In the world of long-range shooting, calculating the wind's effect on a bullet's trajectory is crucial for achieving accurate and precise shots. Ballistic wind computation plays a vital role in determining the adjustments needed for a successful shot. With the advancement in technology, handheld devices have become a popular tool for shooters to make these calculations quickly and efficiently. In this blog post, we will explore the top handheld devices for ballistic wind computation, their features, and how they can improve your shooting experience.

Kestrel 5700 Elite Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics

The Kestrel 5700 Elite Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics is a top-of-the-line handheld device that provides accurate environmental data and advanced ballistic calculations. This device measures wind speed, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure, all of which are essential factors in calculating a bullet's trajectory. The 5700 Elite also features a built-in Applied Ballistics calculator, which offers precise firing solutions based on your rifle and ammunition data.

Some of the key features of the Kestrel 5700 Elite include:

Customizable Range Card

Ballistic Coefficient (BC) calibration

Aerodynamic Jump, Spin Drift, and Coriolis Effect corrections

Supports both G1 and G7 ballistic coefficients

Integrated Bluetooth for wireless data transfer to a smartphone or tablet

Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition

The Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition is a wrist-mounted GPS navigator that combines advanced navigation features with a comprehensive Applied Ballistics calculator. This device is designed for long-range shooters and military personnel who require accurate ballistic solutions in the field.

The Foretrex 701 offers the following features:

High-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite reception

Built-in 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis compass, and barometric altimeter

Applied Ballistics Elite software with custom drag models, aerodynamic jump, and spin drift calculations

Night vision compatibility

Rugged, weather-resistant design

Strelok Pro Ballistic Calculator App

While not a standalone handheld device, the Strelok Pro Ballistic Calculator App is a powerful tool that can transform your smartphone or tablet into a comprehensive ballistic calculator. This app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and offers a wide range of features for calculating accurate firing solutions.

Some of the standout features of Strelok Pro include:

Support for over 1,200 different reticles from various scope manufacturers

Atmospheric data input from Kestrel weather meters via Bluetooth

Calculation of Coriolis Effect, Spin Drift, and Aerodynamic Jump

Customizable target and ammunition profiles

Trajectory validation and range estimation using reticle images

Sig Sauer KILO2400ABS Rangefinder

The Sig Sauer KILO2400ABS Rangefinder is a premium handheld device that combines an advanced laser rangefinder with an integrated Applied Ballistics calculator. This rangefinder offers accurate distance measurements up to 2 miles, along with precise ballistic solutions based on your rifle and ammunition data.

Key features of the KILO2400ABS include:

7x25mm monocular with SpectraCoat anti-reflection lens coatings

Built-in Applied Ballistics Elite calculator with custom drag models and environmental data input

HyperScan technology for rapid distance measurements

OLED display with adjustable brightness settings

Bluetooth connectivity for data transfer to a smartphone or tablet

BallisticsARC Mobile App

Another app-based solution, the BallisticsARC Mobile App, offers a comprehensive suite of tools for calculating firing solutions and managing your shooting data. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices and is designed for use with WeatherFlow weather meters, which provide real-time atmospheric data.

Notable features of BallisticsARC include:

3D trajectory mapping with satellite imagery

Support for both G1 and G7 ballistic coefficients

Wind speed and direction input from WeatherFlow meters

Customizable rifle and ammunition profiles

GPS-based range estimation and target tracking

Each of these handheld devices and apps offers unique features and capabilities to help you master ballistic wind computation for long-range shooting. By investing in one of these tools, you can improve your accuracy, precision, and overall shooting experience. It's essential to research and choose the device that best suits your needs and preferences, as well as your budget. With the right tool in hand, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of long-range shooting and ballistic wind computation.