Not all steel is the same.
Not all steel targets are created equal. AR500 is a hardened abrasion resistant steel specifically engineered to handle the repeated impact of rifle and pistol rounds. It won't deform, pit out, or develop dangerous spalling the way mild steel does over time.
Our 18" gong is 3/8" thick. The sweet spot for handling everything from rimfire to centerfire rifle at appropriate distances while keeping the weight manageable in the field. You'll hear that satisfying GONG ring out every single time.