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All Springer/NP/PCP Air Gun Discussion General => Air Guns And Related Accessories Review Gates => All Air Gun Accessories Gate => Topic started by: algun on April 18, 2018, 08:30:09 PM
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I'm looking for reliable Chronograph below $150. After reading Amazon and other reviews the Shooting Chrony Master (red), with remote LCD/Control seems to be good choice. I do like remote control a lot. However, there are a lot of negatives about reliability, light sensitivity, missing scores, etc. The Magnespeed type is very good but bulky and expensive. Which model would you advise, based on your practical experience? Thanks for help.
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I spent lot of time researching and decided to go with the Competition Electronics ProChrono Digital and their Bluetooth Adapter. My impression were all the chronographs in this price ranger were pretty much the same. The deciding issue for me was the bluetooth.
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I also have a Competition Electronics but without BT. An accessory I wish I had are lights so I do not depend on nice weather. Have nothing bad to say about the unit. Whatever you choose, you will be glad to have it and know what's going on with your guns.
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I also have the ProChrono, but it is very finicky with the lighting.
Without the additional infrared light system, I couldn't get it to work indoors at all.
But I never tried a different chrono inside my house, so I don't know if that is true for all of them.
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I use the Shooting Chrony's myself.
I'd suggest a lighting source for them even used outdoors.
One can also enclose them in a box like devise and get better results as you have control over the light.
No matter the brand? It's the light that it 'sees' that makes them work.
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The annoying thing about the light system from ProChrono is that it doesn't come with a battery power option.
That makes it harder to use it flexible outside. Maybe it can be rewired...
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The annoying thing about the light system from ProChrono is that it doesn't come with a battery power option.
That makes it harder to use it flexible outside. Maybe it can be rewired...
I have an old inverter laying arount that I'm going to test with an old motorcycle battery
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I have a Shooting Chrony Master (Red).
I would say, dont bother.
Lighting has to be just right or you are wasting your time, air, and ammo.
I just put about 30 pellets across mine. 6 registered. Got lots of Error 1 and Error 2.
I am getting a MagnetoSpeed V3 Ballistic Chronograph next month. Yes, it is pricey. But based off a number of reviews to include a few air gunners, it is worth it.
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I've had good luck with my base-model Caldwell. It was about $60 and comes with a wire to plug into your phone. There's a free app to track shot strings.
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The annoying thing about the light system from ProChrono is that it doesn't come with a battery power option.
That makes it harder to use it flexible outside. Maybe it can be rewired...
The Shooting Chronys I adapt 9 Volt converters to use when close to the house.
The light system uses a 12 volt plug in adapter but I made an adapter to hook up batteries.
1 9 volt and 2 1.5 volt D batteries.
It's just mad scientist work.
;D
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I have the ProChrono Dig and USB adaptor to the laptop. I use harbor freight led lighting and a 6 AA adaptor to replace the 9v. I don't use it much but when I do it works great.
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I wouldn't buy the usual Chrony that you shoot over the top of, as I read too much about them being temperamental about the light source - don't like too much light, don't like not enough light
I searched Aliexpress and found a shoot-through infrared chrony - uses rows of infrared transmitter LEDs and receiver LEDs - does not rely on any type of light source, and has a built in rechargeable battery, mine came with a special USB cable (USB to DC plug) but some get a charger
Its very basic - it tells you the velocity of the shots, and nothing more - no instructions, so if it can do more I haven't found the functions - but it has not given even one error message - it sees every shot
I paid just under $45 - same one now available for $33 :(
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html)
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I splurged a little and got this one couldn't be happier :)
https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph (https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph)
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I'm looking for reliable Chronograph below $150. After reading Amazon and other reviews the Shooting Chrony Master (red), with remote LCD/Control seems to be good choice. I do like remote control a lot. However, there are a lot of negatives about reliability, light sensitivity, missing scores, etc. The Magnespeed type is very good but bulky and expensive. Which model would you advise, based on your practical experience? Thanks for help.
I bought the Pro Chrono, only 100.00. I've had it 5 years and no issues. Uses a 9 volt battery self contained.
I added a blue tooth adapter so it sends all the info to my cell phone.
If you do ANY indoor shooting you have to get the LED light kit. They do not work indoors without it.
https://www.amazon.com/Competition-Electronics-538002-SSI-ProChrono-Chronograph/dp/B0028MTBJ4 (https://www.amazon.com/Competition-Electronics-538002-SSI-ProChrono-Chronograph/dp/B0028MTBJ4)
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I have a Cadwell w/ light kit and a shooting Chrono green
I use the Cadwell, the phone app so I don't have to write down long shot strings is awesome. The shooting Chrono seems better made, the Cadwell feels a little cheap and probably won't survive a good fall.
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I also have the ProChrono, but it is very finicky with the lighting.
Without the additional infrared light system, I couldn't get it to work indoors at all.
But I never tried a different chrono inside my house, so I don't know if that is true for all of them.
None of the chronos work well indoors without the infrared lights. The lights for pro chrono are prefect, never had an issue indoors using them.
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The annoying thing about the light system from ProChrono is that it doesn't come with a battery power option.
