How To Read Wind | Try This One Old School Trick!

Published on August 30, 2018
Duration: 5:16

This video demonstrates an old-school method for estimating wind speed and its effect on bullet trajectory. The instructor uses visual cues from vegetation and a wind chart to determine an estimated wind speed, then applies a formula to calculate a wind hold. The technique involves observing vegetation for wind strength and direction, then using a formula based on range and wind speed to determine an initial hold, which is then adjusted for wind direction (e.g., quartering wind).

Quick Summary

An old-school method for estimating wind speed involves observing vegetation: weak occasional wind suggests 3 mph, weak constant wind 5 mph, and visible vegetation direction indicates at least 7 mph. For calculating wind hold, use the formula: (first digit of yardage * wind speed) / wind constant. Adjust for quartering winds by multiplying the full hold by 0.75.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction
  2. 00:26Explaining the Range Conditions
  3. 00:37Using the Wind Chart
  4. 00:57Assessing Wind Speed from Vegetation
  5. 01:46Calculating Wind Hold Formula
  6. 02:45Adjusting for Quartering Wind
  7. 03:20Final Wind Hold Estimation
  8. 03:49The Shot and Impact
  9. 04:01Post-Shot Analysis
  10. 04:47Effectiveness of Old Methods
  11. 04:55Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I estimate wind speed for shooting using visual cues?

You can estimate wind speed by observing vegetation. A weak occasional wind suggests at least 3 mph, a weak constant wind indicates at least 5 mph, and if you can clearly see the direction the vegetation is blowing, it's at least 7 mph. Vegetation starting to lay down suggests 9-10 mph.

What is the formula for calculating a wind hold in shooting?

A common formula involves taking the first digit of your target's yardage, multiplying it by your estimated wind speed in mph, and then dividing by a wind constant (e.g., 14 for a 6.5 Creedmoor). For MOA shooters, this is the hold; for MIL shooters, multiply the result by 0.3.

How do I adjust my wind hold for a quartering wind?

For a quartering wind, you typically reduce your calculated full-value wind hold. A common adjustment is to multiply the full-value hold by 0.75 to account for the wind not being directly perpendicular to your shot.

Is it still possible to accurately read wind without advanced technology?

Yes, experienced shooters can still accurately read wind using old-school methods. Visual cues from vegetation and established calculation formulas can provide effective wind calls, proving that traditional techniques remain valuable alongside modern technology.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Precision Rifle Network

View all →