So, the scenario is common. A new shooter is on the range or visiting with friends about shooting. Two or more of these friends are experienced shooters. When the discussion turns to long-range, it appears that these two people are now speaking Klingon. There is something about a ballistic app and rifle profiles, along with other gibberish, you can’t decode. You have barely gotten your zero; these two are off in another land. Their discussion, of course, is about ballistics apps for long-range shooting. To help you understand them better, let’s briefly look at what they are. The discussion today is all about ballistic aps.
Ballistic Apps are Phone Based Programs That Provide Shooting Solutions
A ballistic app is a mobile application that functions as a sophisticated ballistic calculator. It allows users to predict the trajectory of a projectile by taking into account factors like bullet characteristics, environmental conditions (temperature, pressure, humidity), wind speed, and shooting distance. Ballistic apps essentially help shooters make more accurate shots, especially at long ranges.
Long gone are the days of doing the math in your head. Once these apps are set up, they allow you to input the range to target and they tell you what you need to dial on your turrets. Many of these apps also allow you to store multiple “guns” or profiles. This allows you access to quick info on your favorite .308 bolt rifle and your .223 AR-15. Some can even be modified to keep information for different locations. For enthusiasts, learning all about ballistic aps is essential.
Data In Data Out
Users are prompted to provide basic information about their gun and ammo when building your profile. While there is some variance between apps, most will ask for things like:
Optics Height |
Zero Range |
Barrel Twist |
Muzzle Velocity |
Caliber |
Bullet Weight |
Ballistic Coefficient |
Optic Style |
Reticle |
Once the app has basic information about your rifles, optics, and ammunition, it has a base. To use the app, simply open in and fill in the current “situation.” Once again, there are differences in some apps, but it will ask you for some specific information. While some apps are much more detailed, that information is usually:
Range to target |
Altitude |
Temperature |
Wind Speed and Direction |
Barometer |
Ballistic Solutions
Once the app has this information, it will generate a “ballistic solution” for you. In short, it will tell you how many clicks you need to adjust your turrets to make the shot. If you have taken the time to input as much detail as possible, the app is generally spot on. Much of the data you need for the bullet is on most boxes of ammo. If not, a quick visit to the manufacturer’s website can get it for you. As you progress, you will want to confirm things such as muzzle velocity. While the information from the manufacturer is trustworthy, you may have slightly different results. This finer tuning will allow the app to give you even better information.
Shooting 101 – All About Ballistic Aps
And where do you find these little shooting miracles? There are multiple apps out there at your disposal. Many have a basic free version with an advanced version accessible for a small fee. As I mentioned, some are very advanced and even provide satellite imagery of where you are shooting. I suggest starting with the free versions first and going from there. When you open it, it may seem overwhelming, but don’t be intimidated. Most serious apps have online videos and instructions on how to set them up.
Ballistic apps are a great tool for improving long-range accuracy. If you take a few minutes to learn about them, they can be a priceless accessory for those long-range shooting sessions.
For more information, visit:https://geoballistics.com/