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Understanding Ballistics: The Complete Guide to Bullet Selection

Johnny Turner

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Bullet Design

The design of a bullet has a significant impact on its performance. The following are some of the key factors to consider:

Weight: The weight of a bullet affects its velocity, momentum, and energy. Heavier bullets tend to be more accurate and have more stopping power, but they also have a lower velocity. Lighter bullets have a higher velocity, but they have less stopping power.
Shape: The shape of a bullet affects its stability and accuracy. Boat-tail bullets are more stable than flat-base bullets, which makes them more accurate at long ranges.
Diameter: The diameter of a bullet determines its caliber. The caliber of a bullet is measured in millimeters or inches. Larger caliber bullets have more stopping power, but they also have a lower velocity.
Construction: Bullets can be constructed from a variety of materials, including lead, copper, and steel. The construction of a bullet affects its hardness, penetration, and expansion.

External Ballistics

External ballistics is the study of the flight of a bullet after it leaves the barrel of a firearm. The following are some of the key factors that affect the flight of a bullet:

Understanding Ballistics: Complete Guide to Bullet Selection

by Philip P. Massaro

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Muzzle velocity: The muzzle velocity of a bullet is the speed at which it leaves the barrel of a firearm. Muzzle velocity is measured in feet per second or meters per second. Higher muzzle velocities result in flatter trajectories and longer ranges.
Air resistance: Air resistance is the force that opposes the motion of a bullet through the air. Air resistance slows down a bullet and causes it to drop. The amount of air resistance that a bullet experiences depends on its shape, weight, and velocity.
Gravity: Gravity is the force that pulls a bullet down towards the ground. Gravity causes a bullet to drop over time. The amount of drop that a bullet experiences depends on its velocity and the distance that it travels.
Wind: Wind can affect the flight of a bullet by pushing it sideways. The amount of wind that a bullet experiences depends on its velocity, the wind speed, and the angle at which the wind is blowing.

Bullet Selection

The selection of the correct bullet for a particular application is critical. The following are some of the factors that should be considered when selecting a bullet:

Intended use: The intended use of a bullet will determine its design and construction. For example, a bullet that is designed for hunting will have a different design than a bullet that is designed for target shooting.
Firearm: The firearm that will be used to fire the bullet will also determine its design and construction. For example, a bullet that is designed for a rifle will have a different design than a bullet that is designed for a pistol.
Distance: The distance at which the bullet will be used will also determine its design and construction. For example, a bullet that is designed for long-range shooting will have a different design than a bullet that is designed for short-range shooting.

Understanding ballistics is essential for hunters, shooters, and anyone interested in learning more about the science of firearms. The information provided in this guide can help you select the correct bullet for your particular application and improve your shooting accuracy.

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