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March 30th, 2013
 Berger Bullets has released its “new and improved” Ballistics Calculator on the Berger Bullets website. Much work, and several weeks of testing, went into Berger’s new web-based ballistics calculator. But Berger is pleased to announce that the handy Balllistics Calculator is now up and running! CLICK HERE for Calculator.
How to Use Berger’s Ballistic Calculator
On the top of Berger’s home-page you’ll find a link that says “Ballistics”, with a drop-down menu for Berger’s Twist Rate Calculator and Ballistics Calculator. When using the Ballistics Calculator, the first element you’ll see is the bullet library. This convenient tool automatically fills in the bullet properties fields with the correct information when you select a bullet from the list.
Below, you will see the bullet properties fields are filled in with the 30 Cal 175gr VLD Berger Target Bullet information. You would then manually change the Gun Properties, Environment, Target, and the rest of the fields to correspond with the conditions you will be shooting under. After you have filled in all the variables properly, click “Calculate Range Card” to generate a ballistic solution showing your load’s trajectory, with come-up values at various distances.
Once the Calculator Results are given, you can print them out and take them with you to the range or on your hunt. Here is an example of the calculated results:
 If you have questions about the Ballistics Calculator CLICK this link or use the contact info below. Berger also plans to release a mobile version of the Ballistics Calculator in the near future. This should work well on smart-phones and tablets, so watch for it!
Berger Bullets
Marketing and Shooter Services
Phone: 714-447-5422 (option 2)
M-F 8am to 4:30pm pst
Story tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
March 16th, 2013
 Berger Bullets has launched a great new web resource, the Berger Bullets Events Calendar. This online calendar highlights important shooting matches and other shooting-related events (such as trade shows). We commend Berger for developing this Calendar, which will make it easier for shooters to locate match information and plan ahead. Berger states: “The main goal of this project is to help people get involved in the shooting community and build lasting relationships between shooters. A strong community is the best way to ensure that the shooting sports continue for future generations to enjoy.”
How to Use the Calendar
The Events Calendar employs different colors for different event types — Berger Yellow for Target Matches, Tan for Tactical Competitions, Light Orange for Varmint Competitions, Blaze Orange for Hunting Competitions, Blue for Tradeshows, and Forest Green for Fundraisers.
CLICK Image to Access LIVE Calendar
Click Event on Calendar to See Detailed Information
If you click on an event in the calendar grid, a window pops up showing details for that event — match date, match location, match description, and contact(s) for match registration. Here is an example for the Berger Southwest Nationals.
Map Links and Links to Match Websites
On the window that pops up when you click on a calendar item, you’ll notice one or two colored buttons (the colors correspond to event type). The View Map button links to a map of the match venue, so you can find the shooting range and plan your travel. If there is web page for the event, you’ll see a second colored button linking to that website. Simply click the Event Link for more information.
Berger invites readers to submit events for the Berger Events Calendar. Visit the Calendar Submission Page to provide information on an upcoming event. Note: Berger may not list all submitted items, particularly where there are conflicts with previously listed major events.
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
January 30th, 2013
McMillan Group International (McMillan) has added three new lines of ammunition: Extreme Velocity ammo (optimized for long range), McMillan Precision ammo (match quality for hunting), and McMillan Tactical ammo. All three new types of ammo are loaded with premium bullets. McMillan claims that its precision cartridge-loading methods ensure: “better concentricity, better uniformity of velocity, [and] better uniformity of pressure”. Along with these three NEW ammo types, McMillan already offers African Dangerous Game ammunition (ADG).
McMillan Extreme Velocity Ammunition — Long Range
 McMillan’s Extreme Velocity (ExVel) ammunition utilizes high-BC Berger Bullets exclusively. Powders are selected for High FPS and low ES to minimize vertical spread at long range. ExVel ammo was designed with input from Bob Beck of Extreme Outer Limits TV.
Cartridge List: 22-250, 243 Win, 6.5×284 Norma, 7mm EOL Ultra Mag, 7mm Rem Mag, 7mm Rem Ultra Mag, .300 EOL Ultra Mag,.300 Win Mag, 300 Rem Ultra Mag, .338 Lapua Magnum.
