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March 19th, 2024

Bullet Ballistics Measured with Doppler Radar by Barnes

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedom

As does Lapua and some other leading bullet-makers, Barnes now uses radar to determine bullet BC values and ballistic data for its match bullets and ammunition. Barnes employs advanced Doppler Radar to record bullet speeds at multiple distances out to 1500 yards.

The Doppler radar system gathers thousands of data points as a bullet flies downrange. This radar data is used to generate a bullet specific drag curve, and then fed into a modern 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) [ballistics software program] to generate precise firing solutions.

Determining Bullet Ballistics with Doppler Radar Data

How do you build better (more precise) ammo drop tables? With radar, that’s how. Barnes Bullets is using Doppler Radar to develop the drop tables for its Precision Match line of factory ammunition. The Doppler radar allows Barnes to determine actual velocities at hundreds of points along a bullet’s flight path. This provides a more complete view of the ballistics “behavior” of the bullet, particularly at long range. Using Doppler radar, Barnes has learned that neither the G1 nor G7 BC models are perfect. Barnes essentially builds a custom drag curve for each bullet using Doppler radar findings.

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedom

Use of Doppler Radar to Generate Trajectory Solutions

by Barnes Bullets, LLC
Typical trajectory tables are generated by measuring only two values: muzzle velocity, and either time-of-flight to a downrange target, or a second downrange velocity. Depending on the test facility where this data is gathered, that downrange target or chronograph may only be 100 to 300 yards from the muzzle. These values are used to calculate the Ballistic Coefficient (BC value) of the bullet, and the BC value is then referenced to a standardized drag curve such as G1 or G7 to generate the trajectory table.

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedomThis approach works reasonably well for the distances encountered in most hunting and target shooting conditions, but breaks down rapidly for long range work. It’s really an archaic approach based on artillery firings conducted in the late 1800s and computational techniques developed before the advent of modern computers.

There is a better approach which has been utilized by modern militaries around the world for many years to generate very precise firing solutions. Due to the sizeable investment required, it has been slow to make its way into the commercial market. This modern approach is to use a Doppler radar system to gather thousands of data points as a bullet flies downrange. This radar data is used to generate a bullet specific drag curve, and then fed into a modern 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) [ballistics software program] to generate precise firing solutions and greatly increase first-round hit probability. (The 6 DOF software accounts for x, y, and z position along with the bullet’s pitch, yaw, and roll rates.)

Bullet-Specific Drag Curves Derived from Radar Data
Barnes’ advanced Doppler radar system can track bullets out to 1500 meters, recording the velocity and time of flight of that bullet every few feet along the flight path. The noteworthy graph below shows a Doppler Radar-derived, bullet-specific drag curve alongside the more common G1 and G7 curves:

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedom

Neither of the standard curves is a particularly good match to our test bullet. In the legacy approach to generating a downrange trajectory table, the BC value is in effect a multiplier or a fudge factor that’s used to shift the drag curve of the test bullet to try and approximate one of the standard curves. This leads to heated arguments as to which of the standardized drag curves is a better fit, or if multiple BC values should be used to better approximate the standard curve (e.g., use one BC value when the velocity is between Mach 1 and Mach 2, and a different BC value when the velocity is between Mach 2 and Mach 3.) Barnes’ approach to creating trajectory tables is to generate bullet-specific drag curves, and use that data directly in a modern, state-of-the-art, 6 DOF ballistics program called Prodas to generate the firing solution.

Story tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
Permalink - Articles, Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Tech Tip No Comments »
February 21st, 2024

Applied Ballistics Offers Personal Drag Models with Mobile Lab

applied ballistics mobile lab Doppler radar personal drag models

The team from Applied Ballistics will offer ballistics services at major matches in 2024. The team will have its advanced Doppler Radar unit which can provide ultra-precise custom ballistic profiles.

