Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Calculator

[Eric B.]

Has anyone Used the new Horus Kestrel unit for ballistic solutions? The Bluetooth-enabled version downloads a modified Horus "A Trag" ballistic table from your computer to the Kestrel unit.

So why do I ask? Well, because this amazing unit gives you a firing solution based not just on your specific load/rifle data but ALSO it calculates the influence of:

1.wind (after inputting direction of fire first- just press one button W/ unit's back facing target)
2.density altitude
3.relative humidity
4.temperature
5.station (FFP) pressure
6.corolis effect (if any, with built in electronic compass)
7.inclination angle (see ASLI below)
8.wind speed averaging

That's taking a <span style="font-style: italic">lot</span> of variables into consideration. This small tool adds all these things into the firing solution, either in mils or MOA, your choice.

You need to input range and separately determine any up/down inclination angle to input.
BUT, you can use Horus' excellent ASLI (Angle, Level, Slope Indicator) tool attatched to your scope to figure that out.

(Yeah, this may sound like a Horus advert but really I'm just now waking up to their product line. I have the ASLI on my .300 Win mag Browning A Bolt and it does work as they said. Nothing new in scope-mounted angle/cosine wheels but Horus added a level on top and that's very handy and one less item to attatch to your scope.)

 

[BeteNoire]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I've got one. It works wonderfully.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

How well does it work past 1000M? I would be interested in knowing how close the calulated POI is for 200M increments up to 1800M. Have you had a chance to run it out that far? From what I hear, this along with most other ballistic's calculators start to have issues after 1200M (based on the other reviews here).

 

[Creature]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Considering this as well. It appeals to me because it will combine weather/wind meter with the ballistic calculator. Don't have to worry about transferring data from meter to PDA.

Will the Kestrel do everything a PDA with the software would do?

 

[WTW]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

These do look like they would be pretty sweet. Did the initial problems with the horus software get worked out? The updates and all that Jazz that I was reading about a 4 or 5 months back?

 

[nohair]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I had a PDA and liked it, it was easy to use with 2 hands but wanted the weather station. So I got a Kestrel, was having a bit of an issue getting it to link up using Bluetooth, and haven't had much time to figure it out, and the manual is a bit less than desirable IMO.

 

[JoeZ]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I had only the Strelok calculator on a phone and no weather station so I bought this to get both in one unit. I wanted my rifle zeroed for 600 yds but my home range is only 200 yds. I found my velocity and BC, then Horus-Kestrel showed me where to impact at 200 (3 mils high) and I ajusted the sights accordingly. JBM Ballistics agreed with the Horus here.

To stretch it out was a 2.5 hr drive one way and only about 6 hours to shoot so this was my plan: shoot at 400 yds to be sure I was on track and then 600 yds for zero. I was .1 mil low and clicked up. I wanted to shoot at 800 to keep tracking but couldn't find a spot for a target and so I went to 1000 yds. I know that's not all that far but my group was dead center. Both Strelok and the Horus-Kestrel agreed on the solution. There was no wind to deal with and I ran out of time to go farther. I was hoping to go to 1200yds.

 

[Eric B.]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Joe,
That's a prety good endorsement of the Kestrel/Horus unit. Personally I don't want to spend time inputting data into a PDA when shooting.

The Kestrel/Horus unit seems to put a lot of variables into the final firing solution. How a PDA + weather meter could be better is something I seriously question. Exactly what variables could a ballistic PDA enter into a firing solution that the Kestrel doesn't?

It <span style="font-style: italic">would</span> be the icing on the cake if a good laser rangefinder could send the range to the Kestrel unit via bluetooth. Peobably that will be later (AFTER I buy the K/H unit, of course.)

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

What's better is the functionality and usability. Since the ATM data changes quite slowly, and the wind value from your position is only part of the solution, the auto fill of those items is pretty meaningless.

