FAQ’s

To reliably initiate, Tannerite™ brand targets need to be hit solidly with a transonic (ital) round. A transonic round is one going 2,000 feet per second or faster. All other things being equal, larger diameter bullets work better than smaller ones..

• .223/5.56mm NATO (the common AR15/M16 or Ruger Mini-14 round)
• 5.45x39mm (the AK-74 round)
• 6mm Remington
• .243 Winchester
• .270
• 7.62x39mm (the AK-47 round)
• 7mm Remington Magnum
• .300 Savage
• .308/7.62mm NATO
• .30-06
• .300 Remington Magnum
• .338 Remington Magnum
• .50 Browning (the .50 caliber machine gun round)

Tannerite™ targets create a kinetic reaction, which means if mixed properly and hit with a bullet going at least 2000 fps it can not fail. We get a lot of calls from people saying they got a “dud”, which is impossible. What happened was

• either they didn’t mix properly (all the white perils must be covered completely and the product is a dark grey) or
• they shot with a hand gun, .22, shot gun or low caliber rifle (you need a .223 or better) or
• (this is the big one), they had the target on the ground and the bullet hit the ground and ricochet into the target. That will put a hole thru the target, but it won’t go off.  No one wants to admit to that, but if you know the product, you also know what happens.

Tip from the pros:  place the target on a cardboard box to shoot

All Tannerite™ targets are shipped with the exact amount of catalyst needed for the targets purchased. We do not sell the catalyst separately.

Be sure to follow directions when mixing – especially be aware of the 1/4 lb target ratios as 1 packet = 2 targets.

If you have questions, please reach out to the experts in the office! 877-744-1406 or email

Yes. Tannerite^™ brand targets are meant to be stored in a dry, room temperature location (and can last about 10 years!), but if it is kept in a hot or humid location, or any moisture gets to the bottles, the nitrates degrade and cause the pellets to fuse together. If this is the case and the damage is mild, Tannerite™ brand targets can be broken up, mixed and shot, working most of the time. If the damage is more severe, break up the nitrates, combine with undamaged nitrates (note: targets should not be mixed in more than 2lb. quantities!) and mix with the proper amount of catalyst. After the product has been damaged, there’s no guarantee it will be as loud or as spectacular as the product in its original form. However, most of the time there will be a successful reaction.

Yes and No. You can premix it at the location you are going to be shooting at in the morning and have it ready for an evening shoot. However, ATF rules state that once mixed, you can not store it unless your have an approved bunker and the proper licenses. The issue is not with the product, it can be stored mixed, the issue is with the law.
Once it’s mixed, its classified differently, because a projectile traveling over 2000 fps can set it off.  Another rule, once mixed, you can not transport it. Again, for the same reason above.
Also, if getting ready for a shoot, humidity can effect the product also. – Best solution, Mix It as needed at the time of shooting.

Tannerite^™ brand binary targets fall under the same Federal laws as black powder and all other explosives that are exempt for sporting purposes from the federal regulations of commercial explosives in their unmixed form. (See ATF information regarding binary explosives). Remember though, just because it’s a legal product under Federal law if used as prescribed, does NOT mean that you can use it in any manner you wish.

Unlike firearms, you can legally shoot them; however, there are places where it is forbidden. (In the State of California, you may be required to obtain a permit or license in order to use and/or possess this product). Check and follow all Federal, state, county, and/or local laws and regulations for any applicable permit or license requirements, or other potential restrictions and conditions in your area, for possession and use of Tannerite™ brand targets or other binary targets.

By mixing Tannerite™ brand binary rifle targets, you become the manufacturer of an explosive and assume any and all liabilities. To be in compliance with Federal law (27 CFR 555.11) this product must be mixed and used for non-commercial purposes as a SHOT INDICATOR ONLY. The mixed Tannerite™ brand target must not be transported without the proper endorsements. It is up to the end-user to obtain local authority permission before using our product unless it’s on private property.  Even then if you live close to others it’s best to contact them and explain what you are doing..

Be honest, show them your Tannerite^™ brand targets and explain what you are doing. If they have further questions please feel free to give them the Tannerite^™ phone number (877-744-1406) and website (www.tannerite.com). Tannerite^™ brand targets are sold as a shot-indicator; if you are misusing the product or destroying public property we will not help you. If there are complaints about the noise, please be respectful and stop.

Tannerite^™ brand targets were specifically designed to be safe whether it’s sitting on a shelf, being mixed or used. When shot with a high-power rifle it produces a water vapor and a thunderous boom resembling an explosion.

BUT – sparks from the bullet hitting hard objects such as rocks, metal (as would be the case in any shooting environment) MUST be considered when using Tannerite™ targets. Follow all of the safety instructions. Elevate the target on a cardboard box and make sure the area is free of debris, dry grasses.

• Do not use target in locations where a general fire order is in effect and do not use target near combustible materials
• Never place these targets inside, on top of, or under any metal, rock, or other surfaces that could produce flying debris or sparks, or within another object.  This is dangerous and constitutes improper use of the product.