Tough Shot - Wrong Ammo! Mike Compensates, Using the BR2

Published on October 24, 2012
Duration: 6:39

This video demonstrates how to compensate for using ammunition that does not match a pre-calibrated ballistic turret or rangefinder. By shooting drop data and iteratively adjusting the estimated muzzle velocity in a rangefinder, the shooter was able to accurately predict and hit targets at extended ranges (up to 950 yards) despite using slower-than-expected black powder in a muzzleloader, effectively creating a custom ballistic solution on the fly.

Quick Summary

To compensate for mismatched ammunition and ballistic turrets, use a rangefinder programmed with your actual ammunition's Ballistic Coefficient (BC). Shoot at known distances, observe your point of impact, and adjust the estimated muzzle velocity in the rangefinder until the calculated drop matches your observed POI. This allows for accurate dialing of your turret for long-range shots.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Tough Shot Scenario
  2. 00:12Backstory: Australia Trip & Ammo Shortage
  3. 00:45Using Hornady Superformance Ammo
  4. 00:51Turret Mismatch Problem
  5. 01:11Muzzleloader Practice & Powder Issue
  6. 01:31Black Powder Load & 100 Yard Zero
  7. 01:42500 Yard Shot & Hitting Low
  8. 02:02Determining Actual Velocity
  9. 02:39Programming Rangefinder for MOA
  10. 03:06Practicing Despite Equipment Issues
  11. 03:23950 Yard Target Engagement
  12. 03:39Dialing 56 MOA for 950 Yards
  13. 04:16950 Yard Muzzleloader Shot
  14. 04:44First Shot Bullseye Confirmation
  15. 05:04Second Shot Attempt
  16. 05:40Second Shot Success
  17. 06:00Recap: 955 Yards with Muzzleloader
  18. 06:13Overcoming Challenges with Calculations
  19. 06:35Making Tough Shots Easy

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I shoot accurately if my ammunition doesn't match my rifle's ballistic turret settings?

You can compensate by using a rangefinder programmed with the correct Ballistic Coefficient (BC) of your ammunition. Shoot at known distances, observe your point of impact, and adjust the estimated muzzle velocity in the rangefinder until the calculated drop matches your actual POI. This allows you to accurately dial your turret for long-range shots.

What is the main challenge when using black powder in a muzzleloader compared to smokeless powder for long-range shooting?

Black powder typically burns slower and produces lower muzzle velocities than modern smokeless powders. This means the projectile will have a significantly higher arc and require much more elevation adjustment to reach distant targets, making accurate ballistic calculations crucial.

How do you determine the correct muzzle velocity for a custom ballistic solution?

You determine the correct muzzle velocity by shooting at known distances and comparing your actual point of impact to the expected impact. You then adjust the muzzle velocity input in your rangefinder or ballistic calculator until the predicted drop matches the observed POI. This process validates your load's performance.

Can a ballistic turret be used effectively if you don't have the correct ammunition for it?

While not ideal, you can still use a ballistic turret by first calibrating a rangefinder to your actual ammunition's performance. Once you have accurate drop data from the rangefinder, you can manually dial the required MOA adjustments onto your turret to achieve the desired point of impact.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Gunwerks

View all →