With all user input done with scroll buttons, the user interface is pretty klutzy at best. It's also limited to solving only basic elevation settings. It's not bad from a space/weight standpoint if all you need is a very basic set of comeups. In which case, a set of DA cards solves your problem anyway. If you need more complex solutions, connection to GPS, range cards, connection to a LRF, etc., you need the PDA.

 

[nohair]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: litehiker</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Joe,
That's a prety good endorsement of the Kestrel/Horus unit. Personally I don't want to spend time inputting data into a PDA when shooting.

The Kestrel/Horus unit seems to put a lot of variables into the final firing solution. How a PDA + weather meter could be better is something I seriously question. Exactly what variables could a ballistic PDA enter into a firing solution that the Kestrel doesn't?

It <span style="font-style: italic">would</span> be the icing on the cake if a good laser rangefinder could send the range to the Kestrel unit via bluetooth. Peobably that will be later (AFTER I buy the K/H unit, of course.)</div></div>

I was told by Horus that they have the same software.
When I got the PDA, I took it out 0'd at 100M shot out to 800m with dope I had till it was 3 center hit, it asked if the MV was wrong or the BC, I changed the MV to make it correct. then looked at my buddy and ask him to pick a target -the range had 2 targets every 50m out to 1800m. He walked me back and fourth and it was right on, obviously - wind. It was pretty cool and he was also sold on it.
When I called to ask Horus if the PDA would BT link to a BT Kestrel, they didn't know, and had never had anyone ask if the PDA they sell would do it. I ended up with the Horus Kestrel and haven't had a chance to take it back out and test it yet.

 

[JoeZ]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

My experience is limited to mainly 600 yd shooting where I simply use M1A elevation knobs, charts made from an old Horus program (they used to bundle it with their scopes), or JBM ballistics. Just last December I got bit by the long range bug and bought a Savage in 338 LM. I had no weather station or ballistic solution calculator so I thought it would be better(cheaper, less to carry, less to learn) to have them together. I had Strelok put on an old phone for some sort of verification. What makes an elevation solution "basic" that something else is not? I do use a LRF and wind here in WI is easy enough. Entering these values into the Horus-Kestrel compared to a different system I cannot judge.

I assume a more "complex solution" you refer to involves moving targets, and the Horus cannot do that to my knowledge. I could not make moving targets. I also have not used it past 1000 yds.

Please don't mistake me for being argumentative. I'm trying to learn and even teach alittle if I may.
JoeZ

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Well for solutions, you've got moving targets, multiple wind zones, multiple targets with holds, loopholes, and ammo/suppressor/shooter offsets.

What's the max ordinate for your shot? Will it strike that overhead obstruction? What's the danger space at that range? What's the point blank range setting for a 24" tall target area under the current conditions? I've got a target at 300 yards, but a chain link fence is between us at 50 yards from my position. Can I put a bullet through one of the openings? These are some of the problems the PDA with FFS solves for quickly and simply.

 

[Nukes]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Well for solutions, you've got moving targets, multiple wind zones, multiple targets with holds, loopholes, and ammo/suppressor/shooter offsets.

What's the max ordinate for your shot? Will it strike that overhead obstruction? What's the danger space at that range? What's the point blank range setting for a 24" tall target area under the current conditions? I've got a target at 300 yards, but a chain link fence is between us at 50 yards from my position. Can I put a bullet through one of the openings? These are some of the problems the PDA with FFS solves for quickly and simply. </div></div>

Newbie here. I do not see such functions in my Knight's Bullet Flight or Ballistic: Field Tactical Edition.

Is "FFS" a brand of ballistic software? Available for Mac OSX and iOS?

I was poised to buy the Horus/Kestrel 4500, but was stopped by its limitation to Windows and its apparent (according to product literature) limitation to storing data for only 1 custom gun.

Does Gunsite have a course suitable for experienced shooters who are new to long and extreme range precision shooting? If so, does the course include familiarization with ballistic software and rangefinders?

