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LabRadar - The Best Chronograph you can buy? - Review and Overview
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- Опубліковано 14 сер 2024
- In this video I go over the Labradar Chronograph and show where it shines and where it fails. We review the data and compare the results to the Magnetospeed. I review all the settings you need to know to get it to function for your applications and all the accessories you may need to succeed with the Labradar.
Products you can buy on Amazon (affiliate links):
Labradar - amzn.to/3pLQuRu
Similar Battery Pack by same company- amzn.to/3kRVF2m
Labradar sight - amzn.to/3hHPMBN
Memory Card - amzn.to/3rM08oW
Carry case - amzn.to/355KWcs
Tripod - amzn.to/3b3pfNX
Competing Chronographs on Amazon (affiliate links):
Magnetospeed V3 - amzn.to/2JGbqKj
Magnetospeed sporter - amzn.to/38XSiQA
Stop Chasing the lands Tested Playlist - • Stop Chasing the lands...
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0:00 - Intro
0:22 - Accessories you need to get started
3:14 - Specs and Accuracy
3:40 - Setup and getting Started
12:03 - Data Examples
14:07 - Data Compared to Magnetospeed
17:06 - LabRadar App
18:44 - Overview Good and Bad
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Videos on this channel are for informative, and entertainment purposes only. Using any of the information is at the risk of the individual using the information. We (including UA-cam) will not be held liable for any injury to yourself or damage to your firearms resulting from attempting anything shown in any our videos. By viewing or flagging this video you are acknowledging the above.
Thank God you made this video. Now I don't have to. :) Everything you mention matches my experience.
that sounds like your being lazy
Sorry dude - I hear its going to be a long dark winter, so we need material ;)
@@sherrypulec1449 * you’re * being lazy.
@@chevyon37s yep, dont have a range outside my backdoor and the closest one is 15 miles from where i live, not to mention that its benn on average of 20 degrees here. So whats your lame reason?
@@sherrypulec1449 cry me a river. My closest range worth going to is about 50 miles away
Have MS V3. Works very well. Concern with barrel harmonics forced me to spend many hours researching ways to eliminate. LR, optical chrono, and MS off the barrel mount were what I found. Already had an optical and compared it to the MS V3. While results were good and close with both, the optical, as you know, is a real pain to set up and susceptible to variances due to distance from muzzle (muzzle/powder debris) but mostly lighting conditions. So, optical was removed from consideration. Borrowed an LR with latest updates, bought JKL inertial trigger ($35), AND bought a Wiser Precision Chrono Mount (WPCM) ($99) to allow side by side testing of the LR and MS. So glad I did. The WPCM with its eccentric bearing system allows for 3 degrees of cant adjustments of the carbon fiber rod. I know it does not sound like much but this is enough to keep the rod parallel to the barrel on all my stocks/fore ends. The adjustability of the Bayonet Bracket is such that I can perfectly align the MS bayonet with my bore axis. What this results in is the MS V3 is isolated from the barrel so no harmonics interference. And I can use it with bare barrels, muzzle brakes, and suppressors with no alignment issues. An added benefit is that since I keep the MS V3 installed on the WPCM, I can attach the whole rig in under 10 seconds and be ready to go, carrying only one thing. (Takes a bit longer when changing rifles with different barrel lengths, muzzle devices, suppressors, etc but not much.)
Regarding the LR. I found it to be just OK. It is position to the target sensitive, especially if you want down range data. (I don't need or want that so it was not an issue for me.) With that in mind, it does take some time to properly align and you still don't know if you have it right until you shoot a round or two. I did not care for the time delay required between shots. I did not care for all the button pushing and possibly resulting alignment issues. I did not like having to adjust shooting/rifle/LR positions with changing rifles with different muzzle lengths/muzzle attachments during a range session to get proper alignment. I saw no real difference in the muzzle velocity numbers between the two as they were usually with 2-3 FPS. (I true up muzzle velocity with actual shooting so not an issue). Lastly, you have to carry a whole bunch of gear, the LR, the battery, the tripod, etc to use the thing.
The JKL trigger is a must. It removes all adjacent shooter muzzle blast interference AND provides positioning options relative to the muzzle not available with using the unit's internal mic. I tested the JKL attached to the fore end, the bipod, the receiver, and even to a scope, Worked in all locations, flawlessly after I adjusted the sensitivity per the JKL instructions to eliminate false activations.
After testing the two side by side, I found both provide reliable MV data and eliminate barrel harmonics and both are good units. I really don't think you could go wrong with either. I think there is more of a learning curve required using the LR but nothing that cant be overcome with relative ease. But, knowing what I know now, if I had to do it over again, I would [still] choose the MS V3 COUPLED with the WPCM. YMMV
Yes, the Labradar is a nice unit, and that's reflected in the cost. I have the Magnetospeed for a
few years now and it does all I need it to do and it didn't break the bank, you get your velocity,
plug it into an app pull the trigger and make adjustments as needed........... Works just fine.
Magnetospeed, strap it on the barrel, turn the unit on........... Shoot !!