Applied Ballistics (AB) has announced the initial deployment schedule for the Applied Ballistics Mobile Laboratory during the 2024 shooting season. The Applied Ballistics Crew will be driving the Mobile Lab Truck and Trailer to a number of important shooting events in 2024. At these events you can get a Personal Drag Model (PDM) for your rifle/load based on Doppler Radar testing. NOTE: You must be actually competing at one of the listed events in order to participate and get a PDM. The first listed deployment will be at the NRL Hunter match in Montana on May 17, 2024. Here is the initial 2024 schedule:

May 17, 2024: Belt, Montana – NRL Hunter

June 7, 2024: Casper, Wyoming – Nightforce ELR

September 11-12, 2024: Grand Junction, Colorado – IPRF World Championships

applied ballistics mobile lab Doppler radar personal drag models

The Applied Ballistics Mobile Lab trailer carries a vast array of equipment including computers, sensors, and advanced Doppler Radar equipment. The Doppler Radar is employed to create custom ballistic profiles (aka “Personal Drag Models”) for shooters at major matches.

applied ballistics mobile lab Doppler radar personal drag models

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October 8th, 2022

Saturday at the Movies: Long-Range Precision Video Series

Ballistic Magazine Long Range Precision video series ELR PRS

Long Range Precision (LRP) is a useful series of videos product by Ballistic Magazine and sponsored by Remington, Barnes Bullets, and Eotech. We’ve linked seven of these videos below. If you want to see more, 17 total episodes can be watched online on BallisticMag.com. Also 13 of these episodes are hosted on the Ballistic Magazine’s YouTube Channel.

In this video series host Sean Utley covers many gear-related topics including rifle configuration, scope selection, chambering choices, ammunition options, bipods/tripods, and chronographs. In addition, the series covers training methods, bullet ballistics, wind reading, and rifle handling.

Ballistic Magazine Long Range Precision video series ELR PRS

Most of this is pretty basic stuff, but it can be helpful for newcomers to long range shooting. For example, Season 3 Episode 1 covers rifle set-up and fitting, so you can set LOP, cheek height, and scope position optimally. And Season 1 Episode 4 covers chambering choices such as 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester.

Season 1, Episode 5: Anatomy of Bullet Flight

This is a cool video that shows ballistics testing at the Barnes Bullets underground testing lab. The video also includes interesting 3D animations showing how bullets run through a barrel and then fly down-range.

Season 1, Episode 6: Critical Equipment for Long Range Shooting

If you’re getting started in Long Range Precision Shooting, this video is worth watching. The video covers key equipment for long range shooting, including LabRadar chronograph, tripods, spotting scope, and mobile Ballistics Apps.

Season 1, Episode 1: Anatomy of a Long Range Precision Rifle

Season 3, Episode 1: Gun Fitting

Season 2, Episode 6: Choosing the Right Optic

Season 1, Episode 3: Mechanics of Long Range Shooting

Season 1, Episode 4: Best Calibers for Long Range Shooting

Watch All 17 Long Range Precision Videos

Along with the seven videos linked above, ten other Long Range Precision videos can be watched via the Ballistic Magazine Video Archive. And if you are interested in learning how Doppler Radar is used to develop bullet designs, we recommend Episode 7 from Season 2. This 7-minute video covers the latest technology in ballistics radar. CLICK HERE to watch video.

Ballistic Magazine Long Range Precision video series 1 2

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June 14th, 2021

Bryan Litz Wins 2021 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming

A major ELR match took place this past weekend in Wyoming, the Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge. A familiar name finished first — Applied Ballistics founder Bryan Litz. Bryan had a convincing victory over some 220 other shooters. Bryan earned praise from his colleague and past K02M winner Mitchell Fitzpatrick: “Congrats to Bryan Litz on winning the 2021 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge! This match is tough, and winning it is no small feat… especially considering there were 221 competitors this year. Bryan and I were both shooting Barrett MRADs in .300 Norma with Nightforce 5-25 ATACR scopes, shooting Berger Bullets 245gr Elite Hunters pushed by VV N565. Absolutely killer combination.”

The match was held June 12-13 2021, at the Tillard 55 Ranch near Casper, Wyoming. This major ELR competition feature some amazing terrain, plus targets out to 2100 yards.

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming

After the match, Bryan told us: “I learned a lot shooting this match last year. Came back with a better plan and more suitable equipment (stock Barrett MRAD in .300 Norma Magnum, Berger 245gr Hybrids, Vihtavuori N565). I also got a lot of great advice from my team-mates who are more experienced in this kind of competition. For ballistics I ran the Garmin Tactix with the Personal Drag Model (PDM) from Radar testing on Friday — it was SPOT ON.

