What's a good entry-level chronograph?

[DuGaul]

I'm looking to buy an entry-level chronograph. I don't need the computer graphing stuff - just a readout is good enough for me.

Any recommendations?

[YukonGlocker]

I use the Alpha Shooting Chrony.
It does everything I need.

[dodge]

I have a F-1 shooting Chrony and does everything that I want. Maybe the best$75 that I spent.

[markm]

We had a high power shooter tell us that the F1 chrony was acceptable for pistol loads at best. I used one to confirm my rifle loads. The velocity spreads were pretty wide... 40-50 fps on 5 round strings.

I think it'll get you fairly close.

[jmart]

I have a Shooting Chrony, the red one. I think it's an Alpha, but I'm can't remember.

32 shot string, provides AVG, ES, SD stats.

A bit tempermental if it's clear and sunny, you must use sky screens and even then it can miss a shot. I live in CO and shoot at around 6,000 ft elevation, so UV is a problem. maybe not a problem if you are lower, and definitely no problem if cloudy or hazy.

If you get a Shooting Chrony, get the ones that have a remoted control&display unit that you set on your bench. Much easier to read the numbers right in front of you than the ones that are 15ft away. Otherwise you'll need the remote control unit which allows you to scroll through functions and reset it from the bench (but the display is still integral w/the chrono, 15ft away).

[Erich]

I've got a Beta Master Chrony, and it does every bit as good a job on rifle loads as does my friend's PACT. I think demigod's high power shooting friend might not be an expert on chronographs.

The Beta Master has the remote readout/controls (wonderful to have) and will calculate mean, SD and ES for you. It has the ability to remember six ten-shot strings (I just write them down as they are shot) for later printout.

I had one of the original Shooting Chronys back in the late '80s - man, they're much easier to use now. You might consider replacing the metal rods that hold the sunshades with wooden dowels - less drama if (when!) you shoot one that way. In the arc-lamp NM sun, I often have to pay attention to how the electric eyes are getting shaded, and have jerry-rigged some supplemental shades out of paper plates for when they're needed.

Their warranty service is fast and no-hassle, too.

[nksmfamjp]

I use the Alpha Shooting Chrony.
It does everything I need.

+1, but I'm not sure it is entry level. It does all I need.

[rob_s]

Want to rekindle this discussion as I may be having to return my loaner!

I'd like to maybe find something with a remote/readout that I can have at the bench with me.

[Erich]

My Beta Master Shooting Chrony continues to give yeoman service - and has the controls and readout right there on the bench with you.

[chadbag]

Whatever you do, get one with separate sky screens, not the ones where the chronograph unit and sensors are all in ones (The Chrony line are mostly all-in-one). One of these days, you will thank me when you are just buying a new sensor instead of the whole new chronograph.

Ask me how I know.


It is a little more expensive ($199) but I use the CED M2