NTSA Steel Reactive Target Policy
Steel reactive targets are generally limited for use in sanctioned competitions conducted by a NTSA Match Director or Range Officer. However, casual shooters may use steel reactive targets when in compliance with this policy and after completing a NTSA training course, but are limited to .22 rimfire ammunition only.
1. Use of Steel Reactive Targets
1.1 Steel reactive targets are limited to the 100 and 200 yard rifle ranges, the 50 yard intermediate range, and Pistol Bay 1.
1.2 Steel reactive targets must be placed at the base of the berm whenever possible and under no circumstances placed greater than five yards from the berm regardless of the minimum distances listed below.
1.3 The minimum shooting distance from the steel reactive target when using centerfire handgun cartridges or .22 rimfire is 15 yards.
1.4 The minimum shooting distance from the steel reactive target when using shot shell cartridges is 15 yards.
1.5 The minimum shooting distance from the steel reactive target when using shotgun slugs is 50 yards.
1.6 The minimum shooting distance from the steel target when using centerfire rifle cartridges such as .223 and .308. is 100 yards.
1.7 Targets faces shall not be placed directly on the ground.
1.8 Target faces that are cratered, pitted, pockmarked, or damaged shall not be used.
1.9 Targets should be placed with a 3 foot lateral and deep offset from the adjacent target.
1.10 If shooting multiple targets, the angle of engagement should not exceed 20 degrees.
1.11 Hearing protection and wrap-around shatter resistant eye protection are required.
1.12 Shooters and observers should wear long pants, long sleeve shirts, a cap or hat with a brim, and closed toe shoes when shooting steel.
2. Target Specifications
2.1 All target faces must be 500 Brinell AR steel for centerfire rifle and pistol, and for shotgun.
2.2 Targets for .22 rimfire may be commercially manufactured and sold specifically for use with .22 rimfire ammunition, or they may be made of any steel that is a minimum of ¼ inch thick.
2.3 All target faces must be designed to fall forward if mounted on a stand; or if suspended on supports, pivot so the target face angles downward when struck; or, if placed on a support or base, absorb the impact of the projectile and fall to the ground when struck. As an example, targets like the “Texas Star” where the target faces are not permanently attached to their bases or supports fall to the ground when struck.
2.4 Targets shall be manufactured with a base or support that elevates the target face off of the ground.
3. Ammunition
3.1 Jacketed soft point or hollow point projectiles are required when shooting centerfire rifle cartridges.
3.2 Ammunition that exceeds 3,100 feet per second at 10 feet from the muzzle is prohibited.
3.3 Ammunition that travels below 750 feet per second at 10 feet from the muzzle is prohibited.
3.4 Number 7 ½ shot is the largest shot allowed. BB’s, steel shot, or air gun pellets are prohibited.
3.5 Armor piecing, steel-tipped, steel-cased or steel-cored ammunition is prohibited.
3.6 Full metal jacketed centerfire rifle ammunition is prohibited on steel targets.
3.7 Full metal jacketed centerfire pistol ammunition is allowed on steel targets if it conforms to the velocity requirements.
3.8 Frangible centerfire rifle and pistol ammunition is allowed.
3.9 Cast or swaged lead bullets are allowed in centerfire rifle and pistol.
4. Responsibilities and Approvals
4.1 Prior to shooting, it is the user’s responsibility to inspect all targets for damage and functionality. If the target faces are damaged, or the target does not operate as designed, the target shall be resurfaced or replaced before it can be used.
4.2 Any steel target can be inspected at any time by the NTSA Range Manager for compliance and removed from use, if necessary.
4.3 The NTSA Range Manager will approve all steel targets to be used at the NTSA Range that meet the requirements listed in this policy. However, no steel targets will be used unless approved by the Range Manager.
4.4 Match Directors will request approval for all steel targets to be used during sanctioned competitions or other events. This can be done by allowing the Range Manager the opportunity to inspect the purchase documents and the targets prior to using them in a competition. This procedure will apply anytime a new target is purchased.
4.5 During sanctioned competitions, Match Directors and Range Officers shall ensure that all shooters are using the specified ammunition and comply with all instructions and restrictions listed in this policy including placement of the targets. In addition, Match Directors and Range Officers must comply with all of the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
4.6 Upon NTSA Range Manager approval, casual shooters may use steel reactive targets on Pistol Bay 1 and the 50-yard intermediate range, but are limited to .22 rimfire ammunition. To receive approval for .22 rimfire targets, the user must take the required training course, sign a document that states that the user understands and agrees with the Steel Reactive Target Policy, and allow the Range Manager the opportunity to inspect the targets prior to use. The Range Manager will then sign the same document indicating that the user has received approval.
4.7 The casual shooter is at all times responsible for the safe use and the proper maintenance of his or her steel reactive targets.
4.8 Failure to comply with the policy will result in loosing the privilege to shoot steel reactive targets, and may result in loosing his/her membership.
5. Training Course
5.1 A NTSA subcommittee will develop an approved training course for use by Match Directors and Range Officers, and approved by the Board of Directors.
5.2 This course will include all the instructions, restrictions, and responsibilities listed in the steel target policy.
5.3 This course will require that the user sign a document stating that he/she has read and will comply with this policy.
5.4 The document will certify that the Range Officer has received the required block of training and provide signature blocks for the Range Officer, the person providing the training, and the Range Manager.
5.5 The Range Manager will keep the original certification to be filed at the NTSA clubhouse and provide a copy to the Range Officer.
Version: 5/24/09