That makes it harder to use it flexible outside. Maybe it can be rewired...
You don't need the lights outdoors, it comes with two outdoor shades. Indoors you just plug the lights in.
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I splurged a little and got this one couldn't be happier :)
https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph (https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph)
Thats a nice package, If I were in the market that is the one I would buy, its has it all in one neat package
This gets my vote for chrono setup. You will end up paying more buying it all separate, which is what I did.
(https://puu.sh/A6HDj/9ddd1f6098.jpg)
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The Pro Chrono Digital: $100
1. Digital Link Bluetooth ($48) for Android-NEED BATTERY, or Digital USB cable ($45) for Windows Laptop- No BATTERY.
2. Software provides Hi, Low, Average Speed, Extreme Spread, and SD. Laptop with USB cable might be more beneficial> data is saved in .XLS files.
3. Digital Remote to control Unit up to 25 feet away. –NEED BATTERY! $45.
4. May position Unit close to Rifle!
5. 1% accuracy
6. Warranty- 2 year.
The Caldwell Ballistic Precision Chronograph Premium Kit ($169.99) operates on a 9 Volt battery.
1. Option to interface with Smartphone via included 15’ audio jack cable. App displays velocity, logs data, notes, weather conditions, easily exports via SMS or Email Carry bag included. -NO BATTERY.
2. The App also automatically calculates Average Velocity, Standard Deviation, Min, Max and Velocity Spread for the shot string. The data is stored and can be exported via Email or simply recalled for reference at a later date.
3. Light Kit-Incorporates 36 LEDs in each strip and one visible red LED to indicate power is on. Operates on 4 AA batteries for 2 hrs.-or the 110 AC adapter which is included.
4. Extra wide sun screens for added shading in full sun operation
5. Tripod Height adjustable from 15″ to 42″ Includes ¼-20 dovetail plate to attach to the chronograph for quick assembly Carry bag
6. Custom Carry Case Designed to store and transport Chronograph, Sunshades, Light Kit and Tripod Constructed of Durable Ballistic Fabric Heavy Duty dual zipper design
7. How close to Rifle Unit will operate???
8. 0.25% accuracy.
9. Warranty-1 year! You pay transportation in both way!
Well, the Caldwell is looking good on paper. The Units’ 9V batteries can be substituted by rechargeable compact batteries. Lighting is the issue for all models to a greater or lesser degree. Harbor Freight lights are fine. I’m ready to deal with it if needed. My most important point is reliability of unit itself and I’m leaning toward Pro Chrono Digital. I might be wrong. Pro Chrono also has a large triangle, do not know size of Caldwell triangle. Does anyone know other reliable units with similar remote capability? What is your experience with both Units? Sorry, for unintentional errors in description.
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I just saw that the ProChrony Indoor Light System "Will also operate on a 24voltDC source(ex. two 12volt batteries wired in series)"
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I'm looking for reliable Chronograph below $150. .......Which model would you advise, based on your practical experience? Thanks for help.
Alex...wait a few more weeks if you have to and save the 25 dollars more for a Caldwell G2. at about 175.
it will be worth every day waiting ....
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I splurged a little and got this one couldn't be happier :)
https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph (https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph)
Thats a nice package, If I were in the market that is the one I would buy, its has it all in one neat package
This gets my vote for chrono setup. You will end up paying more buying it all separate, which is what I did.
(https://puu.sh/A6HDj/9ddd1f6098.jpg)
It's 0.25% accurate to compare to 1% of Pro Chrono Digital, but only 1 year warranty vs. 2 years for Pro Chrono. I'm considering this model. Just need more feedback on performance and reliability.
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My Cadwell and shooter Chrono read like 5 or 6 fps difference, Cadwell being the higher one.
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Think you really have to spend some coin if you want a dead on accurate one and probably still wouldn't know unless you had it calibrated or something
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I splurged a little and got this one couldn't be happier :)
https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph (https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-721122-Ballistic-Precision-Chronograph/dp/B00HTN5290/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524176912&sr=8-1&keywords=caldwell+chronograph)
Thats a nice package, If I were in the market that is the one I would buy, its has it all in one neat package
This gets my vote for chrono setup. You will end up paying more buying it all separate, which is what I did.
(https://puu.sh/A6HDj/9ddd1f6098.jpg)
It's 0.25% accurate to compare to 1% of Pro Chrono Digital, but only 1 year warranty vs. 2 years for Pro Chrono. I'm considering this model. Just need more feedback on performance and reliability.
Look at the price, only $126.00 Amazon Prime. I would snag it. They are simple devices. Two sensors and enough electronics to time when something passes over the first window to the second. My Prochrono looks cheap because its plastic but its taken many falls on cement off its tripod and looks and works like new.
Im thinking I paid
- 100.00 pro chrono
- 25.00 tripod
- 45.00 light kit
- 45.00 blue tooth
- I have no bag for it like the caldwell includes
I got $215.00 wrapped up in mine and not even a bag to show for it :)
For $126.00 you are getting the same + a bag. And you will know if the first week if its a winner, if not Amazon covers you send it back.
