Originally Posted by
yobuck
If you feel you need another toy to play with, then a chronagraph would be a logical choice.
Will it make much difference in the way you shoot? probably not.
But then some usefull information can be had by owning one, even one of the cheaper ones.
Velocity information is a reason why many people including me even own one.
That information is essential for establishing an elevation chart, or click chart as many of us still prefer calling them.
But wait, what can you do to establish a good chart if you dont own a Chrony?
Well you will need to shoot, and its better if you can shoot at say 500 yards or even more if you can.
So lets say your gun is already zeroed at 100 yards.
You can then refer to a loading manual, or just guess what the velocity of your particular load might be, then refer to the site you choose for the data information, and add the number of clicks for the velocity number chosen and shoot.
First off, you will be much closer to hitting the spot your aiming at than you might think.
Regardless, just make the necessary corrections untill you do hit the aiming point.
Then just count the number of elevation clicks back to your 100 yard zero.
Compare that number to the velocity information the site gives for that number of clicks, and you have your real velocity number without a chrony.
Use that number for making your chart.
That will be factual information obtained by actually shooting.
It might sound harder than it actually is to do.
What happens if you dont own a rangefinder?
Its essentially no different than not having a chrony and knowing your velocity.
Just guess the distance to the target and shoot at it.
Makes no difference if you miss by 4 feet.
Hold steady on the target and dial to the hit.
Next shot should be a hit or very close and you didnt even know what the range was.
Learn how to use your scope and nothing else is really necessary.
Is it important to know the actual yardage to the target if you know how many clicks it takes to hit it?
Ditto with velocity.
It is whatever it is, and tomorrow its apt to be different due to different conditions.
So get a chronagraph or not, it really wont change your world much unless you think it does.