I can’t count how many times I’ve gone out to the range ready to shoot, only to spend half my time fighting with my target setup instead of actually shooting. For the longest time, I was running a janky setup with two wood posts, clamps, and paper targets. It worked… sort of. But honestly, it was a pain.

If the wood wasn’t cut just right, it wouldn’t sit right. If the wind kicked up (which it always does), the paper targets would flap around or tear off completely. More than once the whole lightweight frame actually blew over, and I had to go chasing it across the ground like an idiot while everyone else kept shooting. I even resorted to tying it down just to keep it in place. That’s when I finally said screw it and looked for something better.

Why I Bought It

I came across the GADFISH AR500 Steel Target with T Post Hanger and figured it was worth a shot. The idea of a heavy-duty steel plate instead of flimsy paper immediately made sense. No taping, no clamping, no cutting wood to fit. Just stick it in the ground, hang the plate, and you’re good to go. Plus, I liked that it came with multiple mounting options — a T-post hanger and a 2×4 bracket — so I could set it up however I wanted.

The First Time It Proved Itself

The first range day I brought it out, setup was a breeze. I just grabbed a shovel, dug a quick spot, dropped the post in, covered it, and it was rock solid. No chasing targets, no flapping cardboard. And when you hit the steel, you get that loud, satisfying “ding” every time. Honestly, that sound alone makes it worth it — you know instantly when you’ve landed a shot without having to walk all the way downrange.

I’ve put everything into it — AR, 9mm, .22 from way out — and it’s holding strong. No fuss, no wasted time. Just shooting.

One Thing to Be Aware Of

If I had to nitpick, some of the hardware it came with wasn’t super useful for how I set mine up. I ended up using my own screws and just mounting it to a 2×4 with a couple wood-to-metal screws. Bent the metal bracket a little in the process, but once it was in, it’s been holding like a dream.

Final Thoughts

For me, this target solved a ton of frustration. No more dealing with fragile frames, chasing paper in the wind, or spending forever setting up. Just dig it in, hang it up, and shoot. If you’ve ever been annoyed with flimsy target setups like I was, this is 100% worth trying.

👉 Check it out here: GADFISH AR500 Steel Target with T Post Hanger