Question on Chronos

[Jmurman]

I am looking to buy a Chronograph.

I have heard form some of you here that to look for one that doesn't have the electronics built into the sky screen assembly. So, I am looking at CED. After reading the info on this from a gun mag, it says that there is a infra red accessory available. It says that with this accessory there is no need for sun light. I am confused. Does a Chrono need sunlight to properly work? Most of all of my shooting is at a in door range.

Any feedback is helpful as this is an expensive Chrono at $270.00

 

[Fatelvis]

Jmur, I have a Chrony brand chronograph, it cost me about $70, and it works fine for what I want it for. (To check relative velocity of different handloads, powdercharges, etc., ) Depending on what you`re planning on using it for, you dont HAVE to spend that much to get a decent instument, but I understand everyone has there different priorities, when it comes to quality/spending money. If you do get a unit with the components in the skyscreens, just BE CAREFUL when you line up to shoot through it! White, opaque "skyscreen shields" came with my unit, to be used outdoors, when it is sunny outside. I know too much sunlight isnt good, but I dont understand why. Indoors, using it in the ambient light of a range, it wont need these screen shields, but may need optional "skyscreen lights" that are suspended over the skyscreens, very much like the shields. It seems the light level must be within a certain range, to give consistant/accurate readings. Ive never used shields, or lights, using it outdoors under a covered firing line, and it works just fine. Good luck in your search!

 

[Peter M. Eick]

I cannot comment on the Chrony. I do not own one.

I use a Oehler 35p and have yet to have a problem with it. I have used it in the rain and shine and it performed perfectly. The biggest problem I have had with it is filling the paper up when I run it out. Even the RO's at my range were surprised when I hauled it out last week because it was a "bad day" for chrono's. They seemed happy to try it out though.

Anyway, I like the Oehler, the proof channels and the set up. It is only about $50 more then the chrony you propose ($320).

 

[craigz]

Shooting Chrony has models with the electronics separate from the main unit. Any one with Master in the name is like that. The Alpha, Beta, and Gamma designations refer to the amount of memory in the unit. Mine is called the Master Beta (yuk yuk). It was about $120 at the most, and performs reasonably well. I usually get an error for a few shots in each session, mostly due to the bullet path not being directly over the sensors, I think. I'm usually the type of guy to buy top of the line gear, but I really couldn't justify the cost of an Oehler, considering that I don't really use the chrono all that much. I don't regret my decision. The Shooting Chrony is just fine for me.

 

[Jim Watson]

"Skyscreen" counter chronographs won't work under fluorescent lighting, there is a 60 Hz flicker that drives them crazy. Or used to. Maybe improved electronics have beaten that but the availability of artificially illuminated screens says not.

The indoor ranges I have shot on looked too dim for skyscreens. Range lighting I have seen is over the firing line and aimed at an angle to illuminate the targets, not straight down over a chronograph.

Best to ask CED direct.
I know two shooters who use them and like them.

 

[clown714]

yes,chronos work off the shadow from the projectile.

a simple start and stop switch

the infrared kit is for indoor use and maybe on really
overcast days.

i have really been satisfied by my CED(2+yrs.)

i,only shoot outdoors,so, i, have no experience w\IR kit.

yet,too tear up a sensor

but,have taken many screens:banghead:

just my $.02

clown

 

[Bill Adair]

Jmurman,

Check out the Pact chronograph line.

I have the Pact Pro with built in printer, and find it extremely handy for load development. Saves a lot of note taking at the range, which becomes a real pain after just a couple strings.

Their Pact Model 1 (no printer) is on sale at Midway right now for $117. Regular price for the Mod 1 has been $130, and the sensor mount (included free at the sale price) was another $25, so that is quite a bargain.

The Pact Pro was recently on sale for about $200, including the mount, and carrying case.

All chronos require auxiliary lighting to use indoors, with the possible exception of the IR model you mention. I was going to use mine indoors, but found there were no handy power outlets for the aux lighting at my range.

Bill