Thanks to Scott Satterlee and his awesome crew of ROs. This match takes a lot of work to set up. Also thank Nick Setting and all the sponsors… especially title sponsor Nightforce. Looking forward to coming back next year!”

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming
Here’s Bryan taping data to his rifle — a tip he got from Chase Stroud.

Personal Drag Models Set with Doppler Radar

Bryan Litz wasn’t just there to compete. Prior to the match Bryan and his Applied Ballistics Team helped competitors develop custom Long Range Ballistics curves for their loads and rifles. This was done with sophisticated Doppler Radar units. As Bryan noted: “Doesn’t get any better than a [ballistics] model built from a Radar track of YOUR bullets from YOUR rifle, the day before the match.”

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming
During Personal Drag Model testing, participants would shot 10 rounds under the Radar. Once the PDM data was gathered, Bryan explained to the testers how to use the custom curve with Applied Ballistics software.

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming

Match Was a Sell-Out with Huge Prize Table

Was this a popular event? Does this ELR stuff generate interest among commercial sponsors?

Absolutely. With 221 shooters, the event was a “sell-out”, with many folks who had to be turned away. The list of sponsors is staggering — over 60 companies — so the prize tables were over-flowing with gear. With great scenery and this treasure trove of prizes, we understand why the match is so popular.

2021 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Sponsors
Accuracy International USA
Alamo Precision Rifles
American Precision Arms
American Rifle Company, Inc.
Applied Ballistics LLC
BadRock Rifles
Barrett
Bartlein Barrels, Inc
Bison Tactical
Bix’n Andy USA
Blue Mountain Precision
Brux Barrels
Bullet Central
Burris Optics
Cole-Tac
Cutting Edge Bullets
Defiance Machine
Elite Iron
Foundation Stocks
Garmin
GRAYBOE
Gunwerks
Hawkins Precision
Hawk Hill Custom
Hornady
H-S Precision
Impact Shooting
Kahles North America
Kelbly’s Actions
Kestrel Ballistics
KMW Long Range Solutions
Kreiger Barrels
Leupold Optics
Lilja Precision Rifle Barrels
Lone Peak Arms
Magnetospeed LLC
Modular Driven Technologies – MDT
Mile High Shooting Accessories
Nightforce Optics
Precision Rifle Works
PROOF Research
Really Right Stuff SOAR
Reasor Precision
Sako
Sawtooth Rifles
SilencerCo
SPUHR
SWAROVSKI OPTIK Hunting
Revic
Terminus Actions
Tikka
Timney Triggers
Triggertech
U.S. Optics
Vapor Trails
Warhorse Development
Warner Tool Company
West Texas Ordnance
WieBad.com
XLR Industries
Zermatt Arms
ZRO Delta

Bryan Litz Applied Ballistics Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge Casper Wyoming

Permalink Competition, News, Tactical 1 Comment »
May 26th, 2020

Long Range Precision Video Series — Season 1 and 2

Ballistic Magazine Long Range Precision video series 1 2

Long Range Precision (LRP) is a useful series of videos product by Ballistic Magazine and sponsored by Remington, Barnes Bullets, and Eotech. All six of the Season 1 LRP videos are embedded below for easy “binge watching”. In addition, all seven Season 2 episodes can be watched online on BallisticMag.com.

In this video series host Sean Utley covers many gear-related topics including rifle configuration, scope selection, chambering choices, ammunition options, bipods/tripods, and chronographs. In addition, the series covers training methods, bullet ballistics, wind reading, and rifle handling.

Most of this is pretty basic stuff, but it can be helpful for newcomers to long range shooting. For example, Season 1 Episode 4 covers chambering options including 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester.

Season 1, Episode 1: Anatomy of a Long Range Precision Rifle

Season 1, Episode 2: Foundations of Long Range Shooting

Season 1, Episode 3: Mechanics of Long Range Shooting

Season 1, Episode 4: Best Calibers for Long Range Shooting

Season 1, Episode 5: Anatomy of Bullet Flight

Season 1, Episode 6: Critical Equipment for Long Range Shooting

Watch Latest Long Range Precision Season 2 Videos

Along with all these Season 1 videos, there are seven Season 2 videos available on BallisticMag.com. Season 2, Episode 2 is a good video on Adjusting for Wind. And if you are interested in learning how Doppler Radar is used to develop bullet designs, we recommend Episode 7 from Season 2. This 7-minute video covers the latest technology in ballistics radar. CLICK HERE to watch video.

