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function calculateFireRate() {
var shots = document.getElementById("shotsFired").value;
var time = document.getElementById("timeSeconds").value;
var resultDiv = document.getElementById("fireRateResult");
var shotsNum = parseFloat(shots);
var timeNum = parseFloat(time);
if (isNaN(shotsNum) || isNaN(timeNum) || timeNum <= 0 || shotsNum <= 0) {
alert("Please enter valid positive numbers for both shots and time.");
return;
}
// Calculate RPM
var rpm = (shotsNum / timeNum) * 60;
// Calculate Rounds Per Second
var rps = shotsNum / timeNum;
// Calculate Split Time (Time between shots)
// Mathematically, if you fire N shots, there are N-1 intervals.
// However, for a general rate of fire over a period:
var split = (timeNum / shotsNum) * 1000; // in milliseconds
document.getElementById("rpmOutput").innerText = Math.round(rpm).toLocaleString();
document.getElementById("rpsOutput").innerText = rps.toFixed(2);
document.getElementById("splitOutput").innerText = Math.round(split);
resultDiv.style.display = "block";
}
Gun Fire Rate Calculator
Calculate Rounds Per Minute (RPM) and Split Times
Rounds Per Minute (RPM): 0
Rounds Per Second: 0
Time Between Shots (Split): 0 ms
Understanding Fire Rate Calculation
The fire rate of a firearm is a measure of how many projectiles it can discharge within a specific timeframe, typically expressed in Rounds Per Minute (RPM). Whether you are a competitive shooter analyzing split times or a ballistics enthusiast comparing platforms, understanding the math behind fire rates is essential.
The Fire Rate Formula
Calculating the fire rate is a matter of simple physics and timing. The standard formula used by this calculator is:
RPM = (Number of Rounds / Total Time in Seconds) × 60
To find the time between shots (the "split"), the formula is:
Split Time = Total Time / (Number of Rounds – 1)
Cyclic Rate vs. Practical Rate
When discussing how to calculate fire rate, it is important to distinguish between two different metrics:
- Cyclic Rate: This is the mechanical speed at which a weapon functions. It assumes an infinite ammunition supply and no overheating. For example, an M4 carbine has a cyclic rate of roughly 700–950 RPM.
- Practical Rate: This accounts for reality. It includes the time taken to aim, recoil recovery, and magazine changes. A soldier might have a practical fire rate of only 45–60 RPM despite the weapon's mechanical capability.
Real-World Examples
To put these numbers in perspective, here are common fire rates for well-known platforms:
- AK-47: Approximately 600 RPM.
- M134 Minigun: Up to 6,000 RPM.
- Typical Semi-Auto Pistol: Dependent on the shooter, often between 300–400 RPM (mechanical potential).
Example Calculation: If you fire a 30-round magazine in 3 seconds, your fire rate is (30 / 3) * 60 = 600 RPM. Your rounds per second would be 10, and your split time (interval between shots) would be 0.10 seconds.
How to Use This Calculator
- Rounds Fired: Enter the total count of ammunition discharged during the timed interval.
- Total Time: Enter the time from the first shot to the last shot in seconds (use a shot timer for accuracy).
- Calculate: Click the button to see your RPM, rounds per second, and the millisecond delay between each discharge.