How is effective range different from maximum range?

Effective range refers to the distance at which a shooter can consistently hit a target, taking into account various factors such as accuracy, skill level, and the specific characteristics of the weapon being used. This means that within the effective range, the shooter can expect a higher probability of hitting the target reliably. On the other hand, maximum range designates the furthest distance that a projectile can travel, regardless of whether it can hit a target accurately or not.

Therefore, while the maximum range indicates the limits of how far a projectile can fly, it does not imply any consistency or accuracy in hitting a target at that distance. This distinction emphasizes that a shooter may be able to physically shoot a weapon to reach its maximum range, but that doesn't guarantee effectiveness in hitting targets at such distances.