Maybe there are you tube videos on the caldwell unit. I'm thinking its pretty much the same as my Pro Chrono. They are simple devices.
I would not worry about the warranty. 1 year is fine. Would you buy it for 126.00 and then pay an extra 100.00 for just 1 year more of warranty? No. Forget about the warranty its not an issue. They usually a pain to deal with anyway.
Here is a thread with a guy in the same boat as you. One owns both pro chrono and the caldwell, he uses the caldwell, likes it better.
http://airgunguild.com/airgun-optics-and-accessories/prochrono-digital-vs-caldwell-ballistic-curiosity/ (http://airgunguild.com/airgun-optics-and-accessories/prochrono-digital-vs-caldwell-ballistic-curiosity/)
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The annoying thing about the light system from ProChrono is that it doesn't come with a battery power option.
That makes it harder to use it flexible outside. Maybe it can be rewired...
You don't need the lights outdoors, it comes with two outdoor shades. Indoors you just plug the lights in.
You are right, but I don't like the concept of that. It seems nobody has thought it through. Otherwise, they would have made an option to run the whole Chrono plugged in.
In terms of the Caldwell set I am with you. If I would have made my research, I would have bought that one. I didn't know at that time, that I would need the indoor light system. I thought, I could figure it out ::)
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Alex, I have a Shooting Chrony Alpha Master. I've had it for close to four years & I can count the number of errors in that time on one hand. Now granted, I always shoot outdoors, live in Florida where there are generally fair/sunny days. I always use it with the diffusers. At the end of the day, on a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give the Alpha Master a 9. I really like the remote display.
I'd also advise no matter what brand of chrony you buy, get yourself some Poly Carbonate or Lexan for a front shield, before you join the "I shot my chrony" club.
Not sure why some folks are so reluctant to spend a few bucks on Poly/Lexan as insurance to protect their chrony. Maybe they just think they'll never shoot their chrony, until they actually do! :o
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If using the phone tether or app. you can hide your crony behind an anvil or large bunker :) Just don't shoot your phone ;D
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Good point James. Anything will work as a shield.
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I'd also advise no matter what brand of chrony you buy, get yourself some Poly Carbonate or Lexan for a front shield, before you join the "I shot my chrony" club.
I shot one of mine. Twice! In a row!
???
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Don't feel bad Jeff. I too shot my F1 chrony on not just the very first, but also the second shot. :o IDIOT!
Shooting Chrony actually has a trade in deal where they will give you a credit for a "shot up" chrony towards a new chrony. I traded in my F1 for an Alpha Master. That, was a good move on my part. I'm very happy with the Alpha Master. ;D
http://shootingchrony.com/products_TTIYC.htm (http://shootingchrony.com/products_TTIYC.htm)
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The annoying thing about the light system from ProChrono is that it doesn't come with a battery power option.
That makes it harder to use it flexible outside. Maybe it can be rewired...
You don't need the lights outdoors, it comes with two outdoor shades. Indoors you just plug the lights in.
You are right, but I don't like the concept of that. It seems nobody has thought it through. Otherwise, they would have made an option to run the whole Chrono plugged in.
In terms of the Caldwell set I am with you. If I would have made my research, I would have bought that one. I didn't know at that time, that I would need the indoor light system. I thought, I could figure it out ::)
Yea they should offer the chrono with a plug in that does it all AND sell a lithium battery for those that don't want to mess with cords. The times my chrono has taken a fall is from me tripping over the cord and seeing it take a tumble. A rechargeable lithium could power it and the lights easily.
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Yea they should offer the chrono with a plug in that does it all AND sell a lithium battery for those that don't want to mess with cords. The times my chrono has taken a fall is from me tripping over the cord and seeing it take a tumble. A rechargeable lithium could power it and the lights easily.
That's a great idea. And good point there James.
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I wouldn't buy the usual Chrony that you shoot over the top of, as I read too much about them being temperamental about the light source - don't like too much light, don't like not enough light
I searched Aliexpress and found a shoot-through infrared chrony - uses rows of infrared transmitter LEDs and receiver LEDs - does not rely on any type of light source, and has a built in rechargeable battery, mine came with a special USB cable (USB to DC plug) but some get a charger
Its very basic - it tells you the velocity of the shots, and nothing more - no instructions, so if it can do more I haven't found the functions - but it has not given even one error message - it sees every shot
I paid just under $45 - same one now available for $33 :(
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html)
Thanks for the tips. For how long do you use it? Does it display a shot # plus speed or speed only?
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I wouldn't buy the usual Chrony that you shoot over the top of, as I read too much about them being temperamental about the light source - don't like too much light, don't like not enough light
I searched Aliexpress and found a shoot-through infrared chrony - uses rows of infrared transmitter LEDs and receiver LEDs - does not rely on any type of light source, and has a built in rechargeable battery, mine came with a special USB cable (USB to DC plug) but some get a charger
Its very basic - it tells you the velocity of the shots, and nothing more - no instructions, so if it can do more I haven't found the functions - but it has not given even one error message - it sees every shot
I paid just under $45 - same one now available for $33 :(
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html)
I did not see your post. Yea that could be the best budget chrono. If you don't mind writing all the numbers down after each shot. I don't think it has a recall of any type. Just shoot and get number. Might be all a person needs as long as its semi accurate.