McMillan Precision Ammunition — Hunting
 In its new Precision line, McMillan offers traditional hunting cartridge types. Barnes LRX, TSX, and TTSX bullets with excellent accuracy AND strong terminal performance are used. All critical cartridge measurements are held to precision tolerances and Powders are selected for consistent velocity. Each round is hand inspected.
Cartridge List: .243 Win, 270 WSM, 7mm Rem Mag, .308 Win, 30-378, .300 RUM, .300 WSM, .30-06, .300 Win Mag, .338 Win Mag.
McMillan Tactical Ammunition
 McMillan’s Tactical ammunition offers .308, .300 WM, .338 LM, and 50 BMG cartridges loaded to “match-quality standards”. Bullets are carefully selected for mission-specific applications and powders are selected for low ES to minimize vertical spread at extreme long ranges. Each round is hand inspected.
Cartridge List: .308 Subsonic, .308 Win, .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua Magnum, 50 BMG.
For more information on McMillan ammunition, visit www.McMillanusa.com. To order, call McMillan toll-free at 877-365-6148.
January 7th, 2013
 The better, up-to-date ballistics programs let you select either G1 or G7 Ballistic Coefficient (BC) values when calculating a trajectory. The ballistic coefficient (BC) of a body is a measure of its ability to overcome air resistance in flight. You’ve probably seen that G7 values are numerically lower than G1 values for the same bullet (typically). But that doesn’t mean you should select a G1 value simply because it is higher.
Some readers are not quite sure about the difference between G1 and G7 models. One forum member wrote us: “I went on the JBM Ballistics website to use the web-based Trajectory Calculator and when I got to the part that gives you a choice to choose between G1 and G7 BC, I was stumped. What determines how, or which one to use?”
The simple answer to that is the G1 value normally works better for shorter flat-based bullets, while the G7 value should work better for longer, boat-tailed bullets.
G1 vs. G7 Ballistic Coefficients — Which Is Right for You?
G1 and G7 refer both refer to aerodynamic drag models based on particular “standard projectile” shapes. The G1 shape looks like a flat-based bullet. The G7 shape is quite different, and better approximates the geometry of a modern long-range bullet. So, when choosing your drag model, G1 is preferrable for flat-based bullets, while G7 is ordinarily a “better fit” for longer, boat-tailed bullets.
 Drag Models — G7 is better than G1 for Long-Range Bullets
Many ballistics programs still offer only the default G1 drag model. Bryan Litz, author of Applied Ballistics for Long Range Shooting, believes the G7 standard is preferrable for long-range, low-drag bullets: “Part of the reason there is so much ‘slop’ in advertised BCs is because they’re referenced to the G1 standard which is very speed sensitive. The G7 standard is more appropriate for long range bullets. Here’s the results of my testing on two low-drag, long-range boat-tail bullets, so you can see how the G1 and G7 Ballistic coefficients compare:
G1 BCs, averaged between 1500 fps and 3000 fps:
Berger 180 VLD: 0.659 lb/in²
JLK 180: 0.645 lb/in²
The reason the BC for the JLK is less is mostly because the meplat was significantly larger on the particular lot that I tested (0.075″ vs 0.059″; see attached drawings).
For bullets like these, it’s much better to use the G7 standard. The following BCs are referenced to the G7 standard, and are constant for all speeds.
G7 BCs:
Berger 180 VLD: 0.337 lb/in²
JLK 180: 0.330 lb/in²
Many modern ballistics programs, including the free online JBM Ballistics Program, are able to use BCs referenced to G7 standards. When available, these BCs are more appropriate for long range bullets, according to Bryan.
[Editor’s NOTE: BCs are normally reported simply as an 0.XXX number. The lb/in² tag applies to all BCs, but is commonly left off for simplicity.]
December 18th, 2012
The new 829-page Berger Reloading Manual is now on sale at MidwayUSA.com for $24.99. This is a very good deal. This impressive new resource sells elsewhere for $29.00. At this price, you may want to pick up a couple and give one as a gift.
