Just to be on the same track here, what is the standard way to measure a group? Assuming its the nice triangle of three shots, what method do you all use? Measure the distance from the furthest out bullet to the line between the other two or measure between bullet to bullet and average or what? For comparison sake while developing loads, i kind of want something that is an honest representation and repeatable to quantify the good from the bad on loads.
And as a side note, anyone have a good reason why some loads print two stacked and there is always a flier an inch or two out? Some loads do it, some dont?
Measure the distance to the outside edges for the furthest two shots, and then subtract the bullet diameter.
Measure the distance to the outside edges for the furthest two shots, and then subtract the bullet diameter.
This method usually underestimates the group size a bit.
Mathman, I would agree if you measure to the outside of the actual hole. I measure to the outside of the carbon ring, which I think approximates the outside edge of where the bullet passed through the target.
Mathman, I would agree if you measure to the outside of the actual hole. I measure to the outside of the carbon ring, which I think approximates the outside edge of where the bullet passed through the target.
The smudge usually isn't big enough either.
For groups over about a half of an inch I find it easier and quick to determine which two holes are the furthest apart, then measure from the outside edge of one to the inside edge of the other.
With one ragged hole the measure of the widest part, minus the bullet diameter is about the only good way to do it. I don't have to worry about many of those, though.
I use an app called On Target, available for free. The app has a list of bullet diameters. Scan the target, choose the diameter bullet, center the target circle (circle of bullet diameter size) on each bullet hole and read the size of the group on the Rt side in inches or MOA. Works very easily. It's possible to even keep a record of all scanned targets. It also computes distance to center of group and other vital stats. You can also input the POA and it will compute the vertical and horizontal distance of the group center from the POA.
I acquired it for free a couple of years ago, but haven't checked recently for availability, upgrades or cost.
Range Buddy is another free app available. A quick demo it seemed to work fairly well.
Worth a look
On target is now shareware. 15 days usage for free, 11.99 to keep using it. They also added TDS program for 34.99.
https://ontargetshooting.com/
I just purchased OnTarget Precision Calculator v2.25 last night for $11.99 (the free version v1.10 is no longer available). You get a 15 day trial and it works pretty slick. It's a bargain at $12. I love shooting, but I hate measuring targets.
First you throw away all the targets with big groups
First you throw away all the targets with big groups
I keep a record of all loads/groups sizes along with wind and temp data on a form. I don't trust my memory. But do not keep the targets.