Berger has released two important informational updates for its line-up of bullets. First, the Ballistics Coefficients (BCs) have been updated for the vast majority of bullets Berger sells. In addition, G7 model BCs are being provided for most of the bullets. You will want to use the updated BC data, which is based on actual testing of recent production lots of bullets.
Second, Berger is now providing a dual twist-rate recommendation for most bullets. Berger is now lists a “minimum” barrel twist rate as well as an “optimal” twist rate. To get maximum long-range performance from your bullets, use a barrel with the “optimal” rate of twist.
CLICK HERE for the latest Berger Quick Reference Sheets with updated BCs and new Optimal Twist Rates. Eric Stecker, Berger President says: “We have tested every lot of bullets produced in the last several years to bring you these updated numbers for all of our bullets.”
Ballistic Coeffificent (BC) Updates with G7 Data
Berger notes: “We have updated all of our Ballistic Coefficients to be even more accurate.
Prior to 2008, all of Berger Bullets’ BCs were calculated using a computer prediction. Early in 2009, we began measuring BCs with live-fire testing. As a result, Berger’s BCs were updated and G7 BCs were also made available. This represented a dramatic improvement in the accuracy of performance data at that time. Since 2009, the BCs assessed for Berger Bullets have not been updated. As part of our ongoing effort to provide shooters with the best information possible, Berger has been testing every lot of bullets produced for the last several years. The result is updated and highly accurate running averages of BCs for recent production lots.
| Description | New G1 BC | New G7 BC | % Change |
| 22 Cal 80gr VLD Target | 0.455 | 0.233 | +2% |
| 22 Cal 90gr VLD Target | 0.534 | 0.274 | -3% |
| 6mm 95gr VLD Target | 0.467 | 0.240 | -3% |
| 6mm 105gr VLD Target | 0.517 | 0.265 | +5% |
| 6mm 105gr Hybrid Target | 0.536 | 0.275 | -1% |
| 6mm 115gr VLD Target | 0.563 | 0.289 | +3% |
| 6.5mm 130gr VLD Target | 0.562 | 0.288 | +2% |
| 6.5mm 140gr Hybrid Target | 0.607 | 0.311 | -2% |
| 7mm 180gr VLD Target | 0.683 | 0.350 | +4% |
| 7mm 180gr Hybrid Target | 0.680 | 0.349 | +1% |
| 30 Cal 155gr Hybrid Target | 0.478 | 0.245 | -1% |
| 30 Cal 185gr Hybrid Target | 0.576 | 0.295 | +1% |
| 30 Cal 215gr Hybrid Target | 0.691 | 0.354 | -1% |
CLICK HERE for Complete Table with all bullets on Berger Website
G7 Form Factor Addition
Berger also added the G7 form factor to the Ballistics Quick Reference Sheet. The analysis of form factors can be very useful when considering a bullet’s long range performance potential. Going by BC alone can be deceptive since BC includes the weight and caliber of the bullet. Form factor indicates how much drag the bullet has, which is a very important consideration for all bullets of all calibers.
NEW Dual Twist-Rate Recommendations
Recommended twist rates for bullets are commonly listed as a single value, such as 1:12” (one rotation in 12″ of barrel travel). This may be overly simplistic. There is a big gray area of marginal stability in which bullets can fly with good accuracy, but with a reduced (i.e. sub-optimal) Ballistic Coefficient. Recognizing this reality, Berger is now listing two twist rates for each bullet it makes. The first is the minimum twist needed for good accuracy, which Berger has always recommended. The second is the new optimal twist rate, which is the twist that will stabilize the bullet to a level which achieves its full performance (BC) potential. CLICK HERE For more information.
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