Chronograph fun

[smle-man]

Since I have just about every accessory for reloading I decided to ask for a chronograph for Christmas. I took it out for a try today. I only used it for some handgun ammo today although my first trial shots were from a .22 rifle. I found it interesting how much variance I experienced with factory ammo. I would expect it from my reloads done with a manual powder thrower but not from factory ammo. Federal .22 ammo through a 22" barel rifle went from 1198fps to 1266fps; Federal 9mm ball through a 5" barrel government model spread from 1050 to 1100 fps. Not loaded very hot! The chronograph was about 8' from the muzzle. I managed to shoot off one of the guide rods with the Webley .455 and lost it. No damage to the chrono fortunately. Yes I did read the manual that stated not to shoot the chrono. That's why I shot the guide rod instead!

[21SF]

That why its factory ammo, its made by machines that have tolerences, so variation is expected.

With match ammo your paying for consistency. Thats one of the biggest reasons hand loads are much more accurate, less variation.

[Divernhunter]

So you learned lesson #2 ----do not shoot any part of the chrono. It is not a target. Be carefull putting it too close as the muzzle blast may mess up readings. Especially true with a 50bmg.