Home Back

How To Calculate Knockdown Power

Knockdown Power Formula:

\[ Knockdown\ Power = \frac{M \times V \times D}{7000} \]

grains
ft/s
inches

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Knockdown Power?

Knockdown Power, also known as Taylor Knock-Out Factor, is a dimensionless value used to estimate the stopping power of a bullet. It considers bullet mass, velocity, and diameter to provide a comparative measure of effectiveness.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Taylor Knock-Out formula:

\[ Knockdown\ Power = \frac{M \times V \times D}{7000} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula combines these three factors to produce a single number that represents the bullet's potential stopping power, with higher values indicating greater effectiveness.

3. Importance of Knockdown Power Calculation

Details: This calculation is important for hunters, ballisticians, and firearms enthusiasts to compare different ammunition types and predict their effectiveness on game animals or in defensive scenarios.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter bullet mass in grains, velocity in feet per second, and diameter in inches. All values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a good knockdown power value?
A: Values above 15-20 are generally considered effective for medium game, while values above 25-30 are recommended for larger game animals.

Q2: How does this compare to other stopping power formulas?
A: The Taylor formula is one of several methods. It's particularly valued for its simplicity and focus on the three most important ballistic factors.

Q3: Why use grains for mass measurement?
A: Grains are the standard unit for bullet mass in firearms and ammunition specifications, making this formula practical for real-world applications.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: Like all simplified formulas, it doesn't account for bullet construction, shot placement, or target characteristics, which are also crucial factors.

Q5: Can this be used for all types of ammunition?
A: The formula works best for solid projectiles. Specialized ammunition like frangible or expanding bullets may require additional considerations.

How To Calculate Knockdown Power© - All Rights Reserved 2025