I'm actually arguing that with my wife right now. We're building a new home and we plan to leave the basement unfinished. For now, at least. We're also going to install radiant heating so the ground floor/basement ceiling will have a 1.5" slab of concrete under the regular carpet, tile, etc., which should provide really good sound insulation.CR500AF said:
My thought is that if I suspend a 1/4" steel plate at a 45 degree angle and build a sand box underneath it, I should have a nice backstop for a little pistol range in the basement. I might have to roll out some cheap carpet on the floor and maybe put some of that eggshell foam on the walls to absorb some of the noise, but it should still be both easy and cheap, especially since I already have the steel plate.[/quote]
I had a nice little 40 foot range just like that of course could only shoot when the boss was away :ROFL: but man was it cool....[/quote]
Nice. In my case, we've had to put all of our house plans on hold due to the situation with my kids.
But, I'm still planning that range for when we get back on track
[/quote]Please make sure you check what you will be shooting and be safe. I was an Iron worker in my past career and have made many targets/gongs for scouts/clubs etc. 1/4" steel plate even angled at 45 deg is only safe for 22 cal. soft cast lead or muzzleloaders. 3/8 would probably be fine for most pistol rounds, except the high pressure (+p) stuff, It would also wear out pretty soon. A high powered rifle will go through 3/8" Plate (personal experience) you need 1" plate for most rifles. I know this sounds like over kill, but look it up on e-how or miller welding forums. It's still a good idea, you just have to factor in enough safety, PLEASE don't forget ventilation as well, not just burnt powder, but lead dust as well. Just my .02.
