Chrony Beta Master Chronograph
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BADUNAME37
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- Aug 10, 2008
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I have the f1 with the long cord and readout box (display) sitting on my shooting bench. I also purchased the optional switch which plugs into the box and is extremely helpful at switching through the numbers to make sure you didn't write one speed down wrong. I had the wiring figured out to make my own pushbutton switch, however, when I saw how involved all the soldering would be, putting the jacks on and getting a cord with plug at each end, I ended up buying it pre-made and when I got it and saw how well it was made, I never thought a thing more about the extra money spent!
I think the Beta one had the printer which I absolutely did not need, just one more thing to possibly break.
If it is the one with printer, if you really don't need the printer, I would seriously consider saving some money and getting the f1. Along with the switch I also purchased an extra set of rods and shades, just in case I shoot one. I don't think I ever will, however perhaps I could be a good Samaritan to someone at the range if THEY happen to have the f1 and they happen to destroy a rod or portion of shade.
I think the Beta one had the printer which I absolutely did not need, just one more thing to possibly break.
If it is the one with printer, if you really don't need the printer, I would seriously consider saving some money and getting the f1. Along with the switch I also purchased an extra set of rods and shades, just in case I shoot one. I don't think I ever will, however perhaps I could be a good Samaritan to someone at the range if THEY happen to have the f1 and they happen to destroy a rod or portion of shade.
dagger dog
Member
I have the beta master, the printer is an option. The difference between the F1 and the beta,is the on bench read out module,and a bit more BYTE, 10 strings of 10 rnds,plus some more data and you can shuffle through the data with buttons on the read out display.
You need to check out the web site to see what the differences are before you buy a beta, the gamma master has even more memory and functions but you still have to buy the printer as an option.
You need to check out the web site to see what the differences are before you buy a beta, the gamma master has even more memory and functions but you still have to buy the printer as an option.
BADUNAME37
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Mine has plenty of "memory" as I usually write down the velocity right after the shot! So, really I don't even need to go back and see everything unless, of course, I inadvertantly forgot to write the particular shot velocity down (which doesn't happen that often once you get used to the "system."
Anymore, I am all for saving money where I can! That savings may be enough to buy a set of dies or possibly some ammo or primers.
Anymore, I am all for saving money where I can! That savings may be enough to buy a set of dies or possibly some ammo or primers.
compujas
Member
I got a Chrony Beta Master a few weeks ago. I've only used it once at the range so far. It works pretty well, but it's very clumsy to use any of the functions beyond just shooting. The instructions will get you through it, but it will be a challenge. I need to go back through and write down in plain English how to operate the basic functions (like review data, change string, and erase data) so I don't have to decipher the manual every time. If I were to do it again I might splurge and spend more to get an easier to use chrono, but for the money it's nice. Maybe I'll get used to it the more I use it. It's also quite convenient that it folds up, but there's nowhere to keep the rods and skyscreens, but I also keep my tripod quick-release plate attached to the body, so it takes up extra room in the box. A slightly bigger box would be perfect for it.
medalguy
Member
Got a Beta Master too, and I would echo these sentiments. These days it's just too easy for chip designers to add every conceivable function anyone might ever need, then toss in 3-4 more. There are so many possibilities with the Beta Master, it's very difficult to remember more than a few, so I usually end up writing down each recording and move on to the next shot.
If you're really a techhie, you will love all the functions. However, for most of us, it's a good, accurate chrono that will display each velocity so you can write it down in your logbook and that's good enough for me.
If you're really a techhie, you will love all the functions. However, for most of us, it's a good, accurate chrono that will display each velocity so you can write it down in your logbook and that's good enough for me.
Got my Beta Master for just about $110+shipping at Midway. Sale price is about equal to C&R license holder ("dealer price"). If you are considering the Chrony's, definitely get the "Master" version for the remote. A must have if you shoot at a range where you cannot go up to the unit to read your speeds.
The software and button pushing sequence is archaic and looks like something out of the 80's, but it works.
Test it out with a BB or airsoft gun and when you go to the range, bring your .22lr gun with you to make sure your set up is reading velocities correctly with the setup and daylight conditions. Nothing more frustrating than wasting a lot of centerfire ammo on a poor setup or when the sun is at your back shining into the sensor hole.
I also bring a notebook and write each shot velocity down just to make sure an inadvertant push of a button erases the entire string. It's also easier to transcribe my numbers directly into a spreadsheet to keep load data records and keep note of date/time/temperature/loads. If doing that, an Alpha Master is as good as the Beta Master.
Also get some wooden dowels to replace the metal skyscreen rods. That way, an errant shot will shatter the dowel and not break away the base unit. I found that shish kabob sticks are too flimsy, but 3 wooden chopsticks glued together and reinforced with thread/CA glue make excellent skyscreen replacements.
The software and button pushing sequence is archaic and looks like something out of the 80's, but it works.
Test it out with a BB or airsoft gun and when you go to the range, bring your .22lr gun with you to make sure your set up is reading velocities correctly with the setup and daylight conditions. Nothing more frustrating than wasting a lot of centerfire ammo on a poor setup or when the sun is at your back shining into the sensor hole.
