Field reference · factory loads · iron sights

Handgun Cartridge Chart

Common pistol and revolver cartridges: what each was built for, a typical factory load and barrel length, speed, energy, practical range and twist. All point-blank figures assume open iron sights, not a scope, red dot or other optic. Tap a column header to sort.

	Made for

Iron sights only

Every point-blank number on this chart assumes standard open iron sights sitting about 0.6" above the bore, the typical height on a pistol or revolver. A red dot or scope sits much higher and changes the near zero, far zero and sight-in height, so these figures don't apply to optic-equipped guns.

How MPBR is figured

The bullet is zeroed so it peaks at the top of the target zone: 2" for .22 LR small game, 4" for .22 WMR, and 6" for everything else (a deer vital zone, or a 6" target for defense and practice rounds). Sight-in height is given at 25 yards, the usual handgun zeroing distance. G1 drag model, sea-level air, the listed load and barrel length.

Keep in mind

MPBR is how far the bullet stays in the zone, not how far you can hit with a handgun. Practical range reflects what a practiced shooter can do with iron sights.
Handgun velocity depends heavily on barrel length; a 2" snub can lose 100–200 fps or more.
Velocities and BCs are typical factory figures from my own knowledge, not looked up. Check the box for your load.
Check your state's rules for handgun hunting cartridges and minimum energy.