I think a web cam, on a short post/tripod, just a couple feet in front of the target, but low so it's safely out of the way, but angled up wouldnt work pretty well. Eliminates the need fro something with clear, high zoom ability like you'd need to set the camer on the bench by you not the target.Also, you could eliminate the transmission problems mentioned by using a standard corded cam, just make your cord longer, which should be simple, and connect it to a cheap laptop at your bench.
I suppose YOU could still screw up and shoot it, but worrying about random idiots hitting it isnt an issue if you have your own backyard range, or shoot out in BFE at a place that no one else goes to like me (just dont invite idiots to go shooting with you
). For a public range, you are just out of luck, or will have to take your chances, but with it close to the ground, and right in front of YOUR target, I'd think the chances of someone shooting it is slim (if not, you REALLY need to find a better range to go to
).
I may actually give this a shot, as I just aquired an old, cheap, but 100% functional laptop for free, and have been needing a use for it, and webcams can be had pretty cheap now. I'm confident I can splice and extend the wires long enough for a couple hundred yards, which is all I shoot anyways. Interesting idea I think, as glancing over at a laptop screen would be eaiser and require less movement than using my spotting scope, plus, you can capture and save the final target image to save for referance for load testing data, (or bragging rights
).
If I get something put together that works, I'll post the setup and results for those interested. May not be an ideal setup for every range/scenario, but could be useful for many people still.
Now I just needto get a job offer and make some money to afford the webcam, and the gas and ammo to actually go shooting.
Man, layoffs stink, especially when there 1200 people layed of with you, all looking for jobs in a city of only 150,000 and state of only 3mil. Kinda flods the market.Oh well, there are a couple other states I'm willing to live in....
If anyone here works for Northrop Grumman in Yuma,AZ tell them to hurry up with my resume and hire me.