Ballistic Trajectory Calculator

Enter muzzle velocity, launch angle, and optional height offset to calculate a projectile's range, maximum height, and time of flight.

Use the Ballistic Trajectory Calculator

Launch Parameters

Typical rifle: 2500–3500 fps. Bow: 250–350 fps.

0° = flat; 45° = maximum range on level ground.

Positive = target above shooter. Negative = target below.

Angle vs. Range (level ground)

Enter a velocity above to populate this table.

Angle Range Max Height

Summary

Enter muzzle velocity, launch angle, and optional height offset to calculate a projectile's range, maximum height, and time of flight.

How it works

  1. Enter the muzzle velocity in feet per second (fps) or meters per second (m/s).
  2. Enter the launch angle in degrees above horizontal (0° = flat, 45° = maximum range).
  3. Optionally enter a height difference: positive if the target is above the shooter, negative if below.
  4. Click Calculate to get the horizontal range, maximum height above the launch point, and total time of flight.
  5. Switch between Imperial (ft, fps) and Metric (m, m/s) units as needed.
  6. Use the trajectory chart to visualize the arc of the projectile.

Use cases

  • Analyzing theoretical 2D projectile motion and ideal launch kinematics.
  • Modeling flight trajectories with uphill or downhill elevation offsets.
  • Teaching introductory kinematics and classical mechanics in physics courses.
  • Comparing trajectory parabolas across various launch angles at equal velocities.
  • Calculating theoretical time aloft and peak clearance for sports projectiles.
  • Establishing an idealized zero-drag baseline before applying drag models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-09-19 · Reviewed by Nham Vu