I’m only halfway though the video and absolutely blown away at how phenomenal you are at explaining everything without over complicating.
You make me thankful for my MagneetoSpeed Sportster! Thanks for the review!
Glad to help!
I love my LR. I use it for rifles, pistols, and my bows. I do have an aftermarket 3D printed sight and some type of reasonably accurate alignment aid is mandatory. I already had the tripod and battery, but I also made my own plate mount. I very seldom use anything other than the app and I have and use both Android and iOS versions of the app. I have updated my firmware and apps as they've released them. There's an occasional pairing problem, but I usually get it sorted pretty quickly. I must have good luck or have figured stuff out early because I just don't have a lot of the problems people complain about. Its not perfect, but I'd buy it again in heartbeat just for the flexibility/versatility. I keep mine in a plastic hard case that holds it, my accessories and usually whatever ammo and kit I'm taking to the range that day. I've even been known to throw a little Lee press in there if I'm doing load development. I know this is a gun channel, but I will say that down range velocity data makes doing archery sight tapes stupid easy and accurate. I also do a lot of subsonic rifle and you see some interesting stuff doing subsonic load development.
LabRadar has been independently tested against high dollar commercial units and found to be exceptionally accurate. Long ago before I bought my LR, I read two independent tests and both showed LR to be within a few fps of the high dollar commercial units.
I've had my LR and MS for about 5 years now and use the LR exclusively now.
JRB gives you a high compliment and I agree with complete honesty.
One thing you didn’t discuss is that there is a track file for every shot in a series. Each track file contains much more data than the file you showed, including the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of the data point. This has helped me to identify questionable data. In my experience, if the S/N drop into the teens, the data is iffy. Good results seem to have S/Ns in the high-20s or more (at least with the 9mm I typical test). Also, the track file data shows that the unit does not typically acquire the bullet until it is 12-15 yards down range (which makes sense if you think about the radar signal emanating in a cone shape). So, they must use an algorithm to back-calculate the muzzle velocity.
Aside from that nit, a fair review. The unit is a bit finicky to rope rly set up to get good data, but once you do, it takes very little time to set up on subsequent trips to the range.
I use one of those tiny coffee stirrer straws as the aiming device - it's super precise since it's so small ...
I have both with all the attachments for each. Fr some reason, I tend to always pick up the Labradar when going to the range because I don’t have to to keep mounting it every time I change guns. Once the “tricks” of the LabRadar are learned it is a much quicker and easier set up for me to use. I bet the next upgraded version comes out they should be much easier to understand from the start...
Great video, and thanks for all your work and videos. They are all very informative. I’ve had a LabRadar for a couple of years, and have many of the same thoughts:
CONS: 1. The sight alignment “ridge” is ridiculous for how how accuratately it needs to be aligned to read well. I bedded an 6” aluminum tube in the notch that I can remove when not in use, and lay in place to align. Using this for alignment I rarely have any reading problems. 2. The app functions with my iPhone , but as soon as it goes to sleep I lose the connection and need to restart and relink the app. I typically have my labradar on my bench I front of me, and just carefully push the arm button by squeezing the unit/button between my thumb and forefinger. This prevents misalignment. 4. There have been no recent software updates to correct the app issues. 5. The unit feels cheap and fragile, although I’ve had no issues.
PROS: 1. I have compared the same shots across my older Oehler 35 and LabRadar and found them to be consistent and within several fps given the placement of the Oehler 6 ft in front of the muzzle. 2. I have not had issues with triggering when following the instructions when using 243 Win, 6mm Creed with brake, 6.5mm Creed, 300 Win Mag. I have not been able to get readings with my 22-250 at around 4000 fps. 3. The unit is small and compact, and easy to set up at the range, especially compared to other units I have used. 4. I keep the entire unit on my bench, which allows me to use and access it when the range is “hot.” 5. I can set it up on my bench and shoot multiple rifles through it without having to adjust it or detach and reattach it to each firearm - this is important to me because I often cycle between my rifles to allow them to cool. 5. MOST IMPORTANTLY - all of the shot data and metrics for each shot is important for making load and adjustment decisions. If there was a flyer, was the velocity consistent or do I need to look elsewhere. Although I haven’t used a Magnetospeed, I would not be happy having the unit affect my POI, and needing to shoot two sets of shots to separately obtain accuracy and velocity data. Then having to compare the averages of this data instead of data for each shot. Best Wishes.
Looks like you either like it or hate it. The learning curve is steep,not intended for the impatient. The shooting community has its share of folks who not inclined technologically as witnessed by some hand loaders I have encountered. It’s no surprise there are so many negative comments. You sold yourself short and the device suffers your ire. I bought it studied it “knowledge to you” is a you tube channel that shows you how to extract a ton of information after a range session. Lab radar is much better than the bulk of comments would suggest. Happy shooting all.
This video came just in time , I ordered a LabRadar a few weeks ago . Thanks and keep the great content coming in 2021 . Cheers 🍻
Hope you enjoy it!
so what are you going to do?
@@KLR-650 Say what ?
