Gong Targets: Simple, Durable Steel Targets for Better Shooting

If you’re looking for a simple way to add instant feedback to your range setup, gong targets are hard to beat.

A quality steel gong gives you a clear target, an unmistakable sound when hit, and the durability to handle repeated use. Whether you’re practicing with a pistol, training with a rifle, or stretching your skills out to longer distances, gong targets are a versatile addition to almost any shooting range.

At MGM Targets, we’ve been manufacturing high-quality steel shooting targets in the USA since 1994. Our steel targets are designed for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, professional trainers, law enforcement, military applications, and shooting ranges.

What Are Gong Targets?

Gong targets are steel shooting targets designed to hang from a target stand or mounting system.

Unlike a rigidly mounted steel plate, a gong is typically suspended so that it can move or swing when struck. This movement creates both audible and visual feedback, making it easy for the shooter to confirm a hit.

Gongs are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and steel thicknesses to accommodate different shooting applications.

Their simple design is one of their biggest advantages.

Why Choose Gong Targets?

There are plenty of reasons gong targets remain popular with shooters.

Instant Feedback

One of the best things about shooting steel is knowing immediately when you’ve made a hit.

A properly struck gong produces a distinctive sound that can often be heard from considerable distances. The movement of the gong can also provide visual confirmation.

That means you spend less time checking your target and more time shooting.

Simple Setup

Gong targets don’t need to be complicated.

A properly designed gong can be suspended from a suitable target stand using the appropriate mounting hardware. Once it’s set up, you’re ready to shoot.

That makes gongs particularly attractive for shooters who want a straightforward target system without a complicated setup.

Reusable

Unlike paper targets, a quality steel gong can be used again and again.

When the appropriate steel, thickness, ammunition, and shooting distance are used, steel targets can provide years of service.

For shooters who practice regularly, that makes gong targets a great long-term investment.

AR550 Gong Targets

For demanding applications, hardened AR550 steel provides excellent durability.

AR550 is a high-hardness abrasion-resistant steel that offers strong resistance to deformation. This makes it a popular choice for shooters looking for durable steel targets.

MGM Targets offers AR550 options designed for a variety of shooting applications.

The appropriate target thickness and size depend on the caliber, ammunition, shooting distance, and intended use. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific target you purchase.

Gong Targets for Rifle Shooting

Gong targets are particularly popular among rifle shooters.

At longer distances, a large steel gong provides an easy-to-see target while its movement and sound provide immediate confirmation of a hit.

Whether you’re practicing with a .223, .308, 6.5 Creedmoor, or another rifle cartridge, choosing a gong specifically rated for your application is important.

Long-range shooters can also use multiple gongs of different sizes to create progressively more challenging targets.

Start with a larger gong and work toward smaller targets as your accuracy improves.

Gong Targets for Long-Range Shooting

Long-range shooting is where gong targets really stand out.

A properly sized gong can remain visible at distances where traditional paper targets become difficult to see. When you connect, the movement of the gong provides satisfying confirmation that your shot found the target.

Multiple gongs can also be positioned at different distances, allowing shooters to practice:

• Range estimation
• Elevation adjustments
• Wind calls
• Holdovers
• Precision
• Target transitions

This creates a simple but effective long-range training setup.

Gong Targets for Pistol Shooting

Although gongs are often associated with rifles and long-range shooting, they can also be useful for handgun training when the target is properly rated and used at the manufacturer’s recommended distance.

A pistol gong can provide a simple target for practicing accuracy and consistency.

Smaller gongs can also be used to increase the challenge as your shooting skills improve.

Different Gong Sizes for Different Challenges

One of the best things about gong targets is the variety of sizes available.

A large gong is easier to hit and is useful for introducing new shooters to steel.

Medium-sized gongs provide a greater challenge.

Small gongs can really test precision and are particularly useful at longer distances.

Consider using several sizes together to create a range that challenges you at different levels.

Gong Targets for Training

Gongs are useful for much more than recreational shooting.

