Range Report Process for DOPE verification / Solver truing

[hereinaz]

OK, I have the basics down to find a load that has consistent velocity. I have my scope leveled, turrets tested with tall target test, and my zero is set. All the data is in my Kestrel that I can measure off the gun and cartridge.

So, I go to the range, set up my Labradar, verify velocity, and start shooting out at further and further distances to gather DOPE and to true the results in my Kestrel Elite.

How do you all organize the process, and what steps do you follow?
What are you checking and verifying before you maybe go out the next distance or you think about truing data?

I have the basics down, and understand how it works, but I know there has to be a systematic way to go about it to avoid chasing one's tail.

Thanks in advance.

 

[...]

1) throw all the electronic bullshit away.

2) shoot gun at varying distances.

3) record come up and windage to get on target.

4) Dope is set.

 

[SLG]

I think the easiest way to true your dope when using a solver, is to shoot at the furthest distance that you can hold a good group. Let's just say 600 yards for now. Once you have your group at 600, you find the middle of the group and see how high or low it is compared to your well defined aiming point. You then have actual dope for your solver to use, and you should probably start by adjusting the BC (in a traditional solver) to get the solver's dope to line up with your actual dope. In the Hornady 4 Dof, you would adjust the drag form until the dope lined up. Then shoot at as many distances as you can or want to verify the new dope from the solver.

 

[ZiaHunter]

During the Gunsite XLR class you basically spend the first three days calibrating FFS to your actual dope. You covered the first part by getting your MV, calibrating the scope and establishing a good zero. We gathered dope at ranges from 300 to just past 2000 yards. Dope was gathered over successive days at different ranges to confirm. Once confirmed FFS parameters were adjusted to match observed dope. If you can get a person to spot for you using a spotting scope with a reticle it will help with establishing your dope. Depending on the spread between distances you made need to use multiple profiles to closely match your dope i.e. one for under 1K and another for ELR. If the custom curves in your Kestrel are not lining up with your dope, use one of the BC parameters so you have the ability to adjust BC and MV.

 

[hereinaz]

Thanks guys.

And, I'm pretty sure I won't be throwing anything away, lol, but point well taken. I much prefer pressing the trigger than buttons, so that's why i want to stop wasting time with it... I wonder how many times guys obsessing over their dope books were told to put down the pencil!

All good, fellas. All good.