I bought a LabRadar about 6 months ago. First accessory I bought before its first use was an aftermarket, bolt on sight. I've since shot several hundred rounds with it now and it has literally only missed 1 shot. I've also only had one error message because my tripod drifted and it lost its aim. I'm convinced that most of the "issues" and complaints are from misuse or failure to aim and position correctly. I'm so glad I bought mine!
Just recently got a labradar and agree with 90% of what you say. The alignment sight that comes on them is garbage, but most people have those other items laying around to get started. Almost every household has an SD cars, some type of tripod and a battery pack. Problem with recommending the Bayonet style are u end up spending more money shooting twice as much. Have to shoot rounds for velocity data then for accuracy. IMO that made the labradar the only viable option. Unfortunately this is probably why they don't fix the issues with the labradar. Lack of relevant competition.
Labradar rested on its laurels for too long. Sold mine and upgraded to the Garmin Xero. The 6-degree either side acquisition arc (12 degrees to the front) of the Garmin is much more forgiving than Labradar - haven't lost a single shot so far. I had a kinetic trigger with the Labradar but the Garmin picks up everything, even suppressed. Labradar's latest effort to compete with Garmin, the LX is still twice as big and heavy as the Garmin. The only thing Labradar has over the Garmin is that you can't calculate your own BC without two readings, and stores files in CSV (Garmin uses FIT files). However the Garmin updates their phone app realtime which is where you can email strings in CSV files. Also, the Garmin's inbuilt Li-ion rechargeable is way more power-friendly than having to use an external Labradar power pack. Garmin will pick up rifles either side up to 1M so no chance of picking up someone else's shots at the range. The Garmin is the same accuracy as the Labradar however this precision in both devices is overstated as often we manipulate velocity on apps like Applied Ballistics to match the actual ballistic arc (at least from muzzle to transonic). I always found the Labradar's phone app to be a basket-case. Used to carry the Labradar in a separate case to the Range. Now I throw the tiny Garmin in my Range bag with everything else.
Forget the Labradar, it had its day in the sun but has been relegated by innovation.
I have a Garmin Xero and can confirm this reply is spot-on. Stick a fork in LabRadar - they're done!
Well, apparently I've been good enough this year because Santa dropped off a new Labradar under the tree Christmas morning! Thanks to the best howto video on UA-cam, I was able to breeze through the unit setup without a hitch!
As you mentioned, for the price, this should have come with an Ultra 32gb SD card and I'll add a battery power supply. This would make it almost range ready. I did opt for the JKL Precision trigger as I feel this will give me the best chance of frustration free use and since I already have a Tripod I'm set to go!
Keep the great videos coming!
Finally, an honest review of this machine! The shortcomings of this device are huge! There's also a known software math issue also. Until the software is overhauled, I'l stick with the 2 Magneto Speed's & Wiser Precision mount systems.
I really appreciate the work you put into your videos. With way too many presenters, the preparation consists solely of turning on the camera.
Worth the price of admission just to learn there were aftermarket sights. Didn't know that ... just bought one. Thanks! BTW ... been using my Labradar for about a year, and really like it. The JKL Precision trigger is a "Must Have" for me.
I have had a Labradar unit for close to two years. It can be finicky getting it set in proper relation to the muzzle to get readings if you are using a muzzle brake since different muzzle brakes have different blast patterns & the instructions on setup specifically state to make sure the muzzle blast does not hit the Labradar unit - after all the unit reads disruptions in the air (doppler radar). I hot glued a short piece of aluminum tube (2" of an old primer pickup tube) to the top of the unit & setup is quick, easy & accurate. I have had a few instances where the unit failed to read a shot but invariably it was either I forgot to arm the unit or when using a brake & allowed the muzzle to move too far forward & the blast impacted the unit. I have shot many 100 shot strings with zero missed readings. If you want another view on the Labradar, go check out Cal Zant's (Precision Rifle Blog) muzzle velocity test. He used 3 Labradars on every shot to insure he go a reading for each shot & to help verify data.
I don't know about the app issues with Android but I have used the iOS version on two different iPhones & one iPad with no issues at all. I especially like the ability to transfer the basic shot data from the unit on my phone so that when I get home I don't have to pull the SD card & connect it to a computer or power up the Labradar to review the data. The only time I pull the card is to download the CSV files for backup.
I'm not saying it's the best way to go for everyone but it works great for me & my preferences / priorities / budget. I also like the downrange data that I get. As far as I know that feature is unique to the Labradar in the consumer market.
Bottom line - they are all made by humans so none of the options are perfect - you'll have to decide which pros outweigh which cons for your situation.
Just got a lab 2nd hand pleased to report firmware 1.3.3 solves the app connection issue.
Good review 1st time user yesterday getting it aligned was the hardest part
If you don't have a card reader you can plug the Lab Radar into your computer, turn it on and it will appear as an external drive. I keep rechargeable batteries in my unit just for this feature.
If there are other shooters nearby the unit may pick up their shots.
FWIW, when I decided to buy mine I deducted the cost of shooting a conventional chronograph, since i knew eventually that would happen.
