Target cameras at BR matches?

[Bat Rastard]

Would using a target camera as a spotting scope be acceptable at a benchrest match?

 

[JFrank]

I’ve seen it at non sanctioned and when agreed upon in advance but here’s something to think about, picture your opponent sighting in a 600 yards while you’re sighting in at 15 ft. and all are paying entry fees with a friendly pot for the winner.
Not really an even playing field.
JMO

 

[Walt Krafft]

Whats that funky looking thing on the ground in front of target 15? Lets shoot it and see if it moves.

 

[CaptainMal]

Whats that funky looking thing on the ground in front of target 15? Lets shoot it and see if it moves.

Already happened to me. Fellow at a practice shot a support at 600, then my camera. Blew it apart.

 

[Will Henry]

I would think not. Dealing with mirage and its effect on visibility is part of the game and taking that out of the equation would take away an aspect of competition. The next step would be to allow electronic wind sensors rather than relying on flags and mirage. There is no question that BR shooters like gadgets and like to look for an edge, but I think this is a non-starter. My thoughts only, of course. WH

 

[tmwinds]

If I remember correctly, several years ago when I shot long range benchrest, electronic equipment was not allowed at sanctioned matches. Things may have changed.

 

[jackieschmidt]

In Hunters Benchrest Matches, where you are limited to 6x scopes, everybody uses a spotting scope.

However, at Sanctioned Matches, electronics are not allowed. Or at least I have never seen anyone using a target camera.

At non sanctioned matches, ask the Match Director.

 

[Bat Rastard]

I don't think it would give an advantage. It'd just be a cheaper way to see my target. I can't afford the really good glass.

 

[AlNyhus]

I don't think it would give an advantage. It'd just be a cheaper way to see my target. I can't afford the really good glass.

How much is a decent target camera setup? I've never priced one.

 

[Bat Rastard]

SME Bullseye Camera Systems Sniper Edition 1 Mile Target Camera System

The SME Bullseye Camera Systems Sniper Edition 1 Mile Target Camera System is an all in one unit; built-in camera, high definition video, Wi-Fi...

www.midwayusa.com

Amazon has them cheaper.
It would work on all my rifles.
I would still have to shoot te rifle, but I would have an idea where I am shooting.
My glass is 50/50 on Mirage days at 300.

 

[Will Henry]

There is no question that 300m is about the limit for seeing shots with most glass, and I can certainly see the attraction of the target cam. Trust me, the advantage would be huge. Seeing shots is the only way you can confirm your wind calls. At long range, we have spotters or E-targets but at 300 yd BR you're on your own.
Jackie, how much would a target cam help at the Tack Driver? WH

 

[jackieschmidt]

Will, I have a target camera set up, I used used to use it a Walker County at 400 yard practice. It works off of an App that you down load on your IPhone or IPad. I have not used it in several years.

I do not know of any Sanctioned Shooting Events that allow them. And I can see why. It would be just another added cost.

 

[Will Henry]

I agree. I think it would take something away from the sport as well. WH

 

[rwj]

I agree. I think it would take something away from the sport as well. WH

They are great training aids for calling shots and reading wind. That said, how would they be more advantageous than using wind flags?

 

[JFrank]

Flags won’t tell you where your bullet just went.

 

[JMayo]

I think ibs rules changed to it has to attached to the bench but i could be way off.

@jcline knows the rules better than i.

 

[Will Henry]

Flags won’t tell you where your bullet just went.

Exactly this. The POI confirms that your wind call was correct (or not). That is why they are a great training aid. Now, the truth is, short range BR shooters can usually see their shots anyway (unless mirage is really bad at 200), so they already have that information. At 300m (328 yards) it's kind of borderline whether you will be able to see shots or not; especially if there is enough black on the target to hide a bullet. Now, without the confirmation of your wind call, you can pretty easily shoot two eights instead of the two X's you thought you shot and not know until you see the score. If you saw that first eight hit, you might not have shot the second one.
It's kind of a blurry line, and I would not be surprised to see them come into use at some point. Electronics have become an intrinsic part of many long range matches, so it is likely they may creep into other venues as well. My knee-jerk reaction is "no" but I'm a bit of a Luddite at times. WH

 

[Bat Rastard]

My $600 scope doesn't see as many bullet holes as the NF's or March's. On bad mirage days, I see nothing.
I just want to see impact before the targets come back.
Is it an equipment contest? or a shooting contest?
I can't afford $2-3K glass on all (any of) my rifles.

 

[Will Henry]

My $600 scope doesn't see as many bullet holes as the NF's or March's. On bad mirage days, I see nothing.
I just want to see impact before the targets come back.
Is it an equipment contest? or a shooting contest?
I can't afford $2-3K glass on all (any of) my rifles.

This speaks to the point. Is it an equipment contest? If so, electronics will probably be allowed at some point. As of now, I don't think they should be. For long-range, the use of e-targets provides immediate feedback and shows that electronics may have their place. WH

 

[60723]

We shoot 600 for score on paper. A great group in the 8 ring scores poorly! A camera would be great IF everyone had one. Sight in is on a gong.