Online Ballistics Calculator
Calculate accurate bullet trajectory, drop, and wind drift for any rifle cartridge. Generate printable ballistics charts with MOA/MIL adjustments for hunting, competitive shooting, and long-range applications.
How to Use This Ballistics Calculator
- Enter ammunition details, such as bullet weight (e.g., 175 gr for rifles, 115 gr for 9mm pistols) and muzzle velocity (e.g., 2600 fps).
- Input firearm setup factors, like sight height (e.g., 1.5 inches) and zero distance (e.g., 100 yards).
- Add environmental factors, including wind speed (e.g., 10 mph) and temperature (e.g., 70°F).
- Click calculate to create a printable ballistics chart for firearms, showing drop, velocity, and windage.
- Print your table for use at the range or in the field.
- To compare two calibers, click "Add Second Caliber for Comparison" and enter a second set of ammunition details. The calculator will overlay both trajectories on one chart and display side-by-side data in the ballistics table.
A Note on Accuracy
While this calculator offers accurate estimations, real-world testing is essential. I strive to provide the best possible calculations, but please remember that many factors can affect bullet trajectory. Being able to collect accurate velocity and atmospheric data is highly recommended for accurate results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What data do I need to calculate accurate ballistics?
You'll need your bullet's ballistic coefficient (BC), muzzle velocity, bullet weight, sight height, and zero distance. For example, a 308 Winchester 175gr Sierra MatchKing has a G1 BC of 0.505 and typical muzzle velocity of 2600 fps. Environmental factors like temperature, altitude, and wind speed further improve accuracy — a 20°F temperature change can shift impact by 1-2 MOA at 1000 yards. Most ammunition manufacturers provide BC values on their websites or packaging.
How accurate are online ballistics calculators?
Modern ballistics calculators using point-mass trajectory models provide highly accurate predictions, typically within ±0.2 MOA of real-world results when supplied with correct ballistic coefficients and environmental data. This calculator has been cross-validated against JBM Ballistics across multiple calibers and conditions. Always verify calculations with real-world testing for maximum precision, as individual barrel performance and lot-to-lot ammunition variation can affect results.
Can I generate printable ballistics charts?
Yes! This calculator generates printable ballistics tables perfect for creating dope cards and range cards for field use. The tables include bullet drop in inches and MOA/MIL, velocity, energy, and wind drift at each range increment. Simply calculate your trajectory, then use your browser's print function to create a chart you can laminate and take to the range.
Does this calculator support MOA and MIL adjustments?
Absolutely. This ballistics calculator provides both MOA (Minute of Angle, 1.047" per 100 yards) and MIL (Milliradian, 3.6" per 100 yards) adjustment calculations. Whether you're using a scope with MOA turrets or a MIL/MIL setup common in tactical and PRS competition, the calculator outputs the exact adjustments needed at every range increment.