Are straws legal in all 50 states?
Not in Unicornifornia.
I hear they cause cancer in the state of California!
Just drive them bonkers with a section of brake line instead!!!!
No straws are not legal but they have just decriminalized cocaine in CA!
@@BrassJeep is there anything except increasing taxes & restricting freedoms that does not cause cancer in California?
I’ve had both the MS v3 and the LR for a couple years (I just sold the MS), and I disagree on several points.
1. Yes, a machine this expensive should come with an SD card, but do we not all have several cards laying around at this point? Your complaint is fair, but it’s not particularly significant.
2. Yes, the sighting mechanism could be better. I usually have a pen sitting next to me on the bench. I put the pen in the notch and sight down it. Again, not a significant problem.
3. Accessories: I bought a battery pack ($15), a knock off pelican case ($75), and a JK trigger ($35). I had an old tripod laying around. The tripod is less critical if you have the JK trigger, because positioning is more forgiving. The battery pack and the trigger are the must haves, the other items are useful but not essential.
4. I’ve had no issues with the iPhone app. Before I started using the app I found the LR interface very frustrating, and I had to touch the machine and then realign it often. But I still used the LR on every range trip.
So, I would summarize to say that in order to use the LR you must have the JK trigger and the app. Yes, the LR is expensive and for that money it could come with more and be better out of the box, but at the end of the day I had the choice of the LR or the MS, and for two years I took the LR every time.
Great video, thank you. I’ve had mine for about 18 months, and my experience has been similar bar one point - the aiming of the device simply isn’t critical. Whilst positioning in relation to the muzzle can be tricky at first, there is no need for a straw or aftermarket sight. All you need do is face it at your target and you are good to go - I wasted way too much time early on because I thought it needed to be exact.
Yes, I've considered buying a Lab Radar but, with so many reviews stating the same issues & frustrations, I don't think I want to go down the rabbit hole with this.
I think I'll wait for an updated version.
The fact that it's been 2 years since Lab Radar said they'd have an upgrade with their phone app &, nothing in sight, concerns me.
F-class John reported the external trigger unit worked very well &, alleviated a lot of his frustrations but, having to continually reach fwd to arm the unit &, forgetting to arm the unit, loosing data as a result is a big frustration.
Anyhow, thanks again for the time & effort you put into your vids.
Regards............Rotas.
Caldwell then MS sporter and now a LabRadar. Of the three I will take the lab. If setting it up bothers u dont get one. Get the caldwell and really frustrate yourself. Shooting suppressed i use the piet trigger and never an issue. The app is meh. I only arm and disarm it with the app. You were spot on in assessment, Now i need to change my distances for the added velocities. Thanks for the info
I bought a Lab Radar when they first came out. I have had some problems but it now works great for me. Buy a cheap brief case style tool case from Harbor Freight. I made a simple mount out of plywood with a camera tripod 1/4-20 thread to fit the LR. I place it on the bench next to the LR for pistol. Use a cheap camera tripod for rifle.
Very well done review. Thank you. Just bought Labradar November 2021. My iPad connects and works perfectly; I don’t experience any of the problems you mention.
Oehler 35P, not as easy to setup and not as much data further down range but as a accurate a chrono as you can buy period.
I've owned one for almost 30 years and it's still going strong.
I see no need to have a chrono tell me my velocity at 11, 33, 44 or even a hundred yards with all the ballistic calculators available. Muzzle velocity is all I need and I can confirm that with a calculator at any range I desire. (Calculated drop vs actual)
I only use my chrono for load development, when searching for a powder charge for a specific bullet weight.
The Apache 3800 case from Harbor Freight works great for a good price with coupons.
Thank you so much for posting this video. You are obviously a very well educated and well spoken individual. I am grateful for your time to educate me.
I clicked on the links trying to buy the Labradar and the external battery. It led me to no where. I will try to purchase it from some other source.
Thank you again!
Hello, I am glad you found it helpful. I guess no amazon sellers have a lab radar for sale at this moment. It appears that there is a new model of the battery pack also so I updated it to a similar model. Thanks for lettings me know!
Great review. Labradar should watch it and know you speak for many, many owners of the product. An idea people may find useful: You don't need to pull out the SD Card and install it in your computer. You can just plug from your USB port in your computer to the micro-USB in the Labradar, and the device becomes an "external drive" on your computer. I love the Labradar. I hope they make all the improvements you recommend!!!!
Thanks so much, MagnetoSpeed V3 is looking like a lot better choice for me now. Great info as always.
Tried many other products - Labradar has my vote!!! worth every penny for precision.
As someone who has developed HMI's for living, the user interface on the Labradar is UNFORGIVABLE. I'm glad I borrowed a friends before buying a Labradar. No way I could use that kludgy POS interface without going mad. The unit could be so much more if it had a better interface, and for the price it should.