Instructors and professional trainers can incorporate them into drills that require shooters to transition between multiple targets.

For example, several gongs can be positioned at different distances. The shooter can then work on engaging targets in sequence while receiving immediate feedback after every hit.

Because the targets are reusable, they can be used repeatedly during high-volume training sessions.

Gong Targets for Recreational Shooting

Sometimes shooting should simply be fun.

Gong targets are a great way to make a trip to the range more enjoyable.

There’s something satisfying about hearing that unmistakable steel “ping” after making a hit—especially when the target is small or far away.

For recreational shooters, gongs provide a simple way to add variety and challenge without creating a complicated range setup.

Choosing the Right Gong Target

Before purchasing gong targets, consider several factors.

Caliber and Ammunition

The ammunition you’re using is one of the most important considerations. Different cartridges produce different levels of energy.

Make sure the gong you’re purchasing is rated for your intended ammunition.

Shooting Distance

Steel targets have recommended minimum shooting distances. These recommendations can vary depending on the target, ammunition, and design.

Always follow the manufacturer’s specifications.

Target Thickness

Target thickness should be appropriate for the ammunition and application.

Don’t assume that a thicker target is automatically better. The correct combination of material and thickness is what matters.

Target Size

Choose a gong size based on your shooting distance and skill level.

Large gongs are excellent for longer-range shooting and general practice, while smaller gongs can provide a significant accuracy challenge.

Mounting System

The target is only part of the equation.

A quality mounting system should securely support the gong while allowing it to move appropriately when struck. Look for durable, replaceable mounting components.

Gong Target Safety

Steel targets should always be used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Use the correct ammunition and maintain the required minimum shooting distance. Make sure the gong is mounted properly and inspect it regularly for excessive damage, cratering, or deformation.

Targets should be positioned appropriately for the shooting environment, and shooters should always use proper eye and hearing protection.

If you’re unsure whether a particular gong is appropriate for your ammunition or distance, check the manufacturer’s specifications before shooting.

Why Choose MGM Targets for Gong Targets?

MGM Targets has been manufacturing steel shooting targets in the USA since 1994.

We understand that shooters want targets that are durable, easy to use, and capable of providing reliable feedback.

Our steel target products are designed for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, professional training facilities, law enforcement, military applications, and shooting ranges.

From simple steel gongs to complete target systems, MGM Targets offers products designed to help you spend more time shooting and less time maintaining your range.

Upgrade Your Range with Gong Targets

Sometimes the simplest target is one of the most useful.

Gong targets provide immediate feedback, simple setup, excellent visibility, and reusable performance. Whether you’re practicing with a rifle at long range, working on handgun accuracy, preparing for competition, or simply looking for a fun target for your next range trip, a steel gong can be an excellent addition to your setup.

Choose the right size, steel, thickness, mounting system, ammunition, and shooting distance for your application—and you’ll have a target you can enjoy for years.

Ready to add some satisfying steel feedback to your range? Explore MGM Targets’ selection of gong targets and build your next shooting setup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gong Targets

What are gong targets used for?
Gong targets provide audible and visual feedback when struck. They’re commonly used for recreational shooting, rifle practice, long-range shooting, handgun training, and professional training.

Are gong targets good for long-range shooting?
Yes. Gong targets are especially popular for long-range shooting because larger gongs can remain visible at extended distances while movement and sound provide immediate hit confirmation.

What steel is best for gong targets?
AR500 and AR550 hardened steel are commonly used for quality shooting targets. The appropriate material and thickness depend on the ammunition and intended application.

What size gong should I use?
That depends on your shooting distance and skill level. Larger gongs are easier to see and hit, while smaller gongs provide a greater precision challenge.

Can I shoot pistols at gong targets?
Some gong targets can be used for handgun shooting when the target is specifically rated for the application. Always follow the manufacturer’s caliber and minimum-distance recommendations.

How long do gong targets last?
Quality steel gong targets can provide years of service when used with appropriate ammunition, at the correct distance, and according to the manufacturer’s specifications.