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Best Caliber For Long Range Precision Shooting (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to improve your long-range precision shooting, then you need to pay attention to the caliber you choose. The right caliber can make a huge difference in your accuracy, so it’s important to consider all your options before making a purchase.

Before buying a caliber for long-range precision shooting, you need to consider factors such as bullet weight, velocity, and trajectory. Different calibers will have different specifications in these areas, so you need to find one that matches your shooting style and preferences. Additionally, you need to consider the type of rifle you’ll be using, as not all rifles can handle all calibers.

Are you tired of inconsistent shots ruining your long-range precision shooting? Do you want to take your skills to the next level and hit those hard-to-reach targets? Choosing the right caliber can make all the difference. But how do you know which one to pick? What factors should you consider? And what are the best options out there? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about choosing the perfect caliber for long-range precision shooting.

10 Best Caliber For Long Range Precision Shooting

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for precision shooting, hunting and tactical applications with its rangefinding capabilities and built-in ballistic calculator.
2
Ideal for hunters and long-range shooters to customize firing solutions based on environmental and ballistic data.
3
Ideal for precision rifle shooting with adjustable zoom and reticle for accurate long-range targeting.
4
Ideal for outdoor shooting and hunting with long-range capabilities, HD video, and waterproof construction.
5
It's an ideal tool for use in machine shops and tool rooms, featuring a 6" length with a cross test vial.
6
Measuring small distances or thickness with high precision, using a tool with adjustable bezel and fitted case.
7
The product is ideal for precise and accurate measurements of length and thickness in various units.
8
Ideal for improving rifle accuracy and stability during target shooting, with ambidextrous swivel design and detachable magazine rest.
9
The product is ideal for providing adjustable active safety ear muffs hearing protection in noisy environments.
10
Ideal for precise measurement of small objects with both inch and metric units, featuring a large LCD screen.
Ideal for precision shooting, hunting and tactical applications with its rangefinding capabilities and built-in ballistic calculator.
Ideal for hunters and long-range shooters to customize firing solutions based on environmental and ballistic data.
Ideal for precision rifle shooting with adjustable zoom and reticle for accurate long-range targeting.
Ideal for outdoor shooting and hunting with long-range capabilities, HD video, and waterproof construction.
It's an ideal tool for use in machine shops and tool rooms, featuring a 6" length with a cross test vial.
Measuring small distances or thickness with high precision, using a tool with adjustable bezel and fitted case.
The product is ideal for precise and accurate measurements of length and thickness in various units.
Ideal for improving rifle accuracy and stability during target shooting, with ambidextrous swivel design and detachable magazine rest.
The product is ideal for providing adjustable active safety ear muffs hearing protection in noisy environments.
Ideal for precise measurement of small objects with both inch and metric units, featuring a large LCD screen.

1. Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Laser Rangefinding Scope With Ballistic Calculator, Eliminator Iv,black

The new extended rangefinding capabilities of this product allow for precise targeting up to 2,000 yards away. It also features an enhanced ballistic calculator that provides faster and more accurate aiming solutions. This feature enables the user to take ethical shots at longer distances. Additionally, the product comes with a wireless remote laser activation, making it easier to range targets. No need for a smartphone or separate handheld range finder.

The ballistic calculator is simple to use – just input your cartridge’s ballistic info, and the scope will calculate the perfect holdover at your exact distance. The scope also estimates wind drift, giving you the perfect aiming solution with a bright red dot all at the push of a button. Four tools are included in this product – precision optics, an internal digital inclinometer, smart dope card, and a built-in laser range finder.

With these features, this product is perfect for those who want to take precise shots at long distances without the need for additional equipment. The product is user-friendly and provides accurate and reliable results.

