bulletdrop

Bullet drop is the vertical displacement of a projectile from the line of sight caused by gravity during its flight to a target. As a bullet travels, gravity pulls it downward while air resistance slows forward motion, producing a curved trajectory. The amount of drop grows with distance and time of flight and depends on the bullet’s velocity, mass, shape, and the air density through which it moves. In practice, shooters must account for bullet drop when aiming at targets beyond close range.

Calculation and estimation rely on solving the equations of motion with drag. Ballistic performance is summarized by a ballistic coefficient (BC), with higher BC bullets retaining velocity better and dropping less over a given distance. Drag models such as G1 or G7 provide estimates of velocity and drop across ranges. Ballistic calculators or drop charts translate a given range into an expected drop value under specified conditions.

Compensation methods include zeroing the rifle at a chosen distance so that drop at that range is offset by the sight. For longer ranges, elevation adjustments or holdover using a reticle with marked increments (MOA or MIL) are used. Weather and altitude affect air density and thus drop, so many shooters adjust calculations for current conditions or consult standardized tables.

Related considerations include wind drift, which affects lateral trajectory, and factors such as muzzle velocity, bullet BC, and range estimation accuracy. Bullet drop is a fundamental concept in long-range shooting and artillery, informing aiming strategies and equipment choices.