Definitions for "Ballistic Coefficient"
measure of how a projectile decelerates during its flight through the air due to drag. The ballistic coefficient is an important and useful concept that is used for ballistics calculations. The smaller the BC of a bullet, the greater its air resistance. The higher the BC, the more aerodynamic the bullet.
Ratio of the sectional density of a bullet to its coefficient of form. Represents the projectile's ability to overcome the resistance of the air in flight. A bullet with a numerically high BC will meet less air resistance that a bullet with a low BC.
A mathematical factor representing the ratio of the sectional density of a bullet to its coefficient of form. Simply put, BC expresses a bullet's length ( relative to diameter ) and aerodynamic shape, thus indicating its ability to overcome air resistance in flight. The higher its BC factor, the better a bullet retains its velocity and energy, and the flatter its trajectory. Most bullets have BCs between .100 and .700. Higher BCs are required for long-range shooting.