Book Sale Tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
December 7th, 2012
Report by Jeff Williams, AccurateShooter Correspondent
If you’ve visited BergerBullets.com lately, you’ve noticed that Berger Bullets has completely over-hauled and updated its website. The new website has a very handsome, clean layout. It is also faster to load and much easier to navigate. We give Berger an “A” grade for the new website.
 On Berger’s home page you’ll find product descriptions, easy-to-use (smart-phone friendly) product buttons, pull-down menus for all four Berger bullet line-ups, recent news items, plus videos. Click “Links” to access a comprehensive list of reloading resources with a directory of shooting association websites. Click the Berger Bulletin tab to read current product status reports, technical articles, and shooting tips.
Redesigned Bullet Info Tables
The bullet product info pages are much easier to read now. Simple tables display all the bullets of a particular type (hunting, target, varmint, and tactical), organized by caliber and weight within calibers. You’ll find BOTH G1 model and G7 model Ballistics coefficients (BCs) for all the bullets in the tables, and recommended twist rates are listed.
Berger Twist-Rate Stability Calculator
The new Berger website also offers a handy Twist-Rate Stability Calculator that predicts your gyroscopic stability factor (SG) based on mulitiple variables: velocity, bullet length, bullet weight, barrel twist rate, ambient temperature, and altitude. This very cool tool tells you if your chosen bullet will really stabilize in your barrel. LIVE DEMO BELOW — Just enter values in the data boxes and click “Calculate SG”.
November 19th, 2012
 Precision Reloading is now running a Clearance Sale on select Berger Bullets, with prices reduced up to 25%.
These are all normal-quality bullets, not “blems”. However, some of these bullet designs are being “phased out” by Berger (as we reported last week). If you have tried these bullets and they shoot well in your gun(s) you might want to pick up a supply before they are sold out. For example, one of our friends has had great luck shooting the BG30403 .308 125-grainers in his 30BR, winning local matches with them.
17 Cal (.172) 20 Gr Match Varmint (200 ct)
Code: BG17304 – Price: $56.79 $46.69
17 Cal (.172) 30 Gr Match Varmint (200 ct)
Code: BG17310 – Price: $53.39 $39.06
17 Cal (.172) 25 Gr Match Target (200 ct)
Code: BG17407 – Price: $48.19 $39.51
20 Cal (.204) 30 Gr Match Varmint (100 ct)
Code: BG20302 – Price: $28.39 $20.17
20 Cal (.204) 50 Gr Match Varmint BT (100 ct)
Code: BG20305 – Price: $29.79 $20.02
22 Cal (.224) 30 Gr Match Varmint (100 ct)
Code: BG22301 – Price: $24.39 $19.88
6mm (.243) 60 Gr Match Varmint (100 ct)
Code: BG24301 – Price: $31.99 $25.20
6mm (.243) 65 Gr Match Target (100 ct)
Code: BG24405 – Price: $27.09 $21.29
6mm (.243) 100 Gr Match BT Bullets (100 ct)
Code: BG24432 – Price: $35.69 $29.42
25 Cal (.257) 87 Gr Match Target (100 ct)
Code: BG25407 – Price: $46.99 $37.20 |
25 Cal. (.257) 115 Gr Match Target VLD (100 ct)
Code: BG25413 – Price: $40.29 $31.66
6.5mm (.264) 100 Gr Match Target BT (100 ct)
Code: BG26408 – Price: $47.59 $38.73
7mm (.284) 180 Gr Match Target BT (100 ct)
Code: BG28404 – Price: $47.99 $40.35
7mm (.284) 175 Gr Match Target XLD (100 ct)
Code: BG28408 – Price: $47.49 $38.87
30 Cal (.308) 110 Gr Match Target FB (100 ct)
Code: BG30401 – Price: $40.89 $33.40
30 Cal (.308) 125 Gr Match Target FB (100 ct)
Code: BG30403 – Price: $43.79 $34.28
30 Cal (.308) 135 Gr Match Target FB (100)
Code: BG30405 – Price: $47.59 $37.53
30 Cal (.308) 168 Gr Match Target BT (100 ct)
Code: BG30411 – Price: $45.99 $35.12
30 Cal (.308) 190 Gr Match Target VLD (100 ct)
Code: BG30414 – Price: $47.99 $38.69 |
November 10th, 2012
Berger Bullets recently announced that it is discontinuing a variety of bullet types in eight different calibers from .17 to .30. These bullet designs are being phased out, and many will be replaced with updated products in similar weight ranges. Though some bullet types are being discontinued, these projectiles might still perform great in your rifle(s). You should check the list of discontinued Berger Bullets below. If you are already using some of these, and find that they shoot well in your rifle(s), you may want to consider picking up a supply before they’re all gone. In our reloading-for-accuracy game, sometimes a “sure thing” is the best option.
