Can Wind Affect Deer Rifle Accuracy?

According to the “Sierra Bullet Reloading Manual,” a 180-grain 30-06 pointed bullet leaving the muzzle at 2700 feet per second with a 20 mile per hour crosswind will blow 6 inches off course at 200 yards. That same bullet with the same 20 mile per hour crosswind will blow 14 inches off course at 300 yards.
Regardless of wind speed, bullet drift can occur if the wind is hitting your gun barrel at certain angles.
On the other hand, if you are shooting into the wind or the wind is directly behind you, wind will have little effect on your bullet’s path.
Study ballistic charts to see how your bullet will fly and how wind speed can affect your bullet trajectory. Learn the bullet drop of your load at different distances.
Before you head out to the deer hunting woods, make sure you listen to the local weather report, specifically wind speed and direction.
With a little research and some perfect practice, you could be zeroed in on a big buck at any range under any circumstances.