What is meant by the 'trajectory' of a round?

The trajectory of a round refers specifically to the arching flight path that the round takes as it travels from the muzzle of the firearm to the target. This path is influenced by various factors, including the initial velocity of the round, gravitational pull, air resistance, and the angle at which the round is fired. Understanding the trajectory is crucial for effective aiming and firing, as it helps the shooter anticipate where the round will land and adjust their aim accordingly.

In practical terms, recognizing the trajectory is essential for accounting for bullet drop over distance, wind effects, and other variables that can affect accuracy. Mastery of this concept enables shooters to improve their precision and effectiveness in various shooting scenarios, particularly when using machine guns in different terrains and conditions.