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I'm curious to know how reloaders feel about the need for, or preference for, chronograph data when developing a load.

For myself, I've come to find it almost indispensible, but I don't see many around on the ranges. I'm wondering why not?

David.

I recommend its use strongly.

http://www.full-bore.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=8480

My chronos tend to end up being shot. Strangely enough, the clubs chrony also seems to end up being shot...

As for indispensable in load development, I think not, unless for quarry legal ammo or long range doping. But, the one thing that should never be overlooked with a chrony is just how much bloody fun they are!

My nitro converted M/L revolver probably gave the biggest "chrony shock" that I've had. A .36 cal that went off quite "smartly" with 3gns of Bullseye and a 209 primer. Reminded me of an old .38 spl. Shoots damn nicely as well, producing very satisfying groups. Over the chrony showed an extreme spread of only 11 fps! Shocked. Then added the real revelation that it only averaged 473 fps !

As I said, damn good fun!

Well, I haven't shot mine as yet -- clearly I'm atypical that way, too smile2 .

I totally agree that a chorono is invaluable as a safety aid alone, even if it provided no other function.

I should state that I'm now exclusively developing loads for pistol rounds, to be used in Marlin underlevers. I'm also more interested in accuracy at relatively short distances (to 50m), rather than reaching maximum power levels, and reaching out 100yds+.

With all that said, the benefit of a chronograph I value most is knowing whereabouts on the velocity scale a particular load fits. When developing a new load, I like to explore accuracy with a particular bullet, primer and powder combination. Loading manuals tend to give data towards the upper end of the scale, close to maximum pressure limits, and the load data given for pistol rounds are not unreasonably developed for pistols, often revolvers: the velocity levels (and the resulting energy levels) of the same load when fired in a rifle (with a much longer barrel) can be significantly higher.

My needs lie lower down on the velocity scale, and I want to make sure I don't go too low. My experimentation often surprises me by just how fast my light loads are, and I'm currently gently easing back on the powder levels, seeking both accuracy and consistency. Without the chronograph, I'd be operating completely blind, so for me, it's an essential tool.

Advice on how low one can go ( FPS in .357 Mag, .44 mag ) would be welcome, btw. I have a safe and accurate 690fps load in .44Mag, and am reluctant to go much lower at this time, but perhaps others can offer guidance.

David.

David.