What price point gains entry to reliable range finding beyond 1,000 yards/meters? Any units you recommend?

I am unfamiliar with the term "danger space." Can you illuminate me on that concept?

Thank you.

 

[kujo929]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Danger space is just the area of elevation that the bullet passes in its arc before arriving at a target. For target shooters it will likely never matter. But for LE or military in urban areas you need to know your bullet will not strike any obstructions between you and the target in the "danger space"

 

[Nukes]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Thank you.

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

FFS is Field Firing Solutions, found here on the Net http://www.precisionworkbench.com/

Simple iPhone apps don't have the functionality of FFS. FFS is a Windows Mobile application only. We normally run it on something like the TDS Nomad rugged handheld computer, although and WM5/6 PDA in an Otterbox will do the job. I am unaware of any full featured ballistic software system for the Mac/iPhone/Android. All of these phone apps are pretty simplistic and truly suitable for casual use only.

We are doing a Sniper's Hide special ELR class in October which will include a full day of training on FFS the day before class starts. Class dates are 10/15 - 10/18, the bonus day for FFS is Sunday, the 14th before the class starts. Class cost is $1180. Be advised, this is not a basic long range class. You would be expected to be fully conversant with mil/moa adjustments and reticles, wind calls, spotter/sniper dialog and basic long range marksmanship skills. For that, I would suggest PR7, a seven day class held September 16-22.

Danger space is defined for a particular size target. It is the range at which the bullet path is at the top edge of the target to the range where it is at the bottom edge. For example, my 338 LM, using a 285gr Hornady bullet and a 24" target at 1500 yards has a danger space of about 1484-1514 yards (dependent on current conditions). This means the target must be within these range brackets to have a chance of being struck. It's a way of defining the precision required of your range estimate.

That brings us to rangefinders. Currently, the first line choices are from Vectronix, the Vectors or PLRF units. The Vector binocular rangefinders are simply outstanding. Wonrld class optics, mil-spec rugged and can range to over 12km, depending on the version. They include an inclinometer and compass, along with a data port for direct connection to the PDA, so 1 button provides a complete firing solution. The also start at $12,000 and go up from there.

The PLRF's are a smaller monocular version of the Vectors, they can be had with the compass/inc/data port in the 10C, 15C and 25C, ranging to as much as 10km, starting price is about $6000

They have a commercial unit, the Terrapin, which will range over 3km, but has no data or compass/inclinometer. About $3500 last I looked.

Then there are the sporting models from Swarovski, Leica, Bushnell, etc. These can range to 1500+ with reasonable reliability and are far less expensive, < $1500 for the most part, some well less. Of course, you get what you pay for in features and ruggedness.

 

[Nukes]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Thank you on all counts. I will investigate the leads you have so quickly and thoughtfully provided.

I am new enough to this that I would not qualify for the ELR class.

Is there a version of PR7 broken into weekends (missing a week of work is the expensive part)?

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

No, sorry. For most people, the travel back and forth would make that pretty unworkable. We can of course do a private class, which would cover things quicker and could be structured around what you already know. Weekends are fine for that, you'd need to discuss timing and pricing with Dave in the front office, 928 636 4565. If you've got two weekends to spare between now and the October class, we could get you up to speed no problem. Tell Dave you want to make a package of it all and I'm sure he'll make you a deal on the private sessions.

 

[Paul38]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Ordered one today, we'll give it a try.

 

[Nukes]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">No, sorry. For most people, the travel back and forth would make that pretty unworkable. We can of course do a private class, which would cover things quicker and could be structured around what you already know. Weekends are fine for that, you'd need to discuss timing and pricing with Dave in the front office, 928 636 4565. If you've got two weekends to spare between now and the October class, we could get you up to speed no problem. Tell Dave you want to make a package of it all and I'm sure he'll make you a deal on the private sessions. </div></div>

Called Dave and have a plan. Thanks a million!

