CaliberAtlas › .257 Roberts

.257 Roberts Ballistics — Velocity, Energy & Drop

Common uses: Hunting, Varmint

Specifications

Typerifle (centerfire)
Typical load120gr SPBT
Muzzle velocity2780 fps
Muzzle energy2061 ft-lb
G1 ballistic coefficient0.391
Case length57 mm
Overall length74.9 mm
SAAMI max pressure54000 PSI
Common twist rate1:10"

.257 Roberts Trajectory Table

Range (yd)Velocity (fps)Energy (ft-lb)Drop (in)
0278020610
10026411860-7
20025091679-29
30023841515-65
40022641367-115
50021511234-180

Ethical Hunting Ranges

Guidelines only — ammunition choice, conditions, and shooter skill matter. Always follow local laws.

Typical Uses

The .257 Roberts is a centerfire rifle cartridge, delivering substantial energy on target, which shapes where it fits between varmint work, big-game hunting, and precision shooting. A representative 120-grain loading leaves the muzzle at roughly 2780 fps and carries about 2061 ft-lbs of energy, with a G1 ballistic coefficient near 0.391. Those numbers place it squarely in its intended performance envelope. Based on its energy and trajectory, ethical ranges work out to roughly small game and varmints to about 250 yards; medium game such as deer to about 300 yards; larger game to about 350 yards — always within the limits of your own accuracy and local regulations. Recoil is generally moderate for the class, and our database tracks 1 factory loading so you can compare bullet weights and velocities for your specific use. Figures here are for reference and informational use — always verify against manufacturer data.

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