Granulated Rubber Berm – Shooting Range
Granulated rubber has become a popular and reliable choice for berm backstops at shooting ranges. Derived from recycled tires, this eco-friendly material—also known as berm rubber or rubber mulch—effectively traps and contains bullets upon impact, encapsulating projectiles within its granular matrix to prevent ricochets and damage to surrounding areas. Compared to traditional sand or dirt berms, granulated rubber excels at minimizing lead dust dispersion, noise levels, and environmental contamination while simplifying lead reclamation processes. Its fire-resistant properties and durability make it ideal for high-volume use in both indoor and outdoor gun ranges, where it can stop rounds up to .50 caliber when installed to sufficient depth, promoting safer and more sustainable range operations.
Key Benefits of Granulated Rubber for Gun Range Berms
One of the primary advantages of granulated rubber is its proven ability to trap and contain bullets effectively, breaking them up on impact without losing effectiveness over repeated use. This durability ensures long-lasting performance, even under heavy fire, making granulated rubber a cost-effective solution that withstands weathering and impacts without breaking down. Additionally, its versatility allows seamless integration into various shooting range setups, accommodating indoor and outdoor environments as well as a wide range of firearm calibers. By reducing ricochet risks and noise, granulated rubber enhances overall safety, while its eco-friendly composition from recycled materials supports sustainable practices.
Installing Granulated Rubber on Angled Berms
Installing ballistic granulated rubber on an angled berm creates a sloped barrier that integrates well with the terrain, particularly for outdoor ranges. The process starts with preparing a stable base, such as compacted earth or geotextile fabric, to prevent migration. Wire-free granules—typically sized 3/8 to 1 inch—are then layered using machinery like a front-end loader for even distribution, piled and compacted in stages with heavy rollers to achieve the desired height and depth. For optimal bullet containment without breakthrough, a minimum depth of 2 feet is recommended. The finished slope is often topped with a facing layer of rubber sheets or panels to further minimize ricochet risks, resulting in a low-maintenance berm that endures repeated impacts and environmental exposure.
Industry standards from the National Rifle Association (NRA) Range Source Book recommend a slope no steeper than 1:1, or 45 degrees, on the range-facing side to balance stability and ricochet prevention. This angle facilitates a downward bullet trajectory while preserving the berm’s structural integrity against erosion or slumping, especially for heights of 12 to 20 feet. Shallower angles risk skip shots, while steeper inclines may compromise safety, so site-specific engineering assessments are crucial to account for soil conditions and caliber ratings.
Why Choose Ballistic Granulated Rubber Over Yard Mulch?
While yard mulch might seem like a budget alternative for bullet traps, ballistic granulated rubber stands out as the superior, purpose-built option. Its uniform particle size—optimized specifically for trapping projectiles—ensures reliable performance, and it’s free from impurities like paint, wire, or tread that could complicate future issues or environmental compliance. Non-uniform yard mulch, often painted and irregular in size, hinders lead collection and cleaning efforts, potentially leading to contamination problems depending on the coatings used. In contrast, granulated rubber’s purity and consistency make it easier to maintain and reclaim materials, extending its lifespan for demanding range applications.
Discover Cumberland Rubber Supply’s Granulated Rubber Solutions
Cumberland Rubber Supply (CRS) is a leading provider of high-quality granulated rubber tailored for bullet traps and shooting ranges. What sets CRS apart is their ability to produce 100% pure vulcanized ballistic rubber media—a unique industry offering with no impurities, derived from their premium vulcanized products. Designed exclusively for granulated rubber-based bullet traps, CRS offers two specialized options: VBRM2000, the top-tier 100% pure vulcanized rubber considered the best media available; and SRRM2000, a cost-effective, high-end recycled alternative that’s 99.9% wire- and tread-free. Both are shipped in convenient 4′ x 4′ x 5′ bags weighing 2000 pounds for easy handling and transport.
With a wide selection of customizable, affordable granulated rubber options, CRS ensures you find the perfect fit for your gun range’s needs and budget. Their products deliver exceptional durability, effective bullet encapsulation, and versatility across setups, backed by competitive pricing and outstanding customer service.
In summary, granulated rubber is an outstanding berm backstop for shooting ranges, combining superior bullet-trapping capabilities, durability, and versatility into a safe, reliable, and eco-friendly solution. For a high-quality granulated rubber option that meets your specific requirements, partnering with Cumberland Rubber Supply guarantees the best results for your gun range.
Here is a list of the types of granulated rubber CRS offers:
VBRM2000 – Premium Vulcanized Rubber Media lb (2000 lbs)
–100% Pure from ballistic rubber – flame resistant formula in rubber (1″ Average size) in bag 4′ x 4′ x 5′ (Limited Supply)
SRRM2000 – Standard Range Rubber Media (2000 lbs)
Rubber media from Vulcanized combination of recycled pneumatic and auto tire/ completely solid rubber batch. Removed tread and metal. 99% pure. (1″ – .75″ Average size) in 4″ x 4′ x 5′ bag
SRRM50bg – Standard Range Rubber Media (50 lbs)
Rubber media from Vulcanized combination of recycled pneumatic and auto tire/ completely solid rubber batch. Removed tread and metal. 99% Pure (1″ – .75″ Average size)
SRRM3mm2k – Rubber Media – 3mm Grind Range Rubber Media (2000 lbs)
Rubber media no tread no metal. (3mm Average size) in 2200 lb bag (color: black)
