This refers to the study of the projectile motion of a specific type of .308 Winchester cartridge. The .308 Winchester is a popular rifle cartridge known for its accuracy and versatility. A “grain” is a unit of mass traditionally used to measure projectiles and propellant charges, and in this context, 180 grains refers to the weight of the bullet. “Ballistics” encompasses the science of projectile motion, including internal ballistics (what happens inside the firearm), external ballistics (the bullet’s flight path), and terminal ballistics (the bullet’s behavior upon impact). Understanding these elements provides crucial information for accurate shooting and effective ammunition selection.
Accurate prediction of projectile trajectory is essential for long-range shooting, hunting, and military applications. Factors such as velocity, energy, and bullet drop are influenced by the projectile’s weight, and a 180-grain bullet in .308 Winchester offers a balance between trajectory, energy retention, and wind resistance. This weight has become a popular choice for hunting medium to large game and is also used in some long-range shooting competitions. This knowledge has evolved over decades of research and experimentation, improving the effectiveness and safety of firearm usage.