Got a Lab Radar. Is it expensive? Yes it is. Do you need a stand? Yes you do. Does the sight need a straw? Yes but I can make it work with out. Yes, I do use a isb battery. I do not need an SD Card, but having one is preferred. Ok that said I've used this for several years and find it to be the best chronograph I've ever owned. Please remember one can use Lab Radar with rifles, pistols and archery. Where a magneto is most likely limited to rifle or long barrels. In addition I do not like any thing attached to the barrel. For me, Lab Radar was worth the extra cost. Yes I would buy a second unit. I do look forward to Lab Radar potentiall improvimg the app or their next generation instrument.
Great video and informative as always. Would love the convenience in set up of a labradar and ease of use with pistols too. I use a Magneto Speed v3, and a picatinny rail mounted adapter to keep it off my barrel. Other than set up time, I'm happy enough with it to not pay another $600-700 to for the Labradar, especially with the buggy app.
IMHO the recoil trigger is a must especially when on a range with other shooters. It also does not have to be sighted in as precisely either. Well worth the $35
100% agree with the recoil trigger as a must
So now are we at almost $800?
@@dragonflyfab9703 I don't have a fancy pouch or tripod, but I do have a cheap battery pack, tripod and the trigger. I would guess an extra $75-$100 at most.
Thank you so much. I have been turning the powere off and back on to get to Menu.
I’m surprised you have not been contacted by Labradar. Great video. 👍🇺🇸💥
Thank you sir for a very thorough review. LabRadar has a very rich feature set and you captured just about all I would want to know when seriously considering the unit. I am going to stick to the MagnetoSpeed mainly due to cost but also due to being around enough guys cussing at their LabRadars to shy away from buying one. That may change though, who knows. But my Magnetospeed is lower cost, highly accurate, and dependable. You can use the phone app with Magnetospeed and it will give you pretty much all you could want in a chronometer and can even review it anywhere you want, So, for me, LabRadar isn't the best but it would be my second choice.
I am really happy you were able to post this review. It is very helpful. My current Magnetospeed sporter is getting worn out from much use. The bayonet is very worn from blast damage and the wire to the unit seems to have a break because sometimes it just doesn't work at all or gives errors. So I am in the market for a new Chrono. Reading other posts from other viewers also very helpful. Thanks you other guys! I see the Caldwell product is still just vapor ware at this time but I don't expect to get to the range again for a few months when weather here in Michigan warms up. So, I can wait a while to see what happens to Caldwell. If they don't come thru or if it turns out to be a lame product, I will get the LabRadar.
Hi Wayne, Magnetospeed does sell replacement parts if you want to repair your current unit. Up to you.
@@BoltActionReloading Yes, thanks. I have considered that as well. I think you made the right choice getting the LabRadar. I may end up getting one too. Maybe it will go on sale in February. It seems to be one of the best months to find sales.
Seen the same results when borrowed a buddies Labradar. It's nice because it doesn't mess with barrel harmonics. But its hardly worth the headaches with the app and no readings(due to alignment ussues). The cheapo magnetospeed sporter I have would get the same results and 99% of the time acquired a reading. Id just do my load development in two parts. Once with the unit on looking at velocity, then the second time around fine tuning the sweet spots and looking at the groups without it attached. Takes a little more ammo but who doesn't enjoy shooting.
I still really like my magnetospeed, its a great tool.
Depending on your rifle, many chassis mounted holders are available, I have an mpa and they make adapters, love it.
I manually armed my unit for quite a while before I tried the app. I don't like the app but at least I can arm and disarm the thing without worrying about knocking it out of alignment. And yes, getting it aligned correctly can be a pain. Word to the wise: Take some plinking ammo with you to burn up while you're making sure the labradar is aligned and capturing the shot.
I like mine pretty well. The only time I’ve had issue with it is laying prone when shooting 223. It’s a little picky when real close to the ground it seems. But once I get it pointed correctly it works fine. It seems on small projectiles while laying prone that the trigger setting works best. I like the lab radar because I shoot a lot right before dark. Also I shoot prone a lot And I don’t have to shoot through a chrono or have anything attached to the barrel.
Very good and honest review! Been using mine for about 1 year now and have found the same issues/challenges. I too use the straw method to align, simple, cheep, works every time. I have never had to use the external mic or Piet Recoil Trigger I bought but, as you said, you don't want to be stuck at the range w/o an option. The app...well, went it works it's fine, but the disconnecting after using the unit for about 30 mins STINKS. They really should have a plug in USB option to connect to a tablet, phone, etc. I too look at the actual data and for the most part it has been reliable. There will be some erroneous data occasionally so it's good to review when dialing in precision loads. Thanks again for the great and honest review!
Yes, it’s the best. Easy to setup.
Good video and information . I am still shooting between the metal Rods . lol it works for me maybe someday I will update to one of these.
Awesome timing I’ve been criticizing my chrony f1 and threatening this purchase glad to know the pros and cons
Glad you found it useful!
Heads up. The AT&T Samsung Galaxy S-7 has been working great for me in respect to the App. It will not pair in the phones settings. But when you go in the app and select the device, it comes up every time, and has been working great for about six months .
