Daily Defense Season 2- Ep 24: Rifle Ballistics & Why They Matter

Published on August 2, 2021
Duration: 5:50

This video provides an expert-level introduction to rifle ballistics, focusing on the AR-15 platform. Jeff Gonzales of Trident Concepts explains key concepts like internal, external, and terminal ballistics, emphasizing how gravity, environmental factors, and bullet velocity impact accuracy and terminal performance. Understanding these principles is crucial for improving marksmanship at extended ranges and selecting appropriate ammunition.

Quick Summary

Rifle ballistics covers internal, external, and terminal performance. External ballistics involves gravity and environmental factors like air density, which affect bullet trajectory. Understanding 'height over bore' and bullet velocity at impact is crucial for accurate shooting and effective terminal performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction to Rifle Ballistics
  2. 00:22External Ballistics: Gravity & Environment
  3. 02:09Key Ballistic Terms: Height Over Bore
  4. 02:46Bullet Trajectory Intersections Explained
  5. 03:46Terminal Ballistics & Wounding Effects
  6. 04:48Importance of Bullet Velocity at Target
  7. 05:30Conclusion & Further Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main components of rifle ballistics?

Rifle ballistics is divided into three main components: internal ballistics (what happens inside the firearm), external ballistics (the bullet's flight path through the air), and terminal ballistics (how the bullet performs upon impact with a target).

How does gravity affect a rifle bullet's trajectory?

Gravity constantly pulls a bullet downward from the moment it leaves the barrel. To compensate for this, especially at longer ranges, shooters must aim slightly above the target to create an arc that brings the bullet onto the intended point of impact.

What is 'height over bore' and why is it important?

Height over bore is the distance between the rifle's barrel axis and the optic's line of sight, typically around 2.5 inches for an AR-15. This offset means the bullet will strike below your point of aim at very close distances, requiring an understanding for accurate shooting.

How do environmental factors influence bullet flight?

Environmental factors like temperature, altitude, and humidity change air density. Denser air creates more friction, slowing the bullet down and affecting its trajectory and velocity at the target. This is a key consideration for long-range shooting.

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