11-21-2019, 01:29 PM
Flight Medic Wrote:Im fairly new to precision shooting. I mean, I did qualify for "Rifle Expert" with BUIS back in the days of my youth in the USMC, but I'm brand new to shooting with a high-power optic. I'm trying to learn all the ins-and-outs of plinking targets at long range, but I'm finding it a bit overwhelming (atmospheric conditions, "Coriolis effect", gyroscopic spin, multiple wind values, updrafts, downdrafts, etc, etc). I mean, I understand the terminology, but exactly how to apply it all is challenging to say the least. I want to give myself (and my aging eyes) every advantage possible, so I will invest in whatever equipment I need to do this proper.
I purchased a ballistic app, but while perusing it today I noticed it requires a lot of input I would not be able provide (or would have to guesstimate). Wondering how many target shooters here use a Weather Meter in addition to their ballistic app. I saw a few different models of the "Kestrel" brand, but not sure which one would be best for my application. For instance, is the rotating vane accessory helpful?
Next, is the muzzle velocity listed on the ammo box sufficient, or is having a chronograph the only way to truly get accurate data on your ammo?
One last question... if you're shooting at a range that already has the targets measured out, is a laser range finder necessary?
Any advice greatly appreciated
FM:
Be very sure the optic is mounted as perfectly as possible on the rifle since you will be using hold overs to a great extent.
Know the true zeros of your ammo by shooting for group numerous times at known distances from 100 to about 800 yards. Absolute must if you are to shoot targets at unknown distances.
Have a very good idea of the danger space of your ammo so you can decide if a hold has a good chance or if you need to dial in the exact elevation.
Know how to dope winds and how to use the various techniques that competitors use when they face winds. If the wind appears to be constant from one direction, I put a specific amount of wind on the optic and use holds from that setting. If the wind is variable, I go with a no wind zero and use holds. Most likely the PSC guys have other techniques that are worth while learning.
If you already know the distances to the targets, you do not need to estimate the range. What you do need is a very good understanding of the zeros of your rifle with your ammo or those distances will not do you any good.
Your biggest issue will be getting into positions that provide you enough stability to shoot well and quickly, your ability to accurately figure out and use a hold, your ability to dope winds, your ability to very precisely call your shots, and your optics ability to allow you to see some sort of splash. Focus on what has meaning and ignore the rest.
There is no need for you to worry about almost all the stuff the ballistics programs are asking for. About the only thing you ought to know in terms of this type of minutia is zero changes due to your elevation above sea level (if you are going from sea level past about 2500 feet ASL, and zero changes due to temperature. You will find that most of this MET data has meaning only in some relatively extreme environmental conditions and only at distances past about 500 yards. At least in terms of the target sizes you will be shooting.
You will know when it is time to deal with the other stuff and once you are good enough to know for certain if any of it makes a difference, you will realized that the difference is so small that it isn't worth spending the time estimating.
LR55