Pros

  • Extended rangefinding capabilities up to 2,000 yards
  • Enhanced ballistic calculator for more accurate aiming solutions
  • Wireless remote laser activation for easy targeting
  • No need for a smartphone or separate handheld range finder
  • Includes precision optics, digital inclinometer, smart dope card, and a built-in laser range finder

2. Kestrel 5700 Ballistics Weather Meter With Hornady 4dof

The Kestrel 5700 is a state-of-the-art long-range shooting tool that combines real-time environmental measurements with the Hornady 4DOF ballistics calculator. This all-in-one unit is rugged, dependable, compact, and powerful. It can quickly and accurately determine long-range holdovers and windage corrections to help you achieve first-round hits, eliminating the need for DOPE cards, guessing at the wind, or being unsure about where your bullet will hit when you change elevation.

The Kestrel 5700 features a switchable white/red backlight, a battery life indicator, an adjustable interval data log, a high contrast sunlight-readable monochrome LCD display, and an intuitive tactile up/down/enter keypad. The device is drop-tested to MIL-STD-810G standards, waterproof to IP67 (3'/1M for 30 minutes), and comes with an integrated flip-open impeller cover. Additionally, the Kestrel 5700 is equipped with a digital compass, a minimum/max relative humidity sensor, and a patented external isolated temperature sensor.

The Kestrel 5700 can connect with LiNK compatible range finders, supports Mil, MOA, clicks, in, and cm, and has standard and night vision preserving backlight options. It also features a target range estimator, target lead calculator for moving targets, target speed estimator tool, and zero angle calculation. The device comes with basic ballistic data table, aerodynamic jump correction, axial form factor calibration, coriolis correction, and spin drift correction. It can create and store one target and up to three gun/bullet profiles. The device offers easy mode with step-by-step set up guidance and supports G7/G1 solver, Hornady bullet library, muzzle velocity-temperature sensitivity correction, and MV-Temp table.

Overall, the Kestrel 5700 with Hornady 4DOF is a powerful and reliable tool that can help long-range shooters hit their targets with confidence and ease.

Pros

  • Switchable white/red backlight
  • Battery life indicator
  • Adjustable interval data log
  • High contrast sunlight-readable monochrome LCD display
  • Intuitive tactile up/down/enter keypad
  • Drop-tested to MIL-STD-810G standards
  • Waterproof to IP67 (3'/1M for 30 minutes)
  • Integrated flip-open impeller cover
  • Digital compass
  • Minimum/max relative humidity sensor
  • Patented external isolated temperature sensor
  • Connects with LiNK compatible range finders
  • Supports Mil, MOA, clicks, in, and cm
  • Standard and night vision preserving backlight options
  • Target range estimator
  • Target lead calculator for moving targets
  • Target speed estimator tool
  • Zero angle calculation
  • Basic ballistic data table
  • Aerodynamic jump correction
  • Axial form factor calibration
  • Coriolis correction
  • Spin drift correction
  • Creates and stores one target and up to three gun/bullet profiles
  • Easy mode with step-by-step set up guidance
  • Supports G7/G1 solver
  • Hornady bullet library
  • Muzzle velocity-temperature sensitivity correction
  • MV-Temp table

3. Xtr Iii Precision Scope: Extreme Accuracy Awaits.

The XTR III line of optics is designed for tactical and competition shooting, and is built with precision and reliability in mind. The optics are available in two models: 3.3-18x50mm and 5.5-30x56mm, both of which feature a 34mm body tube for increased strength and extended adjustment range. The optics have a length of 13.3 inches and weigh 29.8 ounces.

The XTR III line of optics features premium glass and optical improvements, which provide best-in-class field-of-view, deeper depth of focus, and outstanding light transmission. The optics have a smaller eyepiece signature and larger eye box, making them comfortable and easy to use. The optics are designed, machined, and assembled in Greeley, Colorado.

The XTR III line of optics features a new Special Competition Reticle (SCR) 2 MIL reticle, which has a gridded “Christmas tree” design. This design allows for extremely fast and accurate windage and elevation compensation, and clear communication with spotters. The elevation adjustments on the 3.3-18x50mm model can go up to 120 MOA, which will take the 6.5 Creedmoor past one mile. Both models also have an expanded side parallax adjustment, allowing for fine-tuning focus at shorter distances.

