Understanding the ballistic performance of your ammunition is crucial for accurate shooting. This deep dive into the ballistics of 168-grain .308 Winchester ammunition, specifically focusing on a 100-yard zero, will provide you with the data and insights needed to confidently hit your targets at various ranges. We'll explore the factors influencing trajectory, energy, and bullet drop, offering practical advice for optimizing your shooting experience.
Note: The data presented here is based on average performance figures and may vary slightly depending on the specific ammunition manufacturer, barrel length, and environmental conditions (temperature, air pressure, humidity). Always consult your ammunition's manufacturer's data sheet for the most accurate ballistic information for your specific load.
Factors Affecting 168gr .308 Ballistics
Before delving into the chart, let's understand the key factors influencing the trajectory of a 168-grain .308 bullet:
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Muzzle Velocity: The initial speed of the bullet leaving the barrel significantly impacts its range and trajectory. Higher muzzle velocity generally translates to a flatter trajectory.
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Bullet Weight (168 grains): Heavier bullets generally experience less wind drift but have a steeper trajectory than lighter bullets at the same muzzle velocity. The 168-grain bullet is a popular choice for its balance of accuracy, range, and energy retention.
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Ballistic Coefficient (BC): This measures a bullet's ability to overcome air resistance. A higher BC means less drag and a flatter trajectory. 168-grain .308 bullets typically have a relatively high BC.
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Barrel Twist Rate: The rate at which the rifling in the barrel twists affects bullet stability. An appropriate twist rate is essential for accuracy, especially with heavier bullets.
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Environmental Conditions: Temperature, air pressure, and humidity all impact bullet trajectory. Hotter temperatures and lower air pressure can lead to increased bullet velocity and a flatter trajectory, while higher humidity can cause increased drag.
168gr .308 Ballistics Chart (Approximate Data – 100-Yard Zero)
This chart provides approximate data for a 168-grain .308 bullet zeroed at 100 yards. Remember that these values can change based on the factors listed above. Always confirm the specifics using a ballistic calculator and your specific ammunition data.
| Distance (yards) | Bullet Drop (inches) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Wind Drift (inches - 10 mph crosswind) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 (Muzzle) | 0 | ~2600 | ~2800 | 0 |
| 100 | 0 | ~2200 | ~2000 | ~2 |
| 200 | -2 | ~1900 | ~1500 | ~7 |
| 300 | -8 | ~1650 | ~1100 | ~14 |
| 400 | -18 | ~1450 | ~800 | ~23 |
| 500 | -33 | ~1250 | ~600 | ~34 |
| 600 | -54 | ~1100 | ~450 | ~46 |
Explanation of Columns:
- Distance (yards): The distance from the shooter to the target.
- Bullet Drop (inches): The amount the bullet drops below the line of sight at that distance. A negative number indicates the bullet is below the line of sight.
- Velocity (fps): The bullet's velocity in feet per second.
- Energy (ft-lbs): The bullet's remaining energy in foot-pounds.
- Wind Drift (inches - 10 mph crosswind): The amount the bullet is deflected by a 10 mph crosswind.
Using a Ballistic Calculator for Precision
For the most accurate ballistic data tailored to your specific ammunition, rifle, and environmental conditions, utilize a ballistic calculator. Many free and paid options are available online. These calculators allow you to input the precise characteristics of your setup and get a highly accurate prediction of your bullet's trajectory.
Conclusion
A 100-yard zero for a 168-grain .308 bullet offers a versatile point of aim for various shooting situations. However, understanding the bullet's trajectory beyond 100 yards is essential for accurate long-range shooting. Using the provided information as a guideline and employing a ballistic calculator will significantly improve your marksmanship and confidence at the range. Remember always to practice safe gun handling and follow all relevant laws and regulations.
