Kestrel, a division of Philadelphia-based Nielsen-Kellerman, is showing the newest release of its newest ballistics weather meters: the Sportsman Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics and the Elite Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics. Both models are based on Kestrel’s newest weather instrument, the Kestrel 5 Series, and offer the full power of the Applied Ballistics solver for unmatched long-range accuracy.
Kestrel invented the ballistics weather meter in 2011, combining real-time measurement of air density and wind with an on-board ballistics calculator customized to the shooter’s gun and round, to provide shooters elevation and wind holds that let them make first-round hits at extremely long range. The Kestrel Sportsman and Elite models are just as rugged, capable and easy to use as Kestrel’s original models, but add an improved display, switchable white/red backlight and more connectivity features.
The Kestrel Elite model is the instrument of choice for experienced long-range shooters, tactical shooters, or anyone interested in advanced ballistics. The Elite model adds Applied Ballistics solver features (including drop scale factor and the full library of Litz custom bullet drag models) that are proven to provide accurate firing solutions well into the sub-sonic range of bullet flight. An on-board range card, advanced ballistics data page and storage for 16 user guns round out this feature-packed, compact shooting companion.
Both the Sportsman and Elite offer optional Kestrel LiNK wireless connectivity powered by Bluetooth Smart technology. LiNK enables wireless communication to iOS and Android compatible mobile devices, Macs and PCs. The free Kestrel LiNK Ballistics app lets users easily build and transfer gun profiles, enter target range and view solutions remotely from their shooting positions up to 100 feet away. When paired with the Kestrel Vane Mount, a Kestrel Sportsman or Elite with LiNK becomes a remote weather spotter that is invaluable for practice.
LiNK is also compatible with the new Elite 1 Mile CONX laser rangefinder by Bushnell and other laser range finder. Both the Sportsman and Elite model can be paired with a CONX rangefinder, which automatically transmits range to the Kestrel and displays the resulting elevation inside the rangefinder.
The Elite Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics is totally redesigned with a new and bigger display and it uses only one AA battery, instead of the former versions with two AAA. The AA is good for 400 to 600 hours of use.
Andre Forkert
