Use the Shooter’s Trajectory Calculator to determine the trajectory of your .308 caliber rounds. This calculator helps you understand how various factors affect bullet drop and trajectory.

The .308 Winchester is a popular cartridge known for its versatility and effectiveness in various shooting applications, including hunting and target shooting. Understanding the ballistic performance of the .308 is crucial for accurate shooting, especially at longer distances.

Ballistic Calculation Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the bullet drop:

Bullet Drop = (Distance * Bullet Weight) / (Muzzle Velocity * 100)

Variables:

  • Bullet Drop is the vertical distance the bullet falls (inches).
  • Distance is the horizontal distance to the target (yards).
  • Bullet Weight is the weight of the bullet (grains).
  • Muzzle Velocity is the speed of the bullet as it leaves the barrel (fps).

To calculate the bullet drop, multiply the distance by the bullet weight and divide by the muzzle velocity. This gives a simplified estimate of how much the bullet will drop over the specified distance.

Factors Affecting Ballistics

Several factors can influence the ballistic performance of a .308 round:

  • Environmental Conditions: Temperature, humidity, and altitude can affect the air density and, consequently, the bullet’s trajectory.
  • Bullet Design: Different bullet shapes and weights can lead to varying ballistic coefficients, affecting how the bullet travels through the air.
  • Rifle Setup: The type of rifle, barrel length, and even the type of ammunition can influence the performance of the .308 cartridge.

How to Use the .308 Ballistic Calculator?

Follow these steps to effectively use the .308 ballistic calculator:

  1. Input the bullet weight in grains.
  2. Enter the muzzle velocity in feet per second.
  3. Specify the distance to the target in yards.
  4. For advanced calculations, include environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and altitude.
  5. Click on “Calculate” to see the bullet drop.

By understanding the ballistic performance of your .308 rounds, you can make more informed decisions when shooting, ensuring better accuracy and effectiveness.

For more detailed calculations, you can also check out the 7.62×39 Shooter’s Calculator or the Shooters Calculator Ballistics Chart.

FAQ

1. What is bullet drop?

Bullet drop refers to the vertical distance a bullet falls due to gravity as it travels towards the target.

2. How does temperature affect bullet performance?

Higher temperatures can decrease air density, allowing bullets to travel further with less drop, while lower temperatures can have the opposite effect.

3. Can I use this calculator for other calibers?

While this calculator is designed for .308, you can adjust the inputs for other calibers to estimate their ballistic performance.

4. Is the calculator accurate?

The calculator provides estimates based on the inputs provided. For precise shooting, always verify with real-world data and conditions.

5. How often should I use the ballistic calculator?

It’s beneficial to use the ballistic calculator whenever you change ammunition, shooting conditions, or if you want to improve your shooting accuracy.