Armory Sponsor
Posted: 4/14/2014 5:09:29 AM EDT
| What is a good dependable chronograph ? |
|
Most of the guys using them often (competitors) recommended the ProChrono far over any of the Shooting Chrony's, with the next step up being the $300+ units they use at sanctioned matches.
I tend to take their advice over those of us using our chrono less frequently, and my ProChrono (look around, $100-$120) has served me well. The Premium Caldwell kit looks interesting - great price for a chrono, cable, tripod, and light kit. The downside is you must have a phone plugged into it to do more than single shot velocity; no way to change, delete stringers, get avg. velocity, ES and SD without a phone attached. The Android app seems to have gotten less than great reviews, so not sure if the Android app version is quite ready for 'prime time' just yet. I'm waiting to see more reviews on it, and in particular the Android app..very tempting price, if it's not a POS. |
|
Quoted:
I just had my F1 at the range for the first time this weekend. Worked great, setup wasn't bad. It gave a readout for every shot I put across it. For a no-frills basic model, I was very pleased. Quoting myself just to add a recommendation - while I like the F1, if I was doing it again I'd upgrade it to the Master with the remote readout. It does the math for you when figuring out standard deviation and such. The F1 just gives you a shot number and the velocity; there are literally no controls on the thing other than an on/off switch. |
|
Quoted:
Quoting myself just to add a recommendation - while I like the F1, if I was doing it again I'd upgrade it to the Master with the remote readout. It does the math for you when figuring out standard deviation and such. The F1 just gives you a shot number and the velocity; there are literally no controls on the thing other than an on/off switch. Quoted:
Quoted:
I just had my F1 at the range for the first time this weekend. Worked great, setup wasn't bad. It gave a readout for every shot I put across it. For a no-frills basic model, I was very pleased. Quoting myself just to add a recommendation - while I like the F1, if I was doing it again I'd upgrade it to the Master with the remote readout. It does the math for you when figuring out standard deviation and such. The F1 just gives you a shot number and the velocity; there are literally no controls on the thing other than an on/off switch. Or just follow the statements by a reviewer of the Shooting Chrony, and buy a ProChrono. I returned this unit due to unacceptable error level. Only about 40% of shots fired gave a velocity. Mostly I received errors. Also, tried bow & arrow which gave about 30% reading 70% error. The unit is confusing to learn needing more buttons, rather than one button doing 90% of the functions. I purchased the ProChrono Digital and am very satisfied finding it easy and user friendly with 100% accuracy & no error readings only minutes after taking out of box. Waiting to see how the Caldwell works out, but I never saw a good reason to buy a Shooting Chrony model over a ProChrono. |
|
If you want a cool form-factor get a Chrony. If you want useful data get a ProChrono.
The ProChrono is big and feels like cheap 1970s plastic, but it works like a dream. I've chronographed hundreds of rounds of rifle, pistol, archery, and air-rifle. It has literally never missed a single shot. Data is very consistent. It get's my glowing endorsement. |
|
Quoted:
The magnetospeed is probably the best for the money, and within a few FPS of expensive chrono's like the Oehler. As long as you only shoot rifle, maybe, although I'm unconvinced as you seem to be over it. Do you own one? What have you compared it to that leads you to believing it's the best for the not insignificant $? I chrono pistol as well as rifle, so for me, it's not worth the $ at all. The LabRadar one coming up is also interesting, but both of these are jumping you up to the $400+ range, which most looking at the Caldwell certainly are unlikely to be customers of...for that matter, the pricing on both of those reduces the potential customer base by quite a bit, but will be interesting to see where they're at in a few years. |
|
Quoted: Or just follow the statements by a reviewer of the Shooting Chrony, and buy a ProChrono. Waiting to see how the Caldwell works out, but I never saw a good reason to buy a Shooting Chrony model over a ProChrono. Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: I just had my F1 at the range for the first time this weekend. Worked great, setup wasn't bad. It gave a readout for every shot I put across it. For a no-frills basic model, I was very pleased. Quoting myself just to add a recommendation - while I like the F1, if I was doing it again I'd upgrade it to the Master with the remote readout. It does the math for you when figuring out standard deviation and such. The F1 just gives you a shot number and the velocity; there are literally no controls on the thing other than an on/off switch. Or just follow the statements by a reviewer of the Shooting Chrony, and buy a ProChrono. I returned this unit due to unacceptable error level. Only about 40% of shots fired gave a velocity. Mostly I received errors. Also, tried bow & arrow which gave about 30% reading 70% error. The unit is confusing to learn needing more buttons, rather than one button doing 90% of the functions. I purchased the ProChrono Digital and am very satisfied finding it easy and user friendly with 100% accuracy & no error readings only minutes after taking out of box. Waiting to see how the Caldwell works out, but I never saw a good reason to buy a Shooting Chrony model over a ProChrono. <snip> This is not GD. dryflash3 I have about zero errors from slingshot to rifle with my Shooting Chrony in 7 or 8 years of steady use. |
