Ballistic issues

Ballistics and ammunition go together like boar and forest. However, ballistics can be complicated and sometimes hard to get your head around. All key questions concerning interior, exterior and terminal ballistics are answered and elucidated here.

Where can I find ballistic data on individual RWS cartridges?

The ballistic data of all RWS cartridges can be found in the product description, which we provide for every single RWS cartridge presented on our website.

Why do the ballistic data given on the website sometimes differ from the data stated on the packaging?

Our RWS cartridges are subject to structuring, filling, ballistics and other steps of the permanent optimisation process. In some cases, this may lead to a change in the ballistic data provided. That's the case for EVOLUTION GREEN in the calibre 8 x 57 JS and 9,3 x 74 R. Should such minor discrepancies occur, they will be promptly noted below each respective projectile presented on our website!

How do the velocity and the energy change when using a shorter barrel than the ones used by RWS to determine the ballistic data (600 or 650 mm)?

The reason for this are the corresponding specifications of the C.I.P. - the Standards Institute for Ammunition. These guidelines provide standardized barrel lengths of 600mm for standard calibers and 650mm for magnum calibers.

How do the velocity and the energy change when using a shorter barrel than the ones used by RWS to determine the ballistic data (600 or 650 mm)?

Both the energy and the velocity are influenced by a shorter barrel. Many factors determine the size of this deviation. Basically, you can say that for every centimetre of barrel shortening, a loss of velocity of about 5 m/s is noted.

Do the energy values ​​of particular RWS projectiles stated on the RWS website or in the RWS catalogue refer to the energy output in the game or rather to the kinetic energy?

The energy information listed on the RWS website and in the RWS catalogues always refer – in relation to projectile velocity - to the impact on the game's body.

Is the following statement true: the higher the energy value of a projectile, the better the killing effect on the game?

That would be a sweeping statement. Basically, you have to take into account the particular projectile construction. A hard bullet with a high energy is not necessarily the best choice for shot-susceptible game, such as deer, because the projectile will not leave the maximum amount of its power in the animal’s body in this particular case.

Will RWS give me the chance to select custom ammunition for my KK sport pistol / KK sporting rifle that will allow me to achieve the best scatter group diameter?

On our test shooting range at RWS, you will get the opportunity to test out different RWS production series on your own weapon. This is possible with a minimum order of 5,000 RWS KK cartridges in the varieties of R50, R100, Special Match and Pistol Match SR. If you are interested to test-drive RWS ammunition at our modern shooting range, please feel free to make an appointment by calling Mr. Thomas on + 49 (0)911 / 7930-1156.

Why does RWS not provide any velocity or energy specifications for the special Cineshot cartridge?

The RWS Cineshot has been specifically designed for use in modern indoor shooting ranges for training purposes. With such short distances (approx. 25 m), velocity and energy specifications are of no relevance. This training ammunition must never be used for hunting.

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