CED Chronograph buying question

[Big Dipper]

I just can't tell how fast and consistent my reloads are. I must need a chronograph. I am looking at the CED but not sure what to buy. Is there a base unit or is the CED chronograph M-2 the base unit? I do not shoot indoors. I called the manufacture but I am still confused. Any clarification would be appreciated.

[EddieNFL]

Two options: standard skyscreens or IR. I have the IR. Worth the extra $90, IMO.

[dudel]

I have a CED M2 (a great unit). There are really only two options

1) IR skyscreens http://www.midwayusa.com/product/878318/ced-infrared-skyscreen-set-for-millennium-and-millennium-2-chronograph?cm_vc=ProductFinding

and 2) the carry case. http://www.midwayusa.com/product/557323/ced-custom-carry-case-for-millennium-and-millennium-2-chronograph?cm_vc=ProductFinding

The base unit (display) is sold alone in the event you want to upgrade your old M1 unit. They don't force you to buy the screens, sensors and stands again.

The chronograph comes with a set of standard skyscreens. I've used the standard screens now for four years without a problem. The IR screens are needed if you shoot under fluorescent lighrs . They may be useful is you don't get good light at your outdoor range (lots of trees waving in the wind casting shadows, long overhang on your shooting positions that keep one screen in shade and the other in direct light, etc).

Depending on how you store the unit, you may want an extra set of skyscreen supports. They are cheap, and keep you going if you break one. This is the complete set; but you can get the supports alone from CED. http://www.midwayusa.com/product/981527/ced-replacement-skyscreen-set-for-millennium-and-millennium-2-chronograph?cm_vc=ProductFinding They are sturdy enough, but with enough effort you can shoot or break one (DAMHIKT!).

The carrying case is a good extra to pick up as it stores all the parts neatly and safely for transport (minimizing the chance of breaking things). There is a place inside the display to store a spare battery. All well and good, until it leaks. I use the carrying case to store the extra battery in a sealed bag.

Get a good sturdy tripod (or other way to mount the support bar). If you don't want to use a tripod, or build a stand, CED has this: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/340358/ced-table-mounting-plate-for-millennium-and-millennium-2-chronographs?cm_vc=ProductFinding

I also put green and red tie wraps on the ends of the start and stop sensors (they are interchangeable; but you need to put the right sensor into the correct jack to get things working right. When I put the unit away, I put blue painters tape over the sensor openings to keep dirt/bugs/stuff out of the sensors.

All in all I've been very pleased with the CED M2. The application to download the results of a session is rudimentary, but does the job, and is much nicer than having to copy data off of the screen. I didn't think I'd have much use for the voice function; but it's been really handy to hear the results without having to break down the shooting position. Recommended. http://www.midwayusa.com/product/773378/ced-millennium-2-chronograph-system?cm_vc=ProductFinding

If I had to pick a weakness, it would be the manual! It's available at the CED site for review.

[gtgeorge]

Another thumbs up on the CED M2. Looks like the others have already posted what you need to know. It also has a spot for an extra 9V inside and I find that very useful to have a spare for when you need it :) I did not buy the IR screens and have not needed them or regretted that decision in 3 years. All my shooting is done outside though.

[Big Dipper]

Thank you guys for the information. I ordered the CED M2 with carrying case today. If I need the IR sky screens I will buy them later. This chronograph should solve some mysteries for me.