Demonstrating how Coriolis effects bullet drop at 1000 yards

Published on May 24, 2013
Duration: 5:15

This video demonstrates the significant impact of the Coriolis effect on long-range bullet drop, particularly at 1000 yards. Experiments show directional POI shifts of up to 11 inches (over 1 MOA) when shooting East vs. West due to Earth's rotation. The data suggests collecting ballistic data North or South to mitigate this vertical error.

Quick Summary

The Coriolis effect causes bullet impact shifts due to Earth's rotation. Shooting West results in a low POI, while shooting East causes a high POI. At 1000 yards, this can be over 1 MOA, so collecting data North or South is recommended.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Coriolis Effect in Long Range Shooting
  2. 00:44The Physics Behind the Coriolis Effect
  3. 01:12How Earth's Rotation Affects POI (East vs. West)
  4. 01:52Live Fire Test: Measuring Coriolis Impact at 1000 Yards
  5. 03:32Results & Recommendations: Minimizing Coriolis Error

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Coriolis effect in shooting?

The Coriolis effect occurs because the Earth rotates while a bullet is in flight. This rotation causes a shift in the bullet's point of impact relative to the target's original position, especially noticeable at long ranges like 1000 yards.

How does shooting direction affect bullet drop due to Coriolis?

Shooting West causes a low POI shift, while shooting East causes a high POI shift. This is because the Earth rotates West to East, moving underneath the bullet's trajectory.

How much can the Coriolis effect alter bullet impact at 1000 yards?

At 1000 yards, the Coriolis effect can cause a POI shift of up to 11 inches (over 1 MOA), equivalent to a 70 fps velocity error in drop data for calibers like the 7 LRM.

What is the best way to collect ballistic data to avoid Coriolis errors?

To minimize vertical error from the Coriolis effect, collect ballistic data by shooting targets directly North or South. This orientation aligns with the Earth's axis of rotation, reducing lateral drift.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Gunwerks

View all →