August 23rd 2021
Wind Reading Tips from Bryan Litz III and Emil Praslick III
Wind effects can be complex. You will need to monitor multiple indicators in order to determine wind speeds and angles. These indicators include mirage, dust and wind-flags. Wind cycles are also important. Bryan Litz discusses variable wind speeds along a bullet’s flight path in the video below. Bryan Litz, a respected ballistics guru and the founder of Applied Ballistics, is also the designer of Berger’s Hybrid Match projectiles. He is also a former F-TR National Champion, and a High Masters Palma ace.
Bryan discusses wind effects and how they can vary in intensity along the bullet’s flight path from the target. Sometimes the firing line is protected, and the strongest winds are felt in the middle of a trajectory. Bryan concludes, “Wind matters everywhere… but the best thing to do is try and get a handle of the wind [velocity] and angle where you are. This may or may not be the wind downrange. That’s when you need to look downrange and make an assessment [.]”
Tip for Litz Competition: Be sure to choose your wind shooting strategy carefully. Both veterans and beginners will lose most of their points to the wind. Wind shooting is a skill that requires a lot of thought. Sometimes it’s better to shoot quickly and minimize the changes that you’ll encounter. Sometimes it’s better to wait for a condition that may take several minutes. You will be able to wait more efficiently if you are in a comfortable position.
More Wind Tips from Wind Wizard Emil PraslickIn this two-minute video, Emil Praslick III (ex-coach of the USAMU and USA National long distance teams) explains how you can find the wind direction and confirm your no wind zero. Praslick is widely regarded as one of the most respected wind coaches in America.
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When Winds are EXTREME — Near Gale Force at Ben Avery
This video shows INSANE winds during the NBRSA 100/200 Benchrest Nationals. This video was taken at the Ben Avery Range, Phoenix, AZ during NBRSA 100/200 Yard National Championships. Extreme, to put it mildly. Based on what we see here, there are crosswinds of 20-25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph — close to Gale Force. Video by Gene Bukys (Hall-of-Fame Benchrest competitor), who we lost to COVID last season. Gene, RIP.
Mike Bryant, a Texas gunsmith, reports: “This video shows Unlimited Class 200 at Phoenix’s Nationals. I had three 10-shot groups of the low 2. I had three 10-shot groups in the low 2? range with a 2.228?? I was happy they weren’t larger than me. Thursday and Friday were the windiest days. Unfortunately, those were the days of the UL 200. It was just as windy through most of the Sporter 200.
Excellent Wind Reading Resource
The Wind Book for Rifle Shooters outlines techniques and tactics used to read wind-speed, direction, and drift. The authors offer a “wind-reading toolbox” that can be used to calculate wind speed, direction and deflection. They show you how to read flags, mirage, record and interpret what you see, and time your shots in order to compensate for wind. Here are two reviews.
If you are a long-range shooter, this book is essential. It helped me understand wind reading, and make accurate scope corrections when I was competing in F-Class Open. You won’t be disappointed if you buy this book and put it to use. — P. Janzso
This book is the best for wind reading. It explains how to determine wind speed/direction using flags, mirage, natural phenomena, and other sources. This book is the best for learning how to read wind speed/direction. — Muddler
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Tags: Ben Avery, Bryan Litz, Emil Praslick, Extreme Winds, Gale Force, NBRSA, Wind Book, Wind Reading