Pros

  • Premium glass and optical improvements provide best-in-class field-of-view, deeper depth of focus, and outstanding light transmission
  • Special Competition Reticle (SCR) 2 MIL reticle features a gridded “Christmas tree” design, allowing extremely fast and accurate windage and elevation compensation
  • Elevation adjustments up to 120 MOA on the 3.3-18x50mm model will take the 6.5 Creedmoor past one mile

4. Caldwell Precision Lr Camera: Hd Video, 1-Mile Range!

The Caldwell Ballistic Precision Long Range Target Camera is an innovative device that features a 1-mile range and the ability to live stream HD video (720p). It can also save pictures, add notes, calculate group size, save info and record video. This highly versatile camera is equipped with a rechargeable battery that provides up to 6 hours of runtime or can be permanently set up by utilizing the external power jack. The entire setup breaks down compact and stores away in the included storage case for easy transport. The device is contained in a waterproof housing that allows for permanent setup and use in rainy conditions. The free Caldwell App is compatible with Android and iPhone smartphones and most tablets, making it a convenient tool for long-range target practice.

The Caldwell Ballistic Precision Long Range Target Camera is a highly innovative and versatile device that boasts a 1-mile range and the ability to live stream HD video. Its rechargeable battery and waterproof housing make it a reliable and durable tool for long-range target practice. Additionally, the camera can be easily transported and is compatible with most smartphones and tablets.

The Caldwell Ballistic Precision Long Range Target Camera is an excellent tool for long-range target practice. With its 1-mile range and ability to live stream HD video, users can easily monitor their shots in real-time. Its rechargeable battery and waterproof housing make it a reliable and durable device that can be used in any weather condition. The camera is also highly versatile and can be easily transported and used with most smartphones and tablets.

Pros

  • Features a 1-mile range
  • Ability to live stream HD video (720p)
  • Can save pictures, add notes, calculate group size, save info and record video
  • Equipped with a rechargeable battery that provides up to 6 hours of runtime
  • Can be permanently set up by utilizing the external power jack
  • Entire setup breaks down compact and stores away in the included storage case for easy transport
  • Contained in a waterproof housing that allows for permanent setup and use in rainy conditions
  • Compatible with Android and iPhone smartphones and most tablets

5. Precision 6" Machinist Level By Starrett

The Adjustable Machinist Level is a reliable and accurate tool that is perfect for quick leveling tasks. It features adjustable vials that can be set to a positive setting by turning the knurled knob on the side of the level. The cross-test vial allows for simultaneous leveling in both directions, preventing inaccuracies caused by canting the level sidewise on round work. The base is made from high-quality cast iron and is precision-machined on the reference surface to increase durability. The vial is housed in a satin finished brass tube with a friction-fit closing cover to prevent breakage. The base of the level also features an involute groove between the bearing flats for accurate seating on round work. This groove has a special involute design, permitting better centering and greater capacity to handle larger round work.

This exceptional tool is perfect for machinists and provides greater accuracy than other construction levels. It is accurate and reliable, ensuring that your work is level and precise. The main vial is ground and gradated for even greater accuracy. This machinist's level is made from high-quality seasoned cast iron and comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.

Pros

  • Adjustable vials make it easy to set to a positive setting
  • Cross-test vial allows for simultaneous leveling in both directions
  • Precision-machined cast iron base increases durability
  • Satin finished brass tube housing for vial prevents breakage
  • Involuted groove in base for accurate seating on round work
  • Greater accuracy than other construction levels
  • Ground and gradated main vial
  • 1-year manufacturer's warranty

6. Precision Pro Caliper – 0-6" Range

The Starrett Dial is a reliable and accurate measurement tool that ensures you get the job done right. Equipped with knife-edge contacts for both inside and outside measurements, this dial has a positive split-gear anti-backlash control for easy one-hand use with the thumb-operated fine adjustment roll. The graduations are direct reading, reliable, and accurate, ensuring precise measurements every time.

Made from robust materials, this Dial is crafted from a hardened stainless steel bar, measuring surfaces, rack, and gears. It has a lock screw for the dial bezel and a lock screw for holding the sliding jaw in position, ensuring durability and longevity.

