Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target Review

The Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target: A Review After Real Use

For anyone serious about honing their marksmanship, having reliable practice targets is non-negotiable. This led me to the Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target, a piece of equipment promising durability and an engaging shooting experience. My own journey with firearms and gear spans over a decade, taking me through dusty ranges, demanding workshops, and meticulous lab environments, so I approach new equipment with a critical, experience-based eye.

The specific need that drove me to this particular gong target was a desire for more immediate, audible feedback during my pistol practice sessions. While paper targets are essential for diagnostics, the lack of instant confirmation can sometimes break the flow of a practice drill, especially for newer shooters I sometimes work with. I was looking for something robust that could handle common handgun calibers without breaking the bank, offering that satisfying ‘clang’ to confirm a hit.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid construction. The target itself felt substantial, with a satisfying heft, and the included stand components appeared to be made from appropriately thick steel. It’s a no-frills design, which, in my experience, often translates to greater longevity. My only brief consideration was whether a standalone gong of this size might be too lightweight to remain stable in windy conditions, but that was a question for the range. My immediate feeling was one of pragmatic optimism – this looked like a tool designed to do a job, and do it well.

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range, a place with a mix of dirt berms and gravel backstops. I set up the Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target using its included stand, which, while relatively simple, felt sturdy enough when properly anchored. The assembly process was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes to connect the stand pieces and attach the gong via the provided chains.

I began with my 9mm pistol at a distance of 15 yards, focusing on consistent draws and single-shot accuracy. The audible report of the bullet striking the gong was immediate and satisfying, providing the precise feedback I was looking for. Each hit produced a clear “clang,” and the target visibly resonated, confirming a solid connection. Even with rapid fire, the target held its position reasonably well, though a few errant shots did cause it to sway more significantly.

After several magazines of 9mm rounds, I transitioned to a .45 ACP pistol. The impact on the gong was noticeably more robust, and the sound was deeper and more resonant. Crucially, the steel face showed no signs of immediate denting or significant deformation from either caliber at this range. The powder coating held up remarkably well, with only minor scuffs appearing where bullets made direct contact.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several months and multiple range visits, the Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target has proven itself to be a reliable and durable addition to my shooting gear. It has endured hundreds of rounds from various handguns, including 9mm, .45 ACP, and .38 Special, without any significant degradation in performance. The steel face, despite numerous impacts, remains essentially flat with only superficial marks on the powder coating.

Maintenance has been minimal, which is a testament to its robust design. A quick wipe-down to remove dust and residue after a range day is all that’s typically required. The powder coating, while not indestructible, has shown excellent resistance to corrosion, even when stored in a moderately humid garage environment. The chains and stand components have also held up well, showing no signs of rust or structural weakness.

Compared to other steel targets I’ve used, some of which were significantly more expensive, this model from Do All Outdoors offers excellent value. While it might not possess the ultra-premium finish or the heavy-duty steel of some competition-grade targets, its performance for its intended purpose—practice and plinking—is more than sufficient. I haven’t experienced any failures or premature wear that would cause concern about its longevity for casual to moderate use.

Specifications

The Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target comes with a set of specifications designed for practical range use. The 8-inch diameter gong itself is constructed from hardened 3/8 inch NM500 steel plate, a material known for its excellent resilience against impact. This steel plate composition is a key factor in its durability.

The target is powder-coated for added protection against the elements and to provide a visible surface. It’s rated for calibers ranging from 9mm Luger up to .30-06 Springfield, a broad spectrum that covers most common handgun and rifle calibers. The package includes a 35×30 stand, 4 steel ground spikes, 4 S hooks, and 2 steel chains for hanging the gong.

The fact that the gong is made from NM500 steel means it’s designed to withstand repeated impacts without significant deformation or penetration. The 3/8 inch thickness provides a good balance between mass for stability and portability. The powder-coated finish is standard for many shooting targets and offers decent scratch and corrosion resistance. The inclusion of ground spikes suggests the stand is intended for use on softer ground, which is common at many outdoor ranges.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target performs admirably. The 8-inch steel plate provides a sufficiently large surface area for aiming, making it forgiving for less experienced shooters while still challenging enough for experienced marksmen. The audible “clang” upon impact is loud and clear, offering immediate and unmistakable confirmation of a hit, which is invaluable for training and practice.

