Sea Level To Mile High! How Does The Change In Elevation Effect 5.56 Out To 800yards!

Published on September 1, 2024
Duration: 18:16

This video demonstrates the significant impact of elevation changes on 5.56mm ballistics out to 800 yards. The presenter, with assistance from Frank G. of SnipersHide, shows how moving from sea level (350 ft) to high altitude (4,800 ft) affects bullet trajectory and required adjustments. By using a Kestrel to calculate density altitude, they illustrate how less atmospheric resistance at higher elevations leads to more efficient bullet flight, requiring less elevation adjustment for long-range shots.

Quick Summary

Higher elevations reduce air density, leading to less parasitic drag on the bullet. This allows the bullet to fly more efficiently, resulting in a flatter trajectory and requiring less elevation adjustment for long-range shots compared to sea level.

Chapters

  1. 00:53Welcome & Introduction
  2. 01:17Topic: Elevation Change Effects
  3. 01:37Elevation Difference: SC vs. CO
  4. 01:51Experiment Plan: Grouping without Re-zeroing
  5. 02:39Current Location & Previous Zero
  6. 03:11Checking Initial Grouping
  7. 05:03Expert Frank G. Explains Ballistics
  8. 05:21Elevation Effects on Ballistics
  9. 05:43Density Altitude Calculation
  10. 06:24Parasitic Drag Explained
  11. 07:24Adjusting for 600 Yards
  12. 10:02Rounds Flying Higher
  13. 10:15Previous Competition Data
  14. 10:44Dialing for 800 Yards at High Altitude
  15. 11:21Observed Ballistic Efficiency
  16. 12:46Shooting at 800 Yards
  17. 14:23Results and Future Content

Frequently Asked Questions

How does elevation affect bullet trajectory?

Higher elevations reduce air density, leading to less parasitic drag on the bullet. This allows the bullet to fly more efficiently, resulting in a flatter trajectory and requiring less elevation adjustment for long-range shots compared to sea level.

What is density altitude and why is it important for shooting?

Density altitude is the altitude the bullet 'thinks' it's flying at, calculated using temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity. It's crucial because it directly impacts air density and thus ballistic performance, influencing how far and fast a bullet will travel.

Can you shoot accurately at 800 yards without re-zeroing after an elevation change?

While you might be able to hit targets, accuracy will likely suffer. Significant elevation changes alter ballistic performance. It's recommended to group your firearm and adjust your ballistic data or scope settings to compensate for the new environmental conditions.

What is parasitic drag in ballistics?

Parasitic drag refers to the resistance a bullet encounters as it moves through the air. At higher altitudes, the air is less dense, meaning fewer molecules are hitting the bullet, thus reducing parasitic drag and allowing the bullet to maintain its velocity better.

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