at closers distances. Please follow all recommended safety rules when shooting steel targets.

What is the minimum safe distance for rifle shooting on CITTAC 3/8” AR500 steel targets?

Minimum safe distance for most common centerfired rifles when shooting steel targets is 100 yards minimum. Splatter from the copper jacket separating from the lead core could ricochet back and injure yourself or others at closers distances. Be advised that shooting on bare steel with a rifle at less than 100 yards will leave a visible mark and can damage your target. CITTAC suggest that the user fires a test shot from 150 yards or greater and then examine the target. If there is no physical damage then move in a few yards and fire another test shot. Repeat the process until you find the optimal distance for your combination of rifle and ammunition. For long range firearms using high velocity ammunition over 2900 fps, ( not XM193, non steel core, non bi-metal, non multi core bullets), CITTAC recommends shooting at distances of 200 yards or more and then reevaluating the target for physical damage. Never shoot CITTAC Steel targets with ammunition designed to penetrate metal. No Steel core, bi-metal, multi-core XM-193, Green tip, armor piercing, etc.

What is the minimum safe distance for shotgun slugs shooting on CITTAC 3/8” AR500 steel targets?

Minimum safe distance on most common lead birdshot and 00bb is 15 yards. Minimum safe distance for shooting shotgun slug on steel targets is 100 yards. Shotgun slugs have the greatest potential for bodily harm to the shooter from the large volume of lead that could be ricocheted back to the shooter; therefore CITTAC does not recommend shooting shot gun slugs at steel targets. Never use steel shotgun pellets or any type of steel projectile on steel targets.

What about shooting frangible ammunition at CITTAC 3/8” AR500 Steel targets?

Frangible ammunition requires the same quality of steel targets and design as regular ammunition. Many types of frangible ammunition, particularly for rifles, are lighter than regular lead ammunition. Remember that lighter bullets can mean greater speed, which means more heat and energy, which can result in damage to your steel target. CITTAC suggest that the user fires a test shot from 100 yards or greater and then examine the target. If there is no physical damage then move in a few yards and fire another test shot. Repeat the process until you find the optimal distance for your combination of rifle and ammunition.

What additional parts might I need?

All CITTAC products may be used independently; however, CITTAC designed a complete target system consisting of a target stand, cap, stem, and target. All of CITTAC products work together to create a safe and effective target system. Make sure while purchasing target parts that you don’t forget there are several independent parts that work together.

The stand or the base. There is a cap and stem that are used top secure the target to a wooden 2×4. Then there is the individual targets that will need the additional hardware kit for hanging the target to the cap and stem.

1. Stand.

2. Cap and Stem.

3. AR500 target.

4. Hardware kit.

How long does the typical wood 2×4 post last? What lengths do I need to cut the boards?

On average a typical 2×4 will need to replaced between 300 and 800 rounds. Of course direct bullet hits to the wood 2×4 will shorten the boards life. Board life is also determined by the size or grain of bullet fragmentation.

Consider adding the reusable AR500 Splatter-Guard to the wooden 2×4 at it will last indefinably.

To achieve the proper 2×4 board height for the hostage taker head shot behind the Silhouette, you must cut one of the 2×4 boards 4″ shorter then the other. For example on a 8′ 2×4 you can cut the board in half making one piece 46″ long and the other 50″ long. For a 10′ 2×4 you can cut one side 58″ long and the other at 62″ long. These will give you a 4″ height difference placing the hostage taker head shot behind and directly over the shoulder of the Silhouette.

How long from the time I order my target until it is shipped?

Most orders are processed & shipped within 5 days, but that occasionally due to steel availability orders could take up to one – three weeks.

Where do you ship?

We ship to all 50 states.

Do you have coupons codes?

Yes, please check our Facebook, follow us on Instagram and check our website for special offers.

Can I have a custom Steel target made?

Yes, CITTAC has the ability to fabricate any style and design. Please contact us by email at info@cittac.com.