(https://puu.sh/A7P4O/fc78af856b.jpg)
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Re.
Its very basic - it tells you the velocity of the shots, and nothing more - no instructions, so if it can do more I haven't found the functions - but it has not given even one error message - it sees every shot
I paid just under $45 - same one now available for $33 :(
Had it about 8 months - I use it about once a month after tuning a rifle to see what the velocities are with different pellets (I use chairgun pro to calculate ft lbs etc.)
It displays the speed on every shot fired, then you can run through the shot string later before turning the chrono off - seems to hold a 15 to 20 shot string - cycles through each shot number and velocity each time you press the button - but I don't bother with that - I write the velocities down after each shot
It has an internal lithium battery - never seems to need re-charging, I just re-charged once for the *(&^ of it
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Yea that could be the best budget chrono. If you don't mind writing all the numbers down after each shot. I don't think it has a recall of any type. Just shoot and get number. Might be all a person needs as long as its semi accurate.
(https://puu.sh/A7P4O/fc78af856b.jpg)
Actually it displays the speed on every shot fired, then you can run through the shot string later before turning the chrono off - seems to hold a 15 to 20 shot string - cycles through each shot number and velocity each time you press the button - but I don't bother with that - I write the velocities down after each shot
I wish it had instructions as I suspect it can do more, but I'm delighted with it
There are almost identical versions with just 1 pair of emitter/receiver at front and back - but mine has a whole row of them, so more sensitive and you don't get errors - also some enclosed shoot through types give false readings as the air blast is also funneled and read
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Yea that could be the best budget chrono.
(https://puu.sh/A7P4O/fc78af856b.jpg)
It's well made - those pillars are solid brass with black plastic decorative sleeves
I may make a metal or heavy perspex fascia to protect the plastic, but so far I haven't shot it
It comes with a mini tripod - but I use a full size camera/video tripod with it as it has a mounting bush underneath
It's supposedly better than 1 percent accurate
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Yea that could be the best budget chrono. If you don't mind writing all the numbers down after each shot. I don't think it has a recall of any type. Just shoot and get number. Might be all a person needs as long as its semi accurate.
(https://puu.sh/A7P4O/fc78af856b.jpg)
Actually it displays the speed on every shot fired, then you can run through the shot string later before turning the chrono off - seems to hold a 15 to 20 shot string - cycles through each shot number and velocity each time you press the button - but I don't bother with that - I write the velocities down after each shot
I wish it had instructions as I suspect it can do more, but I'm delighted with it
There are almost identical versions with just 1 pair of emitter/receiver at front and back - but mine has a whole row of them, so more sensitive and you don't get errors - also some enclosed shoot through types give false readings as the air blast is also funneled and read
There are two models available. One is for $42.95 other for $34.74. Both have same picture and model e9800 X3200. Which one has rows of transmitters and receivers?
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There are two models available. One is for $42.95 other for $34.74. Both have same picture and model e9800 X3200. Which one has rows of transmitters and receivers?
There are 2 suppliers that I know of - but prices vary as aliexpress vendors often have discounts running for a certain number of days
The true X3200 has a hole you shoot through - I discounted that design as the air blast is funneled across the sensors and is likely to effect the reading - also very likely you will shoot a hole in the chrono
The confusion arises like in most things Chinese, because they use same OEM parts that appear in multiple different designs - I don't actually know what the X3200 refers to - most likely the processing/display chip
Apart from steel metalwork this design is also found in a Polish made chrono that is sold in UK - I was going to buy it, but they sold out almost immediately despite the much higher cost: http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph (http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph)
I paid more for mine, but this is the design I bought: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html) Looking at the middle picture of the column of 5 pictures - that shows the two rows of infra-red transmitter LEDs (some designs have only single LEDs)
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$34.74 from ChiFun K Workshop Store is the type I bought, and currently the cheapest I can find
You can recognize the type because they have 2 rows of 6 transmitter infra-red LEDs in the top hood, and 2 transparent red plastic strips/lenses in the base (infra-red receiver LEDs are under the strips)
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Thank you Stephen,
I have spent time to research what is available in US and across the Ocean. My impression is that Chronographs with two pass-through triangles, with or without additional light are bulky, not reliable and difficult to operate at shooting range. New design like Chrony MK3 and Combro especially, are very compact, easy to operate and more reliable as far as lighting condition concerned. It’s definitely way to go. I hope someone in US will introduce similar design. I have purchased Chinese e9800-X3200 with two rows of receivers and transmitters for $34.75. Delivery in US is up to 39 days. Will learn and possibly use as a base to design my own application. Please take a look at links bellow. Do you have any of them?
