Hi there! I'd love to help you understand why the elevation changes with wind adjustments in the Hornady Ballistics app. Just to make sure we're on the same page, are you noticing that when you change the wind values in the app, not only does the windage (horizontal adjustment) change, but the elevation (vertical adjustment) changes as well? Did this happen suddenly or has it been like this since you started using the app?

Understanding this will help me explain or guide you better!

Yes you got it, it was from the start

Thanks for confirming that for me! Let me explain why the elevation might be adjusting when you change wind settings in the Hornady Ballistics app.

The app uses an advanced 4DOF (4 Degrees of Freedom) ballistic calculator, which means it models bullet flight very precisely by considering several forces acting on the bullet, not just wind pushing it horizontally. Real-world ballistics take into account how wind can affect the bullet's trajectory path vertically as well—especially because wind can impact the bullet's stability, lift, and drag over long distances.

So when you input different wind values, the app updates the elevation to reflect how your bullet's vertical point of impact might shift due to aerodynamic effects caused by the wind. This holistic modeling helps you get the most accurate trajectory and shot placement data.

In short: elevation changes with wind adjustments because the ballistics engine factors in how wind influences vertical bullet movement, not just horizontal drift.

If you'd like, I can guide you through specific features of the app relevant to this or how to best leverage the 4DOF calculator for your shooting needs. Would that be helpful?

For more on the app's features and 4DOF functionality, you can check out Hornady's page here: Hornady Ballistics App - 4DOF and additional info here: Hornady Ballistic Calculator App

Are you satisfied with this explanation? Or is there a specific scenario you'd like me to help you with?

Tnx I understnd it but 4 clicks is way to much at 400y

I see what you're saying—4 clicks of adjustment at 400 yards can definitely feel like a lot. Thanks for sharing that. Let’s see how we can improve your shooting efficiency using the Hornady Ballistics app at that range.

The elevation adjustment the app suggests is based on very precise calculations that take into account all the ballistic factors, including your bullet's ballistic coefficient, velocity, environmental conditions, and the 4DOF solver's advanced model. Sometimes this results in what feels like more clicks than expected because the app is aiming for pinpoint accuracy. However, many shooters do find themselves adjusting their dope (data on previous engagements) a bit in the field to match real-world conditions.

To help with efficiency at 400 yards, here are a few steps to consider:

1. Verify your zero and input data: Double-check your rifle zero distance and ensure your bullet data (weight, BC, muzzle velocity) in the app matches your actual load and range setup. Even small differences there can lead to larger suggested corrections.

2. Use the app's "Range View" and "Group Analysis" features: These can help you analyze your shot group tendencies and see if you consistently need less adjustment than the app suggests.

3. Try to "true" the app by inputting confirmed field adjustments: If you generally need fewer clicks at 400 yards, you can adjust your muzzle velocity slightly in the app or add a 'dope' offset to dial the calculator to your shooting experience. This will reduce the suggested elevation moves for that range.

4. Check for environmental factors: Wind direction, angle, humidity, and temperature can all affect your trajectory. The app accounts for these, but if your inputs are off, it might skew the elevation requirements.

5. Practice “field calibration”: Shoot at 400 yards using the app’s suggested elevation, then note where your bullet actually hits. Adjust the app’s settings accordingly for your rifle and conditions to minimize unnecessary clicks.

There’s a helpful discussion on this topic on Sniper’s Hide where shooters talk about elevation comes up around 400 yards and how they “true” their ballistic calculators to the field (including Hornady 4DOF adjustments) 2.

If you'd like, I can also walk you through how to use these app features or explain how to fine-tune your settings.

Does that sound like something you want to try? Were you using any dope offsets or calibration features in the app yet?

Are you satisfied with the solution I provided so far?