Bullet Drop and Energy Calculator

Dial in your load, then explore downrange results. See drop, energy, and time stepwise instantly. Download CSV or PDF for notes and sharing later.

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Inputs

Load example inputs:
Examples auto-fill the form and run the calculation.
BC is convenient, while Cd uses the physical drag equation.

Atmosphere

Set 0 for auto from altitude.

Wind (optional)

Safety note: This is an educational estimator. Always follow local laws and safe handling practices.

Example data table

These sample values show how inputs affect drop, velocity, and energy.

Example Inputs Outputs (at target range)
A 150 gr, 2800 ft/s, BC 0.435
Zero 100 yd, Sight 1.5 in
Target 300 yd, Step 50 yd
Drop ≈ 13.8 in, Energy ≈ 1810 ft·lbf
Velocity ≈ 2330 ft/s, Time ≈ 0.37 s
B 124 gr, 1150 ft/s, BC 0.165
Zero 25 yd, Sight 1.2 in
Target 100 yd, Step 25 yd
Drop ≈ 6.9 in, Energy ≈ 270 ft·lbf
Velocity ≈ 990 ft/s, Time ≈ 0.28 s
C 10.0 g, 820 m/s, Cd 0.30, 7.82 mm
Zero 100 m, Sight 4.0 cm
Target 400 m, Step 50 m
Drop ≈ 79 cm, Energy ≈ 1880 J
Velocity ≈ 610 m/s, Time ≈ 0.61 s
Examples are illustrative, and results vary by model choices.

Formula used

Impact energy

Kinetic energy at a given range:

E = ½ · m · v²

Where m is mass and v is speed at that point.

Gravity and drop

Vertical acceleration always includes gravity:

ay = −g − adrag·(vy/v)

Drop is reported relative to the sightline after applying your zero range.

Drag

Two options are provided:

  • Cd + diameter (physics): adrag = ½·ρ·Cd·A·v² / m
  • G1 BC (simplified): uses an empirical deceleration scaled by air density.

Both are approximations; real drag varies with speed and shape.

How to use this calculator

  1. Choose a unit system that matches your data.
  2. Enter bullet weight and muzzle velocity from reliable sources.
  3. Select a drag model, then fill BC or Cd/diameter fields.
  4. Set sight height and zero range to match your setup.
  5. Enter the target range and a step size for the table.
  6. Optionally adjust atmosphere and wind for realism.
  7. Press Calculate, then export CSV or PDF.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.