1. $83.55 COMBRO CB-625 Mk4 Air Rifle Gun Chronograph Chronoscope Ft/lbs Shooting+ Aligner, Made in UK. It has a cable interface to PC and Android. Very good design easy to attach/remove.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/COMBRO-CB-625-Mk4-Air-Rifle-Gun-Chronograph-Chronoscope-Ft-lbs-Shooting-Aligner/331701266190?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D398d3ceb3f62409386fd696b793a55ed%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D371495889151%26itm%3D331701266190&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/COMBRO-CB-625-Mk4-Air-Rifle-Gun-Chronograph-Chronoscope-Ft-lbs-Shooting-Aligner/331701266190?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D398d3ceb3f62409386fd696b793a55ed%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D371495889151%26itm%3D331701266190&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940)
2. $76.76 Emerson E9700 form AliExpress . It has some sort of interface, but nothing in very basic description about software https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMERSON-E9700-shooting-chronograph-Speed-Tester-with-Pixel-Tactical-Airsoft/32796623119.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.8.275393fb0YAlp2&traffic_analysisId=recommend_3035_null_null_null&scm=1007.13338.80878.000000000000000&pvid=2c346cbb-5799-4bdb-9f41-82c9c6ab5368&tpp=1 (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMERSON-E9700-shooting-chronograph-Speed-Tester-with-Pixel-Tactical-Airsoft/32796623119.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.8.275393fb0YAlp2&traffic_analysisId=recommend_3035_null_null_null&scm=1007.13338.80878.000000000000000&pvid=2c346cbb-5799-4bdb-9f41-82c9c6ab5368&tpp=1)
3. $283 Air Chrony MK3 Max from Czech Republic. It seems to be very good but expensive. https://www.air-chrony.com/en/6-shooting-chronograph. (https://www.air-chrony.com/en/6-shooting-chronograph.) It also sold by AirGun Buyer in UK. For GBP 139
http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph (http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph)
4. $34.75. Frees hipping Muzzle velocity anemometer / velocimetry / valence e9800 X3200. Very basic display of speed. I
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html)
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Agree they are bulky.
Don't agree they are not reliable.
My Prochrono works outside or inside no issues with it picking up shots. You do have to use the lights or the sun shades though which makes them bulky.
The further apart the sensors the easier it is to make them accurate. So compact may mean less accurate if all other things are equal.
Thank you Stephen,
I have spent time to research what is available in US and across the Ocean. My impression is that Chronographs with two pass-through triangles, with or without additional light are bulky, not reliable and difficult to operate at shooting range. New design like Chrony MK3 and Combro especially, are very compact, easy to operate and more reliable as far as lighting condition concerned. It’s definitely way to go. I hope someone in US will introduce similar design. I have purchased Chinese e9800-X3200 with two rows of receivers and transmitters for $34.75. Delivery in US is up to 39 days. Will learn and possibly use as a base to design my own application. Please take a look at links bellow. Do you have any of them?
1. $83.55 COMBRO CB-625 Mk4 Air Rifle Gun Chronograph Chronoscope Ft/lbs Shooting+ Aligner, Made in UK. It has a cable interface to PC and Android. Very good design easy to attach/remove.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/COMBRO-CB-625-Mk4-Air-Rifle-Gun-Chronograph-Chronoscope-Ft-lbs-Shooting-Aligner/331701266190?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D398d3ceb3f62409386fd696b793a55ed%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D371495889151%26itm%3D331701266190&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/COMBRO-CB-625-Mk4-Air-Rifle-Gun-Chronograph-Chronoscope-Ft-lbs-Shooting-Aligner/331701266190?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D398d3ceb3f62409386fd696b793a55ed%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D371495889151%26itm%3D331701266190&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940)
2. $76.76 Emerson E9700 form AliExpress . It has some sort of interface, but nothing in very basic description about software https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMERSON-E9700-shooting-chronograph-Speed-Tester-with-Pixel-Tactical-Airsoft/32796623119.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.8.275393fb0YAlp2&traffic_analysisId=recommend_3035_null_null_null&scm=1007.13338.80878.000000000000000&pvid=2c346cbb-5799-4bdb-9f41-82c9c6ab5368&tpp=1 (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMERSON-E9700-shooting-chronograph-Speed-Tester-with-Pixel-Tactical-Airsoft/32796623119.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.8.275393fb0YAlp2&traffic_analysisId=recommend_3035_null_null_null&scm=1007.13338.80878.000000000000000&pvid=2c346cbb-5799-4bdb-9f41-82c9c6ab5368&tpp=1)
3. $283 Air Chrony MK3 Max from Czech Republic. It seems to be very good but expensive. https://www.air-chrony.com/en/6-shooting-chronograph. (https://www.air-chrony.com/en/6-shooting-chronograph.) It also sold by AirGun Buyer in UK. For GBP 139
http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph (http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph)
4. $34.75. Frees hipping Muzzle velocity anemometer / velocimetry / valence e9800 X3200. Very basic display of speed. I
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html)
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Hi Algun
We think alike - I did consider designing a chronograph as I used to work in electronics a long time ago, but went with the option of a cheap ready made infra-red chronograph
An Arduino, or similar micro controller along with infra-red transmitter/detector diodes and LCD screen should work fine, as long as the clock speed is high enough
I've resisted the temptation to open up the chrono and see what's inside - but whatever it is, I'm sure you can buy the main parts and expand it to do whatever you want
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Agree they are bulky.
Don't agree they are not reliable.
