ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY

Sniper Weapon Fire Control

Error Budget Analysis

Raymond Von Wahlde

Dennis Metz

ARL-TR-2065 AUGUST 1999

rarcQUALmr INSPECTED 19990909 293

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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MatchKing® is a registered trademark of Sierra Bullets.

Remington Model 700™ is a trademark of the Remington Arms Company, Inc.

The findings in this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position
unless so designated by other authorized documents.
Citation of manufacturer's or trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of
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Destroy this report when it is no longer needed. Do not return it to the originator.
Army Research Laboratory
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005-5066

ARL-TR-2065 August 1999

Sniper Weapon Fire Control Error Budget

Analysis
Raymond Von Wahlde
Weapons & Materials Research Directorate, ARL

Dennis Metz
EAI Corporation

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Abstract

In order to assess the value added by the application of fire control

technology to sniper weapons, "error budgets" are developed as a function
of range for several sniper weapon systems. A system is comprised of the
weapon and its associated ammunition as well as the type of fire control
technology provided that weapon. For this study, a total of four weapon-
ammunition combinations were used and three levels of fire control
sophistication were examined. The "baseline system" consists of a two-
person sniper team using a standard rifle, spotting scope, and laser range
finder to make aiming corrections. The "cross-wind system" adds a laser
crosswind sensing device and more accurate range finder incorporated into
the spotting scope. The "fire control system" performs a full ballistic firing
solution and presents a real-time corrected aim point to the shooter. One-
sigma system errors and probabilities of hit against an E-silhouette target
are calculated.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

LIST OF FIGURES v

LIST OF TABLES vii

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. WEAPON-AMMUNITION COMBINATIONS 2

2.1 M24 Sniper Weapon System (SWS), 300 Winchester Magnum Ammunition .... 2
2.2 M82A1 .50-Caliber Semi-Automatic Rifle, MK211 Ammunition 3
2.3 SR-25 Sniper Support Weapon (SSW), Ml 18LR Ammunition 4
2.4 .338 Caliber Test Bed Rifle, .338-.416 Ammunition 5

3. CHARACTERIZATION OF FIRE CONTROL SYSTEMS 5

3.1 Baseline System .- 6

3.2 Crosswind Sensor System 6
3.3 Fire Control System 7

4. ERROR BUDGET ANALYSIS 7

4.1 Variable Bias and Random Errors 8

4.2 Error Sources 9
4.3 Error Budget Results 19

5. CONCLUSIONS 30

REFERENCES 31

APPENDICES

A. Aeroballistic, Trajectory, and Unit Effects Data 35

B. Random and Variable Bias Errors 53
C. Number of Rounds to Hit E-Silhouette Target 59
D. Sensitivity Analysis 65

DISTRIBUTION LIST 71

REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE 75

in
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

IV
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

1. M24 Sniper Weapon System (SWS) 3

2. Barrett Model 82A1 Semi-Automatic Rifle 3

3. SR-25 .30 Caliber Match Rifle 4

4. .338 Test Bed Rifle 6

5. Variable Bias and Random Errors 9

6. Horizontal Variances, .300 WM, 700 m 24

7. Vertical Variances, .300 WM, 700 m 24

8. Bias Errors, .300 WM, 700 m 26

9. Random Errors, .300 WM, 700 m 26

10. Total Errors, .300 WM, 700 m 27

11. Error Budget Sensitivity, Crosswind Variable Bias 28

12. Error Budget Sensitivity, Ranging Error 29

INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

VI
 LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

1. Target/Weapon/Range Run Matrix 1

2. Error Sources 10

3. Round-to-Round Dispersion (RRD) Errors 11

4. Sniper's Approximate Aiming Error (unstressed, non-operational conditions) ... 16

5. Error Budget .300 WM 20

6. Error Budget MK211 21

7. Error Budget Ml 18LR 22

8. Error Budget .338-.416 23

Vll
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

viu
 SNIPER WEAPON FIRE CONTROL ERROR BUDGET ANALYSIS

1. INTRODUCTION

Project White Feather is a U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM)-sponsored effort

to apply advanced sniper weapon fire control technology that will extend range and increase first
round hit probability for special operations applications.[1] As envisioned, the fire control will
provide the shooter a real-time ballistically corrected aim point with input from a laser crosswind
sensor, laser range finder, inertial sensors that measure weapon motion, as well as other
sensors. [2]

In order to assess the value added by the application of fire control technology to sniper
weapons, SOCOM commissioned a weapon effectiveness study. [3] The analysis followed the
procedures of the Special Operations Target Vulnerability and Weaponeering Manual. [4]
Although the manual is devoted to specific targets, it delineates a method for determining target
vulnerability. The process involves creating a target description, defining damage criteria,
characterizing the weapon, computing hit points, and ascertaining weapon effectiveness. The
output is the number of rounds required to achieve a probability of kill (Pk) of 0.95 against a
target.

A weapon system is comprised of the weapon and its associated ammunition, as well as the
type of fire control technology provided for that weapon. For the study in Reference 3, three
weapon-ammunition combinations were used, and three levels of fire control sophistication were
examined. A set of seven land targets was chosen that represent both tactical and strategic/
operational targets. Two ranges were used for each target; each target was addressed by two
weapons. The run matrix is shown in Table 1.

Table 1. Target/Weapon/Range Run Matrix

Target Weapon/Ammunition Range(m)

Target Acquisition Radar M24 M82A1 1200 1500
300 WM MK211
Communications Van M24 M82A1 1200 1500
Tanker Truck M24 M82A1 1200 1500
Electric Power Transformer Substation M24 M82A1 1200 1500
Antitank Guided Missile Launcher M24 M82A1 400 700
Commander's Periscope, Tank M24 SR-25 400 700
M118LR
Commander's Periscope, Combat Vehicle M24 SR-25 400 700
 As its contribution to the weapon effectiveness study, the U.S. Army Research Laboratory
(ARL) characterized the ammunition in terms of aeroballistics, trajectories, and unit effects data
for changes in muzzle velocity, range, wind, and other parameters. An error budget was
developed as a function of range for each weapon-ammunition-fire control combination. Standard
deviation values were chosen for each source of error considered to influence accuracy. The
resulting computed dispersion data were used in probability of hit (PH) calculations for each
system. This report documents the derivation of the error budgets. To compute PH, an E-
silhouette (crouching man) target is used instead of the vulnerable areas of the targets from the
weapon effectiveness study.

2. WEAPON-AMMUNITION COMBINATIONS

A set of three weapons (and accompanying ammunition) that are currently available to the
U.S. military sniper community were used in the sniper operations analysis. This report also
includes a bench rest, 0.338-inch caliber weapon to represent the possible performance from a
future sniper rifle, e.g., the objective sniper weapon (OSW).[5]

2.1 M24 Sniper Weapon System fSWSV 300 Winchester Magnum Ammunition

The U.S. Army's M24 sniper weapon system (SWS) is built on a Remington Model
700™ bolt action and is chambered for 7.62x51-mm North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
caliber ammunition. The receiver is also capable of conversion to fire 300 Winchester magnum
(WM) rounds. The adjustable length stock (manufactured by H.S. Precision) is made of a
composite of Kevlar®, graphite, and fiberglass bound together with epoxy resins and features an
aluminum bedding block and adjustable plate. A detachable bipod (manufactured by Harris) can
be attached to the stock fore end. The length of the M24 rifle is 1.092 meters (43 in.). The
weight of the empty rifle without the scope is 5.49 kilograms (12.1 lb). The 610-mm (24-in.)
barrel has rifling with five lands and grooves, a right-hand twist, and one turn in 285 mm (11.25
in.). The ammunition feed is a five-round integral magazine. The reported maximum effective
range for the M24 is 800 meters. [6] A photograph of the M24 SWS is provided in Figure 1.

Magnum is a term commonly used to describe a cartridge or rifle that is larger or produces
higher velocity than standard cartridges or rifles of a given caliber. [7] 300 WM come in 180,190,
200, and even 220 grain sizes. For this study, a 190-grain (12.3-gm), MatchKing® (MK), hollow
point boat tail (HPBT), .30-inch caliber bullet was chosen and was assumed to be fired with a
muzzle velocity of 884 m/s (2,900 ft/s). The aeroballistic, trajectory, and unit effects data for the
300 WM are presented in Appendix A.

Figure 1. M24 Sniper Weapon System (SWSlf81

2.2 M82A1 .50-Caliber Semi-Automatic Rifle. MK211 Ammunition

The U.S. Army's M82A1 .50-caliber semi-automatic rifle is manufactured by Barrett

Firearms Manufacturing, Incorporated. [9] The M82A1 is an air-cooled, box-magazine-fed rifle
chambered for the .50-caliber, M2 Browning machine gun cartridge. The rifle operates by means
of a short recoil principle. The basic rifle is equipped with a bipod, muzzle brake, carrying case,
and metallic sights. The ammunition feed is a 10-round detachable box magazine. The overall
length of the M82A1 weapon is 1448 mm (57 in.) and the length of the barrel is 737 mm (29 in.).
The weight of the weapon is about 13.6 kg (30 lb). The M82A1 can fire either the M33 ball
round or the MK211 multipurpose (MP) round. The MK211 round was selected for this study.
The reported maximum effective range on equipment-sized targets is 1800 m.[10] A photograph
of the M82A1 is presented in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Barrett Model 82A1 Semi-Automatic RifleJlll

 The MK211 MP is a 670-grain (43.4 gm), .50-caliber bullet manufactured by Raufoss in
Norway. The MK211 MP projectile has an armor penetrator, an incendiary component, and a
high explosive component consisting of RDX (cyclonite), which is the explosive component of
C-4.[12] The MK211 multipurpose cartridge is suited for targets such as lightly armored troop
carriers, trucks, helicopters, light airplanes, and water craft. In addition, the MK21 l's Zirconium-
initiated incendiary and fire-starting capability is effective against fuel and ammunition storage
containers and vehicle fuel tanks. [13] For this study, the round was assumed to be fired with a
muzzle velocity of 827.5 m/s (2,715 ft/s). The aeroballistic, trajectory, and unit effects data for
the MK211 MP are given in Appendix A.

2.3 SR-25 Sniper Support Weapon fSSW\ Ml 18LR Ammunition

The SR-25 sniper support weapon (SSW) is a semi-automatic .308 Winchester (7.62-mm
NATO rifle) produced by Knight's Manufacturing Company. The SR-25 has several versions.
The version designated the SR-25 match rifle is the SR-25 SSW.[14] The SR-25 bears a strong
resemblance to the M16/AR-15 family of rifles. This is because one of the designers of the SR-
25 was Eugene Stoner ("SR" stands for "Stoner rifle"), who was the original designer of the
Armalite AR-15 series of rifles that was adopted by the U.S. military as the Ml6 family of
assault rifles. In fact, 60% of the parts of the SR-25 are common to the M16/AR-15 family. A
picture of the SR-25 match rifle is presented in Figure 3.

Figure 3. SR-25 .30 Caliber Match Rifle.ri51

The SR-25 operates on an air-cooled, direct gas system. There are no moving parts
attached to the free floating barrel to interfere with its vibrations. The barrel is made from the
same type of hammer-forged blank used by Remington to build the M24 SWS. The barrel for the
SR-25 match rifle has a length of 610 mm (24 in.). The overall length of the rifle is 110 mm (43.5
in.). The unloaded weight without optical sight and mounts is 4.87 kg (10.75 lb).[16]

The reported maximum effective range for the SR-25 rifle is 900 m (1,000 yd). It is claimed
that there are few .308 bolt-action sniper or match rifles that can consistently shoot tighter
groups than a well-broken-in SR-25.[15] The SR-25 rifle has not yet been currently adopted by
the U.S. military services. A possible U.S. Army application of the SR-25 is as a support
weapon in sniper teams where the "second soldier" can have a local defense function in addition
to using the SR-25 as a replacement rifle, should the main sniper rifle become disabled for any
reason.

The ammunition selected for the SR-25 SSW is the U.S. Army currently inventoried Ml 18
long range (LR) sniper cartridge. The Ml 18 LR cartridge uses a 175-grain (11.34 gm) Sierra
HPBT match bullet. Slightly heavier than either the military 173-grain or Sierra 168-grain bullet
it replaces, the Ml 18 LR retains more momentum to stretch the 7.62-mm effective range 100-
plus.[17] For this study, the round was assumed to be fired with a muzzle velocity of 792.5 m/s
(2,600 ft/s). The aeroballistic, trajectory, and unit effects data for the Ml 18 LR are given in
Appendix A.