|
Quoted:
The magnetospeed is probably the best for the money, and within a few FPS of expensive chrono's like the Oehler. And as I have found, within a few FPS of my Shooting Chrony. Too bad it doesn't work on hand guns with slides. So considering it is nearly 3x the cost of the others and only works with fixed barrel guns, it is not really best for the money is it. |
|
Quoted:
And as I have found, within a few FPS of my Shooting Chrony. Too bad it doesn't work on hand guns with slides. So considering it is nearly 3x the cost of the others and only works with fixed barrel guns, it is not really best for the money is it. Quoted:
Quoted:
The magnetospeed is probably the best for the money, and within a few FPS of expensive chrono's like the Oehler. And as I have found, within a few FPS of my Shooting Chrony. Too bad it doesn't work on hand guns with slides. So considering it is nearly 3x the cost of the others and only works with fixed barrel guns, it is not really best for the money is it. It'd help if they came up with a way to mount it on a rail; that way, you could at least use it on a modern semi-auto with a rail. |
| my Beta master kit chrono works flawless the hundreds of times I have used it. The external controller that's attached by phone line makes it nice plus it has good size memory and ability recall later with supplied 9 volt power source. I think I paid 150 at cabelas came with the printer which I have found more of a pain than its worth I usually write it down in notebook. |
| I am leaning towards the ProChrono Digital with the USB hookup. I was hoping that someone could comment on the computer interface, but it seems nice that it can export to excel, would make it easy to make spreadsheets for all your loads and just add chrono data into them. Also lets control your chrono from a ways away and a nice big display on your computer screen of the shots speed. I think I might be ordering one up tonight and I will put up a review when it gets in and I can get it out and shoot over it some. |
|
Quoted:
I just had my F1 at the range for the first time this weekend. Worked great, setup wasn't bad. It gave a readout for every shot I put across it. For a no-frills basic model, I was very pleased. My F1 performed great, right up until I plugged its brain out with a 9mmMAK. It was readable at distance, and I just write down the numbers on my ammo build sheet anyways, along with target info. Dam flinch reflex....I gotta work on that. |
|
Quoted:
My F1 performed great, right up until I plugged its brain out with a 9mmMAK. It was readable at distance, and I just write down the numbers on my ammo build sheet anyways, along with target info. Dam flinch reflex....I gotta work on that. Quoted:
Quoted:
I just had my F1 at the range for the first time this weekend. Worked great, setup wasn't bad. It gave a readout for every shot I put across it. For a no-frills basic model, I was very pleased. My F1 performed great, right up until I plugged its brain out with a 9mmMAK. It was readable at distance, and I just write down the numbers on my ammo build sheet anyways, along with target info. Dam flinch reflex....I gotta work on that. I was plenty stressed about shooting mine the first time I used it when I put rifle rounds across it. When I got my Beretta out the pucker factor increased even more. |
|
Quoted:
I am leaning towards the ProChrono Digital with the USB hookup. I was hoping that someone could comment on the computer interface, but it seems nice that it can export to excel, would make it easy to make spreadsheets for all your loads and just add chrono data into them. Also lets control your chrono from a ways away and a nice big display on your computer screen of the shots speed. I think I might be ordering one up tonight and I will put up a review when it gets in and I can get it out and shoot over it some. I got the ProChrono Digital on sale at Midway. Keep an eye open because they run deals on that one all the time. For my money, the ProChrono Digital works great and I highly recommend it. One of the best features of the ProChrono Digital over the standard ProChrono is that it stores more data, even if the power is off or battery removed. I can store 9 strings of up to 99 shots each (if I remember correctly, but I haven't shot that many rounds in a string yet). I wish that I had the remote attachment for it, but it's so easy to just hit the "next string" button on my way downrange to switch targets that I haven't really needed it. I can read the display just fine with the chrono setup on the tripod about 10 feet away or so. Not to mention that the laptop would be another piece of gear to lug to the range and back! I write the data in my reloading notebook when I get back to the house, so I haven't bothered with getting the USB cables or trying to upload data to my laptop. Sorry I can't review the cool features and accessories, just haven't needed them at all. Bottom line: ProChrono Digital works great and is affordable. Good luck in your search. |
|
I was gonna start a new thread, but figured i would just go off this one.
