What Exactly Is Wind Drift?

by
posted on August 1, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
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

Zaun CMP 2
Zaun CMP 2

Katie Zaun Surges to Victory in CMP Prone 6400 Debut

Katie Zaun clinched the CMP Prone 6400 Aggregate title in her first appearance, focusing on experience and walking away with an unexpected win

USPSA Launches Unified App for USPSA and Steel Challenge Shooters

All-in-one USPSA app combines USPSA & Steel Challenge tools with a modern interface, optimized for shooters and ready for future features

U.S. Shotgun Team Reigns Supreme in 2025 International Season

Team USA’s shotgun athletes have captured 34 international medals in 2025, showcasing excellence from Olympic legends to junior stars

Review: Springfield Armory SAINT Victor 5.56 Rifle

Springfield Armory’s SAINT Victor 5.56 is loaded with enhancements that make it a strong contender as an all-purpose, AR-style rifle

Remington’s .22 Short Rimfire Ammo is Back

Remington brings back the .22 Short rimfire with updated loads for plinking, pest control and beginner training.

SK Customs Unveils ‘Kingdom of Atzlán’ Colt 1911 Series Honoring Aztec Heritage

SK Customs’ new .38 Super Colt 1911 handgun series blends Aztec mythology with handcrafted firearm artistry

Interests



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