Ammunition Cost
Ammunition pricing isn’t getting any friendlier these days, so time on the range means burning some green also. larger caliber rounds usually cost more, i.e. 30 caliber (magnum) and up, as well as specialty cartridges like “WSM” “RUM” “SS” “SAUM” “PRC” are even more expensive, keep cost per round in mind when choosing a caliber to shoot.
Affordable, consistent ammunition allows more repetitions and better skill development.
Target vs Hunting Ammunition
Target and hunting ammunition are designed for different purposes.
Understanding the difference helps avoid false expectations on steel or game.
- Target bullets emphasize consistency and BC
- Hunting bullets prioritize terminal performance
- Zero and data should be confirmed for each load
- Match grade (target ammo) will kill just a quick as a hunting cartridge
Reloading
Reloading allows control over velocity, consistency, and cost.
While not required, it provides flexibility for shooters seeking optimized data.
- Tailored loads for specific rifles
- Improved velocity consistency
- Lower long-term cost per round
Ballistic Coefficient
Ballistic coefficient describes how efficiently a bullet travels through the air.
Higher BC bullets typically retain velocity better and drift less in wind.
BC values should be verified with real-world data during
Range Work and Data Collection.
Twist Rate and Stability
Twist rate must properly stabilize the chosen bullet. The tighter the twist rate i.e. 1:8 or less, is a much faster twist, (1 bullet revolution every 8 inches of barrel) putting a faster spin on your round inside your barrel, improper management of this will result in unstable and bigger spin drift inconsistencies.
- Heavier bullets require faster twist rates for optimal bullet stabilization
- Stability affects BC performance
- Barrel specifications should match bullet choice
Applying Ballistics on the Range
Next: Range Work and Data Collection
Return to the Long Range Precision Shooting Training overview.