Shooting range backstop help

[Okie]

I am working on building a longer shooting range for rifles up to half a mile and would appreciate any input as to what to use and how to build it.

I have many ideas, but would appreciate help with brainstorming. I have been thinking about using utility poles, dirt, feed tubs, poly barrels, and/or other things for multiple yardage backstops. Thanks for your input!

[Ryan C]

We used cut up utility poles and back filled with dirt.

[JakeGraves]

Crosstie retaining walls work really well.

[EH III]

I used cross ties in the front with utility pole behind the cross ties to fill in the gap. I took a cable and tied it at the top all the way around the cross ties and poles to keep them from pushing apart. I stuck them in the ground about 2 feet. I have been shooting my .308 into it from 100-200 yards and still haven't had a pass threw.

[Okie]

Y'all are shooting at the wood and not the dirt?

[JakeGraves]

Yes Oakie. Back side of ties is back filled with dirt. There is a public range south of Fort Worth that has this setup and the ties are still holding up after thousands of rounds.

[Okie]

I can get utility poles for free. Would vertical or horizontal be better in your opinion?

[Merc]

We did ours the exact opposite in the 'Stan. Shot the dirt (more sand and talcum powder) which was piled up in font and on top of 3 layers of sandbags and not the wood. Then again the backside of ours was the parking area so it needed to be flush.

Probably be easier to stack horizontal.