Ballistic Magazine Long Range Precision video series 1 2

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April 13th, 2020

Barnes Bullet Ballistics Determined with Doppler Radar Testing

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedom

NOTE: Barnes has just opened a new e-Commerce site where you can buy Barnes bullets direct from the manufacturer. To mark that development, we’re republishing an interesting article on how Barnes develops BC values and ballistic data for its match bullets and ammunition. Barnes employs advanced Doppler Radar to record bullet speeds at multiple distances out to 1500 yards.

Determining Bullet Ballistics with Doppler Radar Data

How do you build better (more precise) ammo drop tables? With radar, that’s how. Barnes Bullets is using Doppler Radar to develop the drop tables for its Precision Match line of factory ammunition. The Doppler radar allows Barnes to determine actual velocities at hundreds of points along a bullet’s flight path. This provides a more complete view of the ballistics “behavior” of the bullet, particularly at long range. Using Doppler radar, Barnes has learned that neither the G1 nor G7 BC models are perfect. Barnes essentially builds a custom drag curve for each bullet using Doppler radar findings.

Use of Doppler Radar to Generate Trajectory Solutions

by Barnes Bullets, LLC
Typical trajectory tables are generated by measuring only two values: muzzle velocity, and either time-of-flight to a downrange target, or a second downrange velocity. Depending on the test facility where this data is gathered, that downrange target or chronograph may only be 100 to 300 yards from the muzzle. These values are used to calculate the Ballistic Coefficient (BC value) of the bullet, and the BC value is then referenced to a standardized drag curve such as G1 or G7 to generate the trajectory table.

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedomThis approach works reasonably well for the distances encountered in most hunting and target shooting conditions, but breaks down rapidly for long range work. It’s really an archaic approach based on artillery firings conducted in the late 1800s and computational techniques developed before the advent of modern computers.

There is a better approach which has been utilized by modern militaries around the world for many years to generate very precise firing solutions. Due to the sizeable investment required, it has been slow to make its way into the commercial market. This modern approach is to use a Doppler radar system to gather thousands of data points as a bullet flies downrange. This radar data is used to generate a bullet specific drag curve, and then fed into a modern 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) [ballistics software program] to generate precise firing solutions and greatly increase first-round hit probability. (The 6 DOF software accounts for x, y, and z position along with the bullet’s pitch, yaw, and roll rates.)

Bullet-Specific Drag Curves Derived from Radar Data
Barnes’ advanced Doppler radar system can track bullets out to 1500 meters, recording the velocity and time of flight of that bullet every few feet along the flight path. The noteworthy graph below shows a Doppler Radar-derived, bullet-specific drag curve alongside the more common G1 and G7 curves:

Ballistics Barnes Bullets Doppler Radar G1 G7 curve model drop chart DOF 6 degree of freedom

Neither of the standard curves is a particularly good match to our test bullet. In the legacy approach to generating a downrange trajectory table, the BC value is in effect a multiplier or a fudge factor that’s used to shift the drag curve of the test bullet to try and approximate one of the standard curves. This leads to heated arguments as to which of the standardized drag curves is a better fit, or if multiple BC values should be used to better approximate the standard curve (e.g., use one BC value when the velocity is between Mach 1 and Mach 2, and a different BC value when the velocity is between Mach 2 and Mach 3.) Barnes’ approach to creating trajectory tables is to generate bullet-specific drag curves, and use that data directly in a modern, state-of-the-art, 6 DOF ballistics program called Prodas to generate the firing solution.

Story tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Gear Review, Tech Tip No Comments »
August 5th, 2019

Applied Ballistics Mobile Lab Maiden Voyage to Texas

Applied Ballistics Texas Mobile Lab Trailer doppler radar Barrett ELR

The folks at Applied Ballistics have a new toy — a large trailer filled with all the latest and greatest tech gear for testing long-range ballistics. Bryan Litz reported: “The maiden voyage for the AB Mobile Lab in Texas this week was a huge success! We look forward to supporting more long range shooting events.” Mitchell Fitzpatrick was there in the Lone Star state with fellow Applied Ballistics staffer Christopher Palka. The Applied Ballistics team will be trailering the Mobile Lab to Indiana where it will be on hand for the NRA National Championships at Camp Atterbury this month.