2.4 .338 Caliber Test Bed Rifle. .338-.416 Ammunition

The rifle shown in Figure 4 is a 0.338-inch caliber, bench rest-grade, precision rifle. It has a
Hall Model E bolt action. The 914-mm (36-in.) Obermeyer barrel is rifled for one turn in 254 mm
(10 in.). The rifle is chambered for a .416 Rigby brass cartridge case, tapered to hold a custom
designed 300-grain .338 Sierra MatchKing® HPBT projectile.[18] This bullet was designed to
have low drag, a high ballistic coefficient, short time of flight, and flat fire—all the factors
necessary to achieve low crosswind sensitivity. Its muzzle velocity is 923.3 m/s (3,030 ft/s).
The aeroballistic, trajectory, and unit effects data for the .338-.416 are given in Appendix A.

3. CHARACTERIZATION OF FIRE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Three different levels of fire control sophistication were identified for consideration as
potential system configurations for sniper usage. Each succeeding configuration augments the
previous one to advance firing accuracy. They represent both a consistent and reasonable
progression from currently fielded capability to substantially improved performance by
employing various degrees of the fire control technology and functionality that have been
developed and implemented for other tactical applications.
 i':i':flilili;!KM^Äi!lÄi!S
>+*&*'
^^* v

Figure 4. .338 Test Bed Rifle.

3.1 Baseline System

The first level of fire control system is referred to as "baseline." This system is
representative of the way current two-person sniper teams perform "fire control" by manually
adjusting elevation and azimuth, based on estimates or measurements of range, crosswind, and
other effects that the sniper or spotter feel are necessary for their tactical situation. The
equipment provided in this system consists of a 10-power optical sight on the rifle and a 20x
spotting scope. Also included is a mini eye-safe laser infrared observation (MELIOS)-type laser
range finder. Crosswind is estimated by the spotter. Ballistic corrections are obtained from
"lookup" tables, personal notes, or based on experience.

3.2 Crosswind Sensor System

The second fire control configuration, "crosswind sensor," augments the baseline system by
providing a spotting scope that will incorporate both a more accurate laser range finder and a
down-range crosswind sensor. This device will use laser technology to ensure that the prevailing
crosswind component in any engagement scenario is included in a fire control solution. The aim
point correction is still called by the spotter to the shooter who then manually adjusts the optical
sight.
 3.3 Fire Control System

The third and most sophisticated fire control system is referred to as "fire control." This
system is comprised of the appropriate equipment required to perform a real-time, full ballistic
firing solution for the sniper. Readings from the same accurate laser range finder and crosswind
sensor used in the crosswind system are input directly into a ballistic computer. Sensors account
for other meteorological effects such as air temperature and air density. Inertial sensors measure
and compensate for weapon motion, providing the shooter with a stabilized reticle. In addition, a
real-time, corrected aim point is presented to the shooter. The shooter fires the weapon by
bringing the inertial and corrected aim points into convergence.

4. ERROR BUDGET ANALYSIS

To assess a weapon system's accuracy, an error budget is constructed. An error budget is a

systematic account of the sources of error in a system.[19] For this analysis, the system is a
sniper weapon and the error is bullet dispersion at the target. An error budget can be used to
estimate the accuracy of a weapon and can also help to identify the major contributors to overall
dispersion. To form an error budget, one must
(a) Estimate the magnitude and statistical distribution of the error sources;
(b) Model the mechanism that converts the error source into system error; and
(c) Combine errors from various sources.

The first task is a difficult but important one. Any results from an error budget will only
be as good as the estimates of the error sources. For this report, a thorough attempt was made to
determine values for all the significant sources of firing error considered to influence accuracy and
to compute the effects these errors have on bullet dispersion. [20] All error sources are assumed
to have normal distributions and are given as one standard deviation (sigma) values. Ideally, they
are measured from firing tests, e.g., the standard deviation in muzzle velocity determined from a
chronograph.

The second task has been accomplished by calculating unit effects from a trajectory model.
Unit effects are changes in the path of the bullet because of unit differences in an error source,
e.g., the change in height because of a unit change in muzzle velocity. Appendix A contains the
unit effects computed for each of the bullets used for this report. The ballistic dispersion caused
by a given error source is that source's standard deviation multiplied by its unit effect.
 For the third task, the error sources are assumed to be independent of each other. Thus, the
total dispersion is the square root of the sum of the squares of each error. Dispersion is
computed for both the vertical and horizontal planes and is given as a standard deviation. It is
given in a common (but often misunderstood) unit of angle in sniping, the Army "mil," as in a
O
"mil-dot" scope. A mil is a rounded value for a milliradian. A circle has 360 or two pi radians
of interior angle. Two pi multiplied is 6.2832 radians or 6283.2 milliradians. To simplify, the
military uses 6400 mils to one circle. This rounding eases division by 2. This approximates the
common belief that a mil is one meter at 1000 meters (or 1 yard at 1000 yards).

4.1 Variable Bias and Random Errors

The sources of firing errors are grouped in two categories: variable bias errors and random
errors.[21] Variable bias errors are those that vary from firing occasion to firing occasion but
remain fixed from round to round on any given occasion. They are the errors introduced by the
particular nonstandard conditions prevalent on a given occasion, which generally vary from
occasion to occasion. These include errors resulting from estimates or measurements of factors
such as crosswind or range, as well as occasion-to-occasion variation in other firing conditions
such as the cant of the weapon or error introduced during the process of zeroing the weapon.

Random errors are those that vary from round to round on a given firing occasion. These
include round-to-round differences in ammunition performance, the effects of crosswind and
range wind gustiness, and round-to-round aiming error. A detailed list and definitions of all the
variable and random errors included in this analysis are presented in Section 4.2.

To illustrate variable and random errors, consider the E-silhouette target in Figure 5. The
long dashed ellipse represents a ±1 sigma of the variable bias errors in the horizontal and vertical
directions. On a given firing occasion, errors introduced by inaccuracies in crosswind estimation,
ranging to target, emplacement of the weapon, etc., will bias the first and any subsequent shots
from the intended point of impact. The plus symbols show some bias errors randomly generated
from the variable bias sigma distribution. The bias error varies from occasion to occasion. Now
consider the "X" symbol that represents the bias for one such arbitrary firing occasion. In
addition to this bias error, there will also be the random, shot-to-shot error introduced by changes
in the crosswind from the estimated value, weapon pointing differences, muzzle velocity
variations, round dispersion, etc. The short dashed ellipse, centered about the "X," represents a
±1 sigma of the random, shot-to-shot errors. The circles are a shot group randomly generated
using the random error sigma distribution. A shot group is randomly distributed about a center of
impact. This center of impact can be envisioned as being variably biased from one occasion to
the next. The total system error is the root sum square of all the individual variable bias and
random errors.

Figure 5. Variable Bias and Random Errors.

4.2 Error Sources

The error sources and the standard deviation values selected for this analysis are
summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Explanations for the chosen error values are given in the following
sections.

4.2.1 Windage

The wind experienced during a projectile's time of flight can be resolved into two
components: crosswind and range wind. Crosswind is the horizontal component of the wind
vector perpendicular to the trajectory. Crosswind deflects a bullet off the line of fire. Range
wind is the component along the trajectory. A head wind blows from down range to up range,
into the face of the shooter, slightly slowing the bullet's speed, causing the shot to hit low. A tail
wind blows at the shooter's back, slightly increasing the bullet's speed, causing the shot to go
high. A shooter's ability to estimate wind magnitude and direction or a crosswind sensor's
accuracy determines the level of windage error.

Shooters estimate wind speed and direction using a number of techniques and rules of
thumb. To ascertain speed, a spotter senses the feel of the wind on his or her face, observes the
motion of foliage, dust, etc., and/or looks at "mirage," i.e., the refraction or distortion of light
from the target as it passes through layers of air of different temperatures and densities, caused
by the heat coming off the ground. As observed through a defocused sight or spotter scope, this
shimmer will appear to move with the same velocity as the effective wind.

Table 2. Error Sources

System
Error Source Baseline ! With CW Sensor IWith Fire Control
Variable Bias Errors
(occasion to occasion)
Crosswind (mph) 5 2 1/4 0
Range Wind (mph) 10 1 1/8 0
Ranging 5% of Range lm lm
Weapon Cant (degrees) 1 1 0
Muzzle Velocity (ft/s) 15 15 15
Air Temperature Change (percent) 15 15 0
Air Density Variation (percent) 1.5 1.5 0
Weapon-Target Altitude (degrees) 2 2 0
Horizontal Zeroing Error (mil)
M24/300WM 0.05 0.05 0.04
SR25/M118LR 0.05 0.05 0.04
M82A1/MK211 0.09 0.09 0.07
Vertical Zeroing Error (mil)
M24/300WM 0.04 0.04 0.04
SR25/M118LR 0.04 0.04 0.04
M82A1/MK211 0.09 0.09 0.07
Random Errors
(shot to shot)
Crosswind (mph) 3 3 2 1/4
Range Wind (mph) 3 3 1 1/8
Ranging (m) 0 0 0
Weapon Cant (degrees) 1/10 1/10 0
Weapon Pointing (mil)
M24/300WM 0.1 0.1 0.1
SR25/M118LR 0.1 0.1 0.1
M82A1/MK211 0.2 0.2 0.1
Muzzle Velocity (ft/s) 15 15 15
Round Dispersion (mil) (See Table 3)
Air Temperature Change (percent) 0.5 0.5 0.3
Air Density Variation (percent) 0.5 0.5 0.3
Weapon-Target Altitude (degrees) 0 0 0
Sight Resolution (mil) 0.06 0.06 0.02
Optical Path Bending (mil/m) 0.00003 0.00003 0.00003

10
 Table 3. Round-to-Round Dispersion (RRD) Errors

Horizontal and Vertical Round-to-Round Dispersions (mils)

Range(m) Ml 18 LR and MK211, .50CAL Test bed, 338-416

300WM
100 0.099 0.187 0.035
200 0.105 0.198 0.047
300 0.114 0.212 0.055
400 0.125 0.227 0.061
500 0.139 0.244 0.067
600 0.156 0.262 0.072
700 0.176 0.282 0.077
800 0.198 0.303 0.081
900 0.223 0.325 0.085
1000 0.250 0.349 0.089
1100 0.281 0.373 0.092
1200 0.314 0.398 0.095
1300 0.349 0.425 0.098
1400 0.388 0.452 0.101
1500 0.429 0.480 0.104

To determine direction, shooters employ a clock face system in which 12:00 is pointing
down range, 6:00 is behind the shooter, and 3:00 and 9:00 are to the right and left of the firing
line, respectively. A wind coming from 12:00 or 6:00 is called a "no value" wind in terms of
crosswind. A wind from about 2:00 to 4:00 or 8:00 to 10:00 is called a "full value" wind. Winds
coming from about 1:00, 5:00, 7:00, or 11:00 are "half value" winds. Thus, for example, if a
shooter estimated wind speed at 15 mph coming from 7:00, he or she would attempt to correct
for a crosswind of about 8 mph blowing from left to right. [22]

Some shooters carry small anemometers in their rucksacks for an actual measurement of the
wind at their location. They may read the wind at several locations and mentally "average them
together." Mainly, however, a sniper relies on "Kentucky Windage," an intuitive sixth sense that
a shooter develops with experience wherein he or she consciously or unconsciously recalls similar
experiences and just "knows" by how much to adjust the aim point. However the shooter
achieves a value, the underlying assumption is that the wind velocity is constant from the shooter
to the target. However, the wind experienced by a bullet in flight can, and most likely does, vary
with terrain. For any given bullet deflection at a particular range, there are an infinite number of

11
intervening crosswind profiles, only one of which is a constant, uniform wind, which would
result in the same deflection. It is this effective crosswind profile that a shooter or sensor is
tasked with determining.

Wind also varies over time. The effective crosswind (and range wind) can be thought of as
fluctuating randomly about some mean value that is averaged over an arbitrary period of time.
The mean value will result in a bias of a shot group off the aim point. The random fluctuations
about the mean will disperse the group about the mean bias. The accuracy to which the mean
value is estimated or measured results in a windage variable bias error. The extent to which the
random fluctuations about the mean are compensated for determines the windage random error.

4.2.1.1 Windage Baseline System

In the baseline system, wind speed and direction are estimated by a spotter. He or
she then uses this estimate of the mean effective crosswind profile to calculate an aim point
correction. The spotter relays this to the shooter who adjusts the windage knob on the rifle
scope. If the wind changes, the spotter may have the shooter refrain from firing until the
conditions repeat.

It is assumed that the mean effective crosswind profile is estimated to no better than 5
mph. This is probably a generous assumption, especially at longer ranges. The value is deduced
from several sources. First, tables in sniper training manuals list wind effects on the surrounding
environment in 3- to 6-mph increments, indicating that shooters "call" the wind in roughly 5-mph
increments. [23, 24] Often, a shooter waits for an apparent lull in the wind before pulling the
trigger. According to the manuals, a 3- to 5-mph wind "can just be felt on the face," which could
be interpreted as a "calm condition." Thus, 5 mph is consistent with these tables. Another
reason comes from the shooters themselves. The small arms common module fire control system
(SACMFCS), developed by Contraves [25], had a Micro-Bridge mass air flow sensor (a heated
Wheatstone-bridge-type device made by Micro-Switch, a division of Honeywell [26]) on board
to measure crosswind. Shooters, rightfully doubtful of the anemometer's utility, were given the
ability to override the measured crosswind and enter their estimate. When asked how they
wanted to enter their value, the shooters replied that they wanted to be able to select among 0, 5,
10, and 15 mph. [27] This indicates that the shooters themselves recognize their limited ability to
estimate crosswind.

