CaliberAtlas › .480 Ruger

.480 Ruger Ballistics — Velocity, Energy & Drop

Common uses: Hunting, Big Game

Specifications

Typepistol (centerfire)
Typical load325gr FMJ
Muzzle velocity1350 fps
Muzzle energy1315 ft-lb
G1 ballistic coefficient0.15
Case length32.6 mm
Overall length41.9 mm
SAAMI max pressure48000 PSI
Common twist rate1:18"

.480 Ruger Trajectory Table

Range (yd)Velocity (fps)Energy (ft-lb)Drop (in)
0135013150
10012831187-15
20012181071-59
3001157967-133

Ethical Hunting Ranges

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

Typical Uses

The .480 Ruger is a centerfire handgun cartridge, designed around the balance of controllable recoil, reliable feeding, and terminal performance that defensive and target shooters look for. A representative 325-grain loading leaves the muzzle at roughly 1350 fps and carries about 1315 ft-lbs of energy, with a G1 ballistic coefficient near 0.15. With a modest BC, it sheds velocity faster downrange and is best kept to shorter distances. In practice it is used most for self-defense, concealed carry, and target/competition shooting at handgun distances, where shot placement matters far more than raw power. Recoil is generally manageable 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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