Question 1

What is Atlas Ballistics?

Accepted Answer

Atlas Ballistics is a free precision ballistics calculator that uses a 4th-order Runge-Kutta (RK4) trajectory engine with G1 and G7 drag models to deliver highly accurate bullet drop, wind drift, and trajectory predictions for long-range shooting, hunting, and PRS competition.

Question 2

How accurate is Atlas Ballistics compared to Applied Ballistics or Hornady 4DOF?

Accepted Answer

Atlas Ballistics uses the same RK4 numerical integration method as industry-leading solvers, with BRL and Sierra-validated Mach-indexed drag tables and a 0.0005-second timestep. This provides accuracy on par with professional ballistics software across all supersonic and transonic ranges.

Question 3

What drag models does Atlas Ballistics support?

Accepted Answer

Atlas Ballistics supports both G1 (flat-base, blunt-ogive) and G7 (boat-tail, secant-ogive) drag models, each with 50+ Mach-indexed data points for accurate drag computation across the entire flight envelope from supersonic to subsonic.

Question 4

Is Atlas Ballistics free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Atlas Ballistics offers a full-featured free tier with complete ballistics calculations, profile management, and range cards. Pro tier is available at $5/month or $45/year and unlocks AI-powered features including the ballistics assistant, ammo box AI scanner, advanced truing, and unlimited shot logging.

Question 5

Does Atlas Ballistics account for spin drift and Coriolis effect?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Atlas Ballistics calculates spin drift using the Litz formula based on bullet twist rate and flight time, and applies Coriolis effect correction using the shooter's configurable latitude and firing azimuth — the same corrections used by ELR and F-class competitors.

Question 6

What is a ballistics calculator used for?

Accepted Answer

A ballistics calculator computes a bullet's full trajectory by accounting for gravity, aerodynamic drag, wind, and atmospheric conditions. It provides precise scope adjustment data in MOA or Milradians (Mils) for any target distance, enabling accurate first-round hits at long range.

Question 7

How do I calculate bullet drop for long-range shooting?

Accepted Answer

To calculate bullet drop you need the bullet's ballistic coefficient (BC), muzzle velocity, sight height above bore, zero range, and atmospheric conditions (temperature, pressure, altitude). A ballistics calculator applies a G1 or G7 drag model to integrate the trajectory and output drop values in inches, MOA, or Mils at each distance.

Question 8

What is the difference between G1 and G7 ballistic coefficients?

Accepted Answer

G1 BC is referenced to a flat-base, blunt-ogive projectile standard and is the traditional industry format used on most factory ammunition boxes. G7 BC is referenced to a long boat-tail, secant-ogive standard that closely matches modern high-BC long-range bullets, making G7 significantly more accurate for calculating trajectories beyond 500 yards with VLD, BTHP, and hybrid bullets.