First Thoughts on the Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD is the newest iteration of a chronograph with roots stretching back to 1985. Competition Electronics aims to deliver reliable velocity measurements for firearms, shotguns, archery, airguns, and paintball with this model. It promises a user-friendly experience, especially for indoor use, making it a compelling option for both seasoned reloaders and recreational shooters.
I needed a reliable chronograph to fine-tune my reloading recipes for consistent accuracy. I’ve always valued having hard data to back up my observations on the range. The promise of consistent velocity readings for a reasonable price drew me to the Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD.
Out of the box, the ProChrono LTD felt solid, though not overly robust. The plastic housing seems durable enough for typical range use. The included diffusers for indoor use were a welcome sight, suggesting a comprehensive package.
Compared to the Caldwell Ballistic Precision Chronograph and the MagnetoSpeed V3, the ProChrono LTD distinguishes itself with its simplicity and all-inclusive package. The Caldwell offers similar features at a comparable price, but the ProChrono LTD boasts a longer lineage and a time-tested design. The MagnetoSpeed, while incredibly accurate, carries a significantly higher price tag and is more specialized for firearms use only.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD seemed to offer a balanced blend of affordability, functionality, and ease of use. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD at my local indoor shooting range. The range had good overhead lighting. I wanted to clock my 9mm loads and some .22LR rounds.
The ProChrono LTD was straightforward to set up, thanks to its simple design. The included diffusers worked perfectly indoors, providing consistent and accurate readings even with the artificial lighting. My first impression was one of relief; it just worked.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD continues to perform reliably. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, including slightly damp and dusty environments. It has held up remarkably well.
The plastic housing shows no signs of cracking or damage. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth removes any residue. It surpasses my previous experiences with less-expensive chronographs that often suffered from erratic readings and flimsy construction.
Breaking Down the Features of Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD
Specifications
- The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD is designed to measure the velocity of projectiles. This includes bullets, arrows, paintballs, and other similar objects.
- The ProChrono LTD is compatible with firearms, shotguns, archery equipment, airguns, and paintball markers. The range of applications makes it a versatile tool.
- Everything needed for indoor use is included, except for the required 9-volt alkaline battery. This is an additional purchase needed for operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD performs its core function of measuring projectile velocity accurately and reliably. The readings are consistent, even across different lighting conditions, thanks to the included diffusers.
Its greatest strength lies in its simplicity; there are no complex menus or settings to navigate. A minor weakness is the reliance on a 9-volt battery, as a rechargeable option would be preferable. Overall, the ProChrono LTD meets my expectations for a mid-range chronograph.
Design & Ergonomics
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD features a simple, functional design. The plastic housing is lightweight but feels reasonably sturdy.
The controls are intuitive, and the display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight. The design prioritizes ease of use over aesthetics, which is perfectly acceptable for a tool of this nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD appears to be reasonably durable for typical range use. The plastic housing is unlikely to withstand heavy abuse, but it should hold up well under normal conditions.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply keeping the sensors clean and storing it in a safe place will ensure a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD includes diffusers for indoor use. These are essential for consistent readings under artificial lighting.
There are no extensive customization options for this model. But its compatibility with standard tripods provides some flexibility in terms of setup.
Pros and Cons of Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD
Pros
- Accurate and consistent velocity readings. This is crucial for reloading and performance analysis.
- Easy to set up and use, even for beginners. Simplicity is a major advantage.
- Includes everything needed for indoor use. The diffusers are a valuable addition.
- Versatile, compatible with various types of projectiles. Firearms, archery, and airguns are all supported.
- Affordable price point. It provides excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Requires a 9-volt alkaline battery. Rechargeable power option would be an improvement.
- Plastic housing may not be as durable as more expensive models. Requires careful handling.
Who Should Buy Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD?
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD is perfect for reloaders, competitive shooters, and anyone interested in measuring the velocity of projectiles. It’s a valuable tool for analyzing performance and optimizing loads.
This product might not be ideal for users who require extreme durability or prefer advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity. Those users may want to consider a more robust or feature-rich option.
A must-have accessory is a sturdy tripod to ensure stable and consistent positioning of the chronograph. Having extra 9v batteries readily available is also recommended.
Conclusion on Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD
The Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD offers a compelling combination of accuracy, ease of use, and affordability. It’s a reliable tool for measuring projectile velocity, suitable for a wide range of applications.
At $131.99, the price is justified considering the performance and included accessories. It provides excellent value for both novice and experienced shooters.
I would definitely recommend the Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD to anyone seeking a dependable and user-friendly chronograph. Get yours today and start fine-tuning your shooting!