Berger explains: “We are hearing about increased orders on both firearms and components. In preparation for the coming months, we are discontinuing several of our bullet designs which are not big sellers. This will give us more production capability for our more popular bullets and new releases, ensuring that you receive your bullets as quickly as possible. Also, this help us move forward on several new bullet designs for target, hunting, varmint and tactical applications.”
November 16th Deadline to Purchase Discontinued Designs
Berger has declared that “all existing orders for these bullets will be filled. Any additional orders must be placed by Nov 16, 2012. These bullets will no longer be available after November 16, 2012.”
| Berger Bullets Discontinued After November 16, 2012 |
| Part Number | Description
.17 Caliber
17304 17 CAL 20 GRAIN MATCH FB VARMINT
17310 17 CAL 30 GRAIN MATCH FB VARMINT
17407 17 CAL 25 GRAIN MATCH FB TARGET
.20 Caliber (.204)
20302 20 CAL 30 GRAIN MATCH FB VARMINT
20305 20 CAL 50 GRAIN MATCH BT VARMINT
.22 Caliber (.224)
22301 22 CAL 30 GRAIN MATCH FB VARMINT
22307 22 CAL 50 GRAIN MATCH FB VARMINT
22426 22 CAL 90 GRAIN MATCH BT TARGET
6mm (.243)
24301 6MM 60 GRAIN MATCH FB VARMINT
24405 6MM 65 GRAIN MATCH FB TARGET
24432 6MM 100 GRAIN MATCH BT TARGET |
Part Number | Description
.25 Caliber (.257)
25407 25 CAL 87 GRAIN MATCH FB TARGET
25413 25 CAL 115 GRAIN MATCH VLD TARGET
6.5mm (.264)
26408 6.5MM 100 GRAIN MATCH BT TARGET
7mm (.284 Cal.)
28404 7MM 180 GR MATCH BT TARGET
28408 7MM 175 GRAIN MATCH XLD TARGET
.30 Caliber
30401 30 CAL 110 GRAIN MATCH FB TARGET
30403 30 CAL 125 GRAIN MATCH FB TARGET
30405 30 CAL 135 GRAIN MATCH FB TARGET
30411 30 CAL 168 GRAIN MATCH BT TARGET
30414 30 CAL 190 GRAIN MATCH VLD TARGET |
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
September 22nd, 2012
  Bryan Litz, chief Ballistician for Berger Bullets (and a trained rocket scientist) has authored an impressive new book: Accuracy and Precision for Long Range Shooting. Bryan’s new book is a companion to his successful treatise, Applied Ballistics for Long-Range Shooting. Now in its Second Edition, Litz’s Applied Ballistics book has become the “go-to” Ballistics book for precision shooters worldwide.
While Bryan’s first book covers the science of ballistics and trajectory calculation, his new book examines practical issues involved in long-range accuracy. Bryan explains: “In a nutshell, this book focuses on the uncertainties of practical shooting which affect hit percentage on various size targets. In other words, classic ballistics teaches you how to calculate windage and elevation corrections. This book will help you understand what your chances are of hitting a target under certain conditions, and how to improve those chances through training and design.
