The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) aspects dictate that the large eddy simulation (LES) offers a subtle means to analyze complex flows with re-circulation and streamline curvature effects, providing more robust and accurate details than those of Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) simulations. This work assesses the performance of two sub-grid scale (SGS) models: the RAST (Rahman-Agarwal-Siikonen-Taghinia) one-equation model (OEM) with a single grid-filter and the DSM (dynamic Smagorinsky model) with grid-filter and test-filter scales. This in turn allows a cross-comparison of the effect of two different LES methods in simulating round impinging jets at low and high nozzle-plate distances (H/D = 2-6) with the Reynolds number range Re = 23,000-70,000. A better performance against experiments is indicated with the RAST model in wall-bounded non-equilibrium round impinging jet-flows; this is due to its sensitivity toward both the shear and vorticity parameters embedded with the eddy-viscosity coefficient. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.