So you want to learn how to shoot long range? The first thing you'll need is to learn ballistics. Here is why: When you are aiming with your iron sights or with your scope’s reticle, you are actually aiming at a specific point where you know the bullet will be during its flight at your target distance in the specific environmental conditions in which you are shooting. If the … [Read more...]
In External Ballistics - Elevation Part 1, I introduced the concept of error derived from shooting at an angle, and gave you a few practical examples. In this article we will examine the real reason for point of impact shift. In many texts around the web, you'll find one common incorrect explanation of this phenomenon: a simplistic approach derived from the formula used to … [Read more...]
Whilst on the surface the decision to start reloading your own ammunition may seem a simple one, in practice there are several reasons why, or why not, commencing to reload ammunition is for you, personally. There is no doubt that reloading can be a costly capability to set up, and a time consuming one to continue. However, there are both positives and negatives to consider … [Read more...]
Learning how to become a better long range shooter? Here's the next installment in the external ballistics theory mini series: elevation. When I talked about the vertical component of the trajectory, in Bullet Trajectory Part 1, I touched on firing elevation angle. I mentioned that when there is a firing elevation or depression angle, that is, when you're firing with the barrel … [Read more...]
In both Bullet Trajectory Part 1 and Part 2, I mentioned how light can act as a variable that affects point of impact. Light doesn't directly affect bullet trajectory, but it changes the way you see the target through the telescopic sight. Essentially, you perceive the target in a different way, e.g., larger or smaller, and/or in a different place, depending on the sun's … [Read more...]
by Nick Irving If you're a military observer, hunter, or sightseer, there is one product that should always be in your toolbox. A set of dependable binoculars. One of my favorite brands of binoculars on the market is the Vortex line. Within the Vortex line, the Viper and Diamondback are at the top of my list for quality, ergonomics, clarity, and affordability. All … [Read more...]
