Understanding Density Altitude | Marcus Hom

Published on May 7, 2020
Duration: 8:25

Marcus Hom explains Density Altitude (DA) and its impact on firearms performance, aviation, and engine power. DA is influenced by true elevation, barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity, with temperature being the most significant variable. Understanding DA allows shooters to adjust their ballistics calculations for more accurate long-range shots by using tools like density altitude calculators and predictive algorithms.

Quick Summary

Density Altitude (DA) is a critical factor for shooters, affecting bullet trajectory. It's determined by true elevation, barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity, with temperature being the most influential. Higher DA means thinner air, less resistance, and bullets flying further, requiring shooters to adjust their ballistics calculations for accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Density Altitude
  2. 00:39Impact of Thin Air on Power and Flight
  3. 01:22Key Factors Influencing Density Altitude
  4. 01:37Humidity's Minimal Contribution
  5. 01:50Barometric Pressure's Influence
  6. 02:28Elevation's Significant Impact
  7. 02:55Temperature as a Major Driver
  8. 03:53Using a Density Altitude Calculator
  9. 05:06Calculating DA with Temperature and Elevation
  10. 06:37Applying Density Altitude to Ballistics
  11. 07:04Creating Range Cards for DA
  12. 07:35Benefits of Field Range Cards
  13. 07:53Conclusion and Further Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Density Altitude and why is it important for shooters?

Density Altitude (DA) is the altitude at which air density matches current atmospheric conditions. For shooters, it's crucial because thinner air at higher DA reduces air resistance, causing bullets to slow down less and fly further, impacting trajectory calculations.

What factors influence Density Altitude?

Density Altitude is influenced by four main factors: true elevation, barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity. Temperature is the most significant variable, with a 10°F change equating to about 700 feet of DA change.

How does Density Altitude affect firearms performance?

At higher Density Altitudes (thinner air), firearms experience less air resistance on the projectile. This means bullets retain velocity better and travel further than they would at lower DA (denser air) at the same true elevation.

How can shooters use Density Altitude to improve accuracy?

Shooters can use Density Altitude by plugging it into ballistics calculators or by creating range cards based on calculated DA values. This allows for precise adjustments to holdovers and windage, ensuring accurate shots at various distances.

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