Rifle Ballistic Calculator

Rifle Ballistic Equation:

\[ y = x \tan(\theta) - \frac{g x^2}{2 v^2 \cos^2(\theta)} \]

Range (x):

Launch Angle (θ):

rad

Gravity (g):

m/s²

Velocity (v):

m/s

Bullet Trajectory (y):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Rifle Ballistic Equation?

The rifle ballistic equation calculates bullet trajectory ignoring air drag. It provides the vertical position (y) of a bullet at a given range (x) based on launch angle, velocity, and gravity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ballistic equation:

\[ y = x \tan(\theta) - \frac{g x^2}{2 v^2 \cos^2(\theta)} \]

Where:

\( x \) — Range (meters)
\( \theta \) — Launch angle (radians)
\( g \) — Gravity (9.81 m/s²)
\( v \) — Muzzle velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The equation calculates bullet drop due to gravity while accounting for the initial launch angle and velocity.

3. Importance of Ballistic Calculation

Details: Accurate trajectory calculation is crucial for long-range shooting, zeroing scopes, and understanding bullet drop at different distances.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter range in meters, launch angle in radians, gravity (default 9.81 m/s²), and muzzle velocity in m/s. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does this equation ignore air drag?
A: This is a simplified model for educational purposes. Real-world ballistics require drag coefficients for accurate long-range calculations.

Q2: How do I convert degrees to radians?
A: Multiply degrees by π/180. For example, 45° = 45 × π/180 ≈ 0.7854 radians.

Q3: What is typical muzzle velocity for rifles?
A: Common rifle velocities range from 600-900 m/s for most hunting and sporting rifles.

Q4: When is this simplified model most accurate?
A: This model works best for short to medium ranges where air drag has minimal effect on trajectory.

Q5: How does gravity affect bullet drop?
A: Gravity causes constant downward acceleration (9.81 m/s²), making bullets drop more at longer ranges.