The question of how far a .308 Winchester round will shoot "flat" is a common one among shooters, hunters, and long-range enthusiasts. The truth is, there's no single answer. The term "flat" itself is subjective and depends on the shooter's tolerance for bullet drop. This article will explore the factors influencing bullet trajectory and provide a more nuanced understanding of .308 ballistics. We'll examine what contributes to a flat-shooting trajectory, delve into the physics of bullet flight, and provide practical guidance for long-range shooting.
Understanding Bullet Drop and Trajectory
Before we discuss the .308 specifically, let's clarify what we mean by a "flat" trajectory. A bullet doesn't actually fly in a perfectly straight line. Gravity constantly pulls it downwards, causing a trajectory that resembles a parabola. The flatter the trajectory, the less the bullet drops over a given distance. This is desirable for precision shooting at longer ranges.
Several factors influence bullet drop:
- Muzzle Velocity: Higher muzzle velocity means the bullet spends less time in the air, reducing the effect of gravity. Faster bullets generally have flatter trajectories.
- Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets are less affected by wind and retain velocity better, resulting in a flatter trajectory compared to lighter bullets of the same caliber.
- Ballistic Coefficient (BC): This represents how aerodynamically efficient a bullet is. Higher BC bullets experience less drag, maintaining velocity and exhibiting flatter trajectories.
- Altitude and Air Density: Thinner air at higher altitudes offers less resistance, leading to slightly increased range and flatter trajectories. Conversely, denser, humid air causes greater drag.
- Temperature: Temperature affects air density; warmer air is less dense, leading to slightly flatter trajectories.
- Wind: Wind is a major factor influencing bullet trajectory at longer distances. A strong crosswind can significantly deflect the bullet, negating the effect of a "flat" trajectory.
The .308 Winchester: A Versatile Cartridge
The .308 Winchester is a popular cartridge known for its accuracy, versatility, and relatively flat trajectory at moderate ranges. Its moderate recoil and availability make it suitable for hunting, target shooting, and even some long-range applications. However, even with the .308, "flat" is relative.
How "Flat" is Flat Enough?
Let's consider what constitutes a "flat" trajectory for practical purposes. Many shooters define it as a trajectory where the bullet drop remains within a few inches (or centimeters) at ranges up to 300 yards (274 meters). Beyond that, drop becomes increasingly significant.
Factors Affecting .308 Flatness
The factors listed above all apply specifically to the .308. For instance, a 175-grain match-grade bullet with a high BC will have a flatter trajectory than a 150-grain hunting bullet. The differences can be significant. A high-velocity .308 load can easily maintain a reasonably flat trajectory out to 600 yards (547 meters), but only under ideal conditions. Beyond 600 yards, significant bullet drop requires careful compensation using an appropriate scope and ballistic calculator.
Table: Sample .308 Bullet Drop (Illustrative)
| Distance (yards) | Bullet Drop (inches) - High BC Bullet | Bullet Drop (inches) - Low BC Bullet |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 2 | 3 |
| 200 | 8 | 14 |
| 300 | 18 | 32 |
| 400 | 32 | 60 |
| 500 | 50 | 98 |
| 600 | 72 | 146 |
Note: This table is illustrative and will vary significantly depending on bullet weight, BC, muzzle velocity, and environmental conditions. Actual bullet drop should be determined using a ballistic calculator specific to your ammunition and rifle setup.
Practical Considerations for Long-Range Shooting with .308
Shooting at longer ranges with a .308 requires careful planning and preparation:
- Use a Ballistic Calculator: Input your specific ammunition, rifle, and environmental conditions into a ballistic calculator to determine accurate bullet drop, wind drift, and trajectory. Many free and paid apps are available.
- Zero Your Rifle: Properly zeroing your rifle at a known distance is crucial.
- Scope with Adjustments: A scope with sufficient adjustment range is essential for compensating for bullet drop at longer ranges. A quality scope with reliable turrets is a must.
- Understand Wind: Wind is a major factor affecting accuracy at long ranges. Learn to read and account for wind conditions.
- Practice: Practice is key to mastering long-range shooting.
Conclusion: No Single Answer, But Informed Choices
The question "How far will a .308 shoot flat?" doesn't have a simple numerical answer. The flatness of the trajectory depends heavily on many interacting factors, including ammunition choice, environmental conditions, and the shooter's definition of "flat." However, by understanding these factors and utilizing tools like ballistic calculators, shooters can make informed decisions about their shooting capabilities and maximize accuracy at longer ranges with a .308 Winchester. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all relevant safety regulations.