I also bring a notebook and write each shot velocity down just to make sure an inadvertant push of a button erases the entire string. It's also easier to transcribe my numbers directly into a spreadsheet to keep load data records and keep note of date/time/temperature/loads. If doing that, an Alpha Master is as good as the Beta Master.
Also get some wooden dowels to replace the metal skyscreen rods. That way, an errant shot will shatter the dowel and not break away the base unit. I found that shish kabob sticks are too flimsy, but 3 wooden chopsticks glued together and reinforced with thread/CA glue make excellent skyscreen replacements.
I have one also and pretty much agree with everything said so far.
$133 with free shipping isn't bad. I think I got mine for $117 at Midway, but after shipping it was about the same price you're looking at.
It works, and it is certainly worth the money to me, but as others said the user interface is complete crap. It took me a few times before I didn't need the book at the range anymore.
$133 with free shipping isn't bad. I think I got mine for $117 at Midway, but after shipping it was about the same price you're looking at.
It works, and it is certainly worth the money to me, but as others said the user interface is complete crap. It took me a few times before I didn't need the book at the range anymore.
I have the f1 and it works perfectly. My only complaint is that dust and debris can sneak in thru the hole for the front sensor and falls in the readout screen, making it hard to read? Can that be cleaned out? I shoot in the woods off the ground so there are plenty of pine needles and dirt flying around after a 30'06 discharge.
edfardos
edfardos
Lost Sheep
Member
Yes, the Master/remote is best
My first Chrony took a 22 round right through the readout on the front of the instrument. My second one wears armor (even so, when my shooting buddy needs velocity readings, he makes me shoot his guns). The armor makes seeing a readout on the instrument impossible, so the remote control/readout unit is essential. It also allows powering down or up without calling a "cease fire".
If you go to a store that has a lot of oriental cooking gear, you may be able to get some oversized, or chef, chopsticks (often used in wok cooking) and not have to spend all that time gluing regular ones together. Or just go to a hardware store and get couple of hardwood dowels.
Just for general information, here is a thread that begins with instructions on how to dismantle your Chrony. ... With a 45-70.
http://forums.accuratereloading.com/eve/forums?a=tpc&f=2511043&m=446105658
Lost Sheep
My first Chrony took a 22 round right through the readout on the front of the instrument. My second one wears armor (even so, when my shooting buddy needs velocity readings, he makes me shoot his guns). The armor makes seeing a readout on the instrument impossible, so the remote control/readout unit is essential. It also allows powering down or up without calling a "cease fire".
If you go to a store that has a lot of oriental cooking gear, you may be able to get some oversized, or chef, chopsticks (often used in wok cooking) and not have to spend all that time gluing regular ones together. Or just go to a hardware store and get couple of hardwood dowels.
Just for general information, here is a thread that begins with instructions on how to dismantle your Chrony. ... With a 45-70.
http://forums.accuratereloading.com/eve/forums?a=tpc&f=2511043&m=446105658
Lost Sheep
Kernel
Member
Lost Sheep,
What does your armor look like?
What does your armor look like?
35 Whelen
Member
I've owned a Beta Master for probably 5-6 years and it's spent the last 2 or 3 under my loading bench because it's a P.O.S. Oh, it worked fine for awhile, but then steadily stopped reliably registering shots and giving erroneous readings. I tried new batteries, shooting closer/further to/from the screens, etc.
I spent a little extra for a CED Millenium 2 and couldn't be more happy. If I hit a screen, replacements are less than $40 and there are infrared screens available that work in ANY light including total darkness (If you're into testing loads in total darkness
)
I also used to own a Pact PC2 and it was a fine chrono but it got stolen.
35W
I spent a little extra for a CED Millenium 2 and couldn't be more happy. If I hit a screen, replacements are less than $40 and there are infrared screens available that work in ANY light including total darkness (If you're into testing loads in total darkness
) I also used to own a Pact PC2 and it was a fine chrono but it got stolen.
35W
W.E.G.
Member
Mine works.
Lost Sheep
Member
Two 11" long pieces of channel iron wide enough to straddle the chronograph. 11" is the distance between the sensors and where one of them goes. The other is in front of the chronograph and since its rear is up on the instrument and the front is lower, angled down, protecting the instrument from very low shots.
Sorry, no pictures.
The channel iron will take a (glancing) hit from a Buffalo Bore 350 grain with barely a mark. I tested it (but not while it was on my instrument).
There are others who have done similar things with different designs, but I did not record the links to their mentions, sorry.
Lost Sheep
TexasShooter59
Member
I've got the Beta Master. I used the instructions on the Internet to cut & paste a cheat sheet that I keep in my range box.
For me, the thing I have made myself remember first, is to press the ST button after shooting to save a string! Then, it won't get wiped out if you turn the Chrony off. When you're done shooting or with a certain load, etc, push the ST button!!!
When I get home, I use the short, extra battery cable with the remote display box to pull the data and put it in my computer.
For me, the thing I have made myself remember first, is to press the ST button after shooting to save a string! Then, it won't get wiped out if you turn the Chrony off. When you're done shooting or with a certain load, etc, push the ST button!!!
When I get home, I use the short, extra battery cable with the remote display box to pull the data and put it in my computer.
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