Quick Answer
When deer hunting in rain, adjust ballistic calculations by factoring in the effects of increased air density and reduced bullet velocity, which can result in a 5-10% increase in bullet drop and wind deflection.
Understanding Rain’s Impact on Ballistics
Rain and high humidity can increase air density, which affects bullet trajectory significantly. For every 10% increase in air density, the bullet drop increases by about 0.5-1.5 MOA (minutes of angle) over 100 yards. This translates to approximately 2.5-7.5 inches of added drop for a 100-yard shot. To compensate, hunters should increase their holdover by 1-2 inches for every 100 yards of distance.
Applying Rain-Adjusted Ballistics to Your Rifle
To accurately account for rain’s effects on ballistics, hunters should re-zero their rifles with a rain-soaked target at various ranges. This involves shooting at a target while it’s raining, then adjusting the scope to compensate for the added drop. For example, if you normally hold 5 inches over 200 yards, you might need to hold 6-7 inches in rain due to the increased air density. Keep in mind that different types of rain and wind speeds can affect bullet trajectory, so it’s essential to be flexible and adjust your holdovers accordingly.
Considerations for Rain-Affected Ballistics
When hunting in rain, it’s essential to consider the type of rifle, cartridge, and bullet you’re using. For example, lighter bullets tend to be more affected by air density than heavier ones. Additionally, some rifle calibers, like the .223 Remington, may experience more pronounced effects due to their relatively light bullet weights. By understanding the specific effects of rain on your ballistics, you can make more accurate shots and increase your chances of harvesting a deer.
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