An Affordable Tool for Projectile Speed Measurement
The Ballistic Precision Chronograph, also sold as the Jagtrade Ballistic Precision Chronograph Speedometer, is a budget archery chronograph available on Amazon for around $40 to $75. This entry-level tool is designed to measure the speed of various projectiles, making it suitable for many traditional archers.
Features and Functionality
The Ballistic Precision Chronograph boasts a lightweight and durable construction, featuring an aluminum alloy and stainless steel body. Its core functionality revolves around measuring projectile velocity. It can handle a wide range of speeds, from a slow 1 meter per second (3.28 feet per second) up to a much faster 999.9 meters per second (3,543 feet per second). This allows you to measure the speed of various projectiles, including arrows, most rimfire and centerfire ammo, airsoft pellets, table tennis balls, badminton birdies, and even Nerf toys.
The chronograph offers versatility in its readings. It can display measurements in three different units: meters per second (MPS), feet per second (FPS), and Joules (energy). This caters to users with different preferences and allows for easy unit conversion. The readings are presented on a large and easy-to-read LCD screen, ensuring clear visibility during use.
Ease of Use and Applications
The Ballistic Precision Chronograph is designed for ease of use. It features a large effective induction area, which means a wider range within the device can detect the projectile passing through. This simplifies setup and reduces the chances of missed readings due to improper positioning. It also works really well in low-light and shaded areas. If using it in direct sunlight, you’ll need to cover the rods with cardboard strips. I’m fine with just using it in shaded areas.
In terms of applications, this chronograph is a great option for recreational purposes. You can use it to measure the speed of your arrows and fine-tune your arrow weights and tips for better accuracy and performance. It can also be a fun and educational tool for testing the performance of carbon, wood, bamboo, or even river cane arrows.
Limitations and Considerations
While the Ballistic Precision Chronograph offers a range of features and functionality, it’s important to consider some limitations. One of the key drawbacks is the lack of widely available information regarding its specific accuracy. Reputable brands in the chronograph market often provide detailed specifications on measurement precision. In the case of the Ballistic Precision Chronograph, there’s limited data available to gauge its exact level of accuracy. I tested it with several types of traditional bows & arrows and found it gives accurate velocities. I also tested it with a few of my rifles, and it provided accurate velocities for all of them except for the .17 HMR, which is an extremely small bullet.
Customer reviews for similar chronographs on Amazon can offer some insights. Some reviewers mention potential limitations in accuracy compared to high-end professional chronographs. If you need to measure to hundredths or thousandths of a second or test extremely small projectiles, then consider a higher-end chronograph. Measuring to tenths of a second is more than enough precision for my needs to test various types of traditional bows and arrows.
Is it Right for You?
Considering these factors, the Ballistic Precision Chronograph might be a good fit for you if:
- You are looking for an affordable and easy-to-use tool for measuring arrow speed.
- Extreme precision accuracy is not a critical requirement.
- You intend to use it primarily for recreational purposes.
On the other hand, if you need a highly precise chronograph for professional use or competition, investing in a more expensive model from a well-established brand might be a better choice.
Before you buy, consider your priorities. How important is accuracy for your needs? Are you comfortable setting up and using electronic devices? Most importantly, how much are you willing to spend? By weighing these factors, you can decide if the Ballistic Precision Chronograph meets your requirements and offers the right balance of affordability and functionality. Check the current prices on Amazon.