My Prochrono works outside or inside no issues with it picking up shots. You do have to use the lights or the sun shades though which makes them bulky.
The further apart the sensors the easier it is to make them accurate. So compact may mean less accurate if all other things are equal.
OK, few things to note - accuracy due to distance between sensors - a fast clock speed negates need for a long distance - i.e. long distance and 8 meg clock rate is going to be worse than short distance and 32 meg clock rate - downside is fast hardware is more expensive than slow hardware
Infra-red transmitter/detector is superior as no light source is required at all - the transmitter emits infra-red, the detector receives the infra-red ... simple. The 6 LED array does add complications over a single LED (as the pellet causes only a small change - other LEDs unaffected by pellet), but it looks like they solved things
Only thing better than an infra-red chrony would be a laser chrony, and that can't be done at a reasonable cost
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Hi Algun,
The Crombo are &^^& - I've seen forum posts where people say if you can collect it, you can have it for free
The Air-Chrony R2A - that is the one I was going to buy - they introduced them at £99 and were all snapped up - now they are £139 - but it looks like the detection is the same - just more functions that I don't need - looks like they're all going for the MK3 now as they are out of stock - they are made in Czech Republic as you say - I'm sure the guy in BAR youtube video showing them said they were from Poland - anyway, I'm confident the electronics are all Chinese
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Will learn and possibly use as a base to design my own application
I had a look inside, and the main chip is unmarked but long thin 28 pin and I suspect a Atmega328 AVR - surprisingly no external crystal or resonator so must be running on internal 8Mhz clock
You could simulate with Arduino Uno or as I was thinking about re-purposing one of these (available many places - also available with 28 pin chip) https://www.amazon.co.uk/Transistor-Capacitance-Inductance-Display-Battery/dp/B0787WC5ZD/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1524769396&sr=8-2&keywords=328+tester (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Transistor-Capacitance-Inductance-Display-Battery/dp/B0787WC5ZD/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1524769396&sr=8-2&keywords=328+tester)
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Stephen,
Here is my two cents. The Combro CB 625 is very portable, attached to the barrel and has 2.353 inch distance between sensors. Let’s round distance to 2.5” for easy calculation. Suppose a bullet speed is 6000 f/s=72000 inch/s. I takes 34.72 microsecond /28.8 kHz to travel from front to rear sensor. The leading edge of pulse comes from front sensor, falling edge from rear sensor. At 2000 f/s, range of air rifle, a pulse is 104.16 mk/sec=9.6 kHz. The 741 timer is more than capable to capture these pulse. Arduino will also capture it. When we are talking about resolution we really mean a repeatability. With good repeatability calibration is easy. System’s repeatability comes from DAC resolution (10,12,16 bit DAC). Pulse repeatability comes from repeatability of sensors, including transmitter light stability, ambient light interference, percentage of light beam blocked by passing bullet, etc. Therefore, the unit permanently attached to the barrel (CB 652) will have a better repeatability than free standing MK3. Designer of MK3 has realized that and offered an additional barrel support bracket, still it is not better and will not be better than attached to barbell system rest of all equal. I think that DIY Unit is reality. Arduino is an excellent platform along with excellent MS studio IDE. So, what did I miss?
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Stephen,
Here is my two cents. The Combro CB 625 is very portable, attached to the barrel and has 2.353 inch distance between sensors. Let’s round distance to 2.5” for easy calculation. Suppose a bullet speed is 6000 f/s=72000 inch/s. I takes 34.72 microsecond /28.8 kHz to travel from front to rear sensor. The leading edge of pulse comes from front sensor, falling edge from rear sensor. At 2000 f/s, range of air rifle, a pulse is 104.16 mk/sec=9.6 kHz. The 741 timer is more than capable to capture these pulses. Arduino will also capture it. When we are talking about resolution we really mean a repeatability. With good repeatability calibration is easy. System’s repeatability comes from DAC resolution (10,12,16 bit DAC). Pulse repeatability comes from repeatability of sensors, including transmitter light stability, ambient light interference, percentage of light beam blocked by passing bullet, etc. Therefore, the unit permanently attached to the barrel (CB 652) will have a better repeatability than free standing MK3. Designer of MK3 has realized that and offered an additional barrel support bracket, still it is not better and will not be better than attached to barbell system rest of all equal. I think that DIY Unit is reality. Arduino is an excellent platform along with excellent MS studio IDE. So, what did I miss?
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People just generally hate the Combro CB 625
I have never used one, but think it would likely be a pain to use with my different rifles - e.g. Air Arms s400 has a very small diameter barrel, Air Arms s510 has a wide diameter shrouded barrel - but maybe it comes with adapters
8Mhz or 16Mhz is the clock frequency used in this type of equipment - as there is code flashed into the micro-controller - there is a LM328p dual op amp in the vicinity of the micro-controller, but I don't know it's function as I only took a quick look and some photos
People do re-flash modified code to the Mega328 based transistor testers to improve them, and some of them have a rotary switch to access various menus - if you can code, then you can re-purpose them
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Agree they are bulky.
Don't agree they are not reliable.
