What Exactly Is Wind Drift?

by
posted on August 1, 2018
2018_palma_atterbury-12_targets.jpg (1)
Wind drift is a popular term for wind deflection, defined as the lateral deviation of a bullet's trajectory from the original line of departure, caused by crosswind. The bullet trajectory is only changed slightly in the direction of the drag forces caused by the crosswind, producing an angular deviation in the bullet's path from its original line of departure. The longer a bullet travels, the further it deviates from its original path depending on when the drag forces are introduced. Therefore, if a bullet is hit by crosswind as soon as it leaves the barrel, the deviation is greater than if it were to be hit by a crosswind closer to the target.

What Exactly Is Wind Drift?

The angle of the crosswind can also determine the deviation of a bullet's path. Perpendicular winds—90 degrees to a bullet's path—will have the greatest effect, with smaller angles having less of an effect. Winds blowing parallel to a bullet's trajectory path will have such a small effect on the bullet that the wind drift can often be ignored.

To find the exact effects of wind drift in question, we recommend reading this article: "Expert Forum: Wind Shooting"

Latest

STOCK II Review 1
STOCK II Review 1

Review: Tanfoglio Stock II Optic Competition Pistol

Designed for IPSC Production Optics division, the Tanfoglio Stock II Optic Competition 9 mm does not disappoint.

New Mexico Tactical Games: Blackhawk’s Zach Rodman Lands Runner-Up Finish

Blackhawk tactical athlete Zach Rodman takes second place at the 2023 New Mexico Tactical Games Regional, held March 4-5 at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico.

Review: Luth-AR MCA-22 Modular Chassis

Luth-AR’s MCA-22 modular chassis is a fully adjustable stock option for the Ruger 10/22.

Sighting In New Shooters

Vision issues are every bit as important as proper grip, stance and sight picture.

Ranger’s New Duster Shooting Glasses

Leading shooting glasses manufacturer Ranger called all hands on deck to design the Duster.

Register Now For The 2023 NRA National Matches At Camp Atterbury

Online registration for the 2023 NRA National Matches at Camp Perry will open Thursday, March 16, 2023.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.