Because it has a relatively small effect on the vertical deflection of the bullet, range
wind is not typically a concern to shooters. So, unless it is noticeably large, shooters would

12
probably make no correction for it. From the training manual, leaves and twigs are in constant
motion when the wind is blowing between 8 and 12 mph.[24] This would definitely be noticed
by a shooter. However, if this were a head or tail wind, the shooter would probably make no
conscious correction for it. Ten mph is selected as a midway value.

Thus, for the baseline system, the variable bias errors for the cross and range winds
are chosen to be 5 and 10 mph, respectively. From one occasion to the next, a shot group would,
on average, be biased by an amount these winds would cause. The variability of the wind during
a single, short-duration firing event would probably be less; however, no adjustment is made for
it. Three mph for both cross and range winds is used for the random, shot-to-shot error. This
value comes from anemometer data acquired during actual firing events.

4.2.1.2 Windage Crosswind and Fire Control Systems

Two techniques employed in laser crosswind sensors, which are being developed, are
Doppler velocimetry and scintillation. In the Doppler approach, the velocities of atmospheric
aerosols (dust, water vapor, etc.) are measured along divergent laser beams on both sides of the
firing line. These are resolved into cross and range wind components. The advantage to this
technique is that it provides a range-resolved reading of the crosswind profile rather than a single
value of the intervening crosswind. Theoretically, it might also provide very accurate
measurements of the wind speed, probably 1/2 m/s (1.125 mph).[28] A disadvantage is the need
for divergent beams that could impinge on down-range obstacles (e.g., a tree line). Another
problem is that unless the wind is constant from beam to beam, the measured velocities cannot be
directly resolved into a crosswind.

In the scintillation technique, the target is illuminated by a laser. Weighted averages of

the intervening crosswind are determined from the distortion of the reflected scintillation or
"twinkle" pattern of the laser light. [29] Because it only requires a single beam along the line of
fire, a crosswind sensor using the scintillation technique would be the most practical to a sniper.
A disadvantage of this method is that it provides only a weighted average rather than a range-
resolved measurement of the crosswind. This can be somewhat offset by having multiple
weighted readings. It is assumed that there will be enough weighted readings to measure the
effective crosswind to within 1 m/s (2.25 mph). The Doppler technique would still be employed
to give range wind to within 0.5 m/s. The whole system would be constructed from lightweight,
compact, rugged, fiber-optic laser components and would be incorporated into a spotting
scope. [30]

13
 In the system with a separate crosswind sensor, the spotter would call the windage
correction to the shooter as is done with the baseline system—only with more accuracy. Thus,
the variable bias windage errors for the crosswind sensor system are 2.25 mph and 1.125 mph for
cross and range winds, respectively. Because the shooter does not instantaneously adjust for
windage called by the spotter, there will be some variability of the wind between the time the
spotter calls the correction and the moment the sniper makes the shot. The wind will also change
for any rapid, subsequent shots made by the sniper before he or she receives a new windage
correction. Therefore, for the crosswind system, the random shot-to-shot windage errors remain
the same as the baseline system, 3 mph for cross and range wind variability.

In the system with a full fire control, a nearly instantaneous reading of the effective
cross and range winds will be made for each shot, and a corrected aim point will continually be
presented to the shooter. Whatever the effective cross and range wind components are at that
instant, they are determined to within the accuracy of the sensor, 2.25 mph and 1.125 mph,
respectively. This results in a random error only.

4.2.2 Ranging

Ranging error will result in a variable bias of the shot or shot group in the vertical direction.
It is assumed that the baseline weapon system includes a MELIOS-type laser range finder
operated on a tripod by a trained spotter in a prone position. The targets are of sufficient size to
allow placement of a 1-mil-diameter aiming circle on them. The spotter's aiming skills and stable
position ensure the laser return is coming from the target and not from surrounding or intervening
features. Based on field test, even during such benign conditions, ranging errors with such a range
finder are between 3.4% and 9.3% of distance, not the oft-reported 5-m intrinsic accuracy of the
MELIOS.[31, 32] A value of 5% of distance is arbitrarily used because it is about midway
between the field data. In addition, MELIOS only displays range in 5-m increments. For the
100-m range values for which error estimations were computed, 5% yields 5-m increments. The
crosswind sensor and fire control weapon systems include an improved range finder as part of
the crosswind sensor. A stated range accuracy by one of the crosswind sensor developers is 1
m.[28] Also, work done under the objective individual combat weapon has resulted in a laser
range finder that works through clutter. For this study, the target is assumed to be stationary, so
there is no random shot-to-shot ranging error.

14
 4.2.3 Round Dispersion

Round or ammunition dispersion is what the bullets might be expected to do during the
most ideal conditions, i.e., from a machine rest barrel, known range to target, zero pointing error,
no wind, etc. Since no two projectiles of the same type are exactly alike because of tolerance
differences, launch cycles, and other factors, no two rounds will follow the exact same trajectory.
The amount of error varies from ammunition type to ammunition type and even between lots for
one ammunition. Dispersion estimates are universally based on ammunition acceptance test data
often at short ranges (e.g., 100 yd). Limitations in the instrumentation and procedures thereof
may account for a certain portion of dispersion error. [32]

Round-to-round dispersion (RRD) values used for each of the ammunitions are listed in
Table 3. More information concerning the source and choice of the data is given in Appendix A.

4.2.4 Weapon Pointing (aiming) Error

Weapon pointing error is the ability of a shooter to hold his or her aim on target. Any
skilled sniper would claim that his or her weapon pointing error is zero. All misses arise from a
cold barrel, a gust of wind, or some other vagary. In Reference 32, Table 2.19, the author
summarizes his estimates for sniper's aiming error in a table that is worth reproducing here in its
entirety for purposes of discussion (see Table 4).

The author of Reference 32 makes the point several times that all aiming error data he has
ever seen represent rather benign, "peacetime" conditions, i.e., bull's-eye targets, known ranges,
no combat stress, etc. He bemoans the "total absence of any test data from a test done in
anything resembling an operational setting." Nevertheless, he states that the available data
"provide an adequate basis for engineers to design effective materiel."

Rather than argue the point, it was decided to give the benefit of the doubt to the shooter.
So the best values for a highly trained sniper, during benign conditions, were chosen from Table
4. For the baseline and crosswind systems, 0.1 mil was used for the M24, SR25, and 338-416
weapons, and 0.2 mil was used for the M82A1. To give a sense of size, this corresponds to
holding one's bead within approximately 4- and 8-inch circles, respectively, at 1000 m. At the
same time, since inertial sensors counteract weapon motion, it is felt that the fire control system
will perform at least as well as the shooter, so 0.1 mil was used for all weapons. The horizontal
and vertical aiming errors are assumed to be the same and constant across all ranges.

15
 Table 4. Sniper's Approximate Aiming Error
(unstressed, non-operational conditions)

SIGMA (MILS) - CONSTANT ACROSS RANGE

NOTE: [a] [b] [c]

Quality of Shooter: LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3
Operational CP Perry Williamsport
CALIBER Oualitv Sniper Oualitv Bench Rest
Up to .300 Best 0.30 0.10 0.03
Magnum
(small caliber) Worst 0.80 0.30 0.10

> .300 Magnum Best 0.50 0.20 Not

(large caliber) Worst 1.20 0.50 Estimated

a. Example: Any service's operational snipers at entry level.

b. Sufficiently trained to compete successfully in national level match competition; an
experienced sniper on a good day.
c. Taken by the author as representative of the top class of bench rest shooters; reported that this
performance has been surpassed.
Notes: - Aiming error sigma to be added to weapon/ammunition sigma; does not include range,
wind, and other bias errors that offset center of impact from point of aim.
- Based almost entirely on bull's-eye target, known range, practically unlimited time.

4.2.5 Weapon Cant

Errors are introduced into the elevation and deflection calculations when the weapon is
canted or rolled about its lengthwise axis because of uneven weapon emplacement. The baseline
and crosswind sensor weapon systems rely on the shooter to level the weapon. Nevertheless, it
is assumed that a trained sniper takes great care to emplace his or her weapon. When emplaced
for the firing mission, the weapon is assumed to be level to within 1° standard deviation from the
last time it was emplaced. During the firing mission, the cant is assumed to randomly vary no
more than 1/10 of a degree from the value at which it was emplaced. For the fire control system,
inertial sensors on the weapon will correct for cant.

4.2.6 Muzzle Velocity

Deviations from the standard muzzle velocity will cause a round to fall short of or exceed
the range to which it was fired. For a vertical target, the round will be below or above the
intended point of impact. Muzzle velocity varies because of factors such as differences in
powder temperature, inconsistent charge weights, ullage, tightness and condition of the bore,
barrel length, action, shot order from a cold bore, etc. Few of these conditions can be corrected
for by applying fire control. It is assumed that shooters carefully and consistently hand load

16
their cartridges and weigh charges for loads that will be used at 600 and 1000 yards or more. In
addition, it is assumed that the powder charge completely fills the space in the cartridge under the
bullet.

It would be impractical to have a temperature sensor with the stored ammunition and then
have an expedient way to enter that reading into a fire control solution. It is assumed that
ammunition will be kept close to the shooter's body to minimize temperature variations. For
each system, no correction is made for muzzle velocity variation. A standard deviation in muzzle
velocity of 4.5 m/s (15 ft/s) is considered to be feasible and is used for both lot-to-lot and shot-
to-shot variations.[18] This is consistent with observations of muzzle velocity measurements of
the 338-416. The standard deviation was 4 m/s (13 ft/s) for more than 80 rounds.

4.2.7 Air Temperature and Density

Air temperature variations during the firing event would probably be small because of the
event's short duration. However, there could well be a difference in temperature between when
the weapon was last zeroed and when the mission occurs. This would result in a bias of the shot
pattern. For this study, trajectory runs were done at 21° C (70° F). It is not unreasonable to
expect the temperature in a single day to vary at least ±10° F, which is approximately a 15%
deviation from the presumed temperature at the time of zeroing. For the baseline and crosswind
sensor systems, it is assumed that a shooter would either make no correction for such a
temperature change or would estimate the temperature to within 15%." All subsequent shots are
then assumed to take place within a short time frame over which the temperature will not vary
much. A value of 0.5% air temperature change is defined for test conditions as part of the error
budget in Reference 33. The fire control system would include an air temperature gauge. Thus,
the bias would be corrected for in real time, and the variation would be better accounted for,
0.3%.

Air density varies during the day and with changes in weather. Density also varies with
altitude. Again, air density would not change significantly during the mission, but differences
between zeroing and firing need to be accounted for. Reference 33 defines tactical firing
conditions that use 1.5% air density change. This is used as the variable bias value for the
baseline and crosswind sensor systems. A value of 0.5% air density change is defined as part of
test conditions and is used for the random error. In the fire control system, air density itself
would not be measured. It would be derived from measurements of air pressure and temperature.
Thus, the bias would be corrected for in real time, and the variation would be better accounted
for, 0.3%.

17
 4.2.8 Weapon-Target Altitude

If the sniper and the target are not at the same altitude, i.e., shooting up or down at the
target, an error is introduced because the trajectory profile cannot simply be tilted.[33] The
amount of error is generally small but increases as the difference in altitude increases. If a shooter
fails to compensate for this or makes an error in estimating the correction, his or her shot group
will be biased. However, with an assumed stationary target, the amount of error will not vary
during the firing event. When zeroing, this value is 0°. For the baseline and crosswind sensor
systems, 2°, the value used in Reference 33, is used. It is assumed that a shooter can estimate to
within that error. The target is assumed to be stationary, so there is no random, shot-to-shot
weapon-target altitude error. With the inertial sensors in the fire control system, the angle of the
weapon is known, and this error source can be eliminated.

4.2.9 Zeroing

At some time before the mission, the system will be calibrated through a live firing exercise.
When a weapon is zeroed, the center of impact of a group of rounds is moved to the center of aim
by adjusting the sight/weapon offset. Because a small number of rounds, typically fired during
zeroing, cannot exactly determine the center of impact for all groups and to the extent that firing
conditions such as wind, temperature, muzzle velocity, etc., are not perfectly known at zeroing,
the procedure itself introduces an error. This is a variable bias error, not a random error. The
method used in Reference 21 is used here to compute the zeroing error. The weapons are
assumed to be zeroed at 100 m during benign conditions, i.e., known range, no wind, calm
atmosphere. The sensors that are part of the fire control system account somewhat better for the
environmental factors at the time of zero.

