On Target Shooting Software

MOA Performance has been playing around with a new free software package by On Target Shooting Software that can accurately measure the size of your group.

It took MOA Performance about 10 minutes to download the package, scan a group (see below) which was then measured and fully analysed by the software to provide the actual group size.  The results are provided in both inches and MOA. Now you can verify the measurement you have made at the range by your calipers.

The above is a 3 shot group from a AI AW 308 shooting from a bench at 100yds using Black Hills factory ammunition.

The above group is 5 shots at 50yds from an Infinity AET IMM Compensated barrel with a 4 port barrel and a 3 port Titanium compensator.  The barrel was being tested from a fixture with reloads and will be included in a new SVI Infinity IPSC Open Gun for MOA Performance. 

The beauty of the software is that it is straightforward to use.  You simply download a scan or photo of your target.  The program requires you, with assistance by its built in tools, to input some rudimentary data to accurately calculate your group size at the distance you were shooting. The inputs required are:

• Setting the target distance
• Set the centre of each shot, and
• Nominate the calibre to obtain the correct bullet hole size to measure.

Once you've marked each bullet hole the program automatically calculates group centre, maximum group spread, average distance to centre, group width and height, and group offset from point of aim. The program can also measures multiple groups on the same target. A text box is then produced that summarises all the main input data.

The program worked with calibres from .17 to .451.  However, if you have an odd calibre you are able to customise that calibre in the software.

Although accurate, the photographs and the scanned targets should not be too distorted or slight errors in measurement will occur.  Therefore, when taking photographs, try and make sure you are taking them straight on and not at an angle.

The program is helpful for measuring groups with widely dispersed bullet holes. The program automatically finds the two most distant shots. You can't mistakenly pick the wrong pair of shots to measure.

The software works well when plotting a large number of shots that overlap or for plotting very small calibres such as .17. Since you are able to increase the target image by more than 500%, you can see fine details, allowing you to plot shots that may have been too difficult to identify with traditional measuring means.

In addition, the program also calculates average shot distance from centre (ATC). This can be useful for shooters who need to be as close to the centre of the target as possible.

If you want to know more about the new software go to www.ontargetshooting.com and have some fun.  The website has a streamed video tutorial that takes the operator through the steps on how to use the system. It visually demonstrates all the key processes you need to undertake.