We started off this long range shooting series with an introduction to some important terminology. Now we're ready to apply those terms. Let's start with an introduction on a key external ballistics concept that directly relates to long range shooting: bullet trajectory. From the moment it leaves the muzzle, a bullet starts to follow a descending parabolic trajectory. Which … [Read more...]
Let's look at the specifics of the actual loads, starting with the selection of projectiles. I’m going to focus on projectile selection for handguns as the process of selecting projectiles for rifle loads is a complex issue involving long range ballistics including topics such as supersonic, transonic and sub-sonic aerodynamics, not to mention the specific nature of the … [Read more...]
In previous long range shooting articles, I've talked about the effect of light and the error derived from shooting uphill/downhill—both aiming and perspective related errors. In this article, however, I'll talk about another aiming-related error: shooting with the rifle not perpendicular to the ground. When shooting with a canted rifle, the round won't land where you are … [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...]
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...]