4.2.10 Sight Resolution

Because human operators, optical sights, and electro-optical devices are not perfect, a factor
is included in Reference 33 to account for the limits encountered in resolving images. The value
used by Reference 33 (0.06 mil) is used for the baseline and crosswind sensor systems. Although
this is a relatively small part of the error budget that could be considered a part of weapon
pointing error, it was included to make the following distinction between systems. The inertial
reticle technology, proposed as a key portion of the fire control, allows a 3 Ox magnification of the
target versus lOx from a regular scope. Thus, the sight resolution error for the fire control system
is set to be one third of the baseline, 0.02 mil.

18
 4.2.11 Optical Path Bending

When viewed from a shooting position, the effects of atmospheric shimmer may cause a
target to appear displaced from its actual location and possibly to seem to be moving when it is
not. The effect can be greatly amplified by high temperatures and terrain reflectivity. The value
used in Reference 33 is used here (0.00003 mil/m). Although video processing techniques that
reportedly correct for this effect have been developed, they are not proposed as part of the fire
control, and the system will not compensate for optical path bending.

4.3 Error Budget Results

Using the error source values in Tables 2 and 3 and the unit effects derived from trajectory
runs listed in Appendix A, the error budgets for each combination of weapon, ammunition, and
fire control were developed as a function of range. The total system error is the root sum square
of the random and variable bias errors. The horizontal and vertical dispersion values as a function
of range are listed in Tables 5 through 8. These represent an expected error variation of one
standard deviation. Statistically speaking, this means that approximately two thirds of the time,
the error will be less than the value shown. The individual random and variable bias errors are
presented in Appendix B.

The probabilities of hit (PH) in these tables are against an E-silhouette target represented
by a vertical rectangle measuring approximately 0.5 meter horizontally and 0.85 meter vertically.
The PHs are included for reference. Another way to view accuracy is to look at the number of
rounds required to ensure at least one hit on the E-silhouette target with a confidence level equal
to or greater than some percentage. These values are listed in the tables of Appendix C. It was
assumed that no adjustment of fire is made for subsequent shots. The PH values are the
confidence level when only one shot is fired.

To understand the relative contribution of each error source to the total system error,
consider the .300 WM system at 700 m. The horizontal and vertical variances (square of the
standard deviations) for each of the fire control systems are plotted in Figures 6 and 7. The plots
show the total, bias, and random errors. Not surprisingly, the biggest portion of the horizontal
variance is the crosswind bias and random errors. Likewise, the largest part of the vertical
variance is attributable to ranging error. Other significant contributors to the total errors are
round dispersion, weapon pointing, and cant errors.

19
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Total CROSS WIND CANT BIAS ZEROING CROSS WIND ROUND WEAPON SIGHT CANT
BIAS BIAS RANDOM DISPERSION POINTING RESOLUTION RANDOM

Figure 6. Horizontal Variances. 300 WM. 700 m.

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v 0.2 -
u ■ Baseline System
Dw/ Cross Wind Sensor
to
> 0.15 Dw/ Fire Control
co
o
r o.i
>
0.05

co
< CO
ä m
<
CD C3
Z
m CO CO CO
a. to a tr
z HI
a LJJ 85 co a.
(E 5 z S
1 I s
HI LLI 5
N Q
z Ö
CO

Figure 7. Vertical Variances. 300 WM. 700 m.

24
 To understand the effect that application of fire control has on the error budget, consider
Figures 8, 9, and 10. In these figures, horizontal and vertical ±1 sigma error values are
represented as ellipses. An E-silhouette target is included for a sense of scale. Figure 8 shows
the variable bias error for each fire control system. It can be seen that the addition of a crosswind
sensor and more accurate range finder greatly reduces the bias error, compared to the baseline
system, and, when incorporated as part of a complete, real-time, fire control system, the bias
error is significantly reduced further. Figure 9 shows the random error for each system. Note
that the random errors for both the baseline and crosswind systems (outer ellipse) are the same
because the crosswind system makes no correction for random errors. However, as defined for
this analysis, the fire control system cannot correct for very many of the random errors
identified, such as round-to-round dispersion and muzzle velocity variation. The result is that
many of the random error sources remain, even with the application of fire control (inner ellipse).

Figure 10 shows the total system error for each level of fire control. For the complete fire
control system, it can be seen, when compared to Figure 9, that most of the total error is
attributable to the remaining random errors. For this combination of error budget, range, and
target, the fire control system results in a nearly three-fold increase in the probability of hit over
the baseline system. Whether this is an acceptable PH value is open to interpretation. Also
shown on Figure 10 is the RRD error used for this ammunition at this range. Notice that the
RRD is a significant portion of the remaining error after the application of fire control, which can
have little or no control over RRD. Even with fire control applied to existing, fielded weapons,
the RRD of the ammunition becomes a limiting factor. This indicates that in order to achieve the
types of PHs sought by the user community, both a fire control system and a more accurate
weapon-ammunition system will require development.

Certain assumptions have been made about the ability of a shooter to determine range (5%
of target range) and crosswind (5-mph sigma from occasion to occasion). In order to examine the
effect on PH if other values are used, a sensitivity analysis was performed in which the error
source of interest was varied while all others were held constant. Also, since some of the error
sources did not have well-defined values, three specific parameters (weapon-target altitude,
weapon cant, and zeroing error attributable to zeroing at one range versus another) were varied as
follows on page 27.

25
-Baseline System
- Cross Wind Sensor
-Fire Control

0
S

Figure 8. Bias Errors. .300 WM. 700 m.

-Baseline System
-Cross Wind Sensor
.Fire Control

Figured Random Errors. .300 WM. 700 m.

26
 -Baseline System, PH=.20
_w/ CW, PH=.39
-Total Sigma Error w/ FC, PH=.58
RRD Error only, PH=.96

Figure 10. Total Errors. .300 WM. 700 m.

N0 _0 _0 ,„0 , _0 __0 __0

• Weapon-target altitude: 0 ,2 ,5 ,10 ,15 ,20 ,25 , and 30

• Weapon cant: 0°, 1°, 3°, 5°, and 10

• Zeroing: 100 and 300 meters

The weapon-ammunition combination selected was the M24 SWS/300 WM, and the fire
control concept selected was the baseline. The ranges of engagement selected were 400, 700,1200,
and 1500 meters. Crosswind and ranging error budget sensitivities are shown in Figures 11 and 12.
Sensitivities of the other error sources are shown in Appendix D.

Figure 11 shows that for the longer ranges (1200 and 1500 m), the PH is so low that for this
weapon-ammunition combination, even with no crosswind error, there is no practical
improvement in PH. The same can be said for range error, as seen in Figure 12. For the more
common engagement range of 400 m, the PH for a 5-mph crosswind error, i.e., 0.75, increases to
0.95 for no crosswind error. At 400 m, there is little variation in PH versus ranging error. At the
current practical limit to sniping engagements (700 m), PH changes from roughly 0.20 for a 5-
mph sigma to 0.35 for no crosswind error. PH changes from 0.20 with a 5% ranging error to 0.27
for no ranging error.

27
 300 WINMAG, Baseline System
6.000

03
.*
1 5.000 + *»"
CÖ
E — -■—-700m ,'"
C/3 4 .000
---A-- 1200m ,**
2 — -X---1500m X'^ ,-"*'
k-
LU

f 3.000
.-* -A'
.§ ,-X'
-*•
.-A"
»-*
o .«** .-«"
I ^.X
E 2.000 - <«" » * <-A'
CD
*-*
CO
>> 3< -X-" .,-A"' »^-"■-""
Ar* _ _ ««"» •
A— -*-—* _*•—-*
•g
o 1.000 -
I—►--*—T'Jin^-« *—■" ^""^
0.000 1 1 1 ; 1 1 ; _H 1 1

2 3 4 5 '6 7 10
Cross Wind Variable Bias sigma (mph)

CD

f 0.800
CD
H 0.700 +
--■ 700m
| 0.600
---A-- 1200m
LLI
« 0.500 --X---1500m
"o
I 0.400 --

ä 0.300

| 0.200 +

0.100

0.000 £-"-■&■ ^r\ ^^"^"^V ^"^^~"

3 4 5 6 7 10
Cross Wind Variable Bias sigma (mph)

Figure 11. Error Budget Sensitivity. Crosswind Variable Bias.

28
 300 WINMAG, Baseline System
6.000 -I
X

2" 5.000 -
E w iiange — wum 0^
x
CB --m—700m s'
E ---A--1200m ^'
g 4.000 -
—-X-- -1500m S
s
i
in
X ,,A
A''
g 3.000 ■
^'* .-A"

1 2.000 -
CO
.*' .-*
co
jS 1.000 j ,-x- .*--- _» «

rt r\r\r\
U.UUU *=■
-j"— 1
1 '"■■ '1
•-
1 '
•
'I
•I
♦1
*
1 I ' '

() 1 23 4 567 8 9 10
Ranging Error (% of Range)

0.800 -,

_ 0.700 -
CD
E
CO
a 0.600 -
3
1 0.500 - —■—700m
'cö ---A-- 1200m
ii
« 0.400 - —X-.--1500m
**-
o

E 0.300 -
—■ ■" —~»^
1
co
0.200 -
JD "■*"•■ — — ■■ —^ —
8
°- 0.100 -

0.000 'p>——^ J
^V '-JS ^ JK"""'" '■ "IR m ' fl ^ w ^

(3 1 2 3 456 78 9 10
Ranging Error (% of Range)

Figure 12. Error Budget Sensitivity. Raneina Error.

29
 5. CONCLUSIONS

Snipers are a remarkable breed. Given the multitude of factors that can cause a bullet to
miss its intended target, some of which this report has attempted to quantify, it is a wonder that
shooters are consistently able to hit anything, especially at extended ranges. Humans are, of
course, the ultimate fire control system. Science will never supplant a trained shooter.
Technology can only augment the skills that they already possess. However, necessary bravado
aside, snipers tend to only remember that one remarkable shot in combat at 800 m. They
overlook the number of rounds it takes to zero a weapon or to "walk" that competition-winning
group onto a target at the firing range. They attribute any "flyer" in a group to fate. When
pressed, however, they acknowledge that they could use some help reaching those long-distance
targets.

Not surprisingly, this analysis showed range and crosswind to be two large error sources.
A device that could account for those factors would go a long way in improving first-round hit
probability. As shown for the 300 WM round against a human-sized target at 700 m, given the
assumed firing conditions, a stand-alone crosswind sensor would double the PH of a standard
rifle, while a complete fire control system would triple it. Even after correcting for as many error
sources as practical, however, it becomes apparent that the inherent inaccuracy of the bullets at
those ranges becomes the dominating factor. The most effective fire control system needs to be
combined with an ultra-accurate rifle-ammunition system.

As long as bullets are being hurled down range at supersonic speeds, the science of ballistics
will govern where it lands. Just as optical scopes were an improvement over iron sights and
range finders removed some of the guesswork from range estimation, the fire control proposed in
this report will aid the sniper in determining that all-important ballistic correction. It is only
fitting to strive to provide snipers with the best tools available so that they can do their job as
well as possible and thus survive to shoot another day.

30
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Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, February 1996.

3. Metz, D., D. Sloop, W. Willoughby, L. Nutsch, W. Walter, and R. Von Wahlde, "Evaluation
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snipercoimtry.com/Comp_M.htm. 1999 [accessed 2 February 1999].

8. Director US TACOM-ACALA. "M24 Sniper Rifle." [web page] http://www-

acalal.ria.army.mil/acala/sma/asi7sam24rif.jpg. February 1998 [Accessed 1 April 1998].

9. Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. "M82A1." [web page] http://www.shooters.com/

barrett/82.html. September 1997 [Accessed 1 April 1998].

10. US Marine Corps, "M82A1A .50 Caliber SASR." [web page] http://www.hqmc.usmc.
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11. Copyright 1997© Barrett Firearms Mfg., Inc. "M82A1." [web page] http://www.shooters.
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12. Thompson L., The Resister Volume II Issue 1. [web page] http://www3.10pht.
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13. Winchester/Olin Corporation, "Small Calibre Ammunition." [web page] http://www.army-

technology.com/contractors/ammunition/winchester/index.html. March 1998 [Accessed 2
April 1998].

31
14. "Jane's Infantry Weapons 1996-97," Twenty-second Edition, Edited by Terry J. Gander,
Jane's Information Group Inc., 1996.

15. Karwan, C, "The SR-25," Combat Arms, pp 4-9, 1994.

16. Owner's Manual for Stoner Rifle SR-25 (Including the SR-25 Match Rifle), .308 Winchester
Caliber (7.62 x 51 mm NATO) Rifle System, Knight's Manufacturing Company, Vero Beach,
FL, March 1996.