Im looking at getting a chrono soon and am looking at a few and 1 to include the new caldwell chrony, either by itself $85 or as a kit, with tripod , sunshade, light kit $135 Also looks cool as it comes wit ha 15' cord you can plug into you iphone/ipad or andoid phone and use there free app and it will record weather, all your shots in categories, all with no writing stuff down..seems like a cool way of doing it, and was wondering if anyone has used one yet.. http://www.midwayusa.com/product/626107/caldwell-ballistic-precision-chronograph?cm_vc=subv1626107 http://www.midwayusa.com/product/628006/caldwell-ballistic-precision-chronograph-premium-kit?cm_vc=subv1628006 |
|
I owned a Beta Chrony for years. It took some abuse and kept on ticking. I never shot the "guts" but came close. Sold it a year ago for not much less than I paid for originally. I then upgraded to a Gamma Master. I like the remote display and the printer is nice. A bit more cumbersome than the old Beta with the cords and extra equipment. Shooting Chrony chronographs never have performed well in low light for me and aren't really meant to. Bright light, use the diffusers, overcast day just the guide rods. Pretty easy. I just wish they would upgrade their user interface. |
|
Quoted:
I was gonna start a new thread, but figured i would just go off this one. Im looking at getting a chrono soon and am looking at a few and 1 to include the new caldwell chrony, either by itself $85 or as a kit, with tripod , sunshade, light kit $135 Also looks cool as it comes wit ha 15' cord you can plug into you iphone/ipad or andoid phone and use there free app and it will record weather, all your shots in categories, all with no writing stuff down..seems like a cool way of doing it, and was wondering if anyone has used one yet.. http://www.midwayusa.com/product/626107/caldwell-ballistic-precision-chronograph?cm_vc=subv1626107 http://www.midwayusa.com/product/628006/caldwell-ballistic-precision-chronograph-premium-kit?cm_vc=subv1628006 OFFER4YOU save 10 bucks |
|
I just ordered the Caldwell kit. The iphone link/app was the big seller for me.
I have had a beta chorny for over a year and never used it. It is boxed up on the bench. Every time I think I want to use it I realize I never read the instructions and don't feel like messing with it. So, I end up leaving it at home until next time. Then next time I realize i have never read the instructions and....well you get the idea. I'm looking forward to getting this and and actually using it. |
|
Quoted:
I am going to wait for the new LabRadar. I'll wait for the early adopters to review it first, but I think that'll be my next chrono. I have a master beta and it works fine, just kind of a pain to set up. I've only shot it once, fortunately just blasted a diffuser. 
|
|
Quoted:
I just ordered the Caldwell kit. The iphone link/app was the big seller for me. I have had a beta chorny for over a year and never used it. It is boxed up on the bench. Every time I think I want to use it I realize I never read the instructions and don't feel like messing with it. So, I end up leaving it at home until next time. Then next time I realize i have never read the instructions and....well you get the idea. I'm looking forward to getting this and and actually using it. Cool, you will have to let us know how you like it or not and how it works for you, review. please |
|
I just got the Caldwell premium kit this weekend. I set it up in my garage. It came with the IR lights. I have not been able to use ballistics to test it so I decided to use spitballs. The iPhone app is very nice and saved my shots. The kit came well packaged with everything in one bag. I own the gamma master chrony and if the Caldwell gets the job done at the range, I'm selling the gamma master. This thing is nice. Well built. 5 spit balls all registered. Saved on the iPhone, so no need for a printer. The crony series is a pain in the ass to use. The instructions and interface are a pain to use. I'm sold on the Caldwell premium kit.
what I like about the Caldwell is that the readings are instantly put on the iphone and recorded. You then can save the results and email or SMS them. I emailed the results (share button) and If I wanted a print out to chart in my reloading log, it's right there. So much nicer to have everything right in the iphone.  
|
|
Quoted:
I just got the Caldwell premium kit this weekend. I set it up in my garage. It came with the IR lights. I have not been able to use ballistics to test it so I decided to use spitballs. The iPhone app is very nice and saved my shots. The kit came well packaged with everything in one bag. I own the gamma master chrony and if the Caldwell gets the job done at the range, I'm selling the gamma master. This thing is nice. Well built. 5 spit balls all registered. Saved on the iPhone, so no need for a printer. The crony series is a pain in the ass to use. The instructions and interface are a pain to use. I'm sold on the Caldwell premium kit. I downloaded the app while waiting for mine to arrive (Tuesday). Looks pretty simple. I have some air guns and a catch/target so I'll be able to test the thing a little before going to the range it. I'm hoping to figure everything out at home so I don't have to waste bullets and time at the range. I will also be selling a chrony beta that is basically NIW (not here in this thread of course). |
|
I really dislike the generic design of the skyscreens used on most chronographs. They are flimsy and easily shaken by wind and projectiles. They are too easily hit, especially if you use them down range (for determining ballistic coefficient).
