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Ballistic Coefficient Calculator

Determine the ballistic coefficient for projectiles

Input Parameters

Projectile & Muzzle

Initial velocity of the projectile as it leaves the barrel
Weight of the projectile (bullet)
Measure of projectile's ability to overcome air resistance (typically 0.1-1.0)

Sighting & Range

Height of scope center above bore center
Distance at which the projectile crosses the line of sight
Maximum distance to calculate trajectory
Interval between trajectory data points

Enter ballistics data and click Calculate to see results

About Ballistic Coefficient Calculator

Unlock the Secrets of Long-Range Precision: The Ultimate Guide to Ballistic Coefficient

Welcome, precision shooters, dedicated hunters, and ballistics enthusiasts. You've arrived at the definitive resource for understanding one of the most critical variables in external ballistics: the Ballistic Coefficient (BC). Our Ballistic Coefficient Calculator is more than a simple number-cruncher; it's an educational tool designed to demystify the science of bullet flight. Whether you're a reloader developing the perfect load, a competitive shooter looking to gain an edge, or a hunter striving for the most ethical shot at extended ranges, mastering the concept of BC is non-negotiable. This guide will take you on a deep dive into what BC is, why it's the cornerstone of long-range accuracy, and how you can use our calculator to determine the true performance of your projectiles.

What is a Ballistic Coefficient (BC)?

In the simplest terms, a Ballistic Coefficient is a measure of a bullet's ability to overcome air resistance during flight. Think of it as a bullet's "aerodynamic report card." A higher BC value indicates a more efficient projectile that will maintain its velocity better, be less affected by crosswinds, and follow a flatter trajectory. Conversely, a lower BC value signifies a bullet that is more susceptible to drag, slowing down faster and being pushed more by the wind. It's the fundamental difference between throwing a sleek javelin versus a brick; the javelin's shape allows it to cut through the air with minimal resistance, preserving its speed and direction.

Why BC is the Cornerstone of Long-Range Shooting

Understanding and utilizing a bullet's BC is paramount for anyone serious about making accurate shots beyond a couple of hundred yards. It directly influences every critical aspect of a bullet's path from the muzzle to the target.

Resisting Wind Drift

This is arguably the most important benefit of a high BC. Wind is the bane of long-range shooters. A bullet with a high BC spends less time in flight and is physically harder for the wind to push off course. This dramatically reduces wind drift, shrinking the margin of error in your wind calls and leading to more first-shot hits.

Flatter Trajectory (Less Bullet Drop)

Because a high-BC bullet retains its velocity more effectively, it reaches the target faster. This reduced flight time means gravity has less time to act on it, resulting in less bullet drop. A flatter trajectory simplifies aiming, especially over varying distances, and makes errors in range estimation less critical.

Retaining Velocity and Energy

For hunters, terminal performance is everything. A high-BC bullet arrives at the target with more speed, which translates directly to higher kinetic energy. This retained energy is vital for ensuring proper bullet expansion and deep penetration, leading to clean, ethical harvests.

Predictable, Consistent Performance

Ballistic solvers and apps rely on an accurate BC value to generate firing solutions (your scope adjustments or holdovers). Garbage in, garbage out. An accurate BC, calculated for your specific rifle and conditions, is the foundation for predictable, repeatable accuracy shot after shot.

The Building Blocks of BC: Sectional Density and Form Factor

The Ballistic Coefficient itself isn't a fundamental property; it's derived from two other key characteristics of a bullet: its Sectional Density (SD) and its Form Factor (i). The relationship is expressed by the formula: BC = SD / i.

Sectional Density (SD)

Sectional Density is a ratio of a bullet's weight in pounds to the square of its diameter in inches. In essence, it describes how much weight is packed into a given diameter. A long, heavy bullet for its caliber (like a 175gr .308 bullet) will have a higher SD than a short, light bullet of the same caliber (like a 110gr .308 bullet). A higher SD helps a bullet maintain momentum and push through the air.

Form Factor (i)

Form Factor is a measure of a bullet's shape efficiency. It compares the drag of the actual bullet to the drag of a "standard" reference projectile. A lower Form Factor is better, indicating the bullet's shape is more aerodynamic than the standard. Features like a long, sloping ogive (the curve of the bullet's nose), a pointed meplat (tip), and a boattail (a tapered base) all contribute to a lower (better) Form Factor.