17. Plaster, J.L., "Surgical Precision," Guns & Ammunition, pp 64, March 1997.

18. McCoy R., "Caliber .338 Cartridges for Use in the Advanced Medium Sniper Weapon
System," FTB-IR-3, US Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center,
Firing Tables Branch, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, September 1993.

19. Frey, D. D., "Virtual Maching—CNC Crankpin Grinding," http://design.mit.edu/ddfrey/

projects/Crank/animated.htm.

20. McCoy R., "A Parametric Study of the Long Range, Special Applications Sniper Rifle,"
BRL-MR-3558, US Army Ballistic Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD,
December 1986.

21. Groves, A., "Method for Computing the First-Round Hit Probability for an Antitank
Weapon With Spotting Rifle Control," BRL-MR-1450, Ballistic Research Laboratories,
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, January 1963.

22. Gilbert, A. Sniper: The Skills, the Weapons, and the Experiences. New York: St. Martin's
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23. United States Army. John F. Kennedy Warfare Center and School. Special Operations
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February 1988.

24. United States Army. John F. Kennedy Warfare Center and School. Correcting for
Environmental Factors Summary Sheet. Fort Bragg, NC: Department of the Army, January
1986.

25. Contraves, SACMFCS presentation to Crew Served Weapon System Technology

Assessment Panel, Picatinny Arsenal. August 6,1992.

26. Honeywell Inc., Micro Switch Division. "Mass Airflow Sensor." [web page] http://www.
honeywell.com/sensing/prodinfo/massairflow/default.asp. August 1997 [Accessed 2 April
1998].

27. Harkless, L., Contraves/Bradsher Systems. Private Conversation, re.. Small Arms Common
Module Fire Control System, April 1 1998.

32
28. Gatt, P., et al., "Eye-safe Solid State Laser Crosswind Sensor," CTI-TR-9709, Coherent
Technologies, Inc., Boulder, CO, May 1997.

29. Wang, T., and C. Hsu, "A Crosswind Sensor Using Optical Scintillation of a Laser
Illuminated Target", Phase I SBIR Final Report, Scientific Technology, Inc., Gaithersburg,
MD, May 1997.

30. Rogers, P., "Low Cost Eye-Safe Miniaturized Laser Crosswind Sensor," Phase I SBIR Final
Technical Report, Optical Air Data Systems, L.P., West Bethesda, MD, August 1997.

31. Torre, J.P., S. Wansack, et al., "Laser Range finder Accuracy Investigation," Draft Report,
U.S. Army Research Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, March 1994.

32. Weaver, J.M., "System Error Budgets, Target Distributions and Hitting Performance
Estimates for General-Purpose Rifles and Sniper Rifles of 7.62 x 51 mm and Larger Calibers,"
AMSAA-TR-461, US Army Materiel Systems Analysis Activity, Aberdeen Proving
Ground, MD, May 1990.

33. Pfleger, K.P., "Accuracy Performance Comparison for Selected Sniper Weapon Systems,"
Draft Report, U.S. Army Armament Research, Development, and Engineering Center,
Picatinny Arsenal, NJ, 1996.

34. Federal Cartridge Company -1998 Ammunition Catalog - Gold Medal Centerfire Rifle, [web
page] 1998; http://www.federalcartridge.com/a05p03.html. [Accessed 1 February 1999].
35. 300 Winchester Magnum: AERODYNAMICS: .308 CAL 190 GR SIERRA FMJ.
small_arms-l.aero. Computer database. Firing Tables Branch, ARDEC element at APG
MD, 1998. BALLISTICS: .308 CAL 190 GR SIERRA FMJ. small_arms-l.bal. Computer
database. Firing Tables Branch, ARDEC element at APG MD, 1998.

36. 50CALMK211: AERODYNAMICS: CAL.50/MK211/BARRETT82A1/JUN 92.

mk21 l.aero2. Computer database. Firing Tables Branch, ARDEC element at APG MD,
1998. BALLISTICS: .50 CAL MK211 MP fmodified bv RVW 10 Sept 97V mk211bal3.
Computer database. Firing Tables Branch, ARDEC element at APG MD, 1998.

37. 7.62MM Ml 18 BALL: AERODYNAMICS: 7.62MM Ml 18 BALL. small_arms-

l.aero. Computer database. Firing Tables Branch, ARDEC element at APG MD, 1998.
BALLISTICS: 7.62MM Ml 18 BALL. small_arms-l.bal. Computer database. Firing
Tables Branch, ARDEC element at APG MD, 1998.
38. Bain. The Shot Show -1997. [web page] Jan 1997;
http://www.snipercountry.com/SHOT_show_1997.html. [Accessed 30 March 1998].
39. U.S. Marine Corps, Weapons Training Battalion, Test and Evaluation Facility, "Lake City
Ml 18LR Ammunition Test Data", 4 Mar 1996.
40. General Trajectory Program CGTRAH. V5.ll. Computer software. Firing Tables Branch,
ARDEC element at APG MD, 1998. FORTRAN code.

33
41. General Trajectory Program for Unit Effects fgtraiuf). Computer software. Firing Tables
Branch, ARDEC element at APG MD, 1998. Fortran code.
42. McCoy R., et al, "Caliber .50 Ammunition for Training Use in the Barrett Model 82A1
Sniper Rifle," ARFSD-TR-93043, U.S. Army Armament Research, Development, and
Engineering Center, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ, May 1994.
43. Grubbs F., "Statistical Measures of Accuracy for Riflemen and Missile Engineers,"
Copyrighted 1964 by Frank E. Grubbs Ph.D., Havre de Grace, MD.

34
 APPENDIX A

AEROBALLISTIC, TRAJECTORY, AND UNIT EFFECTS DATA

35
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

36
 AEROBALLISTIC, TRAJECTORY, AND UNIT EFFECTS DATA

A.l Aerodynamics and Ballistics Data

A. 1.1 300 Winchester Magnum
Federal Cartridge Company makes a 300 Winchester magnum, the GM300WM, that
uses a 190-grain, Sierra MKBTHP bullet fired at 2,900 fps.[34] These data are listed in Table A-l.
Aerodynamics and ballistics data for the 300 Winchester magnum were based on a small arms
database created by the Firing Tables Branch, an ARDEC element at Aberdeen Proving Ground,
Maryland, for a similar Sierra 190-grain bullet. [35] The drag coefficients (CDs) and ballistic inputs
are listed in Tables A-2 and A-3. The resulting trajectory data in Table A-12 agree reasonably well
with Table A-l.

Table A-l. Velocity Data, Federal GM300WM, 300 Win. Mag. Sierra MKBTHP [34]

Range Velocity Energy Wind Drift TOFa (sec) Trajectory

(yd) (fps) (foot-pounds) (in) at lOmph calculated (in)b
0 2900 3550 0 0.000
100 2730 3135 0.6 0.107 12.9
200 2560 2760 2.4 0.221 22.5
300 2400 2420 5.5 0.342 26.9
400 2240 2115 10.1 0.471 25.1
500 2090 1840 16.4 0.610 16.4
600 1940 1595 24.2 0.758 0
700 1810 1375 34.2 0.918 -25.8
800 1680 1185 46.6 1.092 -63.0
900 1550 1015 61.1 1.278 -112.2
1000 1440 870 78.0 1.478 -175.6
a
TOF = time offlight
b
Height of bullet trajectory in inches above or below line of sight if zeroed at 600 yards. Sights 1.5 inches
above bore line

Table A-2. Drag Coefficient (CD) for .300 Winchester Magnum [35]

Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD

0 0.135 1 0.404 1.3 0.399 1.8 0.355
0.86 0.135 1.04 0.42 1.4 0.388 2 0.34
0.9 0.14 1.08 0.423 1.5 0.378 2.2 0.329
0.94 0.15 1.1 0.423 1.6 0.369 2.5 0.315
0.98 0.36 1.2 0.411 1.7 0.36 3 0.297

37
 Table A-3. Ballistic Inputs for .300 Winchester Magnum

Standard Weight 0.027143 (lb) (190 grains) [351

Projectile Diameter 7.82 mm (0.308 inch) [351
Axial Moment of Inertia 1.90E-06 (lb/ft2) [351
Ballistic Coefficient (weight/dia2) 0.2861 (lb/in2) [351
Muzzle Velocity 884 (m/s) (2,900 ft/s) [341

A. 1.2 50-CaliberMK211

Aerodynamics and ballistics data for the 50-Caliber MK211 ammunition were based
on a small arms database created by the Firing Tables Branch. [361 The CDs and ballistic inputs
are listed in Tables A-4 and A-5.

Table A-4. Drag Coefficient (CD) for .50 CAL MK211 [36]

Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD

0 0.107 0.874 0.124 1.12 0.377 1.92 0.338
0.724 0.107 0.923 0.155 1.17 0.381 2.12 0.326
0.774 0.109 0.971 0.231 1.22 0.381 2.36 0.315
0.824 0.112 1.04 0.35 1.42 0.37 2.8 0.3
0.85 0.116 1.07 0.365 1.72 0.351 3 0.295

Table A-5. Ballistic Inputs .50 CAL MK211

Standard Weight 0.09577 (lb) (670 grains) [36]

Projectile Diameter 12.95 mm [361
Axial Moment of Inertia 2.050E-05 (lb/ft2) [361
Ballistic Coefficient (weight/dia2) 0.3684 (lb/in2) [361
Muzzle Velocity 827.53 (m/s) (2,715 ft/s) [361

A. 1.3 Ml 18 Long Range

Lacking aeroballistic data for the 175-grain Ml 18 long range ammunition, the drag
coefficient for the 7.62-mm Ml 18 BALL [37] was modified in order to match velocity versus
range and crosswind deflection versus range data (from which time of flight [TOF] can be
derived) for the Federal GM308M2. The GM308M2 is a new load for Federal's Gold Medal
center-fire rifle line that uses a 175-grain, .308 Sierra MatchKing® BTHP bullet.[34] This new

38
match round is reported to be substantially the same round as the M118LR sniper and match
round that the military is using.[38] The M118LR is comprised of a 175-grain MatchKing®
bullet in Lake City brass. The data for the GM308M2 are listed in Table A-6. Also included are
data for the 168-grain, Federal GM308M. The resulting drag coefficient for the M118LR
compared with the Ml 18 BALL is listed in Table A-7. All the other aerodynamic coefficients
for the Ml 18 BALL [37] were used for the Ml 18LR. The ballistic inputs used for the Ml 18LR
are listed in Table A-8.

After this analysis, the author received ammunition test data for the Lake City
Ml 18LR.[39] Time did not permit an extensive examination of these data for inclusion in this
report. A cursory look noted the mean and standard deviation muzzle velocity to be 820 ±4 m/s
(2690 ±12 fps) for 30 rounds. The charge was 44 grains of WC750 powder. This is slightly
faster than what was used here. It was also observed that the measured down-range velocities
differed from the apparently computed ones reported by Federal Cartridge Company. These are
compared in Table A-9. Evidently, the M118LR does not retain its velocity as well as
presumed. Thus, it will be more sensitive to the error sources used in this report.