My Prochrono works outside or inside no issues with it picking up shots. You do have to use the lights or the sun shades though which makes them bulky.
The further apart the sensors the easier it is to make them accurate. So compact may mean less accurate if all other things are equal.
OK, few things to note - accuracy due to distance between sensors - a fast clock speed negates need for a long distance - i.e. long distance and 8 meg clock rate is going to be worse than short distance and 32 meg clock rate - downside is fast hardware is more expensive than slow hardware
Infra-red transmitter/detector is superior as no light source is required at all - the transmitter emits infra-red, the detector receives the infra-red ... simple. The 6 LED array does add complications over a single LED (as the pellet causes only a small change - other LEDs unaffected by pellet), but it looks like they solved things
Only thing better than an infra-red chrony would be a laser chrony, and that can't be done at a reasonable cost
A fast clock can negate it but it puts more pressure on the manufacturer to make each units sensors the exact same distance apart. The closer the sensors are the larger the error if they move the sensors +- from spec. Clock speed can't negate that. If they had a way for the user to calibrate this would be moot.
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If they had a way for the user to calibrate this would be moot.
At the build/test stage you could change the delay code to suit each manufactured chrono before flashing the tweaked code to the micro controller
Otherwise it's going to be a screwdriver adjustable clock frequency module for each chrony - cost $10 plus shipping
The chrony I have has nothing adjustable inside
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Some ideas
My chrony has 3.3v battery, but displays 5v on switching on - so some voltage step-up used
https://gadjetsblog.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=chronograph
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I use a Chrony F1. I glued washers to the bottom of the screen, And stick LED pod lights. Makes it much more reliable indoors.
Than I have 18mm of plexi in front because my motto.
If you haven't shot it, than its not a Chrony.
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I got my Combro from another vendor on eBay, selling out of Canada: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Combro-cb-625-MK4-Chronograph-Mesure-MPS-FPS-Velocity/332403456923?hash=item4d64ca3b9b:m:mpnLZFhhBoM6HuY3O10LpZQ (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Combro-cb-625-MK4-Chronograph-Mesure-MPS-FPS-Velocity/332403456923?hash=item4d64ca3b9b:m:mpnLZFhhBoM6HuY3O10LpZQ). Saved a few dollars too.
Mine actually had some fit issues from some plastic flash, but it was easily resolved. I actually haven't used it much because in my first test on the BSA R10, I ran afoul of debris being ejected from my DIY shroud stuffings. I had tried to use a huge stack of washers cut from a scotch-brite sanding pad and I'm pretty sure they must be breaking up a little. Summer is coming and some free time with that, so I'll address that issue and hopefully have the Combro help me do some tuning.
The Combro is a tiny little thing. Construction-wise, I wouldn't call it heavy duty either, but I'm not worried about it. I'm impressed by the options on the controls (calibration adjustment, in particular). I won't need to log any shot strings, but stuff can be added to enabling logging.
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Guys
Here is a little trick that will help you, for NOT shooting your shoot thru/over chrono's type.
Get a lazer, bbl mounted type bore sighter, similar to this,
https://www.ebay.com/itm/CenterPoint-Laser-Boresighter-17-to-50-Cal-Guns-Min-3-8-Barrel-Needed/322426595602?hash=item4b121f6912:g:sxgAAOSwImRYSuIr (https://www.ebay.com/itm/CenterPoint-Laser-Boresighter-17-to-50-Cal-Guns-Min-3-8-Barrel-Needed/322426595602?hash=item4b121f6912:g:sxgAAOSwImRYSuIr)
Insert the lazer into the bbl, tape a piece of white paper on the back side of the chrono rods,
you can then see where your shots are going thru the chrono etc.
Adjust your hold to be centered, then put some white tape on the rods for a reference points, when looking thru the scope,
you can then hold on those reference points, for reliable shooting thru the chrono, as most weapons with scopes mounted are higher than the bbl bore line,
by 1-1/2" or more. ;)
Remember to remove the lazer, before shooting, or you won't like the results. ;) LOL
And no I did not do that,
but a shooting buddy did with is 22-250 PB, I had to shorten his bbl about 3-4", and he had to buy another lazer bore sighter. :'(
With the Magneto V-3, you don't have all the problems with shooting inside/good lighting etc,
but you have to spend a little more for the V-3, which works anywhere, even during night time etc.
HTH,
Tia,
Don
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Agree they are bulky.
Don't agree they are not reliable.
My Prochrono works outside or inside no issues with it picking up shots. You do have to use the lights or the sun shades though which makes them bulky.
The further apart the sensors the easier it is to make them accurate. So compact may mean less accurate if all other things are equal.
Thank you Stephen,
I have spent time to research what is available in US and across the Ocean. My impression is that Chronographs with two pass-through triangles, with or without additional light are bulky, not reliable and difficult to operate at shooting range. New design like Chrony MK3 and Combro especially, are very compact, easy to operate and more reliable as far as lighting condition concerned. It’s definitely way to go. I hope someone in US will introduce similar design. I have purchased Chinese e9800-X3200 with two rows of receivers and transmitters for $34.75. Delivery in US is up to 39 days. Will learn and possibly use as a base to design my own application. Please take a look at links bellow. Do you have any of them?