The target’s strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. It delivers the core functionality of a reactive steel target without unnecessary complexities or features. However, its primary weakness for rifle calibers, as noted in user feedback and observable from the specifications, is its limited thickness for magnum or high-velocity rifle rounds. While rated for .30-06, very high-energy rounds or close-range shots from powerful rifles could potentially cause more significant divots or even penetration over time, especially on the edges.

Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for its price point, particularly for handgun use and common rifle calibers. It’s a no-nonsense target that provides a rewarding shooting experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target is purely functional, prioritizing durability and ease of use over aesthetics. The black/orange and white color scheme is practical for visibility against various backdrops. The solid steel stand is designed for stability, though its effectiveness can vary depending on the ground surface.

Ergonomically, the setup is straightforward. The S hooks and steel chains make hanging and adjusting the gong simple. The stand itself requires minimal assembly, and once set up, it’s generally stable for handgun calibers. The ground spikes are a welcome addition for securing the stand in softer earth, preventing excessive movement from impacts.

A practical design detail is the powder-coated finish, which not only protects the steel but also provides a contrasting surface for easier aiming. However, one minor annoyance can be the reliance on ground spikes; on hard surfaces like concrete or packed gravel, additional measures like sandbags or weights would be necessary for adequate stability, which are not included.

Durability & Maintenance

The Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target is built with longevity in mind, particularly for its intended calibers. The 3/8 inch NM500 steel plate is inherently tough, designed to withstand thousands of impacts. The powder-coated finish adds a layer of protection against rust and minor abrasions, extending its usable life.

Under typical range conditions with moderate use of 9mm and .45 ACP ammunition, this gong target should last for many years. However, consistent shooting with high-velocity rifle rounds, especially at closer distances, will eventually lead to wear on the steel surface and the powder coating. The chains and stand components appear to be of robust construction, designed to withstand outdoor elements and the vibrations from impacts.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple: clean off any debris and check the hardware periodically. There are no complex parts to maintain or delicate components to worry about. The most likely point of wear would be the hanging chain links, but these are easily replaceable if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target comes with a decent set of included accessories to get you started. The 35×30 stand provides the foundational structure for the target. Crucially, the inclusion of 4 steel ground spikes is a practical addition for securing the stand in various terrains.

Additionally, 4 S hooks and 2 steel chains are provided to hang the gong. These are essential for allowing the target to react to impacts and to prevent it from toppling over. The two sets of straps mentioned in some descriptions could refer to additional tie-down points or alternative hanging methods, though the chains are the primary means of attachment.

While this model is not designed for extensive customization, the gong itself is a standard size and shape, meaning it could potentially be adapted to different hanging systems or stands if the user desired. However, for most users, the included accessories are sufficient for immediate deployment. The black/orange, white color options offer a minor aesthetic choice.

Who Should Buy Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target?

This Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target is an excellent choice for recreational shooters, plinkers, and those who frequently practice with handguns. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who value immediate auditory feedback and a durable, easy-to-use target system for their range sessions. The 8-inch gong size makes it approachable for beginners while still offering a rewarding challenge.

Those who primarily shoot 9mm Luger, .45 ACP, .38 Special, or other common handgun calibers will find this target exceptionally durable and reliable. It’s also a solid option for .22LR and lighter rifle calibers like a .223 Remington at reasonable distances. Anyone looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to enhance their shooting practice without dealing with complex setup or maintenance should consider this model.

However, serious rifle shooters who frequently engage targets at close range with high-powered magnum rounds might want to consider thicker steel targets. Those who exclusively shoot on very hard surfaces without readily available sandbags or weights may also find the included stand less than ideal. For optimal performance, using it with handguns or lighter rifle calibers at appropriate distances is recommended.

Conclusion

The Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target stands out as a practical and effective piece of shooting equipment. Its 8-inch diameter gong made from 3/8 inch hardened NM500 steel delivers on its promise of providing audible and visual confirmation of hits, significantly enhancing the practice experience. The ease of setup and relatively robust construction make it a compelling option for a wide range of shooters.

Considering its price point, the value proposition is strong. It offers durability and functionality that far exceeds what one might expect for the investment, especially for handgun practice. While it has limitations with very high-powered rifle rounds, for its intended use and common calibers, it’s a reliable workhorse.

I would readily recommend this Do All Outdoors High Cal Gong Target to any shooter looking for an affordable, engaging, and durable target system. It’s an excellent upgrade from paper targets and a solid entry into the world of reactive steel shooting. Just be mindful of its limitations with magnum rifle calibers if that’s your primary focus.