Table A-6. Velocity Data, Federal GM308M2 and GM308M [34]

Energy
Velocity (fps) (foot-pounds) Wind Drift TOF (sec)
(to nearest 10 fps) (to nearest 5 ft-lb.) (in) at Omph calculated
Range 175 grain 168 grain 175 grain 168 grain 175 grain 168 grain 175 grain 168 grain
(yd) GM308M2 GM308M GM308M2 GM308M GM308M2 GM308M GM308M2 GM308M
0 2600 2600 2625 2520 0 0 0.000 0.000
100 2420 2410 2285 2170 0.6 0.7 0.119 0.119
200 2260 2230 1975 1855 3 3.2 0.248 0.249
300 2090 2060 1705 1580 7 7.6 0.386 0.389
400 1940 1890 1460 1340 12.7 13.8 0.534 0.540
500 1790 1740 1245 1130 20.8 22.8 0.695 0.706
600 1650 1590 1060 970 31.4 34.3 0.871 0.887
700 1520 1460 900 795 44.3 48.4 1.059 1.083
800 1400 1340 765 670 60.1 66.1 1.265 1.299
900 1300 1230 650 565 79.1 86.9 1.488 1.532
1000 1200 1150 560 490 101 111 1.728 1.785

39
 Table A-7. Drag Coefficient (CD) Used for Ml 18 LR

M CD CD CD CD
Ml 18 BALL M118LR M Ml 18 BALL M118LR
0 0.133 0.1 1.15 0.417 0.348
0.8 0.133 0.1 1.2 0.413 0.348
0.85 0.137 0.105 1.3 0.396 0.341
0.9 0.149 0.116 1.4 0.38 0.336
0.92 0.16 0.126 1.6 0.355 0.329
0.95 0.19 0.151 1.8 0.338 0.322
1 0.369 0.298 2 0.325 0.312
1.02 0.389 0.316 2.2 0.316 0.303
1.06 0.407 0.334 2.5 0.308 0.298
1.1 0.416 0.345 3 0.3 0.29

Table A-8. Ballistic Inputs Ml 18LR

Standard Weight 0.025 (lb) (175 grains) [341

Projectile Diameter 7.82 mm (0.308 inch) [341
Axial Moment of Inertia 1.70E-05 (lb/ft2) [341
Ballistic Coefficient (weight/dia2) 0.2635 (lb/in2) calculated
Muzzle Velocity 792.48 (m/s) (2,600 ft/s) [341

Table A-9. Velocity Comparison Between Federal GM308M2 and Ml 18LR

Vel ocity (fps)

Range (yd.) GM308M2 M118LR
0 2600 2690 (15 ft from muzzle)
600 1650 1534
1000 1200 933

A. 1.4 300-Grain.338-.416
Aeroballistic data for the 300-grain, .338-.416 were derived from accuracy firing
tests. A predicted drag curve was modified to match the bullet velocity profiles as measured via
radar, Table A-10. The ballistic inputs used for the .338-.416 are listed in Table A-l l.[18]

40
 Table A-10. Drag Coefficient (CD) for .338-.416

Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD Mach CD

0 0.147 0.95 0.193 1.2 0.378 2 0.305 2.6 0.26
0.8 0.147 1 0.35 1.3 0.37 2.2 0.29 2.7 0.253
0.85 0.148 1.02 0.369 1.4 0.359 2.3 0.282 3 0.235
0.9 0.151 1.05 0.378 1.6 0.339 2.4 0.274 3.5 0.211
0.925 0.163 1.1 0.381 1.8 0.321 2.5 0.266

Table A-ll. Ballistic Inputs .338-.416

Standard Weight 0.043 fib) (300 grains) F181

Projectile Diameter 8.59 mm (0.338 inch) F181
Axial Moment of Inertia 1.70E-05 (lb./ft2) assumed
Ballistic Coefficient (weight/dia2) 0.375 (lb./in2) calculated
Muzzle Velocity 927.4 (m/s) (3,040 ft/s) Firing Tests

A.2 Trajectory and Unit Effects Data

Tables A-12, A-13, A-14, and A-15 contain trajectory data, and A-16, A-17, A-18, and A-19
contain unit effects for the .300 WM, .50 cal MK211, M118LR, and .338-.416, respectively.
Trajectory data were obtained from the General Trajectory Program (GTRAJ) [40] and unit effects
from the GTRAJ for Unit Effects (GTRAJUF).[41]

Table A-12. Trajectory Data for the .300 Winchester Magnum

Range Velocity Mach Height Time Super Elevation (SE)

(m) (m/s) Number (m) (sec) (mil)
0 884 2.59775 0 0 0
100 819.789 2.40913 2.54 0.11752 0.6727
200 758.745 2.2298 4.934 0.24437 1.4172
300 700.808 2.05958 7.157 0.38156 2.2448
400 645.797 1.89796 9.18 0.53025 3.1681
500 593.508 1.74432 10.967 0.69183 4.2021
600 544.199 1.59943 12.475 0.86783 5.3651
700 497.514 1.46224 13.651 1.06006 6.679
800 453.416 1.33264 14.43 1.27064 8.1703
900 411.855 1.21049 14.73 1.50209 9.8717
1000 372.859 1.09588 14.45 1.75733 11.8239
1100 337.701 0.99253 13.462 2.03947 14.0766
1200 318.309 0.93552 11.618 2.34625 16.6809
1300 307.567 0.90392 8.807 2.66608 19.6419
1400 297.654 0.87475 4.958 2.9969 22.9348
1500 288.309 0.84724 0 3.33874 26.5414

41
 Table A-13. Trajectory Data for .50 CAL MK211

Range Velocity Mach Height Time Super Elevation (SE)

(m) (m/s) Number (m) (sec) (mil)
0 827.53 2.43181 0 0 0
100 780.467 2.29356 2.165 0.12448 0.7592
200 735.272 2.1608 4.17 0.25654 1.5798
300 691.875 2.0333 5.995 0.3968 2.4697
400 650.159 1.91074 7.616 0.54594 3.4368
500 610.11 1.79307 9.007 0.70476 4.49
600 571.743 1.68034 10.135 0.87412 5.6399
700 535.097 1.57265 10.965 1.05496 6.8982
800 500.188 1.47006 11.453 1.2483 8.2785
900 467.027 1.3726 11.55 1.45525 9.7962
1000 435.641 1.28035 11.199 1.67701 11.469
1100 406.028 1.19331 10.332 1.91486 13.3169
1200 378.5 1.11239 8.871 2.17011 15.3625
1300 353.959 1.04023 6.726 2.44366 17.6305
1400 335.021 0.98455 3.8 2.73484 20.1443
1500 321.828 0.94573 0 3.04024 22.9166

Table A-14. Trajectory Data for Ml 18LR

Range Velocity Mach Height Time Super Elevation (SE)

(m) (m/s) Number (m) (sec) (mil)
0 884 2.59775 0 0 0
100 819.789 2.40913 2.54 0.11752 0.6727
200 758.745 2.2298 4.934 0.24437 1.4172
300 700.808 2.05958 7.157 0.38156 2.2448
400 645.797 1.89796 9.18 0.53025 3.1681
500 593.508 1.74432 10.967 0.69183 4.2021
600 544.199 1.59943 12.475 0.86783 5.3651
700 497.514 1.46224 13.651 1.06006 6.679
800 453.416 1.33264 14.43 1.27064 8.1703
900 411.855 1.21049 14.73 1.50209 9.8717
1000 372.859 1.09588 14.45 1.75733 11.8239
1100 337.701 0.99253 13.462 2.03947 14.0766
1200 318.309 0.93552 11.618 2.34625 16.6809
1300 307.567 0.90392 8.807 2.66608 19.6419
1400 297.654 0.87475 4.958 2.9969 22.9348
1500 288.309 0.84724 0 3.33874 26.5414

42
 Table A-15. Trajectory Data for .338-.416

Range Velocity Mach Height Time Super Elevation (SE)

(m) (m/s) Number (m) (sec) (mil)
0 927.41 2.72532 0 0 0
100 885.145 2.60116 1.492 0.11039 0.6
200 843.564 2.47901 2.861 0.22614 1.238
300 802.652 2.35881 4.093 0.34769 1.9193
400 762.403 2.24055 5.174 0.47554 2.6483
500 722.959 2.12466 6.088 0.61025 3.4302
600 684.48 2.01159 6.815 0.75243 4.2708
700 647.04 1.90157 7.335 0.90271 5.1766
800 610.685 1.79473 7.622 1.06181 6.1551
900 575.436 1.69114 7.647 1.23052 7.2146
1000 541.318 1.59087 7.376 1.40972 8.3648
1100 508.353 1.49398 6.772 1.60039 9.6168
1200 476.571 1.40056 5.79 1.8036 10.9834
1300 446.004 1.31071 4.376 2.02056 12.4793
1400 416.744 1.22469 2.47 2.2526 14.1215
1500 389.017 1.14318 . 0 2.50111 15.9296

Table A-16. Unit Effects Data for 300 Win. Mag., 190 gr., fired at 2,900 ft/s

Range dRange/dSE Velocity Air Temp Density Range Wind Crosswind

(m) (m/rnil) m/(m/s) m/(%) m/(%) m/(m/s) m/(m/s)
0 145.242 . 0 0 0 0 0
100 132.031 0.0001 0 0 0 0.0044
200 119.529 0.0006 0 0.0003 0 0.018
300 107.825 0.0015 0.0002 0.0011 0.0002 0.0421
400 96.889 0.0029 0.0005 0.0029 0.0005 0.0776
500 86.685 0.0048 0.001 0.0064 0.0011 0.126
600 77.219 0.0075 0.002 0.0124 0.0022 0.1889
700 68.467 0.011 0.0036 0.0222 0.0041 0.2679
800 60.393 0.0156 0.0061 0.0375 0.007 0.3654
900 52.973 0.0216 0.0098 0.0608 0.0117 0.4837
1000 46.198 0.0292 0.0154 0.0956 0.0188 0.6258
1100 40.091 0.039 0.0231 0.1451 0.0296 0.7949
1200 35.096 0.051 0.0301 0.2064 0.0453 0.9885
1300 31.422 0.0643 0.0325 0.2761 0.0664 1.1951
1400 28.598 0.0787 0.0295 0.3552 0.0935 1.4127
1500 26.325 0.0941 0.0207 0.4449 0.1272 1.6412

43
 Table A-17. Unit Effects Data for .50 CAL MK211 fired at 2,715 ft/s

Range dRange/dSE Velocity Air Temp Density Range Wind Crosswind

(m) (m/mil) m/(m/s) m/(%) m/(%) m/(m/s) m/(m/s)
0 131.30 0 0 0 0 0
100 121.87 0.0002 0 0 0 0.0036
200 112.75 0.0007 0 0.0003 0 0.0148
300 104.06 0.0018 0.0001 0.0009 0.0002 0.0342
400 95.82 0.0033 0.0004 0.0024 0.0004 0.0624
500 88.09 0.0054 0.0008 0.005 0.0009 0.1004
600 80.67 0.0082 0.0015 0.0095 0.0018 0.1489
700 73.80 0.0119 0.0026 0.0164 0.0031 0.2088
800 67.30 0.0164 0.0042 0.0267 0.0052 0.2813
900 61.26 0.0221 0.0064 0.0416 0.0082 0.3674
1000 55.63 0.029 0.0095 0.0626 0.0127 0.4684
1100 50.39 0.0374 0.0136 0.0913 0.0189 0.5853
1200 45.53 0.0475 0.0189 0.1301 0.0275 0.7197
1300 41.14 0.0596 0.0252 0.1805 0.0394 0.8724
1400 37.29 0.0738 0.0313 0.2424 0.0554 1.0427
1500 34.04 0.0897 0.035 0.3143 0.0762 1.2271

Table A-18. Unit Effects Data for 175 gr. Ml 18LR fired at 2,600 ft/s

Range dRange/dSE Velocity Air Temp Density Range Wind Crosswind

(m) (m/mil) m/(m/s) m/(%) m/(%) m/(m/s) m/(m/s)
0 118.971 0 0 0 0 0
100 108.394 0.0002 0 0 0 0.0051
200 98.348 0.0009 0 0.0004 0.0001 0.021
300 88.921 0.0021 0.0002 0.0015 0.0003 0.049
400 80.118 0.004 0.0004 0.0038 0.0008 0.0903
500 71.95 0.0067 0.001 0.0084 0.0017 0.1464
600 64.411 0.0103 0.0019 0.0161 0.0034 0.2188
700 57.481 0.0151 0.0033 0.0285 0.0063 0.3094
800 51.122 0.0214 0.0053 0.0477 0.0108 0.42
900 45.332 0.0293 0.0082 0.0763 0.0177 0.5529
1000 40.182 0.0393 0.0117 0.1162 0.0281 0.7096
1100 35.967 0.0512 0.0133 0.1659 0.043 0.8869
1200 32.775 0.0645 0.0140 0.2232 0.063 1.077
1300 30.31 0.0788 0.0016 0.2882 0.0886 1.2776
1400 28.326 0.0942 0.0135 0.3614 0.1204 1.4877
1500 26.688 0.1107 0.0285 0.4436 0.1591 1.7074

44
 Table A-19. Unit Effects Data for 300 gr. .338-.416 fired at 3,040 ft/s

Range dRange/dSE Velocity Air Temp Density Range Wind Cross Wind
(m) (m/mil) m/(m/s) m/(%) m/(%) m/(m/s) m/(m/s)
0 165.298 0 0 0 0 0
100 156.796 0.0001 0 0 0 0.0025
200 148.305 0.0005 0.0001 0.0002 0 0.0105
300 139.99 0.0012 0.0002 0.0006 0.0001 0.0242
400 131.881 0.0023 0.0005 0.0015 0.0002 0.0443
500 123.958 0.0038 0.001 0.0031 0.0004 0.0712
600 116.264 0.0058 0.0019 0.0058 0.0007 0.1057
700 108.805 0.0082 0.0031 0.0099 0.0013 0.1482
800 101.599 0.0114 0.0049 0.0161 0.0021 0.1996
900 94.641 0.0152 0.0074 0.0249 0.0034 0.2607
1000 87.937 0.0198 0.0108 0.0371 0.0052 0.3322
1100 81.501 0.0255 0.0154 0.0538 0.0078 0.4151
1200 75.337 0.0322 0.0213 0.0765 0.0114 0.5106
1300 69.454 0.0402 0.0291 0.1066 0.0163 0.62
1400 63.857 0.0498 0.0391 0.1463 0.023 0.7443
1500 58.565 0.0612 0.0517 0.1982 0.032 . 0.8851

A.3 Round-to-Round Dispersion (RRD) Data

A.3.1 RRD Data for the Ml 18LR and 300 WM Ammunition

Because data about the M118LR were lacking and with an assumed similarity
between ammunition types, the round-to-round dispersion (RRD) data for the Ml 18LR and 300
WM ammunition were based on a fit of dispersion data for the 7.62x51-mm Ml 18 SPECIAL
BALL CARTRIDGE ammunition (see Appendix B of Reference 32 and Figure A-l). The test
data are for numerous ammunition lots and 10-round groups fired from bolt-action, accuracy
(Mann-type) barrels and machine rests at 100 yard ranges as far as 1000 yards. These data
compare well with other data cited in Reference 32 (Estimated RRD, Bolt-Action Rifle, Machine
Rest, Table 2.2, Part A; Test Data, Table 2.2, Part B; Ml 18 RRD Requirement, Table B-l, Note
d). Because the data at 200 yards seemed too high for the trend of the data and because they
contained far fewer groups, they were not included in the fit of the data to extrapolate to 1500 m.
A parabolic fit of the data was made rather than a linear fit because at about 900 m, the bullet
goes subsonic, and it is believed that the dispersion widens greatly after that. Although labeled
the intrinsic RRD of the ammunition, the data may contain other possible error sources than
RRD, such as velocity variations, wind, etc. The range conditions for each firing occasion are not

45
described. Nevertheless, as Reference 32 points out, "it is relatively rare to have data identified
to specific ammunition lots and to have so many different ranges fired by the same organization
under identical test conditions." Therefore, it is felt that these data are most representative of the
true RRD for this class of ammunition.

