Flat Trajectory Rifle Recommendations for Varied Terrain?

Rifle Cartridge Selection

When selecting a rifle cartridge for hunting varmints in varied terrain, look for cartridges with a relatively flat trajectory. The 6.5 Creedmoor is a popular choice, as it has a ballistic coefficient of 0.55, which results in a trajectory that stays within 2 inches of the point of aim out to 400 yards. The .223 Remington is another popular choice, with a ballistic coefficient of 0.34 and a trajectory that stays within 2 inches of the point of aim out to 300 yards.

Ballistic Data Considerations

When hunting in varied terrain, it’s essential to consider the ballistic data of your rifle cartridge. Look for cartridges with a high ballistic coefficient, which will result in a flatter trajectory. Additionally, consider the wind drift and bullet drop at various ranges, and make sure your rifle is sighted in to compensate. For example, at 200 yards, a 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge will drop 7.8 inches and drift 1.3 inches in a 10 mph wind. For .223 Remington, the drop is 14.4 inches and drift is 2.6 inches at the same range.

Real-World Applications

In real-world hunting scenarios, a flat-shooting rifle can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. When hunting groundhogs in varied terrain, you may need to shoot at longer ranges than you would in more open terrain. A flat-shooting rifle will help you hit your target consistently at these longer ranges, even in the face of wind and elevation changes. For example, at 400 yards, a 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge will drop 30 inches and drift 5.2 inches in a 10 mph wind, while a .223 Remington will drop 59.2 inches and drift 10.9 inches.