Description
The 4-inch square gong is one of those targets that just earns its keep. It's cut from 3/8" AR500 steel, which is the hardened, abrasion-resistant stuff built to soak up thousands of rounds of centerfire practice without turning into swiss cheese. At 4 inches across, it's a compact aiming point that rewards good fundamentals, whether you're confirming zero or running transition drills on a rack of plates.
Why the 4" AR500 Square Gong Holds Up
AR500 gets its name from a hardness rating, and that hardness is exactly what lets these plates handle repeated impacts and still ring true. The edges are laser-cut for a clean, burr-free finish, and this target carries a maximum bullet energy rating of 3,000 ft-lbs when used within the recommended guidelines. Keep your velocities reasonable and your ammo lead-core, and a plate like this will outlast stacks of paper.
Setting Up the Birchwood Casey Square Gong
The square hang holes are sized to work with carriage bolts (not included), so you can hang it loose from a chain, bolt it to a bracket, or drop it into a two-by-four stand. Hanging it so it swings freely and sits at a slight downward angle is the way to go. That movement absorbs energy and directs splatter toward the dirt, which keeps the target happy and your setup safer. The bright white powder coat helps you pick up the plate fast at distance and makes fresh hits easy to spot.
Distance and Feedback
Steel is all about that instant see-it-and-hear-it feedback, and this gong delivers a solid ring on every solid hit. For handguns, a common starting point is around 10 yards or more, and for centerfire rifles most folks stick to 100 yards and back with lead-core loads. It's a versatile little plate that works for casual plinking, competition prep, and honest skills training alike.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Birchwood Casey
- Manufacturer Part Number: SQR4-38
- Model: AR500 Gong
- UPC: 888151081884
- Material: AR500 Steel
- Thickness: 3/8 inch
- Target Face: 4 inch square
- Finish: Bright White Powder Coat
- Edge: Precision Laser-Cut, Burr-Free
- Max Bullet Energy: 3,000 ft-lbs
- Mount Type: Multiple / Square Hang Holes
- Compatibility: Centerfire Rifle and Handgun
- Quantity: 1
- Shipping Weight: 2.15 lbs
- Style: Square
What’s Included
- Birchwood Casey AR500 4" square steel gong target (1)
Frequently Asked Questions
What calibers can I shoot at the AR500 4" square gong?
It's rated for centerfire handgun and rifle use up to a maximum bullet energy of 3,000 ft-lbs when used within the recommended guidelines. Stick to lead-core ammunition and skip steel-core or armor-piercing rounds, which will pit and damage the plate. Keeping velocities in check helps the surface last through thousands of rounds.
How far away should I set up this steel target?
For handguns, a common starting point is 10 yards or more, and higher-velocity or magnum pistol rounds call for stepping back to 15 to 25 yards. For centerfire rifles, most folks keep it to 100 yards and back with standard lead-core loads. When in doubt, add distance and always wear eye protection.
Does the Birchwood Casey square gong come with mounting hardware?
No, the target ships as the plate only. The square hang holes are designed to work with carriage bolts, which aren't included, so grab those along with a chain or bracket to hang it. Setting it up to swing freely at a slight downward angle gives you the best movement and directs splatter toward the ground.
Is a 3/8" AR500 plate thick enough for rifle rounds?
Yes, 3/8" AR500 is a widely used thickness for centerfire rifle practice as long as you honor the distance and energy limits. The main thing that shortens a plate's life is shooting too close with high-velocity or steel-core ammo, which causes pitting. Respect the recommended standoff distances and it'll hold up to heavy use.



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