Precision Long Range Shooting / Optics Use Instruction

[DJDace]

Hi Everyone,

Over the last 4 months I have been slowly building up a precision / long range AR-15 rifle because I am interested in learning how to be an proficient marksman and long range shooter. Within the next month I HOPE my upper will arrive and my rifle will be complete. It will be chambered in 6.5 Grendel and topped with a 4-14x50mm IOR scope. The problem is, quite simply, that I don't know HOW to become a good long range marksman. I am willing to admit my ignorance, but I want to learn.

I know how my rifle functions. I know the basics of zeroing my scope for a certain range and I have read guides on precision shooting to try and understand the fundamentals. But I have no idea how to utilize my optics properly! After it is zero'd, how much windage and elevation do I dial in to hit a target at 600 yards? How do I estimate hold-over? I have learned the basics of using the mil-system to estimate range so I feel confident that I can practice that, but I don't really know how to create a range card for various cartridge loads.

Will I have to go get a chrono? Bring a laptop PC with me so I can use the JBM Trajectory Calculator?

I am very serious about taking the time and effort to learn this skill. I have been willing to invest a sizeable sum of money (at least to me) in getting started. If ANYONE would be willing to help me learn I would greatly appreciate it. I am good listener and very patient.

So, if anyone knows of a course offered in the area, or of another local precision shooting enthusiast who is willing to show a willing novice the ropes, I would really appreciate the information or assistance.

Thanks very much for taking the time to listen!

[Jicko]

ocabj is planning a clinic, be sure to go!!

Before that there are quite some online materials you can go read. Zak Smith's website is a good one - http://demigodllc.com/

JBM is a great and quite accurate way to make "trajectory" card.

You would need to KNOW the ammo that you are using, but if you are using commerical ammo, they are pretty good in terms of consistancy, and generally there are "muzzle velocity" data that you can dig out from the manufacturer's website. If not, you can just try to get with some other shooters who have a chrono and do chrono once.

Also, another GREAT way to learn is to attend local matches, for example, http://www.ncsahighpower.com/index.html most of the shooters are VERY helpful and you can learn a great deal just by attending the match and ask for help...

[Timberwolf]

Hit me a PM - I'd be willing to help you out.

[DJDace]

Thanks very much for the information and advice.

[rksimple]

If you're willing to make a trip to the desert, I'll show ya what I know. Like was said before, go to some matches. You'll learn a ton. There's a monthly match that Timberwolf is putting on at A Place to Shoot on August 25th. Even if your rifle isn't complete by then, it would be good to show up and watch.

FWIW, if you're willing to travel, there are a few places in Texas that have some great training facilities. I'm attending the Precision Rifle II course at Tiger Valley this October. Its a week long course for only $200! Look 'em up.

http://www.tigervalley.com/tvciv_5rifle2.php

[GlockComa]

I don't have a precision rifle yet but I'm definitely interested in learning as well.

Thanks for starting the thread DJDace.