 

[Paul38]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What's better is the functionality and usability. Since the ATM data changes quite slowly, and the wind value from your position is only part of the solution, the auto fill of those items is pretty meaningless.

With all user input done with scroll buttons, the user interface is pretty klutzy at best. It's also limited to solving only basic elevation settings. It's not bad from a space/weight standpoint if all you need is a very basic set of comeups. In which case, a set of DA cards solves your problem anyway. If you need more complex solutions, connection to GPS, range cards, connection to a LRF, etc., you need the PDA.</div></div>

Hey Cory, I know you are in the near future for my shooting abilities. But wouldn't this work for a quick hunting solution or just a one shot deal. Like your first mile shot or farther.
Just asking, I know your reputation and respect it.

 

[Christopher Rance]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I'm T&E ING the new HorusKestrel with Bluetooth connectivity to the Vectronix PLRF 15c. It's a whole new ball game that gives the sniper team instant ( I'm talking 1-3 seconds) target engagement data. Pair this with the H59, and rapid target engagement is commenced.

Yes the team still needs to make a gross estimate on a wind call for the target, but with formulas and data cards, the team can achieve an effective shot on target fairly quickly.

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

If you need this for a hunting shot, you are too far away, get closer. It's not a bad part for getting a simple solution, but it's far and away from a full PDA system.

I've had FFS running with the Vectronix units for many years, adding it to the Kestrel software is fine, but it's still a very limited system.

 

[Paul38]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you need this for a hunting shot, you are too far away, get closer. It's not a bad part for getting a simple solution, but it's far and away from a full PDA system.

I've had FFS running with the Vectronix units for many years, adding it to the Kestrel software is fine, but it's still a very limited system.</div></div>

Guess I take that back you won't be in my near future for learning.
You got to much attitude for me.

 

[Christopher Rance]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I agree that there are better firing solutions out there such as Litz's program and FFS.. I do wish Horus would utilize G7 and custom drag profiles but the function and reliability of the Kestel unit paired with a Vectronix unit is great. The Kestel has outstanding battery life and weight is a non issue.

The FFS system or similar still requires 3 components, a rugged (heavy) PDA, a kestrel and a PLRF.

Every ounce counts and I have personally taken the data provided by a HorusKestel to engage man size targets to 1120 meters with 1st round hits.

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Well, the PDA does also serve as the GPS you probably have to carry anyway, plus there is a lot more functionality available. So, it's not REALLY more stuff to carry.

Certainly the Horus/Kestrel software works, I just find it klutzy to run and a chore to get tuned. I would not throw it out, but I would not spend money on it myself.

PAD, not sure about the attitude comment. As far as the Kestrel unit, I've said it works, I just don't personally see much real value in it. I've got nothing against hunting, but I do loath "long range hunting" as a concept. I know what the odds are of a perfect hit at ranges past 1K, and anyone who takes a shot at a game animal at such a range is an idiot, pure and simple. You can't get even close to 90% cold bore hits on a 8-10 inch target at 1000 plus in the field. Therefore such a shot is totally unethical. When 1 mph of wind moves the bullet the width of the target area and flight time is +1 second, that's not a high probablility shot. You want to shoot ELR for a challenge, shoot steel or rocks or some such. Shoot all the bad guys you like. Want to shoot furry critters? Learn to get close enough to make the shot count. Stalking IS hunting.

 

[dbransco]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Well, the PDA does also serve as the GPS you probably have to carry anyway, plus there is a lot more functionality available. So, it's not REALLY more stuff to carry.

Certainly the Horus/Kestrel software works, I just find it klutzy to run and a chore to get tuned. I would not throw it out, but I would not spend money on it myself.

