On Wed, 13 Feb 2008 22:37:05 -0800, Ernie Leimkuhler
wrote:

In article ,
"Al A." wrote:

Hi all,
Here is the application:
The steel backstop at our local shooting club's indoor range is an
"elevator" style trap. Over the years the areas right behind where the
targets hang seem "erode". The theory is that the metal work hardens
from the repeated impacts and then bits of metal start to chip out,
causing roughness and pits that then interferes the proper operation of
the trap. This happens over the course of years, and in the past, we
have ground out the rough spots and welded over the area, followed by
grinding the welds flat and smooth again. Works great.

We now need to do a few areas again, and the question has come up as
to what type of rod to use. I'm not sure what was used last time, the
guy who did it is no around to ask. I'm pretty sure it was something
garden variety like 6011 or something similar, but some have suggested
using a "hardfacing" type rod for greater longevity. (the guy who
suggested that faces a lot of 'dozer blades and the like) What do some
of the experts here suggest? Any ideas?

Other info:
-Backstop plates are a bit less than 3/4" thick, were once part of a
backstop in an old National Guard barricks. No idea of the precise
composition.
-"Pits" in the plates are mostly 1/16" or less deep.
-Used for lead handgun shooting only and .22 rifle. No jacketed stuff, etc.
-We have access to fairly serious welder and an experienced man to use it.

-just looking for some informed opinions, so that we can try to make an
(at least slightly) educated decision.

Thanks!
-AL

I would not go as far as hardfacing rod, because it might spall off the
base metal under impact, but I would go for a slightly stronger rod than
normal.
8018 or 9018 would be a bit stronger than standard rod.


They wont spall with handgun or 22 bullets. Been there, done that.
Used hardfacing wire in a mig.

Never had to do it again.

Gunner



"Pax Americana is a philosophy. Hardly an empire.
Making sure other people play nice and dont kill each other (and us)
off in job lots is hardly empire building, particularly when you give
them self determination under "play nice" rules.

Think of it as having your older brother knock the **** out of you
for torturing the cat." Gunner