G1 vs. G7: Understanding the Drag Models

When you see a BC value, it's almost always followed by "G1" or "G7". These refer to the standard reference projectile (the drag model) used to calculate the Form Factor. Choosing the right model is critical for accuracy.

The G1 Drag Model
  • Shape: A flat-based bullet with a short, blunt 2-caliber ogive. It's an archaic shape.
  • Best Use: Traditional flat-base, spitzer-style bullets. Most hunting bullets and older designs are best represented by G1.
  • The Catch: Because modern bullets are far more streamlined than the G1 standard, their G1 BC values can look artificially high and tend to change significantly as the bullet slows down.
The G7 Drag Model
  • Shape: A long, low-drag "VLD" (Very-Low-Drag) shape with a 7.5° boattail and a 10-caliber tangent ogive.
  • Best Use: The vast majority of modern long-range match and hunting bullets. If your bullet has a boattail and a long, sleek nose, G7 is the superior model.
  • The Advantage: A bullet's G7 BC is a more consistent and "honest" number across a wider range of velocities because the reference projectile's shape is so similar to the actual bullet. Note that a G7 BC will always be numerically lower than the same bullet's G1 BC.

How to Use Our Ballistic Coefficient Calculator

Our calculator uses the two-velocity method to determine your bullet's real-world BC. While manufacturers provide a BC, it's measured under specific lab conditions. Calculating your own BC from your rifle, at your location, provides the most accurate data for your ballistic solver.

Step 1: Gather Your Data

You will need a reliable chronograph. Measure your bullet's velocity as close to the muzzle as is safe (Velocity 1). Then, set up your chronograph at a known, significant distance downrange (e.g., 100, 200, or more yards) and measure the velocity again (Velocity 2). The greater the distance between measurements, the more accurate your BC calculation will be. You will also need the exact distance between the two chronograph measurement points.

Step 2: Input Your Velocities and Distance

Enter your Muzzle Velocity (or Velocity 1), your Downrange Velocity (Velocity 2), and the exact distance between the two points of measurement into the respective fields in the calculator.

Step 3: Provide Bullet and Atmospheric Info

Enter your bullet's weight (in grains) and caliber (diameter in inches). For the highest accuracy, also input the atmospheric conditions (temperature, pressure, humidity) at the time of your test. Air density significantly affects drag. If you don't have this data, the calculator can use a standard sea-level atmosphere.

Step 4: Calculate and Analyze

Click the "Calculate" button. The tool will process your inputs and provide you with both a G1 and a G7 Ballistic Coefficient. You can then use the appropriate value (typically G7 for modern bullets) in your favorite ballistic app to build an incredibly accurate firing solution.

Factors That Can Affect a Bullet's Real-World BC

The BC published on a box is a great starting point, but the true BC can vary. This is why calculating your own is so valuable. Here are factors that can cause variations:

Muzzle Velocity & Velocity Bands

A bullet's BC is not constant; it changes as the bullet slows down and passes through different velocity regimes (supersonic, transonic, subsonic). Modern Doppler radar analysis has shown this clearly. Calculating your BC based on velocities relevant to your shooting distances is key.

Rifling Twist Rate

Your barrel's twist rate must be sufficient to gyroscopically stabilize the bullet. An under-stabilized bullet will wobble or yaw slightly in flight, drastically increasing drag and reducing its effective BC.

Atmospheric Conditions

Higher altitude (less dense air) means less drag, which can effectively "act" like a higher BC. While the bullet's physical properties don't change, its performance relative to the air does. This is why inputting atmospheric data is important.

Manufacturing Lot Variations

Minor variations in manufacturing from one lot of bullets to the next can lead to small changes in shape or weight, which can in turn alter the BC slightly. The most precise shooters will verify their BC with each new lot of bullets.

