When does one need a crono?

MartyK2500 said:
We could say, if you shoot competitively, be it pistol or rifle, you definitely need one.
I ran a few years without one on pistol and did just fine leaching off other peoples chronographs.

Todbartell : I would like very much to learn more about these scatter nodes and why my good results seem to be tied to bad SD/ES, is there any internet reading material you could suggest?
As I would like to try to load develop the chronograph way for sakes of experimentation. I know my 42.7gn load is constant sub 1/2 moa, even in 10 shot groups at a distance, but if I could find a way to get sub 1/3 moa i'd be even happier.
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Marty, what is your good loads " bad " ES number at? Scatter nodes are usually to do with the powder charge, and how often a good load can follow a bad grouping scatter node, but its still not in the middle of said good node, where it needs to be. Some people do a straight up velocity node test with a quality Labradar or the like. I would then do a mini OCW around it to confirm, and also a OSD test to find seating depth. ( I think an OSD test should maybe be done even before the final charge weight is chosen, once you are close with the powder. )
 
I like using a Chrono to dial in my loads. It's not essential but it helps a lot when you want precision. I use a labradar.
 
Interesting thread. So far though, I've let the target tell me whether or not I have an accurate load. I'm not much interested in how fast it hits the paper, just how accurately.

But I may rethink that.

To the OP- no, you don't need one yet. Maybe down the road you will.
 
I loaded and shot successfully for many years before I purchased a chronograph. Then I loaded and shot successfully for many years before I could afford and buy a really good chronograph. I don't use it on every outing, but I'd hate to be without one now. If I didn't have the Oehler, and was looking to purchase a good chronograph, I'd get a LabRadar.
 
I have used and occasionally still use the shooting chrony. It is a little scarred for sure. Haven't used it for years, but now all of a sudden hi end chrony's are all the rage. Feeling a little left behind. Still waiting for an alternative to the LabRadar unit or for LabRadar to put a sale on. Considered the Magneetospeed as well. Maybe something will show up at Shot show.
 
I have a Beta Chrony and have used it for 8 years. I find it indispensable for reloading hunting rifle ammunition. I am please with it but it take a while to setup and it is not really gun range friendly. I recently purchase a Magnetospeed chronograph Sporter model and it seems the way to go. It was not too expensive (290 Canadian including shipping). I have yet to try it out but I can hardly wait. It takes less than 60 seconds to setup and is very simple and gun range friendly.
 
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