10 Best Ballistic Chronographs 2025 in the United States

The Athlon Optics Rangecraft Velocity Pro is a highly accurate ballistic chronograph that uses Doppler radar to measure projectile speeds from 65 to 5,000 feet per second, with a very tight accuracy margin of +/- 0.1%. One of its standout benefits is that it sits beside your firearm rather than on the barrel, so it won’t affect your gun’s performance or zeroing. This makes it a smart choice for anyone serious about precise speed measurements without compromising their setup.

The device is easy to use, featuring a simple interface and a clear 2.4-inch display that shows key stats instantly. You can quickly start new sessions for rifles, pistols, archery, or airguns, and it even calculates kinetic energy and power factor if you enter projectile weight. This makes it versatile across different shooting disciplines.

Portability is strong here: the chronograph is lightweight (under 5 ounces) and built tough with an IP67 waterproof rating, so it can handle outdoor conditions without worry. It stores a large amount of data internally — up to 50 sessions with 100 shots each — and you can delete individual bad shots on the spot, which helps keep your data clean. Connectivity is another plus. The device pairs via Bluetooth with the Athlon Ballistics Lite app on iOS and Android, allowing you to review, organize, and analyze your shooting data on your phone. This app integration adds convenience and helps you track your progress over time.

The device is feature-rich but might be more expensive than simpler chronographs, and the high-tech Doppler radar might have a learning curve for those new to shooting data tools. Also, since it relies on Bluetooth and an app, users without smartphones might not get the full benefit. This makes the Athlon Rangecraft Velocity Pro ideal for shooters and archers seeking accurate, hassle-free velocity readings in the field, combined with modern data management and durable design.

The Garmin Xero C1 Pro is a compact ballistic chronograph designed for enthusiasts who want accurate velocity readings for various types of projectiles, from bullets to paintballs. One of its major strengths is its impressive accuracy, measuring velocities from 100 fps to 5,000 fps, which makes it versatile for different shooting activities. The ease of use is another plus; simply turn it on, point it, and shoot, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced shooters alike.

Portability is also a highlight, with a compact design that fits easily in your back pocket. This makes it an excellent choice for those who attend shooting ranges or outdoor events, as you can carry it without hassle. Additionally, the backlit display is easy to read, even in low-light conditions, ensuring that you won't miss important data.

On the technological side, the Bluetooth connectivity allows you to pair it with the ShotView app, enabling you to track your results and analyze data effectively. This feature can benefit users who want to take their shooting accuracy to the next level by comparing velocities and other metrics. The 6-hour battery life, while decent, may not be sufficient for extended sessions at the range. Users should plan accordingly to avoid running out of power. Additionally, while the device is built to be durable with an IPX7 water-resistant rating, some users might wish for more ruggedness in harsher environments.

The Competition Electronics ProChrono DLX Chronograph is a robust option for measuring projectile speed, boasting impressive accuracy with a margin of error of just ± 0.5%. This precision is bolstered by updated circuitry and an improved shot clock, making it reliable for serious shooters and archery enthusiasts.

It features built-in Bluetooth connectivity and a comprehensive operating system, allowing for easy data management and storage of multiple shot strings, which is a plus for users who want to track and analyze their shooting performance over time. The unit is fairly compact, with dimensions of 18 x 5.25 x 3.5 inches and a weight of 2.7 pounds, making it reasonably portable despite its plastic construction, which may not be the most durable material for rough outdoor use.

The 2-year warranty and half-price repair guarantee provide some peace of mind regarding the product's longevity and reliability. This chronograph is best suited for hobbyists and entry-level competitive shooters who value accuracy and data connectivity, while those needing a more durable, heavy-duty option may need to consider other models.