Hornady Ballistic Calculator

Reviewed by: David Chen, Ballistics Expert

This calculator utilizes the G1 drag function and standard atmospheric conditions (ISA) for accurate trajectory prediction.

The **Hornady Ballistic Calculator** is an essential tool for precision shooters, allowing you to accurately predict your bullet’s trajectory, drop, and energy at various distances. Input your bullet’s characteristics and sight configuration to eliminate guesswork in the field.

Muzzle Velocity (V0, fps)

Ballistic Coefficient (BC, G1)

Bullet Weight (Grains)

Sight Height (in)

Zero Range (Yards)

Target Range (Yards)

Calculated Ballistics at Target Range

Bullet Drop: —

Impact Velocity: —

Impact Energy: —

Trajectory Calculation Details

Hornady Ballistic Calculator Formula

Ballistic calculations rely on complex numerical integration to solve the differential equations of motion, considering the force of gravity and the force of aerodynamic drag, $F_d$.


                    % Aerodynamic Drag Force (simplified)
                    F_d = - k * V^2 * C_d
                    
                    % Equation of Motion (simplified 2D)
                    d^2x/dt^2 = - F_d(v) * cos(\theta) / m
                    d^2y/dt^2 = - g - F_d(v) * sin(\theta) / m

                    % Where:
                    % V = Velocity, C_d = Drag Coefficient (derived from BC),
                    % m = Mass, g = Gravity.
                    % This calculator uses an iterative Euler's method 
                    % to solve this trajectory.

Formula Sources: Hornady Ballistic Formulas | JBM Ballistics Documentation

Variables Explained

Muzzle Velocity (V0): The speed of the bullet as it leaves the muzzle (feet per second). Crucial for calculating time of flight.
Ballistic Coefficient (BC, G1): A measure of a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance. Higher BC means less drag.
Bullet Weight (Grains): The mass of the projectile. Used to calculate kinetic energy (Energy = 1/2 * mass * velocity^2).
Sight Height (in): The vertical distance from the center of the bore (barrel) to the center of the sight/scope. Affects zeroing.
Zero Range (Yards): The distance at which the bullet’s point of impact matches the point of aim.
Target Range (Yards): The distance to the target for which the ballistic solution is needed.

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What is the Hornady Ballistic Calculator?

A ballistic calculator is a specialized software tool designed to compute the trajectory of a bullet from the muzzle to the target. It takes into account physics, aerodynamics, and atmospheric conditions to predict how far the bullet will drop, how much it will drift due to wind, and how fast it will be traveling upon impact.

The Hornady calculator is particularly useful because it utilizes proprietary drag data for Hornady’s advanced line of bullets, such as ELD Match and ELD-X, providing highly precise predictions that are calibrated to specific bullet designs. Understanding these predictions is essential for long-range shooting accuracy, ensuring the shooter can make the correct adjustments (known as ‘dope’) to their scope turrets.

In practical use, a shooter inputs their rifle’s unique characteristics—muzzle velocity determined by a chronograph, the bullet’s weight and Ballistic Coefficient, and the environmental factors like temperature and altitude. The calculator then outputs a data table showing the necessary vertical adjustment (click value) for various distances.

How to Calculate Ballistic Drop (Example)

Calculating ballistic drop for a 600-yard shot with a .308 WIN 175gr bullet (BC 0.505, V0 2600 fps) zeroed at 100 yards:

Gather Data: Input Muzzle Velocity (2600 fps), Ballistic Coefficient (0.505), Bullet Weight (175 gr), Sight Height (1.5 in), and Zero Range (100 yds).
Set Target: Specify the Target Range (600 yds).
Determine Drag: The calculator iteratively estimates the air resistance (drag) acting on the bullet at every small step of the flight path, using the BC to adjust the standard drag function.
Calculate Trajectory: It solves the differential equations for both horizontal and vertical motion, factoring in gravity, to plot the parabolic curve of the bullet.
Find Solution: The final output will show the vertical distance (drop) from the line of sight (in inches or MOA/MRAD) required for the bullet to impact at the point of aim at 600 yards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between G1 and G7 Ballistic Coefficients? G1 is the standard model for flat-base or spitzer bullets, while G7 is specifically designed for VLD (Very Low Drag) or boat-tail bullets. G7 is generally more accurate for modern long-range projectiles. This calculator defaults to G1.

Why is my calculated drop different from my actual shot? The most common reasons are inaccurate Muzzle Velocity (V0), unverified Ballistic Coefficient, or not accounting for actual atmospheric conditions (temperature, altitude, humidity). Always chronograph your rifle for the most accurate V0.

Do I need to input sight height? Yes. Sight height (the distance from the bore axis to the scope center) is critical because the bullet starts below the line of sight and crosses it at the zero range. Without it, the calculator cannot accurately predict the initial flight path.

What is the maximum effective range I can calculate? The calculator can technically predict drop for any range, but physical accuracy depends on the bullet remaining supersonic. Once the bullet drops below the speed of sound, its BC changes dramatically, requiring more advanced calculations.