Ammunition Temperature & Zero Effect

Published on September 20, 2016
Duration: 12:03

This video from InRangeTV investigates the impact of ammunition and ambient temperature on rifle zero. While extreme temperature variations were tested, the experiment concluded that for this specific ammunition (Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 grain) and rifle, the temperature of the ammunition itself had a negligible effect on point of impact. However, a significant shift in point of impact was observed due to changes in ambient temperature, demonstrating its greater influence on ballistics.

Quick Summary

The temperature of ammunition itself has a negligible effect on a rifle's zero, as demonstrated in tests with Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 grain ammo. However, ambient temperature significantly impacts point of impact due to changes in air density, causing bullets to hit higher in warmer conditions.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction to Temperature Measurement
  2. 00:26Experiment Setup: Temperature's Impact
  3. 01:04Ammunition Temperature Variables
  4. 01:46Historical Context: Temperature Sensitivity in Shooting
  5. 03:15Shooting with Refrigerated Ammunition
  6. 05:10Shooting with Ambient Temperature Ammunition
  7. 06:13Shooting with Hot Ammunition
  8. 07:19Analyzing the Results: Nine Rounds Fired
  9. 08:19Conclusion: Ammunition Temperature vs. Zero
  10. 09:13The Real Impact: Ambient Temperature Shift
  11. 10:12Explanation: Air Density and Bullet Velocity
  12. 10:44Final Takeaways: Ammo Temp vs. Ambient Temp

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the temperature of ammunition affect a rifle's zero?

In this test with Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 grain ammunition, the temperature of the ammo itself, ranging from 40°F to 127°F, had no measurable impact on the rifle's zero or point of impact at 200 yards.

How does ambient temperature affect rifle shooting?

Ambient temperature has a significant effect. An increase from 75-80°F to 100-105°F caused the rifle to shoot approximately 1.75 minutes of angle higher at 200 yards due to less dense air.

Why does higher ambient temperature cause a higher point of impact?

When the air is hotter, it becomes less dense. This means the bullet encounters less resistance, slows down less, and therefore hits the target higher than it would in colder, denser air.

Is it important to record temperature for shooting data?

Yes, especially for precision shooting. Recording ambient temperature, along with other environmental factors like wind and barometric pressure, is crucial for understanding and predicting bullet drop and making necessary adjustments.

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