Ballistic Coefficient Calculator
Calculate the ballistic coefficient of a projectile for precision shooting and trajectory analysis
Dimensionless coefficient (typical range: 0.1-0.5)
Formula:B = m / (Cd × A)
Where:B = Ballistic Coefficient (kg/m²), m = mass (kg), Cd = drag coefficient,
A = area (m²)
Enter values and clickCalculateto see results.
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How to Use This Calculator
Step-by-step guide to get accurate results
What is a Ballistic Coefficient Calculator?
How to Use the Calculator
Steps
Key Features
Features
Use Cases
Applications
Example Calculations
Example 1 – Small Projectile
Example 2 – Medium Projectile
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ballistic Coefficient?
Ballistic coefficient (BC) is a measure of a projectile's ability to overcome air resistance in flight. Higher BC values indicate better aerodynamic efficiency and less velocity loss over distance.
Example Calculation
Given:
- Mass (m) = 180 g = 0.180 kg
- Area (A) = 400 mm² = 4.00 × 10⁻⁴ m²
- Drag coefficient (Cd) = 0.30
Calculation:
B = 0.180 / (0.30 × 4.00 × 10⁻⁴)
B = 0.180 / (1.20 × 10⁻⁴)
B ≈ 1500 kg/m²
Key Relationships
- Sectional Density (SD):SD = m / A (mass per unit area)
- Alternative form:B = SD / Cd
- Higher BC:Better long-range performance, less wind drift
- Typical values:0.2-0.8 kg/m² (bullets), 0.1-0.3 kg/m² (pellets)