Reload but do not chronograph?

[NWcityguy2]

The #1 thing that keeps me from buying a chronograph is I don't shoot at ranges where bullet drop becomes a significant factor. You can troubleshoot problems without one by using the scientific method as well. Thats what I use personally. Not many people are willing to admit it, but for a lot of what we do "close enough is good enough".

Also, the only thing a chronograph is going to tell you is velocity. Using one to test pressure goes hand in hand with a number of other mis-informed ideas, like going over published velocities means you are over maximum pressure, that "book maximum" is consistent book to book or that there is even some consistent relationship between velocity and pressure.

 

[readyeddy]

A chrono is not a necessity since you can go with the velocity numbers in reloading manuals, but it's nice to have so you can make sure.

Then once you figure out your muzzle velocity you can input the data into a ballistic calculator. http://biggameinfo.com/BalCalc.aspx

The calculator will give you your bullet drop data and most importantly your maximum point blank range.

 

[35 Whelen]

I used to think a chronograph was a luxury until I used one. I find it indespensible now and especially nice for handgun loading as velocities can vary greatly due to the many different styles of bullets available.

35W

 

[cfullgraf]

A chrono is not a necessity since you can go with the velocity numbers in reloading manuals, but it's nice to have so you can make sure.

You cannot guarantee that the velocities listed in the manuals will match. There are too many variables and differences between the user's equipment and lab's equipment. A chronograph will verify if the data does or does not match.

Sierra Bullets uses an Colt Match Target (20" barrel, A2 look alike) for testing their 223 Remington service rifle loads.

My Service Rifle match rifle (20" barrel, A2 look alike) gets 200 fps higher velocity with the same bullet and powder charge, about 10 percent faster.

Without a chronograph, i would not know and I would miss longer range targets using the published book values.

 

[joed]

You cannot guarantee that the velocities listed in the manuals will match. There are too many variables and differences between the user's equipment and lab's equipment. A chronograph will verify if the data does or does not match.

Sierra Bullets uses an Colt Match Target (20" barrel, A2 look alike) for testing their 223 Remington service rifle loads.

My Service Rifle match rifle (20" barrel, A2 look alike) gets 200 fps higher velocity with the same bullet and powder charge, about 10 percent faster.

Without a chronograph, i would not know and I would miss longer range targets using the published book values.

+1 as in my case it was 300 fps slower then the loading manual said. Sure you can survive without a chrony but you really don't know how it's performing.