Bullet Deflector

farmerjohn had a bullet deflector he built and I would like to build one as well. Problem is the AR500 is pretty pricey. My construction guy has found a source but the steel is 48 x 120. If I can find two others to split the cost with me in the San Antonio area we can get a 48 x 40 piece for about 250.00.
This would be 3/8 thick AR500 steel. Anybody have an interest? Look at the one farmerjohn made and his comments. It will last a looong time.
Thanks,
Robert

 

Robert we made a change to the 300yd sled and I have never needed to reenforce it. Instead of welding it solid to the frame we used pipe collars and hinged from the top so it would give when the bullet hit. Nothing we've shot it with does anything other than make a shiny spot. I will send you the pictures of the hinges on it if you want.....
John

 

How about a pic here, so we can all see it. Interested minds need to know!

10-Q

 

Thanks farmerjohn

 

Sorry folks just got home, here's a picture of the right way to do the plate....

 

If your plan doesn't work out, and you ever make it Dallas way, hit me up. I may be able to help. We have 3/8" AR500 and 1/2" AR550 in spades. We are in the business of making stuff out of it, not selling the raw material, but I'm sure we could spare some for a fellow shooter.

The prices you were quoted are fair for a spot buy, BTW. Current market for about 45,000# of prime domestic 3/8" AR500 is about $.80/ lb. $1.22/lb for a 48" x 120" isn't bad.

 

I can just imagine a guy with a metal detector 100 years from now out in that field...

 

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind.

 

Those folks in Dallas are where I picked up my stuff, great people to do business with...
John

 

When we had our business going we used a water jet shop in Blanco. They usually had ar500 and i bought quite a bit for some of the ranches for targets. Pm if you would like contact info. Also know of another shop in San Antonio that may be able to help.
phil

 

Phil, I sent you a PM

 

thank looks slick

 

Get AR550 in 1/2 inch. We had a ram up in AR500, it was at 300 yards. Everyone who had a 50 cal or other large cal took it as a dare to put a hole in it. First hole was the second day. It lasted 5 months or so. The next target I hung was AR550. All I could find out was that it is significantly more resistant than AR500. So far no holes and very few pockets from strikes. Of course it cost more.

 

Yup, I read you on that. I'm going to limit it to 30 cal shooting and no FMJ's. It's just me and some friends shooting at it so I set the rules.

 

I've got one piece left, if you're sitting on the fence......................

 

I would like to thank all who participated in this thread with their comments and ideas and especially to farmerjohn and PhilKeil for their pictures and information.
All pieces have been sold and I hope to eventually send pics of the finished product. Last question, if I go from a 45 degree angle to, say, a 60 degree will that
effect performance. (a2 x b2 = c2) If I use a 45 degree I will have approximately 34" of target area, a 60 degree gives me about 40.5" That sound about right?

Thanks to all!
Robert

 

The best angle is 41degrees IMO. that was for fixed slats in a vertical frame. Swinging plate in a frame like yours will depend on the power hitting the plate and the weight of the plate plus angle. The more angle the less weight. Your photo shows too much weight for that swinger it is only working as a deflection panel.

 

60 degrees doubles the horizontal thickness.
Four years of shooting at this one, 3/8'' AR 400 at 60 degrees.
No problems.

 

So what’s the approximate cost to build one of these?
Also, will you post your plans or specs?

 

Guessing today's new materials cost around $800.00, no idea really.

Rough sketch on dimension's. 2'' x 2'' tubing frame.