Recommended free ballistic software?

[Captain*kirk]

I'm searching for free ballistic software apps on the 'net and found a dizzying array of options...but reading the reviews, some users are not happy. Any of you reloaders have a free version you are thrilled with that you could recommend for laptop, phone or tablet? Thanks!

 

[JimGnitecki]

I use the Hornady ballistics software available on the Hornady website. I used to use the ballsitic sftware on a different website, but one day when going there I encountered a warning that the webssite was not safe. Evidently, it had been hacked. So, one of my reasons for staying with the Hornady one is that a large reputable compnay's website is likely to have better security.

Jim G

 

[MarshallDodge]

You are going to get a lot of input on this.

Ever since Strelok was removed as a free option, I have been recommending Lapua's app.

 

[Captain*kirk]

I use the Hornady ballistics software available on the Hornady website. I used to use the ballsitic sftware on a different website, but one day when going there I encountered a warning that the webssite was not safe. Evidently, it had been hacked. So, one of my reasons for staying with the Hornady one is that a large reputable compnay's website is likely to have better security.

Jim G

I was ready to download the Hornady program but read the reviews...one user said the font was very small and difficult to read. Have you found this to be the case?

 

[Captain*kirk]

You are going to get a lot of input on this.

Ever since Strelok was removed as a free option, I have been recommending Lapua's app.

I will take a peek at it. Thanks!

 

[Blue68f100]

May take a look at Gun Log, it was done by a member here on THR. It does have ballistic data bases on your ammo and gun options. Not real fancy but works.

 

[Kaldor]

I was ready to download the Hornady program but read the reviews...one user said the font was very small and difficult to read. Have you found this to be the case?

The Hornady software I dont feel is hard to use or the text too small. For something free? It works pretty well and will generally get you on the target. From there you have to true up any data with any software like this. It offers plenty of flexibility, and you can enter anything you want for velocity, bullet BC, etc. All you can do is try it out. I run it on both my Android phone, and my iPad.

The only one I can think of that might be perfect out of the box would be the Applied Ballistics stuff with the custom drag models they have for each bullet, but thats not a free option by any means.

 

[JimGnitecki]

I was ready to download the Hornady program but read the reviews...one user said the font was very small and difficult to read. Have you found this to be the case?

I have no problem reading the font size. If you choose a ballistic calculator that prints in a large font, you become restricted in the total range, and the increments in range, that can be displayed on ONE sheet of letter-size paper.

Jim G

 

[irishlad]

The Hornady software I dont feel is hard to use or the text too small. For something free? It works pretty well and will generally get you on the target. From there you have to true up any data with any software like this. It offers plenty of flexibility, and you can enter anything you want for velocity, bullet BC, etc. All you can do is try it out. I run it on both my Android phone, and my iPad.

The only one I can think of that might be perfect out of the box would be the Applied Ballistics stuff with the custom drag models they have for each bullet, but thats not a free option by any means.

Hornady works fine for me. Easy and accurate. Grandson likes his Strelok.

 

[Kaldor]

Hornady works fine for me. Easy and accurate. Grandson likes his Strelok.

Strelok "was" a great app, but unfortunately its been outlawed in the US due to fed.gov shenanigans and Russian sanctions. Updates and just getting the software are touch and go now. I do know how I can get the software, but the updates for it likely not ever happening, push me away.

GeoBallistics isnt too bad either, but isnt free beyond setting up a single rifle.

 

[irishlad]

Strelok "was" a great app, but unfortunately its been outlawed in the US due to fed.gov shenanigans and Russian sanctions. Updates and just getting the software are touch and go now. I do know how I can get the software, but the updates for it likely not ever happening, push me away.

GeoBallistics isnt too bad either, but isnt free beyond setting up a single rifle.

His is still working fine and still “is” a great app for him. He has it backed up. Says he knows work arounds. For my glorified backyard shooting the Hornady app is fine. Having a choice is a good thing. Enjoy whatever app you choose or use.

 

[Nature Boy]

To me it’s worth paying a nominal fee for the app as it funds the creator to keep the data files up to date with the latest bullets. None of them are very expensive compared to what we spent on this hobby.

I like Ballistics AE.

 

[stoney1666]

i use to use Norma, but can't find it any more, it was great in my opinion.

 

[Varminterror]

Let's get a little perspective here.

Any single range trip should eat up more ammo cost than the cost of these apps...

Ballistics AE, AB Mobile, StrelokPro (when & where available), GeoBallistics, JBM, Shooter, and a dozen others do the same thing. Pay your $20 for the one you like and party on.