Applied Ballistics Texas Mobile Lab Trailer doppler radar Barrett ELR
Ten rifles, heaps of cables, huge Doppler Radar unit, military-grade Laser RFs on tripods, spare barrels, safety gear — all ready for action in Texas.

About the Applied Ballistics Mobile Lab

Q: What is the basic purpose of the Applied Ballistics Mobile Lab?

Mitchell Fitzpatrick: The Mobile Lab allows us to effectively carry out ballistics testing in the field and at events. It has most of the capabilities of our normal lab, but on wheels.

Q: What hardware and electronics are carried in the Mobile Lab? What are its capabilities?

Bryan Litz: The Mobile Lab will transport most everything that’s in the main lab including the Doppler radar. This rig is new and we haven’t fully outfitted it yet. The load-outs will be somewhat flexible depending on the venue we are supporting.

Applied Ballistics Texas Mobile Lab Trailer doppler radar Barrett ELR
The three rifles on the left are Barrett MRADS, $6000-$6154 MSRP, before optics.

Applied Ballistics Texas Mobile Lab Trailer doppler radar Barrett ELR

Applied Ballistics Texas Mobile Lab Trailer doppler radar Barrett ELR

NOTE to Readers — Check back at the end of the day. We will have more technical information from Bryan Litz and the Applied Ballistics team…

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Tech Tip 1 Comment »
February 26th, 2019

Big Bullets — Applied Ballistics Tests 379gr .375 Cal Berger Solids

Berger 379 grain 379gr solid bullet .375 caliber enabler

Berger Bullets has created some impressive solid bullets for Extreme Long Range (ELR) shooting. These ultra-long, lathe-turned solids were unveiled at SHOT Show 2019, and they should reach Berger dealers by Mid-April this year. To test their consistency and develop refined BC numbers, the Applied Ballistics test team has braved cold winter weather to test Berger’s new 379 grain solids. The results have been impressive.

Berger 379 grain 379gr solid bullet .375 caliber enabler
Bryan Litz, Applied Ballistics founder, tests 379gr Bergers in .375 EnABLER rounds.

The Applied Ballistics testers have loaded the new Berger solids in an innovative .375-Caliber cartridge called the .375 EnABELR. This is slightly shorter than a .375 CheyTac so it allows the round to mag-feed. The brass is made by Peterson. The testers report: “We’ve been loading and shooting a pile of .375 EnABELR this month. The Berger 379gr Solids are proving to be incredibly consistent. Here’s a 10-shot string for one of our guns, shots number 931-940.”

Berger 379 grain 379gr solid bullet .375 caliber enabler

The .375 EnABELR is achieving impressive velocities — 2990 FPS — with the 379-grainers from a 30″ barrel. The test team states: “We’ve been shooting [a 30″-long] 1:7″ twist which works good, but are going to try some 1:8″ and 1:9″ also”.

Berger 379 grain 379gr solid bullet .375 caliber enabler

The .375 EnABELR Cartridge — Big and Fast
The .375 EnABELR cartridge was designed to offer .375 CheyTac performance in a slightly shorter package: “The problem with the .375 CheyTac is that, when loaded with the highest performance .375 caliber bullets (379-407 gr Berger Solids, and the 400-425 grain Cutting Edge Lazers) the round is not magazine feed-able in any action that’s sized for CheyTac cartridges.

Berger 379 grain 379gr solid bullet .375 caliber enabler

“Knowing the .375 CheyTac produced substantial performance, and that it was just too long for magazine feeding, made it easy to converge on a design for the .375 EnABELR. We just had to make the case short enough to achieve magazine length with the desired bullets, while adding a little more diameter to keep the case capacity similar to the .375 CheyTac. The resulting basic shape is quite similar in proportions to the successful .338 Norma Magnum Cartridge which, interestingly, was selected as the cartridge for General Dynamics Lightweight Medium Machine Gun (LWMMG).”

Brass Source — Purchase the Peterson-made .338 EnABELR and .375 EnABELR brass through the Applied Ballistics WebStore. Price for both .338 EnABELR and .375 EnABELR is $125.00 for 50 cases.

