🎯 Bullet Energy Calculator
Calculate bullet kinetic energy
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Bullet Mass
Input the mass of the bullet in kilograms (kg). For example, a typical 9mm bullet weighs about 0.007 kg (7 grams). You can also convert from grams by dividing by 1000.
Enter Bullet Velocity
Enter the velocity of the bullet in meters per second (m/s). Typical handgun velocities range from 300-500 m/s, while rifle bullets can exceed 900 m/s.
Click Calculate
Press the "Calculate" button to compute the kinetic energy and momentum of the bullet. The results will appear below the calculator.
Review Results
Review the calculated kinetic energy (in Joules and kilojoules) and momentum values. These values help understand the bullet's stopping power and impact characteristics.
About Bullet Energy Calculator
The Bullet Energy Calculator computes the kinetic energy and momentum of a bullet based on its mass and velocity. This calculator is essential for ballistics analysis, understanding stopping power, and comparing different ammunition types. Kinetic energy determines how much damage a bullet can cause, while momentum affects penetration depth.
When to Use This Calculator
- Ballistics Analysis: Calculate bullet energy for different calibers and loads
- Hunting Applications: Determine appropriate ammunition for game size
- Safety Calculations: Understand bullet energy for safety barrier design
- Ammunition Comparison: Compare kinetic energy across different bullet types
- Physics Education: Learn about kinetic energy and momentum in real-world applications
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Dual Output: Provides both kinetic energy and momentum
- ✅ Multiple Units: Displays results in Joules and kilojoules
- ✅ Step-by-Step Formula: Shows the calculation process
- ✅ Accurate Calculations: Uses standard physics formulas
- ✅ Free to Use: No registration or payment required
Understanding Bullet Energy
Bullet energy is a critical factor in ballistics. Higher kinetic energy means more potential damage, but it's not the only factor—bullet design, velocity, and target material all matter. Energy is measured in Joules (J), with typical handgun rounds producing 300-800 J, while rifle rounds can exceed 3000 J.
Formula
KE = ½mv²
p = mv
Where:
- KE = Kinetic Energy (Joules)
- m = Mass of the bullet (kilograms)
- v = Velocity of the bullet (meters per second)
- p = Momentum (kg·m/s)
Example Calculation:
For a bullet with mass = 0.01 kg and velocity = 900 m/s:
KE = ½ × 0.01 × 900²
KE = 0.5 × 0.01 × 810,000
KE = 4,050 J = 4.05 kJ
p = 0.01 × 900 = 9 kg·m/s
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bullet energy and why is it important?
Bullet energy (kinetic energy) measures the bullet's ability to do work upon impact. It's calculated as KE = ½mv² and determines stopping power, penetration depth, and potential damage. Higher energy generally means more effective stopping power, but bullet design also matters significantly.
How does velocity affect bullet energy?
Velocity has a squared relationship with energy—doubling the velocity quadruples the energy. This is why velocity is so important in ballistics. A bullet traveling at 900 m/s has four times the energy of the same bullet at 450 m/s.
What's the difference between energy and momentum?
Energy (KE = ½mv²) measures the bullet's capacity to do work and cause damage. Momentum (p = mv) measures the bullet's tendency to continue moving and affects penetration. Both are important but measure different aspects of bullet performance.
Can I use this for different units (grains, fps)?
This calculator uses metric units (kg and m/s). To convert: 1 grain = 0.0000648 kg, and to convert fps to m/s, multiply by 0.3048. For example, 1000 fps = 304.8 m/s.
What is a typical bullet energy for handguns vs rifles?
Handgun rounds typically produce 300-800 J of energy (9mm, .45 ACP). Rifle rounds can produce 1500-4000+ J (.223 Remington, .308 Winchester). Large caliber rifles can exceed 5000 J. Energy requirements vary by application—hunting large game typically requires 1000+ J.