If you’ve headed to the range and tried shooting past 100 yards with certain calibers, you’ve felt the frustration: bullets that drop dramatically, lose energy, or veer unpredictably. Picking the wrong ammunition isn’t just disappointing—it can be downright dangerous for precision shooting or hunting. That’s why knowing which ineffective calibers struggle beyond 100 yards is essential for any firearms enthusiast. Below are five real-world calibers that users frequently complain about—and the science behind their short-range limitations.
These Ineffective Calibers Won’t Get You Far
1. 7.62×39mm (Steel Case Economy Ammo)
The 7.62×39mm round became legendary during the AK boom, but it has a clear cutoff around the 100-yard mark. Sure, using high-quality brass-cased ammo helps, but most steel-cased training rounds drop heavily and disperse widely past that point. It’s a cartridge optimized for close-to-mid-range engagements, not precision shooting. The combination of modest bullet weight and round profile means it doesn’t hold its velocity or grouping past point-blank distances. If you’re serious about performance past 100 yards, this caliber won’t do the job.
2. .22 Long Rifle (Standard Velocity Loads)
Don’t let its ubiquity fool you—standard .22 LR loads are notably weak past 100 yards. Despite its reliability and recoil-free shooting, the bullet slows dramatically and drops around 10 inches by 150 yards, making it unreliable beyond the bench. Although it’s great for plinking and small-game hunting up to 75 yards, the supersonic transition zone further destabilizes the trajectory past 100 yards. Even hyper-velocity variants don’t significantly change that outcome. For targets outside backyard distances, this rimfire simply isn’t capable.
3. .17 Remington (Varmint Round)
With sky-high muzzle velocity (~4,000 fps), the .17 Remington might seem like a good long-range round, but appearances deceive. Its ultra-light projectile has a low ballistic coefficient, causing dramatic energy loss and wind drift beyond 100 yards. That means even a slight breeze can toss your bullet around. Despite its higher speed, the bullet’s slender profile cuts down on penetration and consistency at distance. For stable, precise shooting, you’ll want something heavier.
4. 9mm Parabellum (Pistol Caliber)
If you’re firing a 9mm through a rifle conversion or pistol-caliber carbine, don’t expect much beyond 100 yards. Standard ballistics show velocity falls off quickly, and the bullet drops significantly by the 100-yard mark. It’s perfectly fine for self-defense or close-range competition, but flat-shooting it is not. The low energy retention means no meaningful impact at a distance. If you’re aiming farther than 50–75 yards, a rifle round is far better.
5. .45 ACP (Also Pistol-Only Cartridge)
The .45 ACP rounds are famous for their stopping power up close, but they lose velocity fast when stretched beyond pistol range. Velocity at the barrel (~850 fps) drops steeply, and bullet drop makes accurate hits past 100 yards unrealistic. Even barrelled in carbine formats, it remains a close-range option due to bullet design and limited power. It’s great in the zone of confrontation—but almost useless as a long-range shooter’s go-to. Past 100 yards? Better switch it out.
Beyond 100 Yards: What You Really Want
These five ineffective calibers shine in their niche, but falter when pushed too far. If you consistently shoot at 200 yards or more, consider stepping up to flatter-shooting rifles like .223 Remington (5.56 NATO), .243 Winchester, or 6.5 Creedmoor. For handguns, 10mm Auto or .357 Magnum stretches farther—but don’t expect pinpoint precision past 100 yards. Choose ammo with enough energy and a drop to match the distance.
Using the right caliber for your range isn’t just smart—it’s crucial for accuracy, safety, and satisfaction. These ineffective calibers at range can cost you time, money, and frustration—but now you’re informed. Selecting ammo isn’t just about buying what’s cheap—it’s about matching tools to purpose. Know what works, and let your equipment support your skill, not limit it.
Have you tried one of these rounds at 100+ yards? Share your shooting experiences or favorite long-range calibers in the comments!
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The post The 5 Calibers That Fall Apart After 100 Yards appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