PAD, not sure about the attitude comment. As far as the Kestrel unit, I've said it works, I just don't personally see much real value in it. I've got nothing against hunting, but I do loath "long range hunting" as a concept. I know what the odds are of a perfect hit at ranges past 1K, and anyone who takes a shot at a game animal at such a range is an idiot, pure and simple. You can't get even close to 90% cold bore hits on a 8-10 inch target at 1000 plus in the field. Therefore such a shot is totally unethical. When 1 mph of wind moves the bullet the width of the target area and flight time is +1 second, that's not a high probablility shot. You want to shoot ELR for a challenge, shoot steel or rocks or some such. Shoot all the bad guys you like. Want to shoot furry critters? Learn to get close enough to make the shot count. Stalking IS hunting. </div></div>

+1 Well said!

 

[Eric B.]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

> The Horus Kestrel unit does handle <span style="text-decoration: underline">five </span>targets. It also calculates for moving targets with direction and speed inputs.

> Also "You may create and store up to 9 user-created guns." per the instuction manual.

> It's electronic compass gives true and/or magnetic north readings, target bearing and wind bearing, as I mentioned.

> Come-ups and windage are quite refined. Ex.> "Target A" for Elevation and Windage "E 3.43" (mils) and "W 0.39/.78" (mils) The two windage numbers are highs and lows. A windage arrow <- or -> indicates Right or Left windage.

If the ATrag ballistics tables are now correct then this little gadget seems fairly easy to use, even with one hand for you "frequent texters" out there.

I printed out the manual and, as a poster said above, it leaves a bit to be deasired for details but seems to cover all the unit's functions.

 

[Paul38]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">



PAD, not sure about the attitude comment. As far as the Kestrel unit, I've said it works, I just don't personally see much real value in it. I've got nothing against hunting, but I do loath "long range hunting" as a concept. I know what the odds are of a perfect hit at ranges past 1K, and anyone who takes a shot at a game animal at such a range is an idiot, pure and simple. You can't get even close to 90% cold bore hits on a 8-10 inch target at 1000 plus in the field. Therefore such a shot is totally unethical. When 1 mph of wind moves the bullet the width of the target area and flight time is +1 second, that's not a high probablility shot. You want to shoot ELR for a challenge, shoot steel or rocks or some such. Shoot all the bad guys you like. Want to shoot furry critters? Learn to get close enough to make the shot count. Stalking IS hunting. </div></div>

Nothing personal, I just don't respond well to some people. Must be a character flaw that my dad taught me when I was quit young, hope you don't hold it against me. And as for hunting yeah I'm your idiot, been hunting so long I can't remember when I started, bow hunting was my passion when I was younger but now as I get older I recognize my limitations and can't hike quit as fast or far. So yeah I hunt with rifles and do make some long shots, but I do understand your position on the subject.

Have a nice day,

 

[Augustus]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Yep and it does maximum ordinate, remaining energy, remaining velocity, transition distance, subsonic etc. You can operate it with one hand and you don't have to worry about losing a stylus. The best thing about it is I don't have to carry a bulky Nomad around anymore. Also Cory the TERRIPIN does not cost 3500.00, they retail for 1995.00 and some folks have bought them for around 1850.00. Now, if I have an obstruction such as the fence at 50 yds I simply range the target and the obstruction, note the solution for both then use the Horus H 25 reticle to hit the target and miss the obstruction. Poor folks have poor ways but there is more than one way to skin a skunk.

 

[Christopher Rance]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I have absolutely no issue with my HorusKestrel and BT connectivity to the PLRF 15c. I can gather data on 5 separate targets pretty quick, well under 1 minute and relay the call to my shooter, make a wind call and "send it"

GPS sits on my wrist and location and gun data are pre programmed in before I leave the wire.

Between the hard dope I have taped to my gun and the HorusKestrel, my team is good to go.

 

[Eric B.]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Bump (for more comments)

 

[Christopher Rance]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

One last thing, the HorusKestrel has outstanding battery life.