1. $83.55 COMBRO CB-625 Mk4 Air Rifle Gun Chronograph Chronoscope Ft/lbs Shooting+ Aligner, Made in UK. It has a cable interface to PC and Android. Very good design easy to attach/remove.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/COMBRO-CB-625-Mk4-Air-Rifle-Gun-Chronograph-Chronoscope-Ft-lbs-Shooting-Aligner/331701266190?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D398d3ceb3f62409386fd696b793a55ed%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D371495889151%26itm%3D331701266190&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/COMBRO-CB-625-Mk4-Air-Rifle-Gun-Chronograph-Chronoscope-Ft-lbs-Shooting-Aligner/331701266190?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D398d3ceb3f62409386fd696b793a55ed%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D371495889151%26itm%3D331701266190&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940)
2. $76.76 Emerson E9700 form AliExpress . It has some sort of interface, but nothing in very basic description about software https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMERSON-E9700-shooting-chronograph-Speed-Tester-with-Pixel-Tactical-Airsoft/32796623119.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.8.275393fb0YAlp2&traffic_analysisId=recommend_3035_null_null_null&scm=1007.13338.80878.000000000000000&pvid=2c346cbb-5799-4bdb-9f41-82c9c6ab5368&tpp=1 (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMERSON-E9700-shooting-chronograph-Speed-Tester-with-Pixel-Tactical-Airsoft/32796623119.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000014.8.275393fb0YAlp2&traffic_analysisId=recommend_3035_null_null_null&scm=1007.13338.80878.000000000000000&pvid=2c346cbb-5799-4bdb-9f41-82c9c6ab5368&tpp=1)
3. $283 Air Chrony MK3 Max from Czech Republic. It seems to be very good but expensive. https://www.air-chrony.com/en/6-shooting-chronograph. (https://www.air-chrony.com/en/6-shooting-chronograph.) It also sold by AirGun Buyer in UK. For GBP 139
http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph (http://www.airgunbuyer.com/Showproducts.asp?cat=Chronographs&SubCat=Shooting%20Chrony%20Chronographs#R2A%20Ballistic%20Chronograph)
4. $34.75. Frees hipping Muzzle velocity anemometer / velocimetry / valence e9800 X3200. Very basic display of speed. I
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Muzzle-velocity-tester-valence-e9800-X3200/32810999374.html)
I have purchased the E9800 x3200 and Emerson E9700 from Alien Express. The E9800 x3200 seems to work but very basic, no STD of speed. The E9700 is well built. Display seens to work but I can't make read speed. The USB port is not recognized by PC and no link to get PC software. Does anyone have used E9700.
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The USB port is not recognized by PC and no link to get PC software. Does anyone have used E9700.
Could be that you need serial chip driver CH380 - you need it for interfacing with Chinese made Arduino boards - could have CH380 chip in your chrono?
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Yea that could be the best budget chrono.
(https://puu.sh/A7P4O/fc78af856b.jpg)
It's well made - those pillars are solid brass with black plastic decorative sleeves
I may make a metal or heavy perspex fascia to protect the plastic, but so far I haven't shot it
It comes with a mini tripod - but I use a full size camera/video tripod with it as it has a mounting bush underneath
It's supposedly better than 1 percent accurate
There is a very small area to shoot through so I'm wondering how close do you put the muzzle to the chrono and does the air blast cause any movement or cause any problems?
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Build it and I will buy one!
-Y
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Alex, I have a Shooting Chrony Alpha Master. I've had it for close to four years & I can count the number of errors in that time on one hand. Now granted, I always shoot outdoors, live in Florida where there are generally fair/sunny days. I always use it with the diffusers. At the end of the day, on a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give the Alpha Master a 9. I really like the remote display.
I'd also advise no matter what brand of chrony you buy, get yourself some Poly Carbonate or Lexan for a front shield, before you join the "I shot my chrony" club.
Not sure why some folks are so reluctant to spend a few bucks on Poly/Lexan as insurance to protect their chrony. Maybe they just think they'll never shoot their chrony, until they actually do! :o
I just joined the "I shot my chrony" club, and ordered a new Prochrono DLX from brownells. I wished I had read this post a few weeks ago, it would have saved me some money.
The Bluetooth feature will allow me to use a lexon or polycarbonate shield, while being able to read the data on my phone.
I am headed to Tap plastic on Monday to have it ready when my chronograph arrives.
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David, at least you learned your lesson.
Good move getting some polycarbonate to protect your new chrony. 👍🏻
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It arrived today. How do I keep from shooting it?
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Having recently shot my chrony beta, and have a pro chrono on the way, I realized that I have a very nice set of diffusers and rods that I no longer need. I am offering them up for free to whoever has a shooting chrony and contacts me first.
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Finally have my Prochrono DLX running with the $6.49 lights l purchased on Ebay. It works great, and the Bluetooth link is wonderful. I have it paired to my android phone, and PC running windows 10.
Next is to fabricate a pellet shield so I don't destroy it like I did the Chrony Beta.
If you are in the market for a new chronograph be sure to get one with Bluetooth.