As I understand it, the LabRadar muzzle velocity at zero range (V0) is calculated, whereas the velocity data points taken at set intervals are measured. I mean, something has to actually be measured for the unit to work, right?
The muzzle velocity cannot be measured because the bullet hasn't yet entered the radar beam, which doesn't happen until it flies at least a foot or two downrange.
I find numerous uses for BCs estimated using LabRadar velocity data and I find the ability to do that with the LabRadar unit to be of significant benefit. Would the world as I know it come crashing down into a molten slag heap of utterly charred and desolate ruin if I couldn't estimate BCs with the LabRadar? Would it be as if all light and good things had left the world, creating an endless sea of cold and black? Would it be all fire and brimstone and an eternity of physical and mental anguish and torment?
Nah. I'd get over it pretty quickly. But it can be useful at times. If using the LabRadar to estimate BCs, just be aware that the accuracy of the BC estimates suffers due to the relatively short range over which velocity decrease is measured by the unit (i.e. ~ only 50 yd or so). In my hands, the estimates can range from being spot on the manufacturer's published values, to as much as 5-8% high. In other words, the BCs estimated using LabRadar velocity data won't always facilitate an accurate drop solution using a ballistic calculator, and one may have to adjust their drops to match the extrenal ballistics accordingly. For this reason, it's always a good idea to corroborate your predicted drops at distance. However, the unit can also be used to make a side-by-side comparison of two different bullets' BCs on the same day that will usually clearly reveal which has the higher BC.
The LabRadar is a tool, nothing more. As such, it has a variety of things it can do, various uses to which it can be put, and removing any of those uses would lessen its value to a given user. I've looked at the Garmin unit. It looks fine to me. But I already have two functioning LabRadar units. They do everything I need, so I won't be buying the Garmin for that reason. For me personally, I will not spend basically the same amount of money on a new radar chronograph just because it is a little smaller, or looks cooler, or just because it is the newest thing out there. For me to buy one means it offers some feature(s) I perceive as being necessary or worthwhile above and beyond what I already have. It doesn't. For those that are more into the wireless setup and using their phones and so forth, it might be the best thing since sliced bread. I don't use a chronograph that way, so the LabRadar is plenty for me, and its larger size isn't a deal-breaker. For those that absolutely have to have the Garmin, you'd best be reaching for your credit card. After seeing the number of almost new LabRadar units in the "for sale" area yesterday, in some cases at ridiculously low prices, I may just have to pick up another LabRadar. You know, as a backup in case one of the two I already have fails.