A Foundation for Precision

Mastering the Ballistic Coefficient is a journey, not a destination. It's about moving from assumption to data-driven fact. By using our calculator, you are taking a crucial step toward understanding exactly how your rifle and ammunition perform in the real world. This knowledge is the true foundation of precision. Input this calculated, personalized BC into your ballistic solver, and you will unlock a new level of confidence and first-shot capability at any range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Ballistic Coefficient (BC) Calculator?
A Ballistic Coefficient (BC) Calculator is a sophisticated physics-based tool used to predict a projectile's flight path (trajectory) after it leaves the muzzle. By inputting the projectile's BC, muzzle velocity, weight, and environmental conditions, it calculates critical data like bullet drop, wind drift, velocity, and energy at various distances, enabling shooters to make precise aiming adjustments for long-range accuracy.
What is Ballistic Coefficient (BC) in simple terms?
Ballistic Coefficient (BC) is a numerical measure of a bullet's aerodynamic efficiency—its ability to overcome air resistance during flight. A higher BC value means the bullet is more streamlined. Consequently, it retains its velocity better, follows a flatter trajectory, and is less affected by crosswinds compared to a bullet with a lower BC fired at the same initial speed.
Why is Ballistic Coefficient important for shooting?
BC is crucial for long-range shooting because air resistance has a significant effect on a bullet's path over extended distances. A bullet with a high BC will arrive at the target faster, with more energy, and with less drop and wind deflection. Knowing the BC allows a shooter to use a ballistic calculator to accurately predict these effects and adjust their aim accordingly.
Where can I find the Ballistic Coefficient for my bullet?
The Ballistic Coefficient is provided by the bullet manufacturer. It is typically printed on the ammunition or bullet box, listed on the manufacturer's website, or available in their product catalogs. Be sure to note whether the provided BC is for the G1 or G7 drag model, as they are not interchangeable.
What is Muzzle Velocity?
Muzzle velocity is the speed at which a projectile leaves the barrel of a firearm, measured in feet per second (fps) or meters per second (m/s). It is a fundamental input for any ballistic calculation, as it determines the starting point of the bullet's trajectory. It is best measured with a chronograph for maximum accuracy.
What is the difference between G1 and G7 Ballistic Coefficients?
G1 and G7 are standard drag models. The G1 model is based on a flat-based, relatively blunt spitzer bullet, making it an older standard. The G7 model is based on a modern, long, sleek, boat-tailed Very-Low-Drag (VLD) bullet shape. For modern long-range bullets, the G7 model provides a more accurate prediction of performance because its reference projectile is a much closer match to the bullet's actual shape.
Why does the calculator need my Sight Height?
Sight Height (or Scope Height) is the vertical distance from the center of the barrel's bore to the center of the scope or sights. This value is critical because the line of sight is a straight line, while the bullet travels in an arc. The calculator needs this offset to accurately compute the trajectory relative to your aiming point, especially at close to medium ranges where the bullet is still rising to meet the line of sight.
What is Zero Distance and why is it important?
Zero Distance is the specific range at which your point of aim (through the sights) coincides with the bullet's point of impact. The calculator uses this as the primary reference point for the entire trajectory. All calculated bullet drops are relative to this zero. For example, a 100-yard zero means the trajectory chart will show 0.0 inches of drop at 100 yards.
How do environmental factors (Temperature, Altitude, Humidity) affect trajectory?
These factors determine air density. Higher altitude and higher temperatures result in thinner air (lower density), which means less drag on the bullet. This leads to a flatter trajectory and less velocity loss. Humidity has a minor effect, where higher humidity makes air slightly less dense. The calculator uses these inputs to provide a more precise trajectory solution for your specific conditions.
What is a 'Standard Atmosphere' in ballistics?
A Standard Atmosphere (e.g., ICAO or ISA) is a reference baseline for environmental conditions used by manufacturers to calculate BCs. It's typically defined as sea level (29.92 inHg pressure), 59°F (15°C), and 0% humidity. When you input your actual local conditions, the calculator adjusts the bullet's performance away from this standard baseline.
What is 'Range Increment' in the calculator?