Berger 379 grain 379gr solid bullet .375 caliber enabler

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Gear Review, New Product, Tactical 2 Comments »
June 20th, 2018

Chrono Comparison Test: LabRadar, Magnetospeed, & Oehler 35P

labradar chronograph test magnetospeed V3 oehler 35P 6mmBR Ackley BRA

We see comparison tests of cars, cameras, and other hardware. But how about chronographs? What could we learn by setting up three different chronographs, and running a 20-shot string over all three at the same time. One of our Forum members, Randy S. (aka AAA) did that very test with three of the best chronographs you can buy: LabRadar, MagnetoSpeed, and an Oehler model 35P. The MagnetoSpeed was attached to the barrel of an F-Class rig, with the LabRadar placed on the left side of the shooting bench. The Oehler 35P was positioned about 23 feet downrange. The photo above shows the set-up. A 20-shot string was recorded with the results in a spreadsheet.

AAA talks about this interesting experiment in a Shooters’ Forum Thread. Here is his report:

Comparison Testing Three Chronographs

We all have our favorite chronograph. Each gives a number, but how would that number compare to the same round fired with another chronograph? I wanted to know so a friend and I set up the following test with three chronographs: LabRadar, MagnetoSpeed V3, and Oehler Model 35P.

For the test we fired Berger 105gr VLDs over the three chronographs simultaneously. The test rifle was my 6mm BR Ackley (BRA) F-class rig with fire-formed brass and 200 rounds on the new barrel.

Chronogaphs Tested
LabRadar
MagnetoSpeed V3
Oehler Model 35P
Temperature: 86 deg. F
Elevation: 854 feet
Cartridge: 6mm BRA (105gr Berger VLD)
Time between shots: 45 seconds

To start off, five rounds were fired to make sure all systems were recording and to warm the barrel. Then the test was 20 shots fired across all three instruments with 45 seconds between shots. The Oehler was set 7.5 yards from the muzzle so 12 FPS was added to the recorded value.

We were using the internal trigger on the LabRadar. The manual says the Vo indicated is the actual muzzle velocity when using the internal trigger, but not if using the Doppler. The 12 FPS Oehler adjustment (back to MV) was based on the Berger Ballistics Calculator.

Results of the Triple Chronograph Shoot-Out:

labradar chronograph test magnetospeed V3 oehler 35P 6mmBR Ackley BRA

LR-M is FPS variance between LabRadar and MagnetoSpeed V3. LR-O is FPS variance between LabRadar and distance-adjusted Oehler 35P. You can see all three chronos were very consistent. SD was identical with the LabRadar and MagnetoSpeed. CLICK HERE for spreadsheet.

The tester, Randy S. (aka AAA) says: “Judge for yourself, but I was impressed by all.”

Comments by Forum Members
Our Forum members expressed interest in this Triple Chronograph test. Some confirmed that the LabRadar and Magnetospeed give very similar FPS numbers, based on their own tests:

“Great test and thanks for sharing. I’ve tested my MagnetoSpeed and LabRadar together and results are always within 2-4 FPS of one another.” — Big D

“Very happy to see your numbers support my decision to buy a MagnetoSpeed. Had read reports comparing it to the Oehler and the numbers I get seem to be supported by my long range shooting results. Many thanks for taking the time and effort [to perform] this comparative test. Always good to get actual test results.” — Texas10

“I did a 4-shot test with my MagnetoSpeed and another shooter’s LabRadar a couple of days ago. The results were within 4 fps with the LabRadar being optimistic.” — Pat Miles

Forum Member Powderbreak studied AAA’s original spreadsheet from the chronograph trio test, then figured out the shot-by-shot FPS variance between the machines. He concluded that all the machines performed very well. Powderbreak posted:

Analyzing the Triple Chronograph Test — What Can We Conclude?

AAA did a great job of comparing the 3 chronos. What conclusions can be drawn?

1) I have not checked the manufacturer’s claims of accuracy, but the three chronos are very close to one another. There is no way for us to determine the actual true velocities, but we do not need to do so. Any of the chronos would be more than adequate for an accurate shooter.

2) The resolution of the three chronographs is actually pretty astounding. One foot per second (FPS) is a resolution of 0.033%.

3) AAA did a great job of reloading a very consistent round. With an extreme spread of 33 fps out of 3014 for 20 rounds, that is only 1.09% total spread of velocities.

