Free rifle calculator
Pick a zero for a center hold.
Find a calculated maximum point-blank range for your load and chosen target-zone size. See how far the trajectory stays inside that vertical window without dialing.
No account, email address, or purchase required.
What maximum point-blank range means
Hold on the center of a target. With the calculated zero, the bullet rises no higher than half your chosen zone diameter above the sight line. The point-blank range ends when it falls that same distance below the sight line.
For example, a 6-inch zone allows 3 inches above or below center. This is a vertical trajectory envelope, not a guarantee that every shot stays in a 6-inch circle.
Enter your actual setup
Use the exact projectile's BC and G1 or G7 drag model, measured muzzle velocity, and sight height from bore center to scope center. Choose the target-zone diameter you want to evaluate. Altitude, temperature, and humidity are optional settings, defaulting to sea level, 65 F, and 50% humidity.
The tool solves the trajectory and suggests a zero that uses the vertical window. It checks up to 1,000 yards. A result that reaches the calculation ceiling is labeled as limited by that ceiling, not an exact farther range.
Know the limits
The calculation assumes level fire with no wind. It does not include your group size, aiming error, range uncertainty, an angled target, or bullet expansion and penetration. Choose a zone smaller than the target's full vital area if you need room for those errors.
If your sight height exceeds half the zone diameter, the bullet starts below the centered window. The calculator shows the near distance where it first enters that window, along with the far limit.
You can also choose an offset vertical window that includes the muzzle. With a 4-inch sight height and a 6-inch total window, that gives limits of 4 inches below and 2 inches above the sight line. This is an offset band, not a centered 6-inch circle. The tool shows the actual limits before calculating.
Confirm the zero with live fire
A suggested zero is a starting point for range work. Check the near crossing, the highest part of the trajectory, and the far boundary with your actual rifle and ammunition. This tool does not define an ethical hunting distance or replace the hunter's judgment.
Already purchased a tape? Changing a ballistic zero is separate from a style or location update. This free calculator does not change a saved tape or consume a correction.
Check retained energy, make a printable drop chart, or browse the free tools.