Range Increment is the distance interval at which the calculator will display trajectory data. For example, setting an increment of 50 yards will generate a data table showing drop, drift, velocity, and energy at 50, 100, 150, 200 yards, and so on, up to your maximum specified range.
What is Wind Speed and Wind Angle?
Wind Speed is the velocity of the wind, while Wind Angle is its direction relative to your line of fire (e.g., 90° is a direct crosswind from the side, 0° is a headwind). A direct crosswind has the maximum effect on pushing the bullet sideways (drift). The calculator uses these inputs to compute the horizontal deflection of the bullet at various ranges.
What does 'Drop' or 'Elevation' in the results mean?
Drop/Elevation is the vertical distance the bullet has fallen below your line of sight at a given range, measured in inches, centimeters, MOA, or Mils. A negative value indicates the bullet has dropped below the aim point. This is the primary value used to 'dial' your scope's elevation turret or use the holdover marks in your reticle.
What does 'Windage' or 'Drift' mean?
Windage/Drift is the horizontal displacement of the bullet caused by wind. It's calculated based on your input wind speed and angle and is typically expressed in inches, centimeters, MOA, or Mils. This value tells you how much to adjust your scope's windage turret or how far to 'hold off' into the wind.
Why does the calculator show remaining Velocity?
Remaining Velocity is the speed of the bullet at different points downrange. This is important for several reasons: it determines the bullet's stability (especially in the transonic range), affects the amount of wind drift, and is a key component in calculating the bullet's kinetic energy on target.
What is Kinetic Energy and why is it calculated?
Kinetic Energy (KE), measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs) or Joules, is a measure of the bullet's destructive potential. It's calculated using the formula KE = ½mv², where 'm' is mass and 'v' is velocity. Hunters use this value to ensure they are using a cartridge with sufficient energy for an ethical harvest at a given range.
What is 'Time of Flight'?
Time of Flight (TOF) is the duration it takes for the bullet to travel from the muzzle to a specific range. It's a useful metric because the longer a bullet is in the air, the more time gravity and wind have to affect its path. Higher BC bullets have a shorter TOF to the same target.
What are MOA and Mils (MRAD)?
MOA (Minute of Angle) and Mils (Milliradians) are angular units of measure used for scope adjustments and reticle holdovers. 1 MOA is approximately 1.047 inches at 100 yards. 1 Mil is 3.6 inches at 100 yards. The calculator provides solutions in these units so you can directly translate the required correction to your scope's turrets.
My trajectory chart shows the bullet rising at first. Why?
The bullet begins to drop due to gravity the instant it leaves the barrel. However, because your barrel is angled slightly upward relative to your line of sight (due to Sight Height), the bullet's arc first crosses upward through your line of sight to its 'near zero,' reaches a maximum height (max ordinate), and then falls back down, crossing the line of sight again at your 'far zero' distance.
What is 'Max Ordinate'?
Max Ordinate is the highest point the bullet's trajectory reaches above the line of sight between the muzzle and the zero distance. Knowing this is useful for ensuring the bullet will clear any overhead obstructions between you and the target.
What is Spin Drift (Gyroscopic Drift)?
Spin Drift is a lateral deviation of the bullet caused by its rotation and aerodynamic forces. For a right-hand twist barrel (most common), the bullet will drift slightly to the right. This effect is small at short ranges but becomes significant at very long ranges (800+ yards). Advanced calculators can model this effect.
What is the Coriolis Effect?
The Coriolis Effect is a deflection of moving objects (like bullets) due to the Earth's rotation. Its effect is very small and only becomes a factor in extreme long-range shooting (over 1,000 yards). The direction of drift depends on the firing direction and hemisphere (e.g., drift to the right in the Northern Hemisphere).
What is the Transonic Zone and why is it problematic?
The Transonic Zone is the speed range where the bullet is transitioning from supersonic (faster than sound) to subsonic (slower than sound), roughly between Mach 1.2 and Mach 0.8. In this region, the shockwaves around the bullet can become unstable, causing significant buffeting and potentially leading to a loss of stability and a sharp decrease in accuracy. High BC bullets are designed to remain supersonic for as long as possible.
How is a bullet's BC actually determined?
Manufacturers determine BC by firing the bullet over a pair of chronographs set a known distance apart. By measuring the velocity loss between the two points, they can compare the bullet's performance against the standard projectile (G1 or G7) and calculate its BC. Doppler radar is a more modern and accurate method that tracks the bullet's velocity continuously along its entire flight path.