My experience with the AA batteries is that work great. Mine will work hours on a set and if you turn the radar off between strings you can get several days of use. Pick up a $5.00 tripod at a garage sale. I used the 8 meg card out of my daughters old digital camera and it works very well. The files are small. The Lab Radar is the best thing since sliced bread as far as I am concerned. The only real issue that I have found is that it won't work with paper patched bullets.
Great video explaining Lab Radar. Mine works as expected. Install 1/4" piece of brass tubing for sight. Power pack is a great idea.
The waving Vanna White hand drove me nuts though. Thanks
Good out of the box video.
3 things - the android phone app problem is only recent with new android phones. My old android worked great but would loose bt connection. They need to fix this immediately.
2 - if you shoot with a suppressor, it is a pain in the ass. The unit must be 6 inches in front and 6 inches to the side of the suppressor. This causes all sorts of setup issues.
3 - based on 1 and 2, I almost sold my unit. UNTIL I learned about the 3rd party trigger you briefly showed (not the microphone)
This trigger has a movement sensor and attaches to your gun using a strong magnet. So each recoil triggers the unit. Now placement of the unit is not an issue and you can set it where you can manually control it. The trigger is only $30 and IMHO, Labradar should provide one with every unit.
You accomplished your objectives -- great video -- Thanks.
When you have a connection issue with LBR on Samsung - try turning Bluetooth off and on again then try the connecting again. It should work. But it happens not very often and the solution is simple. Bugger problem is the socket for the magnetic sensor cable of MS main unit. It tends to break off the PCB in time. You have to replace the whole unit..
I have a Magnetospeed and an Oehler 35p, so, never felt the need to go to a Labradar. Magnetospeed is ideal for a busy range, Oehler is nice for when it isn't busy, but, it can be setup in as little as one target change, depending on the distance people are shooting at. I've even set it up at the target, if I was in a place where that was safe to do.
I have tried every chrono available and the magnetospeed is just impractical and a pain in the rear to attach and use. Got rid of it almost as soon as i got it.
Optical chronos have their place and work well on a bright day or indoors with lights for example and are useful for slow bullets e.g pistols and airguns.
The lab Radar has some serious issues - a fellow shooter bought one and we spent a long time trying to get it to work. Forget about rimfire and airgun use. they have a add-on "trigger" thing that prompts it to take a reading but its quite poor in practice. It VERY expensive for what it is and takes a lot of time and set up. It does give the full bore rifle shooter a more technical solution on an open field range but its not perfect by any means.
Conversely a while back I bought a Steinert (the maker of the super light bipods) acoustic based Chrono. Much easier to use than either of these as long as you don't have other shooters right next to you. Not a problem as you just use it when other shooters aren't firing! Unfortunately I am not sure they still make them? does anyone know?
The only drawback is the bullets have to be supersonic as it uses the "sonic boom" if you will to measure the passing of the bullet ( i am over simplifying but you get the gist) but most full bore rifle and for that matter pistol bullets are anyway.The unit is small and light runs on a few AA batteries, is small enough to fit in the side pocket of my drag bag and takes about 2 minutes to line up with the target as per the instructions.
You just shoot over the top of it (it has a massive area to shoot withing above it so super easy) whilst it either lays on the ground or on a stand/table about 12 feet in front of you. The display is angled so you can see it but it has a memory so remembers all the readings and it very accurately reads the velocity. It matches very consistently with my Chrony and older Prochrono optical chronograph readings and is fairly weather proof, not reliant on light and you can put it down range at any distance and measure the velocity at that range as long as the bullet is still supersonic whilst flying over it. The lab radar I believe only goes out to 100 yards or so. The Steinert can take readings at any distance you set it down at so its possible to get more data for correcting ballistic data for that bullets velocity at distance. I tried it once and it matched close to the expected calculated (quicktarget) data, if you are into that kind of thing it works pretty well.
Also most importantly It was about £300 new which is so much less than the £980 Bownells want for the labradar.
I am waiting for the firearm version of the FX radar chrono that is so excellent but only currently for airguns velocities. I emailed the FX team some time ago and they said it was possibly and they might look at making one if the market demand for it was there so start emailing them and ask for it! they probably could make one for the same cost - now that would be really good.
Very useful review, just got a labradar and this was was the info I needed. Will get it to the range asap, and see how it performs. Thanx!
I hope it works well for you!
seems like they need to do a version 2 and include cover, tripod and some kind of power supply.
One of the best videos on the lab radar, well done and what great info, finally someone who knows how to do a great video.
Great honest and informative video on the Labradar. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
I guess I am the exception to most of the complaints. Got a LabRadar for Christmas and have had no problems with the unit itself. I did download the iOS app and it paired with no problem an works fine. I will say the UI for the iOS app is one of the worst I have ever used for any app. It communicates and functions OK, just horrible to figure out how to use it. Tried it with 30-06, 357mag, 45ACP and 9mm and worked first time/each time for each. Guess I am the lucky one.
Great vid. I recently picked one up. Haven't used it yet but undoubtedly you have saved me quite a bit of frustration.
Great to hear!