 

[wyosniper]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I bnought one of these when they first came out. I havent done anthing past 1000 yards, but it is very accurate out to 800 yards that i have shot. Also ben neilson at kestrel is very good to talk to about the unit, even tho the instructions do suck just give him a call. I think they are a good investment.

 

[nohair]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: wyosniper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I bnought one of these when they first came out. I havent done anthing past 1000 yards, but it is very accurate out to 800 yards that i have shot. Also ben neilson at kestrel is very good to talk to about the unit, even tho the instructions do suck just give him a call. I think they are a good investment.</div></div>


Good to know, Thanks, I was dealing with Michelle and she was quite helpful.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

One of the complaints I read in a discussion here was that some of the ballistic software fell down once you started exceeding 1000 yards. Like 1200 1300 etc. The FFS and others started diverging in their solutions. FFS was correctly calling the hits while the other software was not. If I remember correctly this was chalked up to the use of a point mass ballistics calculation on the part of the apps that weren't getting hits. I don't remember this too clearly, does anyone in the know care to comment on 1000+ yard shots for the Horus/Kestrel vs. using just a Kestrel + FFS for example?

 

[Paul38]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HeroFish</div><div class="ubbcode-body">One of the complaints I read in a discussion here was that some of the ballistic software fell down once you started exceeding 1000 yards. Like 1200 1300 etc. The FFS and others started diverging in their solutions. FFS was correctly calling the hits while the other software was not. If I remember correctly this was chalked up to the use of a point mass ballistics calculation on the part of the apps that weren't getting hits. I don't remember this too clearly, does anyone in the know care to comment on 1000+ yard shots for the Horus/Kestrel vs. using just a Kestrel + FFS for example?</div></div>

Next month I'll be trying it out to a mile, I'll let you know.

 

[Lowlight]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HeroFish</div><div class="ubbcode-body">One of the complaints I read in a discussion here was that some of the ballistic software fell down once you started exceeding 1000 yards. Like 1200 1300 etc. The FFS and others started diverging in their solutions. FFS was correctly calling the hits while the other software was not. If I remember correctly this was chalked up to the use of a point mass ballistics calculation on the part of the apps that weren't getting hits. I don't remember this too clearly, does anyone in the know care to comment on 1000+ yard shots for the Horus/Kestrel vs. using just a Kestrel + FFS for example?</div></div>

We saw this at the last Gunsite XLR Class in March...

I know myself and Hypertex on here were running both Bulletflight and FFS alongside each other. Bulletflight was spot on until we both hit 1500m, and then it changed and it was off by more than a mil. Both iPhones running Bulletflight had to be reset in order to go back to working prior to the 1500m mark.

We saw it twice, and with two on two different iPhones. We basically just stuck with FFS after that...

Can't comment on the Horus Kestrel combo, never used it, as I see it more as the stop gap, sort of like the 5.11 Watch which uses the same Horus Software. It's more like an emergency ballistic calculator rather than a dedicated system.

 

[Augustus]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

The Kestrel and the 511 watch has no business being mentioned in the same breath. I own and have used both, I have been using the Kestrel W/Atrag testing the CE 425 gr out of a Bartlien 13-6.5 gain twist barrel. It has predicted the trajectory consistently out to 2515 yds, I haven't gone past that yet. I'm out of the 425s, CE is sending more.

The Kestrel allows multiple targets, remaining velocity, remaining energy, transition distances, notice of sub-sonic velocities, maximum ordinate, gun list, headwinds, crosswinds, automatic weather conditions inputs and other features I don't know how to use.

 

[96C]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Augustus, how quick can you input all the data compared to a touch screen PDA / ipod type computer?

I have a Kestrel 4500NV and can't think of it being the fastest way of doing things.

Would love to pick one up some day and get rid of the ipod touch... Less batteries and weight!

