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
This ballistic trajectory calculator uses standard projectile motion physics to compute the range, peak height, and flight time of a projectile from launch velocity and angle. It supports an optional elevation offset between launch and impact points. Air resistance is not modeled, so outputs reflect theoretical vacuum kinematics; atmospheric drag drastically reduces real-world bullet range by over 90%.
How it works
- Enter the muzzle velocity in feet per second (fps) or meters per second (m/s).
- Enter the launch angle in degrees above horizontal (0° = flat, 45° = maximum range).
- Optionally enter a height difference: positive if the target is above the shooter, negative if below.
- Click Calculate to get the horizontal range, maximum height above the launch point, and total time of flight.
- Switch between Imperial (ft, fps) and Metric (m, m/s) units as needed.
- 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: 2026-06-19 · Reviewed by Nham Vu