I thought hard about the Magneto speeds, but being able to gather data while shooting for groups or dialing down seating depth adjustments sold me.
Now after seeing the error you picked up with the funky velocity, I can see where having the extra data points at distance recorded will be handy. I hadn't figured a use for those down range readings.
Are you able to edit the CSV files?
Could you back those speeds in off the known averaged deltas and save the data?
@@kenginter6112 You can open the CSV files in Excel & edit them as you would any other spreadsheet. The downrange data is useful if you are interested in calculating Ballistic Coefficients among other things. An industrial Doppler radar system is what many of the bullet manufacturers are using to get their BC data.
I've had my LR for a number of years and it has been very reliable. I encountered the SD card issue as well but only because I didn't read the instructions. SD cards must be formatted to FAT 32 which can be done on any computer/laptop. Right-click over the card file and choose "format". Choose "File System" and pick "FAT32".
Hi Alex, I only showed the SD card error so people would understand what was going on, and know where to look to fix it. It is in the manual but its not super easy to find. Why you can't just put a message up that says "SD card error" rather than blinking the blue light is something I don't understand.
Agree 100%, definitely some room for improvement. Perhaps one day we will see some FW updates that address a few of the simple glitches. Appreciate all the time you spend on your videos, the amount of garbage info out there is stifling and your data driven results really separate reality vs feeling. Guys get so emotional when it comes to this stuff and really the numbers and facts are what we should be guided by. Keep up the great work!
Thanks Alex, I appreciate that. I try to leave my bias out as much as possible and let the data speak for itself. Everything has good and bad points. Unfortunately too many guys have to believe that their favorite is the best for everyone, even if they can't afford it.
I find it painful to read through many of the threads now a day... Between guys arguing like 5 year olds and the lack of hard data backing up arguments it’s like listening to politicians... lol. This is a facts based sport, numbers don’t lie and the consequences of making ill informed decisions can kill you, I wish folks would be more willing to listen than they are. Not only can it make you a better marksman in a shorter period of time it will also save you money and potentially your eyesight if you make a more significant error. In a week of listening to trusted sources I can learn what a decade of trial and error would have led me to without the cost. Unfortunately there are only a handful of people willing to put in the time to get to those facts based positions, it is so much easier to shoot a 3 shot group and call yourself an expert. Similar to all of those shooting 3/8” groups I guess.
Anyways keep up the great work and thank you for sharing. You are most certainly one of the few I trust in this sport.
Happy New Year from Canada!
What about a Magnetospeed video?
Outstanding review, thank you! I've ordered one, in back order but eager to try it.
I had purchased their tripod but had a couple issues with it and returned it. 1st, getting the unit low enough for my grandson to shoot off a front bag with his 243 was difficult. 2nd, although the range benches are very sturdy, I had many error shots. I started using a camera tripod set on the ground and error shots were all but eliminated.
Yes, the sighting on the target is critical and the straw sounds great. I use a piece of 1/4" copper tuning I found in my plumbing stash...
Thanks for the feedback Joe, copper pipe is a great idea just the same!
OUTSTANDING doesn't even come close for rating this review!!!💯👍🏻
I do appreciate the links but as an Amazon patron I've discovered many of their prices should come with some Vaseline petroleum jelly.
Using a magnetospeed and wiser precision mount has been invaluable to me. I would spend the money on a labradar but don't need to haha
Great info!
+1 on the Wiser
After a 25 minute troubleshooting call to Labradar and subsequent testing, I am cautiously optimistic that the damned thing will work. Time will tell.
i ended up using an old phone, that i facory reset, as the link to it. CS said that if you have any networks or bluetooth other than the labradar it has issues.
it still disconnects at times, requireing a power off and on to get a connection.
Thank you for the refresher course. Sadly, I don’t use it enough to remember the details…..it’s not ‘intuitively obvious to the casual user.’
Very good review. Great tip on the aftermarket sight; just ordered one! Thanks! Happy New Year!
Happy new year! Hope it was helpful!
I’ve had several devices messed up by leaking Duracell AA batteries.
If you have crazy data points that are out of line like that, re-adjust your intervals and/or change channels to something far from where you’re set now and it will go away.
The labradar has a CR2032 hot glued into the mainboard to keep the date and time, and user settings when powered off.
I got one and love mine way better then my rcbs load master was love the labradar !
Thanks for the review, I've been mulling over one of these for a while as the MagnetoSpeed isn't apparently very good with full stock old school military rifles which is what I tend to do my load development for.
Answered many questions, a quality review, thanks
I’m starting to like my magneto speed more and more
So, a little bit of an update. LR recently updated the app and the firmware supposed to fix that Bluetooth bug, unfortunately, at least on my main phone, it did nothing. That said, I went through the old pile of phones my family has, and installed the new LR app, until I found one that did. That said, there were a number of devices I tried that didn't.
I think you were a lot nicer to LabRadar than I was when i first did a review vid back in 2017, the interface remains terrible after the firmware upgrade, but after finding a phone, and 3d printing a sight for it, most of the major problems I have with the LR (except for the interface) are largely complaints no more. The App allows you to do a number of things like export data, and name shot strings which greatly improves the "what the hell did I do during that range session, there's like 30 shot strings".