Intrinsic Round-to-Round Dispersion of 7.62x51 mm, M118 SPECIAL BALL CARTRIDGE

10-round groups from Accuracy (Mann-type) Barrel and Machine Rest,
0.45 - Ref. AMSAA-TR-461 Appendix B

0.40 -

0.35 -

0.30 f

0.25 -
£
CO
Q
0.20 -

0.15 -

0.10 -

0.05- \t. »■
.-♦-" X.
^ Mini
Minimums

0.00 —
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200
Range(m)

Figure A-1. RRD Data. Ml 18 SPECIAL BALL CARTRIDGE.

A.3.2 RRD Data for the 50 CAL MK211

The RRD data for the .50 CAL MK211 are based on test data from References 42 and
32 (Table 2.18). The data are shown in Figure A-2. In Reference 42, three 10-shot groups were
benchrest fired from two Barrett M82A1 rifles (Guns 1045 and 1046) by two trained gunners.
Dispersion data were collected at 100, 500, and 1000 m. The data were extrapolated to 1500 m.
Gun 1046 had approximately 50% larger dispersion than gun 1045 at all ranges. Since each gunner
fired the same gun throughout the testing, it is not possible to separate gun performance from
shooter skill in the data. Reference 32 (Table 2.18, Note h) reports the dispersion of the MK211
fired from a machine rest, special application sniper rifle (SASR) at 0.25 mil at 600 yards. The
data from Reference 42 exceeded this amount. Although the rounds were fired by two trained

46
gunners during fairly benign conditions, the data presumably include weapon pointing error and
possibly other error sources, e.g., crosswind. Therefore, the data for each of the guns in Reference
42 were shifted down so as to pass through this datum. The data were then averaged together.
The resulting adjusted data compare well with test data from Reference 32 (Table 2.18), which
were obtained from SASR firings in a prone/bipod position during benign conditions at bull's-eye
targets at known ranges. Reference 32 (Table 2.18) considers this to be total system error and
estimates RRD which, in retrospect, might have been better used for the error budget, but this is
only an estimate. The MK211 goes subsonic at about 1300 m, and it is believed the dispersion
widens greatly after that. At any rate, a reduction in RRD would affect each of the three systems
that are being considered equally. Thus, the comparison between the relative effects of adding fire
control sophistication would remain the same.

A ARFSD-TR-93043. Gun 1046

------ Fit. Gun 1046
O ARFSD-TR-93043, Gun 1045
——-^it. Gun 1045
• SASR, Machine Rest at 600 yds, AMSAA-TR-461, Table 2.18, Note h.
- Q Adjusted ARFSD-TR-93043 data
7 —N Test Data, AMSAA-TR-461. Table 2.18
; —B Estimated RRD data. AMSAA-TR-461, Table 2.18
A
0.8 - .
_,—.■»----
-
A -'"
0.7 T

-. 0.6 -
1 I
«o 0.5 t _. ""*"
.2> - ♦——""■""

<r
* 0.3 - *

0.2 -

0.1 T
RRD Values Used

0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700 1800 1900

Range (m)

Figure A-2. RRD Data. 50 CAL MK211.

A.3.3 RRD Data for the .338-.416

RRD is the random error of the bullet attributable to such factors as ballistic jump,
slight variations in bullet geometry, etc. The problem with trying to extract a value for RRD

47
from ammunition dispersion test data is that such data are a composite of all error sources that
were present at the time of testing. Many of these are difficult if not impossible to quantify.
Dispersion data labeled as the "intrinsic" RRD of the ammunition may also include errors such as
muzzle velocity variation, weapon pointing error, atmospheric distortion of the target aim point,
and crosswind variation (especially at long ranges).

For the .338-.416 dispersion tests, attempts were made to account for both crosswind
and muzzle velocity variations. Crosswind was measured via five down-range anemometers.
Velocity was measured by Weibel radar. When possible, the computed portion of the dispersion
attributable to these factors was removed from the overall dispersion of a group. The
uncorrected and corrected horizontal and vertical standard deviations of the .338 to .416 shot
groups are listed in Table A-20, along with the measured effective uniform crosswind and muzzle
velocity standard deviations. The data are plotted in Figures A-3 and A-4.

Radial standard deviation (RSD) is the square root of the sum of the horizontal and
vertical variances (a variance is the square of a standard deviation). RSD is an efficient estimator
of the "accuracy" of a pattern of shots because it considers all the information about dispersion
in both directions. [43] Because RRD is attributable to bullet factors alone, one would assume an
equally random dispersion in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The RSD would be
expected to be about the square root of two times the standard deviation of the impact points in
either the horizontal or the vertical direction. Thus, a good estimate of RRD might come from
computing the RSD of a group and dividing it by the square root of two. In this manner,
estimates of RRD for the .338 to .416 were determined.

The RSD values for the pooled ARL groups were fit as a function of range, along with
an RSD value derived from a contract requirement that the accuracy of the weapon system be 1/2
inch at 100 yards for a 10-round group. Using Grubbs tables [43], this is equivalent to an RSD
value of 0.05 mil. The Aberdeen Test Center data were not included in the fit primarily because
the 1000-m data seemed inconsistent with the apparent trend. The author even entertained the
thought that the data for 1000 m and 1400 m were inadvertently switched, but that apparently
was not the case. The author has no record of the firing conditions during the two different
occasions that the 1000-m and 1400-m groups were shot, so neither set could be corrected for
wind or velocity variations. Perhaps the conditions were not as favorable for the 1000-m groups,
or, since it was the first time the shooters had handled the rifle during the 1000-m firings, perhaps
they were just then getting the feel for the weapon and showed marked improvement when they

48
next shot at 1400 m. The RSD and derived RRD values for the .338-.416 are plotted in Figure A-
5.

Table A-20. Dispersion Data for the .338-.416

Uncorrected
Standard Deviation (mils) Corrected
Corrections Standard
Horiz. Vert. Deviation
Range Group/ Crosswind Velocity (mils) (mils) RSD
(m) Gunner No. Rounds m/s - mils m/s - mils Horiz. Vert. (mils)
490 , ARLA No. 1/10 0.081 0.093 0.072 0.092
0.26-0.037 1.61-0.012 Pooled
490 ARLA No. 2/10 0.060 0.081 0.037 0.080 0.096
0.33-0.047 1.93-0.015
490 ARLA Muffler No. 0.162 0.130 NA NA
1/10
490 ARLA Muffler No. 0.198 0.152 NA NA NA
2/10
800 ARLB No. 1/10 0.132 0.067 0.107 0.056
0.31-0.077 2.49-0.037 Pooled
800 ARLB No. 2/10 0.134 0.072 NA 0.052 0.109
3.48-0.051
1000 ARLB No. 1/10 0.161 0.074 0.131 0.063
0.28-0.093 1.82-0.038 Pooled
1000 ARLB No. 2/10 0.070 0.084 0.049 0.070 0.108
0.15-0.050 2.26-0.046
1200 ARLB No. 1/10 0.130 0.102 NA 0.073
2.68-0.072 Pooled
1200 ARLB No. 2/10 0.121 0.121 0.118 0.112 0.143
0.06-0.026 1.65-0.044
1000 ATC 1 No. 1/5 0.168 0.221 NA NA 0.248
1000 ATC2 No. 1/5 0.173 0.110 NA NA 0.183
1000 ATC 3 No. 1/5 0.249 0.178 NA NA 0.274
1000 1-3 Pooled/15 0.200 0.175 NA NA 0.238
1400 ATC 1 No. 1/5 0.092 0.140 NA NA 0.150
1400 ATC 2 No. 1/5 0.063 0.204 NA NA 0.191
1400 ATC 3 No. 1/5 0.103 0.110 NA NA 0.135
1400 1-3 Pooled/15 0.088 0.156 NA NA 0.161

49
 0.25 - o ATC3

0.2 ♦ ARL A, Muffler #2 I ATC Pooled

ATC1 &*Tf2D
♦ ARL A, Muffler #1 ♦ ARLB
0.15
E ARLB^
en O Corrected «ARLB
»ARLB
5j forCW fARLB
Corrected
OATC3
c 0.1 forCW
o ATC Pooled iATC1
ARL A, Group 1
o Corrected for CWOARBareGRiflep2
X ♦ ARLB
A ATC 2
Bare Rifle
0.05 ♦ Corrected for CW
Corrected for CW ©
Contract
Requirement

100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400
Range (m)

Figure A-3. Horizontal Dispersion Data. .338-.416.

0.25

DATC1
A ATC 2
0.2

a ATC Pooled iATC3

1 ■ ATC Pooled
0.15 ♦ARL A, Muffler #2
P ATC1
E ♦ARL A, Muffler #1
oi
55 Corrected* A™- B
ATC 2 A f0r MV JARLB o ATC 3
ARL A, Group 1
S 0.1
ARLAaGr0Rufple2!CorreCtedforMV ♦ARL B Corrected
o Bare Rifle Corrected for MV
|ARLB Corrected for MV
Corrected for MV$ for MV
0.05 J-
. Contract
Requirement

100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1 400
Range (m)

Figure A-4. Vertical Dispersion Data. .338-.416.

50
 0.250 T'
■
MV and CW, and Averaged
■ from ATC Test, Conditions Unknown
E 0.200
X Contract Requirement (.5" ES at 100 yds) i

: RSDFit
■
>c) 0.150 " ' H and V RRD-RSD/5art(2)
Q -*• -_-*• — "*"

c 0.100
TO
^""' ■ "

0.050
" ^^^^^

X 1 i 1 , ; 1 1_ ; 1 i 1 ■ 1
0.000
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500
Range (m)

Figure A-5. RRDData. .338-.416.