This Dial offers a wide range of selection, including mechanical dial, electronic display, lever-style test, and back plunger. Each type has its own unique strengths, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Designed for you, this Dial offers everything you need, including a broad line of each indicator type, an extensive range of accessories to configure and position the gage, and an indicator-based custom-engineered solution as needed.

Starrett indicators and gages have been the go-to choice for precision measurement for over a century. Our tools are carefully crafted to provide the most accurate readings possible, making them the finest quality available.

Pros

  • Reliable and accurate measurements every time
  • Crafted from robust materials for durability and longevity
  • Wide range of selection to choose from
  • Everything you need to get the job done
  • Finest quality available for precision measurement

7. Xl Digital Caliper With Fractions/millimeter Conversion

Make precise measurements with ease using this versatile digital caliper. It features a one-button quick-change function that allows you to switch between three measuring modes: inches, fractions, and millimeters, eliminating the need to convert measurements separately. The caliper has a measurement range of 0-12 inches and 0-300mm, with a resolution of 0.0005 inches, 1/128 inches, or 0.01mm, and an accuracy of 0.001 inches or 0.02mm. The finely polished stainless steel frame comes with a knurled thumb roller and locking screw to ensure smooth sliding and accurate positioning during use. You can measure inside, outside, depth, and step with two sets of jaws and a probe. The extra-large LCD screen allows for easy and clear readings, while the included replacement LR44 battery ensures that you always have a backup. The custom-fit storage case provides added protection and convenience, making this digital caliper an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Take precise measurements quickly and easily with this digital caliper. With one-button quick-change functionality, it's simple to switch between measurement modes and get accurate readings in inches, fractions, or millimeters. The caliper has a wide measurement range of 0-12 inches and 0-300mm, and boasts an impressive resolution of 0.0005 inches, 1/128 inches, or 0.01mm, with an accuracy of 0.001 inches or 0.02mm. The finely polished stainless steel frame is designed for smooth sliding and accurate positioning, and the knurled thumb roller and locking screw make it easy to adjust. This versatile tool comes with two sets of jaws and a probe, allowing you to measure inside, outside, depth, and step with ease. The extra-large LCD screen makes it easy to read your measurements, and the bonus replacement LR44 battery ensures that you'll always be ready to go. With a custom-fit storage case for added protection, this digital caliper is the perfect tool for anyone who needs to make precise measurements.

Get accurate measurements quickly and easily with this digital caliper. Its one-button quick-change function makes it easy to switch between measurement modes, and you can choose from inches, fractions, or millimeters. The caliper has a measurement range of 0-12 inches and 0-300mm, with a resolution of 0.0005 inches, 1/128 inches, or 0.01mm, and an accuracy of 0.001 inches or 0.02mm. The finely polished stainless steel frame is designed for smooth sliding and accurate positioning, and the knurled thumb roller and locking screw ensure that you can make precise adjustments. With two sets of jaws and a probe, you can measure inside, outside, depth, and step with ease. The extra-large LCD screen makes it easy to read your measurements, and the bonus replacement LR44 battery means that you'll always be ready to go. Plus, the custom-fit storage case provides added protection, making this digital caliper a must-have for anyone who needs to take precise measurements.

Pros

  • Features one-button quick-change function for easy switching between measurement modes
  • Comes with two sets of jaws and a probe for versatile measurements
  • Finely polished stainless steel frame ensures smooth sliding and accurate positioning
  • Extra-large LCD screen makes it easy to read your measurements
  • Includes bonus replacement LR44 battery and custom-fit storage case for added convenience and protection

Cons

  • – None

8. Adjustable Turret Rest For Precision Target Shooting.

For hunters and shooters looking for a reliable rest, the XYZ Shooting Rest is a great option. Measuring 22.4” L x 5.5” W and weighing 10.6 lbs, this rest is solid and can accommodate a range of firearms. The front leg adjustment of 6 inches allows for micro-adjustments and ensures that the rest stays put during and after every shot. The ball bearing panning system with 58 degrees of panning also adds to the rest's accuracy.