4) There is a closer velocity match between the MagnetoSpeed and the LabRadar, but that does not mean the Oehler is less accurate. There is simply an offset between the Oehler and the other two. This could be due to the greater distance, the location, or the internal working of the Oehler.

5) Believe your chronograph, it is probably the most accurate reloading tool that you own.

Brian Litz of Applied Ballistics carefully explained the operation, set-up, accuracy and comparison of AB’s chronographs in his books. [Those books] are well worth the money, and give great insight into the workings of chronographs.” — Powderbreak

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Gear Review, Tech Tip 6 Comments »
June 10th, 2018

LabRadar Chronograph Summer Sale — Save $50.00

LabRadar Radar Doppler chronograph summer sale $50 off chrono lab-radar Bruno shooters Creedmoor

If you didn’t catch our Deals of the Week last Monday, here’s another “heads up”. If you’re thinking of getting a LabRadar chronograph, now’s the time to buy. You can save $50.00 on this unit now through June 24, 2018. Take note — these devices are controlled with MAP pricing, so you won’t see other discounts. This is a factory-authorized, once-a-year Summer Sale.

This sale is notable because you never see this discounted below the $559.95 MAP price. The sale extends through 6/24/2018. You can get the LabRadar from top vendors including Creedmoor Sports, Bruno Shooters Supply, and Midsouth Shooters Supply.

Bart Sauter Ray Gross LabRadar Benchrest Review Chronograph Bench tripod

About the LabRadar Chronograph
The LabRadar is probably the most sophisticated chronograph system ever offered to the general public. It is extremely precise yet easy to deploy. The LabRadar’s Doppler Radar technology offers many advantages compared to the traditional analog chrono — no tripods needed, no ambient light required, works on any type of projectile, no matter what caliber or speed. The LabRadar records all shot velocities, then calculates velocity extreme spread (ES), average velocity, and standard deviation (SD). It can also export all your shot data to your computer or laptop. And very soon a new LabRadar Mobile App will be offered that will let you control your LabRadar with an iOS or Android smartphone.

The LabRadar Ballistic Velocity Doppler Radar Chronograph can track a wide range of devices, calibers, and projectiles. It works with airguns, handguns, rifles — even suppressed weapons. (It can even time arrows fired from bows.) A key advantage of the LabRadar is that is can be set to the SIDE of your rifle — you don’t need to go downrange to set up screens on a tripod. You can put the LabRadar right on the bench. Ace shooter and bullet-maker Bart Sauter even uses his LabRadar during matches.

Bart Sauter Ray Gross LabRadar Benchrest Review Chronograph Bench tripod

Full LabRadar Field Test/Review by Ray Gross

If you are considering purchasing a LabRadar Chronograph system, we strongly suggest you read the very thorough and informative LabRadar Review by Ray Gross, past Captain of the USA F-TR team.

Bart Sauter Ray Gross LabRadar Benchrest Review Chronograph Bench tripod

Permalink Hot Deals, Tech Tip No Comments »
May 8th, 2018

New Mobile Apps for LabRadar to Be Released Soon

LabRadar chronograph doppler radar chrono mobile app iOS iphone smartphone android phone

LabRadar owners can celebrate. New mobile-friendly control software is coming soon. Gunsmith and Benchrest Hall of Famer Thomas “Speedy” Gonzalez had some interesting news from the NRA Show in Dallas. He learned that the creators of the LabRadar chronograph systems will soon offer Mobile Apps that can run on your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. This new software will make it much easier to control the LabRadar, and offer enhanced data editing functionality.

New LabRadar iOS and Android Mobile Apps Coming Soon…

LabRadar chronograph doppler radar chrono mobile app iOS iphone smartphone android phoneSpeedy says: “I just got back from the NRA show in Dallas, Texas. The coolest thing I personally saw at the show was at the LabRadar booth. They had the Beta versions of their new LabRadar Apps for the iPhone and Android phones. These Apps let you control all LabRadar functions from your phone as well as your tablet via Bluetooth connection. The new Apps will also allow the LabRadar owner to store and edit his or her data from a much larger and user friendly screen.”

That’s good news. We particularly like the ability to edit LabRadar data on a tablet. Speedy added: “This is going to revolutionize this great product and make it [much more] user-friendly.”

