Ballistic Coefficient Calculator
Calculate the ballistic coefficient of projectiles for external ballistics analysis
Calculate Ballistic Coefficient
Total mass of the projectile
Cross-sectional area perpendicular to flight direction
Dimensionless coefficient representing shape-dependent air resistance (typical values: 0.1-2.0)
Circular Cross-section Helper
For spherical or cylindrical projectiles, calculate area from diameter:
Ballistic Coefficient Results
Formula used: B = m / (C × A)
Input values: Mass: 0.0000 kg, Area: 0.000000 m², Drag: 0
Performance Analysis
Example Calculation
Round Projectile Example
Mass: 50 grams
Diameter: 13 mm
Drag coefficient: 0.51
Cross-sectional area: π × (13/2)² = 132.73 mm²
Calculation
B = m / (C × A)
B = 0.05 kg / (0.51 × 0.00013273 m²)
B = 0.05 / 0.0000677
B = 738.6 kg/m² or 1.051 lbs/in²
Common Drag Coefficients
Ballistic Models
G1 Model
Flat base, ogive nose projectiles (most common)
G2 Model
Aberdeen J projectile
G7 Model
Long range boat-tail bullets
Ballistics Tips
Higher BC means better long-range performance
BC affects wind drift and energy retention
Heavier, more streamlined projectiles have higher BC
BC is used for trajectory calculations
Understanding Ballistic Coefficient
What is Ballistic Coefficient?
The ballistic coefficient (BC) is a measure of a projectile's ability to overcome air resistance during flight. It's a dimensionless number that combines the projectile's mass, cross-sectional area, and drag coefficient into a single value for external ballistics calculations.
Why is it Important?
- •Predicts trajectory and range performance
- •Determines wind drift sensitivity
- •Affects energy retention over distance
- •Critical for long-range shooting accuracy
Formula Explanation
B = m / (C × A)
- B: Ballistic coefficient (kg/m² or lbs/in²)
- m: Projectile mass (kg or lbs)
- C: Drag coefficient (dimensionless)
- A: Cross-sectional area (m² or in²)
Note: Higher BC values indicate better ballistic performance and less sensitivity to external factors.
Applications
Long-Range Shooting
High BC bullets maintain velocity and accuracy over long distances
Space Vehicle Re-entry
Low BC designs ensure rapid deceleration and controlled descent
Artillery & Military
BC calculations are essential for accurate targeting systems