There is a lot to complain about with with the LR, but there's a lot that's good about it.
I'd really like to hear more about your 2 Box chrono. BTW, excellent video. I bought one of the first magnetospeed's to hit th h ed market several years ago, it's been great but I wouldn't mind having second source especially when I don't want something influencing my groups during load development. The price of the labradar and extra equipment has held me back.
Most aggravating piece of shooting equipment I own! Good review and great comments. Again...$560 and you have to tape an effing STRAW on top of the unit. This seems to be more an upsell for accessories than anything else. My 1996 vintage Pro Tach Chrono works MUCH better!
.... and how about the other accessories you have to buy for it before you can use it.
@@toddb930 Agreed- however, after a 25 minute tech call with the LabRadar folks I came to understand that the manual is written with a lot of inaccuracies. For instance, lots of folks think the unit needs to be aimed like a rifle; I was informed that the beam measures 4x6 YARDS in size at the 50 yd mark, so....no need to use an aiming device. I wish they had written the manual with more accuracy- it needs to be revised.
Thanks for the review, as I was on the fence about buying one
Rechargeable AA’s is a great way to go, last all day at the range!
Thank you for making this video. They are on sale now, but there's apparently still issues with the app, or maybe just on some devices. Seems to be related to Bluetooth. Software with my CED M2 (RSI Shooting Lab) can interpret Labradar data. Though this technology is promising, I think I'll wait. Maybe there's a version 2 about to come out. There's also other manufacturers, like Garmin, though I don't like their non-replaceable battery (Li-ion?). If it's not in something I use every day, like my phone, I tend to not take proper care of rechargeable batteries. I'll forget and leave it on the charger too long and damage it, or forget to charge it at all, also damaging it, and in either case, end up with poor battery life.
The new Garmin unit is amazing, and the reason for the price drop on the LR. I am working on a video for the new unit.
Thank you for the honest review. Made my purchase decision much easier
Great to hear!
I own a Labradar and Magnetospeed. The Labradar is a real PITA.
As well I will clarify that although I have had no issues I also shoot at a private range and have no experience using the LR with other firearms going off close enough to affect results.
The reason you saw that particular deviation is that Labradar doesn't measure muzzle velocity (V0). It starts tracking at a given distance away from the unit, and then extrapolates muzzle velocity from the dataset. If that first data point is incorrect, then the muzzle velocity is going to extrapolated incorrectly.
Regarding the remarks about the effect on barrel harmonics with the MagnetoSpeed, I recently ran across a thread on a forum that was very interesting. Basically it indicated that not all of the POI shift normally encountered with the MS unit is due to barrel harmonic change but also to what aircraft pilots refer to as ground effect. I can't remember what forum I found this on but I will try to find it again and post a link to it.
Hmmm. My POI shift was opposite the MS pickup placement by bout an inch. No matter which clocking it was placed at.
@@dragonflyfab9703 That's exactly what the guy in that thread was saying. If I remember correctly he is or was a jet pilot (I believe military). I haven't found that forum yet but as soon as I do I'll post a link.
I understand the price tag is large but when you are working up a load by adjusting seating depth having something strapped to your barrel is going to effect the harmonics. I don't have a Lab Radar yet but I plan on buying one.
Use and adapter to put it on your hand rail. Problem solved.
Not with a rifle either a 26 barrel
1▪︎Dont strap a magneto speed to the barrel. A little ingenuity is required or those with less skills can buy a premade bracket.
2• Working up a load should concentrate on standard velocity deviation, not barrel harmonics. They are different.
@@patruddiman4228 Sure you can. I use one ith my 24" barrel and have plenty of room to get to that 26" if I needed to do so.
@@patruddiman4228 MK Machining Gen III Magnetospeed mount is one option.
Very informative I’m looking for one but can’t find one anywhere.
I've never had an issue. I love my labradar. Never had a problem with the app either. Hate the magnetospeed. I want nothing mounted to my barrel. I also love digging further into the data to get even more data.
Yes pretty much on the mark, I don’t have a ton of issues with the app on my IPAD except it tends to disconnect after about 20 or so series and you have to reconnect it. I wish they would update the app to be more like the Caldwell app. I do like the set up even getting everything aligned and setup is easier than a standard chronograph with a nice time savings. Over all I like it just wish the software was better.
Problem with the app is when your phone/tablet “sleeps” it looses connection. I have used the plastic add-on to aim but eventually went to an inexpensive red-dot. The inertial trigger is a must. The real advantage is that you can adjust the unit at the range as you don’t shoot thru it like the Caldwell. The Magnetospeed is a good unit but changes the barrel harmonics and can loosen after several shots. The “2 second button hold” is an annoyance and I always forget and loose track on how to move to another menu.
Great video. Hopefully the company takes a look at the sighting system, the lack of a case, SD card and internal battery. I’m sure they didn’t want to be much over $500 with their product though. At least the sighting system.