I used the PACT Pro for many years. Overall, it sucked. It was less than reliable and over time I lost confidence in the readings. I think the beeping timer functions were terrific and I still use the electronics for that, especially for dry fire training. I now have a CED M2. It is very cheaply made (thin plastic) but has been reliable and is restoring my confidence in chronographs. Right now, today, I am having a problem with the CED. I haven't used it in about two years and it turns out, mine it is not compatible with Windows 7. Yes, I downloaded the updated software but Windows 7 does not recognize the device when it is plugged into the PC. I suspect the USB drivers are not compatible with W7, but I don't know, for sure. Be sure your unit is compatible with the OS you have on your PC. I maintain a PC with a copy of Windows XP for exactly this reason. I have several peripherals and expensive software applications that are not Windows 7 compatible, so I run them on the XP machine. That is how I got my data out of the chronograph, last night. Good luck in your search. When they work reliably, chronographs are interesting to use and provide good info to the reloader. Just remember, they are absolutely non-essential. |
|
I got the Caldwell in the mail today and set it up in the backyard using an air pistol. It was just getting dark so I used the light kit. Worked well. Simple set up. Nice packaging in the case. The best thing is the simplicity.
The iphone/pad interface is self explanatory. No instructions required. I emailed three strings/sets. Opened up the e-mail a pasted the results right into excel. All info went right it to individual cells, except the round number and FPS reading appear in one. So to do any manipulation in excel you have to separate the round number and FPS reading. However, since everything is there, there is no real reason to manipulate the data unless you need to paste it into custom sheet. So far I think for value, simplicity and the interface it is a great product. I will take it to the range soon. Here is how the data is sent (copied and pasted directly from my email.) The errors can be deleted on the phone and the shots are renumbered. [Set 1] 04/29/14 07:42 PM Description: Notes 1: Notes 2: Temp: 82 °F BP: 29.93 inHg Shots: 10 383 9 393 8 396 7 416 6 ERROR 3 5 410 4 401 3 403 2 420 1 424 Average: 405.1 FPS SD: 13.5 FPS Min: 383 FPS Max: 424 FPS Spread: 41 FPS Shot/sec: 0.1 True MV: 405 FPS Group Size (in): 0.0 |
|
Quoted:
I got the Caldwell in the mail today and set it up in the backyard using an air pistol. It was just getting dark so I used the light kit. Worked well. Simple set up. Nice packaging in the case. The best thing is the simplicity. The iphone/pad interface is self explanatory. No instructions required. I emailed three strings/sets. Opened up the e-mail a pasted the results right into excel. All info went right it to individual cells, except the round number and FPS reading appear in one. So to do any manipulation in excel you have to separate the round number and FPS reading. However, since everything is there, there is no real reason to manipulate the data unless you need to paste it into custom sheet. So far I think for value, simplicity and the interface it is a great product. I will take it to the range soon. Here is how the data is sent (copied and pasted directly from my email.) The errors can be deleted on the phone and the shots are renumbered. [Set 1] 04/29/14 07:42 PM Description: Notes 1: Notes 2: Temp: 82 °F BP: 29.93 inHg Shots: 10 383 9 393 8 396 7 416 6 ERROR 3 5 410 4 401 3 403 2 420 1 424 Average: 405.1 FPS SD: 13.5 FPS Min: 383 FPS Max: 424 FPS Spread: 41 FPS Shot/sec: 0.1 True MV: 405 FPS Group Size (in): 0.0 This is pretty much my experience with this unit as well. Emailing the data to yourself is a plus. You can print that out from your iphone or home computer and put it in a binder. There is no need for instruction and you can store as many strings as you want and give them a custom label. I have a Gamma Chrony master with printer and it will go on sale soon if my experiments perform well from this unit at the range. I don't plan on doing a side to side comparison, I'll just compare some previous loads I've already done to see what I get. |
Armory Sponsor