When shooting outdoors handgun at longer ranges (>50 yards), in general, what should give the best overall accuracy, a light or heavy bullet?
If a lighter bullet is used at a higher velocity then it gets to the target faster and any wind has less windage effect.
If a heavier bullet is used it has a lower velocity but the higher inertia will oppose wind gusts windage better than a lighter bullet.
A heavier bullet probably has a better sectional density, which may mean better stability in flight.
Maybe it is strictly a function of the gun you are shooting and you just have to try all combinations.
Hmmmmmmm
I would like to hear your experience on this subject. I have recently taken up 100 yard target shooting with my scoped 686. It is a lot of fun and very challenging; especially if the wind is blowing. When you are looking at a 8 x 11 target through a 7 power scope you can really see how much movement is actually going on. If you do the math, just a few thousands movement at the muzzle can give you a 1/2 inch error at the target. Just a 5 mph wind gust can also cause the 1/2 " error. I have had a few groups inside 3 inches lately. It takes a lot of concentration and patience.
If a lighter bullet is used at a higher velocity then it gets to the target faster and any wind has less windage effect.
If a heavier bullet is used it has a lower velocity but the higher inertia will oppose wind gusts windage better than a lighter bullet.
A heavier bullet probably has a better sectional density, which may mean better stability in flight.
Maybe it is strictly a function of the gun you are shooting and you just have to try all combinations.
Hmmmmmmm
I would like to hear your experience on this subject. I have recently taken up 100 yard target shooting with my scoped 686. It is a lot of fun and very challenging; especially if the wind is blowing. When you are looking at a 8 x 11 target through a 7 power scope you can really see how much movement is actually going on. If you do the math, just a few thousands movement at the muzzle can give you a 1/2 inch error at the target. Just a 5 mph wind gust can also cause the 1/2 " error. I have had a few groups inside 3 inches lately. It takes a lot of concentration and patience.