51
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

52
 APPENDIX B

RANDOM AND VARIABLE BIAS ERRORS

53
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

54
 RANDOM AND VARIABLE BIAS ERRORS

Tables B-l and B-2. Total Random and Variable Bias Errors, .300 WinMag

Weapon : M24 Ammunition: .308 CAL SIERRA WinMag

Bullet Weight: 190 grains Muzzle Velocity: 2,900 fps
Total Random Errors (mil)
Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.16 0.15 0.16 0.15 0.15 0.14
200 0.20 0.16 0.20 0.16 0.17 0.15
300 0.25 0.16 0.25 0.16 0.21 0.15
400 0.32 0.17 0.32 0.17 0.26 0.17
500 0.39 0.19 0.39 0.19 0.31 0.18
600 0.47 0.20 0.47 0.20 0.37 0.20
700 0.56 0.22 0.56 0.22 0.44 0.22
800 0.66 0.25 0.66 0.25 0.52 0.24
900 0.78 0.28 0.78 0.28 0.60 0.27
1000 0.90 0.31 0.90 0.31 0.70 0.31
1100 1.03 0.36 1.03 0.36 0.80 0.35
1200 1.17 0.40 1.17 0.40 0.91 0.39
1300 1.31 0.45 1.31 0.45 1.01 0.44
1400 1.44 0.51 1.44 0.51 1.11 0.49
1500 1.56 0.57 1.56 0.57 1.20 0.54

Total Variable Bias Errors ( mil)

Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.11 0.06 0.07 0.05 0.05 0.05
200 0.21 0.10 0.11 0.05 0.05 0.05
300 0.33 0.15 0.16 0.06 0.05 0.05
400 0.45 0.22 0.21 0.07 0.05 0.06
500 0.58 0.30 0.27 0.08 0.05 0.06
600 0.72 0.40 0.34 0.10 0.05 0.07
700 0.88 0.53 0.41 0.13 0.05 0.09
800 1.05 0.69 0.49 0.17 0.05 0.10
900 1.24 0.88 0.58 0.23 0.05 0.12
1000 1.44 1.13 0.68 0.31 0.05 0.14
1100 1.66 1.44 0.78 0.42 0.05 0.17
1200 1.90 1.79 0.89 0.51 0.05 0.21
1300 2.12 2.15 1.00 0.56 0.05 0.24
1400 2.33 2.53 1.11 0.57 0.05 0.27
1500 2.53 2.93 1.21 0.59 0.05 0.30

55
Tables B-3 and B-4. Total Random and Variable Bias Errors, .50 CAL MK211

Weapon: .50 Barrett M82A1 Ammunition :MK211

Bullet Weight: 670 grains Muzzle Velocity : 2,715 fps
Total Random Errors (mil)
Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.28 0.28 0.28 0.28 0.22 0.21
200 0.31 0.29 0.31 0.29 0.24 0.22
300 0.34 0.30 0.34 0.30 0.26 0.24
400 0.37 0.31 0.37 0.31 0.30 0.25
500 0.42 0.33 0.42 0.33 0.33 0.27
600 0.48 0.34 0.48 0.34 0.38 0.29
700 0.54 0.36 0.54 0.36 0.43 0.31
800 0.61 0.38 0.61 0.38 0.48 0.33
900 0.68 0.40 0.68 0.40 0.54 0.36
1000 0.76 0.43 0.76 0.43 0.60 0.39
1100 0.84 0.46 0.84 0.46 0.67 0.42
1200 0.93 0.49 0.93 0.49 0.74 0.45
1300 1.03 0.53 1.03 0.53 0.81 0.49
1400 1.13 0.57 1.13 0.57 0.89 0.53
1500 1.23 0.61 1.23 0.61 0.97 0.57

Total Variable Bias Errors ( mil)

Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire (Control
Range (m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.12 0.10 0.10 0.09 0.07 0.07
200 0.19 0.13 0.12 0.09 0.07 0.07
300 0.28 0.17 0.15 0.09 0.07 0.07
400 0.37 0.23 0.19 0.10 0.07 0.08
500 0.47 0.30 0.24 0.11 0.07 0.09
600 0.58 0.39 0.29 0.12 0.07 0.09
700 0.70 0.49 0.34 0.14 0.07 0.11
800 0.82 0.62 0.40 0.16 0.07 0.12
900 0.95 0.76 0.46 0.20 0.07 0.13
1000 1.09 0.93 0.53 0.24 0.07 0.15
1100 1.24 1.13 0.60 0.29 0.07 0.17
1200 1.39 1.37 0.68 0.36 0.07 0.20
1300 1.56 1.64 0.76 0.43 0.07 0.23
1400 1.73 1.95 0.84 0.51 0.07 0.26
1500 1.91 2.29 0.93 0.56 0.07 0.29

56
 Tables B-5 and B-6 Total Random and Variable Bias Errors, Ml 18LR

Weapon: Knight SSW, SR25 Ammunition: Ml 18LR

Bullet Weight: 175 grains Muzzle Velocity : 2,600 fps
Total Random Errors (mi 1)
Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.17 0.15 0.17 . 0.15 0.15 0.14
200 0.21 0.16 0.21 0.16 0.18 0.15
300 0.28 0.17 0.28 0.17 0.23 0.16
400 0.35 0.18 0.35 0.18 0.28 0.17
500 0.44 0.19 0.44 0.19 0.35 0.18
600 0.53 0.21 0.53 0.21 0.42 0.20
700 0.64 0.24 0.64 0.24 0.50 0.23
800 0.75 0.26 0.75 0.26 0.58 0.26 •
900 0.88 0.30 0.88 0.30 0.68 0.29
1000 1.01 0.34 1.01 0.34 0.78 0.33
1100 1.14 0.39 1.14 0.39 0.88 0.37
1200 1.27 0.44 1.27 0.44 0.98 0.42
1300 1.39 0.49 1.39 0.49 1.07 0.47
1400 1.51 0.54 1.51 0.54 1.16 0.52
1500 1.62 0.60 1.62 0.60 1.25 0.57

Total Variable Bias Errors ( mil)

Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.13 0.07 0.08 0.05 0.05 0.05
200 0.25 0.12 0.12 0.05 0.05 0.05
300 0.38 0.18 0.18 0.06 0.05 0.06
400 0.52 0.26 0.25 0.07 0.05 0.07
500 0.68 0.36 0.32 0.09 0.05 0.08
600 0.84 0.48 0.40 0.11 0.05 0.09
700 1.02 0.63 0.48 0.15 0.05 0.11
800 1.21 0.81 0.57 0.19 0.05 0.13
900 1.42 1.03 0.67 0.25 0.05 0.16
1000 1.64 1.29 0.77 0.32 0.05 0.19
1100 1.86 1.58 0.88 0.37 0.05 0.22
1200 2.08 1.89 0.99 0.42 0.05 0.26
1300 2.28 2.21 1.09 0.45 0.05 0.29
1400 2.47 2.56 1.19 0.53 0.05 0.32
1500 2.65 2.92 1.29 0.64 0.05 0.35

57
 Tables B-7 and B-8. Total Random and Variable Bias Errors, .338-.416

Weapon: Testbed .338 Ammo: .338- .416

Bullet Weight: 300 £;rains Muzzle Velocity: 3040 fbs
Total Random Errors (m il)
Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.126 0.122 0.126 0.122 0.111 0.108
200 0.144 0.126 0.144 0.126 0.124 0.113
300 0.169 0.130 0.169 0.130 0.142 0.118
400 0.201 0.135 0.201 0.135 0.164 0.123
500 0.236 0.140 0.236 0.140 0.190 0.128
600 0.277 0.145 0.277 0.145 0.220 0.134
700 0.321 0.151 0.321 0.151 0.252 0.141
800 0.369 0.159 0.369 0.159 0.287 0.148
900 0.421 0.167 0.421 0.167 0.325 0.157
1000 0.477 0.177 0.477 0.177 0.366 0.167
1100 0.537 0.188 0.537 0.188 0.410 0.179
1200 0.601 0.202 0.601 Q.202 0.458 0.192
1300 0.669 0.218 0.669 0.218 0.509 0.208
1400 0.743 0.238 0.743 0.238 0.563 0.226
1500 0.822 0.261 0.822 0.261 0.622 0.247

Total Variable Bias Errors ( mil)

Base ine w/ CW Sensor w/ Fire Control
Range(m) Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical
100 0.070 0.050 0.049 0.040 0.035 0.035
200 0.128 0.079 0.070 0.042 0.035 0.037
300 0.191 0.116 0.098 0.045 0.035 0.040
400 0.259 0.160 0.129 0.052 0.035 0.044
500 0.332 0.211 0.163 0.062 0.035 0.050
600 0.410 0.270 0.199 0.079 0.035 0.057
700 0.492 0.336 0.238 0.098 0.035 0.065
800 0.579 0.413 0.280 0.125 0.035 0.075
900 0.673 0.502 0.325 0.159 0.035 0.087
1000 0.771 0.604 0.372 0.202 0.035 0.099
1100 0.876 0.722 0.423 0.254 0.035 0.114
1200 0.988 0.858 0.478 0.317 0.035 0.130
1300 1.108 1.017 0.536 0.394 0.035 0.149
1400 1.236 1.202 0.599 0.487 0.035 0.170
1500 1.372 1.416 0.667 0.597 0.035 0.194

58
 APPENDIX C

NUMBER OF ROUNDS TO HIT E-SILHOUETTE TARGET

59
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

60
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m ON NO
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■+-» J=
Weapon: Knight SSW, SR25 Ammunition: Ml 18LR

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64
 APPENDIX D

SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS

65
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

66
 SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS

300 WINMAG, Baseline System

6.00 T

£ 5.00 ♦ Range = 400m

E, —■—700m
CO
---A-- 1200m
I 4.00 —X---1500m
.-.*'■
2w
UJ __ -X"
1 3.00 JS---X X- — -* *"
■•E
2 .-■A*
1 2.00
t\.---it-
CO
CO

£ 1.00 +

♦—♦-
0.00 +
5 10 15 20 25
Weapon-Target Altitude Difference sigma (deg)

U.ÖU -
w V

« 0.70 -
E>
CO
Z 0.60 -
3
2 0.50 - —■—700m
"w ---A-- 1200m
ÜJ —X---1500m
co 0.40 -

E 0.30 j

Ico 0.20
.a
2 ~™— — — J

°" 0.10 +

0.00 «*- = ^^^^.-frr^^;-^ r ^iJ-«r..iirnii-MC'

5 10 15 20 25 30
Weapon-Target Altitude Difference sigma (deg)

Figure D-l. Error Budget Sensitivity. Weapon-Target Altitude Difference.

67
 300 WINMAG, Baseline System
6.000

.-X"
■Range = 400m
| 5.000 -- —■—700m
cc ---A-- 1200m
E --X-- -1500m
« 4.000
2
L. -'*'
W
« x-
c 3.000 j*. ---x—■
N
.--A"
Io A A -A
£ 2.000
*■.
CO

CO

I 1.000 ■ ■ • — "■""
—. . —. • *
0.000
3 4 5 6 7 9 10
Weapon Cant sigma (deg)

0.800

- 0.700
CD
&
© 0.600
*sCD ■Range = 400m
13
—■—700m
| 0.500
'v> ---A-- 1200m
LU --X—1500m
« 0.400
"5
E 0.300
o

S
CO
0.200
.£>
2
°- 0.100

0.000 #= -m
0 3 4 5 6 7 10
Weapon Cant sigma (deg)

Figure D-2. Error Budget Sensitivity. Weapon Cant.

68
 300 WINMAG, Baseline System
3.000 x -X

=| 2.500 -f
oo
E A -A
o>
<£ 2.000 4-
2 ♦ Range = 400m
ui ! -■—700m
03
•S 1.500 ---A-- 1200m
oN --*■- -1500m
*E
O
X
£ 1.000
CD

t
CO
•^
I 0.500

0.000 1 —i 1 1 1 1

50 100 150 200 250 300

Zeroing Range (m)

0.800 T

*.
CD
0.700
2>
CO
m 0.600 --
* "Range = 400m
| 0.500 + —■— -700m
'to ---A-- 1200m
uu —X---1500m
co 0.400
o

E
o 0.300

S
CO
0.200
£>
2
°- 0.100 --

0.000 *
50 100 150 200 250 300
Zeroing Range (m)

Figure D-3. Error Budget Sensitivity Zeroing Range.

69
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

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2 DIRECTOR
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ATTN AMSRLWM I MAY
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2 DIR USARL
ATTN AMSRL WMB AW HORST JR
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BLDG 4600

14 DIR USARL
ATTN AMSRL WMBB H ROGERS
BHAUG
R VON WAHLDE (12 CYS)
BLDG 1121

2 DIR USARL
ATTN AMSRL WMBB T BROSSEAU
MKREGEL
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 Form Approved
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1. AGENCY USE ONLY (Leave blank) 2. REPORT DATE 3. REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED

August 1999 Final

4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 5. FUNDING NUMBERS

Sniper Weapon Fire Control Error Budget Analysis PR: 1L162618AH80

6. AUTHOR(S)

Von Wahlde, R. (ARL); Metz, D. (EAI Corp.)

7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION

REPORT NUMBER
U.S. Army Research Laboratory
Weapons & Materials Research Directorate
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5066

9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSORING/MONITORING

AGENCY REPORT NUMBER
U.S. Army Research Laboratory
Weapons & Materials Research Directorate ARL-TR-2065
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5066
11. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

12a. DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT 12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

13. ABSTRACT (Maximum 200 words)

In order to assess the value added by the application of fire control technology to sniper weapons, "error budgets" are developed
as a function of range for several sniper weapon systems. A system is comprised of the weapon and its associated ammunition
as well as the type of fire control technology provided that weapon. For this study, a total of four weapon-ammunition
combinations were used and three levels of fire control sophistication were examined. The "baseline system" consists of a two-
person sniper team using a standard rifle, spotting scope, and laser range finder to make aiming corrections. The "cross-wind
system" adds a laser crosswind sensing device and more accurate range finder incorporated into the spotting scope. The "fire
control system" performs a full ballistic firing solution and presents a real-time corrected aim point to the shooter. One-sigma
system errors and probabilities of hit against an E-silhouette target are calculated.

15. NUMBER OF PAGES

14. SUBJECT TERMS
85
16. PRICE CODE

18. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION 19. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION 20. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT

17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION
OF REPORT OF THIS PAGE OF ABSTRACT
Unclassified Unclassified Unclassified
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NSN 7540-01-280-5500 75 Prescribed by ANSI Std. Z39-18
298-102