Understanding Ballistics: How Your Ammunition Performs

Whether you are a seasoned shooter or just starting out, understanding ballistics is key to improving your accuracy and selecting the right ammunition for your needs. Ballistics refers to the science of how a projectile behaves once it is fired, covering everything from the moment it leaves the barrel to the moment it hits its target.

Ballistics is generally divided into three categories. Internal ballistics focuses on what happens inside the firearm, from the firing pin striking the primer to the bullet exiting the barrel. Factors like barrel length, chamber pressure, and the type of powder used can influence the bullet’s initial speed and stability.

External ballistics describes the bullet’s flight through the air. Once a bullet leaves the barrel, gravity, air resistance, and wind all start to affect its path. Bullet shape, weight, and velocity determine how flat a bullet travels and how far it can maintain its accuracy. For long-distance shooting, understanding external ballistics becomes especially critical, as even small variables can shift a shot significantly off target.

Terminal ballistics examines what happens when the bullet strikes its target. The design of the bullet—whether it’s a hollow point, soft point, or full metal jacket—affects how it penetrates and transfers energy. For self-defense purposes, terminal ballistics are particularly important because they influence stopping power and effectiveness.

Choosing the right ammunition depends on your intended use. For example, match-grade rounds may offer better precision for target shooting, while controlled expansion rounds are preferred for hunting or defense to maximize impact. Testing different types of ammunition and understanding how they perform with your specific firearm can greatly enhance your performance and confidence.

Ballistics is more than just technical data—it helps shooters make informed, effective choices. Whether for recreation, competition, or protection, a basic knowledge of how your ammunition behaves makes you a safer, more skilled marksman.

For more information, please contact Dennis Leifheit at:

Northern Illinois Carry, LLC

405 Somonauk St.

Sycamore, IL 60178

Phone: (815) 501-9421

www.northernillinoiscarry.com