Abstract: The ballistic target system includes a suspended target plate configured to deflect incoming bullets and is adapted to absorb at least a portion of the force transferred by a bullet to the target plate upon impact. An example ballistic target system comprises: a target plate having a mounting bracket attached thereto; and a target stand from which the target plate is slidably suspended. The target stand comprises: a base adapted to rest on the ground, a post, and a target support bracket from which the target plate is slidably suspended by the mounting bracket. The target support bracket comprises a cap portion secured atop the post and an angled strut member that extends at a downward angle from the cap portion to define an incline. The target plate slides rearward and up the incline of the angled strut member when struck by a projectile.

Abstract: The ballistic target system includes a suspended target plate configured to deflect incoming bullets and is adapted to absorb at least a portion of the force transferred by a bullet to the target plate upon impact. In this way, the service life of the target plate is extended. An example ballistic target system includes: a target plate having a mounting bracket attached thereto; and a target stand from which the target plate is slidably suspended. The target stand comprises a base adapted to rest on the ground, a post, and a target support bracket from which the target plate is slidably suspended by the mounting bracket attached thereto. In some implementations, the ballistic target system may further comprise a spall guard configured to protect the post from spall created when a bullet impacts the target plate.