Practical Examples
Does a low ES/SD really make a difference at long range? Absolutely. In Chapter 6, you can see that reducing muzzle velocity variation from 20 fps Standard Deviation (SD) to 10 fps SD improves hit percentage on a 5″ circle at 500 yards from 83% to 93%.
Ever wonder how much spin drift, Coriolis affect, or using G1 vs. G7 BC’s affect your chances of hitting a target? In Chapter 10 for example, you’ll learn that ignoring spin drift in ballistic calculations reduces hit percentage on a 10″ target from 21% to 15% at 900 yards for a specified environment and cartridge.
The new book is divided into three main sections.
Part 1 focuses on Precision, which explores how hit percentage is related group size. Litz explains the variable that affect group size: muzzle velocity variation, range estimation error, wind estimation error, and inherent rifle precision
Part 2 focuses on Accuracy, which is how well the group is centered around the aim-point. Topics include: leveling your sights, trajectory modeling and secondary effects, calibrating ballistic solutions, and live fire verification.
Part 3 focuses on Weapon Employment Zone (WEZ) analysis. WEZ evaluates firearm effectiveness in terms of hit percentage. The author applies WEZ in the contexts of score shooting, varmint and big game hunting, and tactical shooting. WEZ is also used to compare hit percentage for the 300 Win Mag vs. .338 Lapua Mag.
Book is 300-page, Hard-Cover Format
Accuracy and Precision for Long Range Shooting is a 6″x9″ hardcover book with 300 pages, and retails for $34.95. The book is currently at the printers, and should begin shipping by October 15, 2012. In the mean time, you can pre-order and save $5 off the regular $34.95 retail price.
September 17th, 2012
 Berger Bullets has announced a new series of “Classic Hunter” Hybrid bullets designed to fit and feed in magazines and perform well in barrels with SAAMI standard chambers. Berger’s Eric Stecker explains: “For the first time in Berger’s history we’ve purposefully designed Hybrid-shaped hunting bullets that comply with the restrictive dimensional standards set by SAAMI. We did this so that hunters can shoot ammo loaded with Berger Hunting bullets in their factory rifles while feeding through a magazine.”
Berger came up with a new hunting bullet design because SAAMI standard dimensions significantly limit the length of the nose (negatively affecting external ballistics performance) in two ways. First, the length from the end of the neck to the tip of the bullet of SAAMI standard ammo is typically so short that to make an ogive that will allow bearing surface to be forward of the neck it must be blunt and therefore have a low BC. The other way SAAMI limits nose length is by specifying longer throat lengths than are optimal. Stecker notes: “When you have a long throat, the nose can’t be too long or the jump to the rifling is considerable. This is typically bad for precision and accuracy. So what you end up with is stubby nose bullets with low BC and poor external ballistics performance.”
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To overcome SAAMI-imposed design contraints, Berger’s Bryan Litz designed Hybrid hunting bullets with noses short enough to conform to SAAMI dimensional standards. These bullets should be popular among those who hunt with factory rifles and feed their ammo through a magazine. The bullets use a dual-curve ogive design. As you move forward along the bearing surface, the ogive curve starts as a tangent tangent curve (which is forgiving of seating depth). As you continue forward on the nose the tangent curve transitions into a secant curve. Secant ogives are known to be more efficient in the wind (VLD bullets are pure secant ogives).
 When you combine these two shapes you get the best of both worlds (less sensitivity to seating depth differences and improved external ballistics performance). Since these new Berger Classic Hunter bullets must have a nose length that is short enough to comply with SAAMI standards we get the most external ballistics performance possible by making the nose with Bryan’s Hybrid design.
Eric Stecker is enthusiastic about the new Hybrid Hunting Bullets: “We know that this bullet design works [well] because we tested it not only in media but also on game. I took these bullets with me to New Zealand to test them on several animals of various sizes and at various ranges. I know from firsthand experience that hunters who try this bullet in the field will be happy that they did.” |
Product Tip by EdLongrange. Product Photos by Robert Whitley, 6mmAR.com.
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