A ballistic table for the .308 Winchester cartridge calibrated for a short-range zero is a valuable tool for marksmen. This type of table typically displays trajectory data, including drop, drift, and velocity, for a rifle sighted in at 25 yards. Such data allows shooters to make precise adjustments to their aiming points at various distances, compensating for the projectile’s ballistic arc. For example, a table might indicate that a projectile zeroed at 25 yards will impact approximately 2 inches high at 100 yards and several inches low at 300 yards.
Understanding trajectory characteristics is essential for accurate shooting, particularly with a cartridge like the .308 Winchester, known for its relatively flat trajectory within certain ranges. A precisely zeroed rifle, coupled with knowledge gleaned from a corresponding ballistic table, enables hunters and target shooters to ethically and consistently place shots on target. Historically, developing such tables involved meticulous field testing and complex calculations, but modern ballistic calculators and software have simplified the process, offering tailored trajectory solutions based on specific ammunition, rifle configurations, and environmental conditions.