 

[Augustus]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I have the Nomad and I like using the Kestrel much more. You can use it one handed and there is no stylus to lose. It has a gun list so you can have the information on several guns preloaded. You can switch to auto and the environmental info automatically records changes in conditions and gives new solutions. If you are in the field it is just a matter of going to the rage card, leave it there and simply scroll up and down to your target range. You can also scroll horizontally on the range card and get ballistic info such as remaining velocity, remaining energy, transition distance, subsonic distance etc.

Once you become familiar with the keys and the format it is very easy to use. The downside is it is G1 only, if you are shooting at extreme ranges you need to band your BCs and verify your drops in the field.

I am not going to tell everyone this unit is better than other systems, it is very good and will work for you. Pick your poison.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Ok, sounds to me like the Kestrel + Horus software gets you a decent ballistics calculator in one package for about $300 more than just the top of the line Kestrel. Compared to FFS running on a Ruggedized PDA FFS would cost $350 + the PDA (not sure the cost here, but don't see it being less than another $350).

Since most would use the Kestrel in both scenarios, we can ignore that base cost. What features does FFS have to offer over the Kestrel setup that would justify the additional cost of the PDA?

Also, can anyone comment on their real world experience of battery life of the Kestrel running the Horus software? I know my GPS sucks batteries down, but no where as near as fast as my iphone even with all the networking stuff turned off.

 

[Augustus]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I gave something over 2000.00 for the Nomad. I still use it on manhunts for navigation and identifying features with air photos. It has helped me find water sources for the dog pack many times when they were in serious danger of heat exhaustion.

 

[Nukes]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Investigating specs and prices of items recommended (or panned) here, I offer these for comparison:

Field Firing Solutions Delta V, 8GB card <span style="font-weight: bold">$415.00</span>
http://www.lextalus.com/Delta5.html

Nomad 900L <span style="font-weight: bold">$1,750.00</span>
http://www.lextalus.com/pda5.html

Kestrel 4500 NV, Weather Tracker, Horus Ballistics, Bluetooth <span style="font-weight: bold">$699.00</span> http://www.kestrel-direct.com/shop/itemDetail.do?itm_id=152419&itm_index=0&item=0845NV

Vectronix Terrapin PLRF Brown <span style="font-weight: bold">$1,995.00</span> http://www.eurooptic.com/vectronix-terrapin-plrf-brown.aspx

I ass-u-me that the Terrapin bluetooths to the Kestral/Horus, but I would like to know if the Kestrel weather data AND the Terrapin ranging can both be simultaneously bluetoothed to the Nomad/FFS. Anyone know?

 

[wyldewest]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

I've found a ballistic calculator and a kestrel to be better as a separate unit in my opinion.

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

The Terrapin has no data output, for that you'd need a PLRF 10C or 15C, then add the BT option or data cable for the PDA

 

[CoryT]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

The BT of the Kestrel can be used with FFS while the PLRF is connected.

 

[Nukes]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Thank you.

 

[Commander Shepard]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CoryT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">It's not a bad part for getting a simple solution, but it's far and away from a full PDA system.</div></div>

If you are referring to the Kestrel and Horus ATrag combo, this simply isn't the case. It is in fact identical to ATrag software as issued on our Trimble PDAs, which have been the primary ballistic solvers in my unit for a while now. Everything I can do on the PDA ballistics-wise, I can also do with my Kestrel.

Don't take this as a ATrag vs FFS or any other ballistic software comparison, I am simply saying that it isn't a neutered version of the Horus PDA software.

Note that there is a difference between the Kestrel ATrag civilian and military models, a couple of features are omitted in the civilian version.

 

[Gofaster23]

Re: Horus-Kestrel Weather Tracker/Ballistic Clculator

Does anyone know how to update the software on the Kestrel/Horus meter? I have one of the first ones to market and it always seems to be a little off (when compared to someone who just bought theirs with the same data input into both units). Also the new ones have a screen for some Accuracy First wind calculation that mine does not have.