One of the standout features of the XYZ Shooting Rest is that it's non-destructive. The front clamp and pistol grip attachment are made of non-marring materials, which means that they will securely hold your gun without damaging any point of contact. This is especially important for those with high-end firearms.

Another feature that users will appreciate is the ease of use. Adjustment knobs are conveniently placed, allowing for easy adjustments without having to remove the gun from the rest. This makes it easy to make precise adjustments on the fly without disrupting your shooting rhythm.

Finally, the versatility of the XYZ Shooting Rest is worth noting. It has an adjustable forend clamp and a removable pistol grip platform with 1.5 inches of adjustment. This makes it perfect for detachable magazine rifles and lever-action guns, which can be more challenging to stabilize on other types of rests. Overall, the XYZ Shooting Rest is a well-made, versatile, and accurate option for hunters and shooters of all levels.

Pros

  • Solid and accurate
  • Non-destructive materials
  • Easy to use adjustment knobs
  • Versatile for a range of firearms

9. Pro X Safety Ear Muffs – Camo Green

The Sordin military hearing protectors have been upgraded to include an advanced natural sound reproduction system that offers improved noise amplification compared to previous MSA Sordin models. The PRO X model specifically has four levels of sound amplification (1:4) and integrated speakers in the head set that amplify quiet sounds and reproduce surrounding noise crystal clear. The sound reduction rating of the headset is SNR: 25dB (mean value), meaning that noise around you can be reduced by up to 25dB. Additionally, each microphone has been waterproofed, making the earmuffs ideal for outdoor use in the woods or field, as well as for indoor use at shooting ranges or noisy workplaces. Two microphones in the ear muff recreate excellent 3D audio, ensuring you never lose your orientation in any noisy environment.

Pros

  • Features improved noise amplification compared to previous MSA Sordin models
  • Offers four levels of sound amplification (1:4) and integrated speakers
  • Waterproof microphones make the earmuffs suitable for outdoor and indoor use
  • Provides excellent 3D audio, helping to maintain orientation in any noisy situation

10. Precisionpro Digital Vernier Caliper – Red/black

The Stainless Steel Digital Caliper is ideal for both home DIY and professional use. The caliper offers fine polished stainless steel construction and a new processing of the depthometer's groove that provides better-looking, smooth sliding, and accurate results. It has a measuring range of 0-6 inches/150mm, and the display features an extra-large screen that measures 1/2"x1 1/2" (13mm x 38mm). The caliper offers an accuracy of ±0.001"/0.03mm and a resolution of 0.0005"/0.01mm, 1/128". Each digital caliper is fully calibrated before it's ready to sell. Although this particular model doesn't include a calibration certificate, the DCLA-0605C model, which does include a certificate, is available for purchase.

The RS232 data transfer port is a great feature and requires a connection with the VINCA DTCR-03 cable (sold separately) to transfer data to a PC. It's important to note that a regular USB cable should not be used. The product is patented in the US and comes with an extra battery for added convenience.

Pros

  • Fine polished stainless steel construction
  • New processing of the depthometer's groove provides better-looking, smooth sliding, and accurate results
  • Extra-large screen for easy reading
  • Fully calibrated before it's ready to sell
  • RS232 data transfer port for convenient data transfer to a PC
  • Comes with an extra battery

Cons

  • – Does not include a calibration certificate (available for purchase separately)

Best Caliber For Long Range Precision Shooting FAQs

Are there any specific calibers that are better suited for shooting at longer ranges than others?

Yes, there are specific calibers that are better suited for shooting at longer ranges than others. Generally, calibers with a flatter trajectory and higher velocity are preferred for long-range shooting. Some of the most popular long-range calibers include .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Lapua Magnum. These calibers are known for their accuracy and ability to maintain energy and velocity over longer distances. Additionally, the bullet weight and design can also play a significant role in long-range shooting. Heavier bullets tend to perform better at longer ranges due to their ability to maintain energy and resist wind drift. Ultimately, choosing the right caliber for long-range shooting depends on a variety of factors, including the shooter's skill level, the rifle's capabilities, and the specific shooting scenario.

