| FPS to MPH | MPH to FPS | |
|---|---|---|
Understanding the Conversion Formulas
FPS to MPH Formula
To convert from feet per second to miles per hour, multiply the FPS value by 0.6818181818. This is because there are 5,280 feet in a mile and 3,600 seconds in an hour, so the conversion factor is (3600 ÷ 5280) = 0.6818.
MPH = FPS × 0.6818
Example: A bullet traveling at 1000 FPS is moving at 681.8 MPH.
MPH to FPS Formula
To convert from miles per hour to feet per second, divide the MPH value by 0.6818181818, or more simply, multiply by 1.4667.
FPS = MPH ÷ 0.6818 or FPS = MPH × 1.4667
Example: A velocity of 681.82 MPH equals approximately 1000 FPS.
FPS to MPH Chart
The following is a chart that list conversions of feet per second to miles per hour in a charted bar format starting at 500fps and going to 10,000fps.
FPS to MPH Comparison
MPH to FPS Chart
The following is a chart that list conversions of miles per hour to feet per second in a charted bar format starting at 500mph and going to 10,000mph.
MPH to FPS Comparison
FPS to MPH Converter: Convert Bullet Velocity Between Units
Our free online FPS to MPH converter helps you easily translate between feet per second (FPS) and miles per hour (MPH) for bullet velocity calculations. Whether you're a hunter, competitive shooter, or ballistics enthusiast, having the ability to convert between these units is valuable for understanding ammunition performance.
This converter allows you to quickly convert in both directions: FPS to MPH and MPH to FPS, with complete conversion charts for reference.
How to Use the Black Basin FPS to MPH Converter
- Choose Your Conversion Direction - Select whether you're converting from FPS to MPH or from MPH to FPS.
- Enter Your Value - Input the velocity value you want to convert in the appropriate field.
- View Result - The converted value will be calculated instantly based on the formula.
- Use the Calculator Pad - For convenience, you can use the number pad provided to enter your values.
- Reference the Charts - Scroll down to view comprehensive conversion charts for quick reference.
Why Convert Between FPS and MPH
For Ballistics Analysis
Manufacturers typically list ammunition velocity in FPS, but comparing this to familiar speeds in MPH helps visualize just how fast bullets actually travel.
For Equipment Specifications
Some shooting and chronograph equipment may display results in different units. This converter allows you to standardize your measurements.
For Educational Purposes
Understanding bullet velocity in both units provides perspective. For example, a standard 9mm round traveling at 1200 FPS is moving at about 818 MPH—faster than many commercial airplanes!
Typical Ammunition Velocities
- Pistol Ammunition: Typically ranges from 750-1400 FPS (511-955 MPH)
- Rifle Ammunition: Typically ranges from 2000-4000 FPS (1364-2727 MPH)
- Rimfire Ammunition: Typically ranges from 1000-1750 FPS (682-1193 MPH)
- Shotgun Slugs: Typically ranges from 1200-1800 FPS (818-1227 MPH)
- High-Velocity Rifle Rounds: Can exceed 4000 FPS (2727 MPH)
Practical Applications
For Hunters
Understanding bullet velocity in both FPS and MPH helps hunters select appropriate ammunition for different game and distances. Higher velocities typically translate to flatter trajectories and more downrange energy, important factors when making ethical shots on game animals.
For Competitive Shooters
Competitive shooters often need to fine-tune ammunition to meet specific velocity requirements or power factor minimums. Being able to convert between units allows for easier comparison with competition standards regardless of how they're stated.
For Reloaders
Handloaders who develop custom ammunition can use this converter to compare their loads against factory ammunition specifications or to ensure they're meeting desired velocity thresholds for specific applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are bullet velocities primarily measured in FPS rather than MPH?
Feet per second became the standard unit for measuring bullet velocity primarily because it provides more precise increments for ballistic calculations. Since bullets travel relatively short distances, FPS is a more practical unit for calculating trajectory, energy, and other ballistic properties. The industry has maintained this standard for consistency in comparisons and ballistic software.
How does velocity affect a bullet's trajectory and performance?
Higher velocity generally results in flatter trajectories (less bullet drop), increased energy transfer to the target, and potentially better terminal performance. However, extremely high velocities can sometimes cause bullets to fragment prematurely or become unstable. The optimal velocity depends on the specific bullet design and intended application.
Is the speed of sound relevant to bullet velocity?
Yes, the speed of sound (approximately 1125 fps or 767 mph at sea level) is an important threshold in ballistics. Bullets traveling faster than sound create a sonic crack and experience different aerodynamic forces than subsonic bullets. Many specialized subsonic loads are designed to stay below this threshold for use with suppressors, while supersonic ammunition is standard for most applications where maximum velocity is desired.
Start Converting Velocities
Use our FPS to MPH converter above to quickly translate between these common velocity measurements. Whether you're comparing ammunition, educating yourself about ballistics, or simply curious about how fast bullets actually travel, this tool provides instant and accurate conversions.
Remember: Understanding bullet velocity in both FPS and MPH gives you a more comprehensive perspective on ammunition performance and helps you make more informed decisions for your shooting applications.