Recoil Energy Calculator
Free recoil is the energy the firearm carries rearward as the bullet and propellant gases leave the muzzle. Heavier guns and lighter charges cut recoil; velocity and charge weight drive it up.
Inputs
Load presets
Free recoil energy15.5ft·lbf
Recoil velocity10.83ft/s
Recoil momentum92.09lb·ft/s
Bullet muzzle energy2619ft·lbf
Moderate — typical deer rifle territory.
Free recoil assumes a rigidly held firearm and ignores stock design, recoil pads, muzzle devices and gas-operated action cycling — all of which change what you actually feel. Use it to compare loads and rifles against each other rather than as an absolute measure of comfort.