Understanding bullet trajectory is crucial for accurate shooting. A rifle zeroed at 100 yards doesn’t mean the bullet travels in a perfectly straight line to that distance. Due to gravity, the bullet rises after leaving the muzzle, reaching its highest point (maximum ordinate) before beginning its descent. Therefore, the point of impact at shorter distances, such as 50 yards, will be lower than the point of aim, assuming the rifle is zeroed at a longer range. This difference necessitates aiming higher at shorter ranges to compensate for the bullet’s upward trajectory.
Correctly compensating for trajectory is essential for hunters and target shooters alike, enabling precise shot placement and ethical harvests. Historically, a deep understanding of ballistics was less accessible, requiring extensive field experience and trial-and-error. Modern ballistic calculators and resources have simplified this process, allowing shooters to accurately predict trajectories and adjust their aim accordingly. This knowledge translates to greater accuracy and consistency in various shooting disciplines.