Can a bullet have multiple BCs?
Yes. A bullet's BC is not a fixed constant; it actually changes with velocity. Some manufacturers provide multiple BC values for different velocity ranges (e.g., one BC for above 2500 fps, another for 1500-2500 fps). Advanced calculators can use these 'stepped BCs' for a more accurate trajectory model.
What is Sectional Density (SD) and how does it relate to BC?
Sectional Density is the ratio of a bullet's weight to the square of its diameter (SD = weight / diameter²). It's a measure of a bullet's ability to penetrate. While related, SD and BC are different. BC includes an additional factor for the bullet's shape (its form factor). Generally, for a given shape, a bullet with a higher SD will also have a higher BC.
What is a 'Form Factor'?
A Form Factor (i) is a number that compares the drag of a specific bullet to the drag of the standard G1 or G7 reference projectile. The Ballistic Coefficient is calculated by dividing the bullet's Sectional Density by its Form Factor (BC = SD / i). A lower form factor indicates a more efficient, lower-drag shape.
What does 'truing' or 'calibrating' the calculator mean?
Truing is the process of adjusting the calculator's inputs (usually muzzle velocity or BC) to make its predictions match your actual, observed bullet drops at long range. This accounts for small variations between your specific rifle, ammunition lot, and environmental readings, resulting in a highly accurate, personalized firing solution.
How do I accurately measure my Muzzle Velocity?
The most accurate way to measure muzzle velocity is with a firearms chronograph. Set up the chronograph according to its instructions (typically 10-15 feet from the muzzle) and fire a string of 5-10 shots. Use the average velocity from this string as the input for the ballistic calculator for the most reliable results.
Why don't my real-world results perfectly match the calculator?
Discrepancies can arise from several sources: an inaccurate muzzle velocity input, an incorrect BC value, incorrect sight height or environmental data, or variations in ammunition. 'Truing' the data by shooting at known long distances and adjusting the inputs is the best way to resolve these differences.
Is a G1 or G7 BC more accurate?
The accuracy depends on the bullet's shape. For traditional flat-base or simple spire-point bullets, G1 is often sufficient. For modern, long, boat-tailed, VLD-style bullets, the G7 model is significantly more accurate because its reference shape is a much better match. When in doubt, use the G7 value if the manufacturer provides it for a long-range bullet.
How do I measure my Sight Height accurately?
A precise method is to use calipers. Measure the diameter of your scope's objective bell and your barrel at the same point. Add half of each diameter together, then add the space between the bottom of the scope and the top of the barrel. A simpler, good-enough method is to measure from the center of the bolt (when closed) to the center of the scope tube with a ruler.
What if the manufacturer only provides a G1 BC for my boat-tail bullet?
While not ideal, you can still use the G1 value. However, be aware that it may be less accurate at very long ranges. A general rule of thumb is that the G7 value is roughly 51% of the G1 value (G7 ≈ G1 / 1.9), but using a properly calculated G7 BC from the manufacturer or a trusted third-party source is always better.
Does the bullet's weight directly affect the trajectory calculation?
Yes, but indirectly. The calculator uses the bullet's weight (in grains) primarily to calculate its momentum and kinetic energy. The trajectory itself (drop and drift) is determined by the BC and velocity. However, bullet weight is a key component in calculating the BC itself (via Sectional Density), so it is fundamentally linked to the final trajectory.
How do I use the calculator's output to adjust my scope?
Look at the 'Elevation' column for your target's range. If the value is, for example, -18.5 inches or 4.2 Mils, you need to adjust your scope's elevation turret 'up' by 4.2 Mils. Similarly, if the 'Windage' is 1.7 Mils for a right-to-left wind, you would adjust your windage turret 'left' by 1.7 Mils or hold 1.7 Mils into the wind using your reticle.
Can I use this calculator for rimfire cartridges like .22LR?
Yes, absolutely. The physics of ballistics apply to all projectiles. Simply input the correct BC (which will be much lower than a centerfire rifle bullet), the measured muzzle velocity, and other parameters. A BC calculator is an excellent tool for understanding the highly curved trajectory of a .22LR and making hits at 100 yards and beyond.
Does barrel length affect the calculation?
