target shooting question

[rspowers]

I went to the scotia range this weekend and when shooting at the pistol range, noticed that all the target frames were metal. Isnt that really dangerous? Cant the bullets ricochet back? I just didnt think it made sense but I am still new and am still learning so maybe there is a good explanation as to why they would choose metal.

[exceltoexcel]

Nearly everyone uses metal, and no your bullet isn't going to ricochet but don't shoot at the target holder anyway.

[rspowers]

Why wont they ricochet? Does the bullet break up when it hits the metal or does it just drop?

[Zef_66]

Originally Posted by rspowers

Why wont they ricochet? Does the bullet break up when it hits the metal or does it just drop?

It usually goes *SPLAT* and just kinda breaks into a bunch of pieces.

[chesire17201]

unless of course it's a 50 cal., then you get ricochet........lucky guy here....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ABGIJwiGBc

[WWGunslinger]

It must not be too dangerous because I went to a local Cowboy action shooting event and most of their target were metal. For the pistols, they only shoot a few yards away from the target. in fact, I got hit in the chest by a ricochet. it stung for a few seconds but I was ok. this was in the winter and i had a heavy jacket on too. if it had hit bare skin it might have done more damage.

[Chazman321]

I've been blasted in the arm with birdshot from a 12 ga. while someone was shooting steel (thanks Frenchy), and it stung a little bit on bare skin, but it wasn't that bad... I've had worse... lol

[Carnes]

If I recall correctly, the metal target holders at Scotia range are angled, which should help to deflect any fragments away from the shooter.

Given the angles, the distance, typical bullet disintegration and the such, I would have no worries at all in regard to shooting at Scotia.

[jsb889]

WEAR EYE PROTECTION!

You do that, you'll be fine A scratch or two at the most, not much at all.

When a bullet hits steel, it'll either go through, or pretty much disintigrate into small pieces. The pieces pose no real threat, except to your eyes. Mainly pieces of jacket.

[DaveM55]

A few pieces of the jacket may do more to startle you than hurt you.

Always wear saftey glasses, even if you're watching someone else shoot.