That's the main reason I went with the Labradar. It sits on the bench and don't have to cross the firing line. Very pleased so far.
Chronograph tale of woe
- Thread starter cmj8591
- Start date
That's the main reason I went with the Labradar. It sits on the bench and don't have to cross the firing line. Very pleased so far.
I have the MagnetoSpeed. I was concerned about shifting the POI, but there are many competitive shooters who use them and are not concerned.
Accuracy? A fellow I know shot test rounds using both a Labradar and a MagentoSpeed to record the shots. The only difference between them was about 2-4 FPS, their graphs were identical. Who know which one was 2-4 FPS in error. In fact, the main difference he found was the MS tightened his groups up, suspecting the MS acted as a harmonic dampener.
The only issue I've had is the barrel strap on the MS sensor is rather stiff, and it worked loose a few times. I replaced it with a more flexible strap--problem solved. No, it's not much for handgun use. But for rifles it's a good deal for the money.
Accuracy? A fellow I know shot test rounds using both a Labradar and a MagentoSpeed to record the shots. The only difference between them was about 2-4 FPS, their graphs were identical. Who know which one was 2-4 FPS in error. In fact, the main difference he found was the MS tightened his groups up, suspecting the MS acted as a harmonic dampener.
The only issue I've had is the barrel strap on the MS sensor is rather stiff, and it worked loose a few times. I replaced it with a more flexible strap--problem solved. No, it's not much for handgun use. But for rifles it's a good deal for the money.
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I have owned and used an OEHLER 35P for 30 years. It works just as good today as the day I bought it. 3 sky screens give you 2 velocity readings for each shot. if the velocities are too far apart the "proof channel" will kick out that shot. The sky screens stands are sturdy as well as the light diffusers . The Unit sits on the table with you and only the (replaceable) sky screens are out where the bullet goes. It takes regular adding machine paper and records all your data. I figure it will last me the rest of my life.
9mmPatriot
Member
Another vote vote for the ProChrono DLX. Very happy with mine.
jacala
Member
I've owned a CED M2 Chrono for several years and it's worked perfectly.
Buy once cry once.
I previously had a PACT Chrono for several years and updated to the CED.
Buy once cry once.
I previously had a PACT Chrono for several years and updated to the CED.
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They are pretty tough too, the uprights on mine have been clipped a few times. They are loose now but still work with the shades on them,
twodog max
Member
Recently at the range a shooter down the line was using a Magneto type chrono. He said it worked well but admitted that he had launched a few of the wands down range with muzzle blast and they were not cheap to replace. The day we talked he was shooting a 338 Lapua. So yes the MB was considerable.
I no longer mess with a chronograph as I sort of stick to the same old same old. I see the attraction and maybe the need . Lab Radar sure look good but I get to thinking I could buy ....... gun for that money.
I no longer mess with a chronograph as I sort of stick to the same old same old. I see the attraction and maybe the need . Lab Radar sure look good but I get to thinking I could buy ....... gun for that money.
I have used the Competition Electronics Pro Chrono Digital. Bought it 10 years ago maybe. I take it out with my old laptop so I see the numbers right next to me.
It has survived a hit to one of the screen supports by a S&W 460. I had to replace the support that looked like a hairpin. It also has a groove down the top of the body, 223 iirc. Maybe it is like a cat and has 9 lives
It has survived a hit to one of the screen supports by a S&W 460. I had to replace the support that looked like a hairpin. It also has a groove down the top of the body, 223 iirc. Maybe it is like a cat and has 9 lives
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Quite frankly, I never saw the need for a chronograph. A friend had one that ate batteries and he gave up on it. I don't need to know the 'speed' of my handloads. As long as my reloads perform accurately with no pressure problems I'm OK.
DWalt
Member
Most shooters get along fine without a chronograph. But rifle hunters and target shooters (especially) like to know fairly precisely what their load MVs are to calculate external ballistics (bullet drops) for different distances. To develop a range chart, it is necessary to know both the ballistic coefficient of the bullet and the MV. And the velocity information you get from reloading manuals is NEVER EVER to be trusted. Knowing MVs also allows more consistent loads to be developed. For example, two different powders may produce two far different MV standard deviations for loads producing approximately the same average MV.
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Just a note on my personal experience with Oehler and my 35 which I purchased in the mid 80's. Other than some termite damage to the screens it worked flawlessly over the years. I even went back and ordered the printer to upgrade it to a 35P. A couple of years ago the unit stopped functioning normally. It appeared one of the switches was not working properly. I called Oehler and they said to send it in. About 10 days later I had it back along with the paperwork describing the repairs. They had replaced the faulty switch, upgraded two capacitors, and an IC, apparently to bring it in line with current design. Verified the accuracy and shipped it back prepaid. How many companies do you know that can repair a 35 year old electronic device, much less replace additional components on the circuit board and return it at no charge?
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