The new LabRadar Mobile Apps will be available free for LabRadar owners. If you own a LabRadar, be sure to register your LabRadar on the LabRadar Website. That will ensure you are notified via email as soon as the software is available. To register, look for the text link at the top right of the LabRadar homepage. It says “Register your LabRadar “. Click the link then fill out the data form.

LabRadar chronograph doppler radar chrono mobile app iOS iphone smartphone android phone

Permalink New Product, Tech Tip No Comments »
November 3rd, 2017

Hornady Releases Free Mobile Ballistic App with 4DOF™

Hornady Ballistic Ballistics App Mobile 4DOF degrees of freedom aerodynamic jump Android Apple iOS

Hornady Ballistic Ballistics App Mobile 4DOF degrees of freedom aerodynamic jump Android Apple iOSHornady has released a new FREE Ballistic Calculator App for iOS (Apple) and Android OS. This new Mobile Ballistic App includes Hornady’s advanced 4DOF™ calculator as well as a standard BC (ballistic coefficient) calculator. The Hornady Ballistic Calculator App is Bluetooth-enabled so it can communicate with select wind meters.

The Hornady Ballistic App is FREE but you do need to supply an email address. We found the App downloaded quickly and installed easily. While the Mobile Ballistic App is new, Hornady has offered a web-based online 4DOF Ballistic App since August 2016.


GET Apple iOS Version HERE | GET Android OS Version HERE

Hornady’s new 4DOF™ (4 Degrees of Freedom) Ballistic Calculator has become a popular resource for those seeking more accurate trajectories, especially at extreme ranges. The Hornady 4DOF calculator provides trajectory solutions based on projectile Drag Coefficient (not ballistic coefficient) along with the exact physical modeling of the projectile and its mass and aerodynamic properties. Additionally, it is the first publicly-available program that will correctly calculate the vertical shift a bullet experiences as it encounters a crosswind; referred to as aerodynamic jump. Hornady claims that: “The use of drag coefficients, correct projectile dynamics, aerodynamic jump, and spin drift enable the Hornady 4DOF ballistic calculator to be the most accurate commercial trajectory program available[.]”

“Current ballistic calculators provide three degrees of freedom in their approach; windage, elevation and range, but treat the projectile as an inanimate lump flying through the air,” said Dave Emary, Hornady Chief Ballistician. “This program incorporates the projectile’s movement in the standard three degrees but also adds its movement about its center of gravity and subsequent angle relative to its line of flight, which is the fourth degree of freedom.”

Hornady Ballistic Ballistics App Mobile 4DOF degrees of freedome aerodynamic jump Android Apple iOS

Bullet Drag Profiles Created with Doppler Radar
Using Doppler radar, Hornady engineers have calculated exact drag versus velocity curves for each bullet in the 4DOF™ calculator library. Hornady engineers say this makes the 4DOF™ calculator “more accurate for long range hits than … BC-based systems or custom drag curves based on limited data collection points.”

The 4DOF ballistic calculator is used with pre-populated bullet files that include long range match and hunting style bullets from Hornady including ELD-X and ELD Match bullets. In addition, popular long range projectiles from Sierra, Berger, and other bullet-makers are included. To view the web-based version of 4DOF and see the projectiles available, visit www.Hornady.com/4dof.

Standard Ballistics Calculator Functionality
The new Hornady Mobile App also features a standard BC-based calculator for use with bullets not listed in the 4DOF database. Users can enter their own G1 or G7 BC, or choose from the entire lineup of Hornady bullets and ammunition in easily-filtered, pre-populated lists.

Installation and User Feedback
We installed Hornady’s new Mobile Ballistic App on an Apple iPhone 5s and and older Samsung Galaxy. The App downloaded quickly and installed flawlessly on both platforms. We were able to register easily (once we added a Capital Letter to the password) and the App launched without a hitch. This Hornady App is FREE but it does require users to submit an email address. This enables Hornady to send marketing messages, but registered users may opt out.

NOTE: A couple iOS and Android users reported issues with registration. This might be a software bug (or, more likely, it was user error) but we thought we should report this:

From Apple App Store Reviews:
“Tried registration, failed on the App and it won’t take my site info.” — Heavy G 603

“App crashes right after the two accept buttons.” — Austin.M

From Google Play Reviews:
“Required registration works on website but not for this app…” — Ken S., 11/2/17

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, New Product 3 Comments »