How does barrel length and twist rate impact a caliber's accuracy at long ranges for precision shooting?

The barrel length and twist rate play a crucial role in determining the accuracy of a caliber at long ranges for precision shooting. The barrel length affects the velocity of the bullet and its flight trajectory, while the twist rate affects the bullet's stability and accuracy.

For long-range precision shooting, longer barrels are preferred as they provide higher muzzle velocities, which in turn results in a flatter trajectory and more energy at longer distances. However, longer barrels also increase the weight of the rifle, which can affect the shooter's ability to hold the rifle steady.

The twist rate of the barrel is also essential for accuracy. It refers to the number of rotations the bullet makes in a given distance as it travels through the barrel. The higher the twist rate, the more stable the bullet will be in flight, which results in better accuracy at longer ranges. However, too high of a twist rate can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the barrel and may negatively impact the velocity of the bullet.

In conclusion, the combination of the barrel length and twist rate significantly impacts the accuracy of a caliber at long ranges for precision shooting. It is essential to choose the right barrel length and twist rate for the specific caliber and shooting conditions to achieve the desired level of accuracy.

How does bullet weight and muzzle velocity affect a caliber's performance for long range precision shooting?

Bullet weight and muzzle velocity are two crucial factors that affect the performance of a caliber for long-range precision shooting. When it comes to long-range shooting, accuracy, and consistency are critical. A bullet's weight can impact its trajectory and stability in flight, making it more important for long-range shooting. Heavier bullets tend to be more stable in the air and are less affected by wind and other environmental factors. Lighter bullets, on the other hand, tend to travel faster and may have a flatter trajectory, but they are often more affected by wind and other environmental factors, making it more difficult to maintain accuracy at longer ranges.

Muzzle velocity is another critical factor that affects a caliber's performance for long-range precision shooting. The speed at which a bullet leaves the barrel can impact its trajectory, accuracy, and stability. A higher muzzle velocity often results in a flatter trajectory, which can be beneficial for longer-range shots. However, higher velocities can also increase recoil, which can make it more challenging to maintain accuracy.

In conclusion, both bullet weight and muzzle velocity play a critical role in determining a caliber's performance for long-range precision shooting. A good balance of these factors is essential to achieve the desired accuracy and consistency for long-range shots. It is essential to choose the right ammunition that suits your shooting needs and the environment in which you plan to shoot.

What factors should be considered when selecting a caliber for long range precision shooting, such as wind drift and bullet drop?

When selecting a caliber for long range precision shooting, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration. The first factor to consider is the distance at which you will be shooting. Different calibers have different effective ranges, and it is important to choose a caliber that can reliably hit your target at the range you are shooting from.

Another important factor to consider is wind drift. Wind can have a significant impact on the trajectory of a bullet, and it is important to choose a caliber that can compensate for wind drift. This may involve choosing a heavier bullet or a caliber with a flatter trajectory.

Bullet drop is another important factor to consider when selecting a caliber for long range precision shooting. Bullets lose velocity as they travel through the air, and this can cause them to drop significantly over long distances. Choosing a caliber with a flatter trajectory can help to minimize bullet drop.

Other factors to consider when selecting a caliber for long range precision shooting include the availability and cost of ammunition, as well as the recoil of the caliber. Ultimately, the best caliber for long range precision shooting will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What is the ideal caliber for long range precision shooting?

The ideal caliber for long range precision shooting depends on various factors, such as the distance of the target, the type of ammunition being used, and the shooter's skill level. Generally, calibers between .308 and .338 are popular choices for long range shooting due to their accuracy and ability to maintain velocity over long distances. However, some shooters prefer larger calibers such as .50 BMG for extreme long range shooting.

It's important to note that choosing the right caliber is only one aspect of long range precision shooting. Other factors such as bullet weight, barrel length, and scope quality also play a significant role in achieving accuracy at long distances. Ultimately, the ideal caliber for long range precision shooting will depend on the individual shooter's preferences, experience, and shooting goals. It's important to experiment with different calibers and ammunition types to find the perfect combination for your specific needs.

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