Barrel length is not a direct input. However, it has a major indirect effect because it determines the muzzle velocity. A longer barrel generally produces a higher muzzle velocity with the same ammunition, which you must account for. Always use the measured velocity from *your* rifle, not the velocity printed on the ammo box (which was measured in a test barrel).
What is the best 'zero distance' to use?
This depends on the application. For many hunting rifles, a 200-yard zero provides a good Maximum Point-Blank Range (MPBR), keeping the bullet within a few inches of the line of sight out to around 250-300 yards. For dedicated long-range shooting, a 100-yard zero is most common because it provides a simple, repeatable baseline from which all adjustments are made 'up'.
How should I estimate wind speed for the calculator?
Estimating wind is a skill. You can use visual indicators (e.g., mirage, grass movement, flags) or a handheld anemometer (Kestrel) for the most accurate reading. It's often best to get a wind reading at your location and try to read conditions downrange, then use an average value in the calculator.
Does a suppressor/silencer change my ballistic calculations?
Yes. A suppressor will almost always change your bullet's point of impact and may slightly increase your muzzle velocity (by 10-30 fps) due to extended gas expansion. You must re-zero your rifle with the suppressor attached and ideally re-chronograph your muzzle velocity for the most accurate calculator inputs.
Why is my bullet's drop less in the mountains than at sea level?
This is due to air density. At higher altitudes, the air is thinner (less dense). This creates less aerodynamic drag on the bullet, so it doesn't slow down as quickly. As a result, it will have a flatter trajectory (less drop) and be less affected by wind compared to shooting at the same temperature at sea level.
Can I use this calculator for arrows or pellets?
In principle, yes, but specific calculators for archery or airguns are often better. These projectiles have very low BCs and are highly susceptible to drag. While a bullet BC calculator can work, dedicated tools for archery or airguns may use more suitable drag models and account for factors like the high parabolic arc of an arrow.
What is 'Maximum Point-Blank Range' (MPBR)?
MPBR is the maximum distance at which a shooter can aim dead-center on a target of a specific size and still hit it. The calculator can determine this by finding the range where the bullet's arc does not rise or fall more than a set amount (e.g., +/- 3 inches) from the line of sight. It's a useful concept for hunters.
How often should I update the environmental data in the calculator?
For the highest precision, you should update the temperature, pressure (altitude), and humidity whenever conditions change significantly during your shooting session. A change of 15-20°F or 1000 ft in elevation can cause a noticeable shift in impact at long range.
Does canting (tilting) my rifle affect the trajectory?
Yes. Canting the rifle induces a sideways error. When you dial an elevation correction, you are moving the reticle vertically. If the rifle is tilted, 'vertical' is no longer straight up and down, causing the bullet to impact low and to the side of the tilt. Advanced calculators have a 'rifle cant' input to model this effect.
What unit should I use for bullet weight?
The standard unit for bullet weight in ballistics is the grain (gr). There are 7,000 grains in one pound. Ensure your calculator is set to use grains for the weight input.
Can the calculator help me choose a bullet for hunting?
Yes. You can compare different bullets by inputting their respective BCs, weights, and typical muzzle velocities. The calculator will show you which bullet retains more energy and velocity at your expected hunting ranges and which offers a flatter trajectory, helping you make an informed decision.
What is a 'dope card'?
A 'dope card' (Data On Previous Engagements) is a physical or digital chart of the trajectory data generated by the ballistic calculator. Shooters tape these to their rifle stock or wrist for quick reference in the field, showing them the required elevation and windage adjustments for various distances.
Does shooting uphill or downhill change my bullet's impact point?
Yes. When shooting at an angle (uphill or downhill), the effective pull of gravity on the bullet's trajectory is reduced. This means the bullet will impact higher than it would on a flat range of the same distance. This is called the 'Rifleman's Rule.' Advanced calculators have an 'angle of fire' input to correct for this automatically.
Is a higher BC always better?
For long-range performance, a higher BC is almost always better. However, the 'best' bullet also depends on other factors. Some very high-BC bullets require a fast barrel twist rate to be stable, and for hunting, terminal performance (how the bullet behaves on impact) is just as important as its flight characteristics.