Wind Reading Basics for the Tactical Shooter

Great real world information. Usable and executable info and techniques here. Great read for anyone shooting past 700-800 yards.

An excellent gathering of 95% of the wind reading and employment basics that apply to shooting accurately at distance. This book is highly valuable to new shooters looking to accurately hit targets beyond 300yds for the first time, those with limited shooting experience in field type settings (historically square KD range shooters with flags), and those who are trying to get a better grasp of the use of ballistic computers in the field for a more accurate shooting solution. I am frequently on Sniper’s Hide, and a past USMC Scout Sniper, still an amateur competitive shooter shooting for the fun and challenge. When I was still active duty, we did all our wind calls via observation of our surroundings whether naked eye or spotter/mirage, had charts and data books, and typically shot on a couple specific ranges until we would deploy. Even with my shooting background and a .260 Rem that performs very well ballistically, shooting matches on new ranges is a significant challenge with the winds. Being able to read the wind and predict the effects of the unknown terrain on a shot is both a perishable and never completely mastered skill. In this book Frank Galli breaks it all down through videos, illustrations and easy to understand detailed explanations to allow the reader to comprehend what is being taught and apply it in their own shooting. Will a new shooter be able to read this and go 10-for-10 at a grand on a one MOA target? No, but it will lay the foundation for them to learn the basics, understand the math, set themselves up wtih a data card, understand the inputs for ballistic computers, use the Kestrel and get rounds on target. For the experienced shooters like myself, I got better insight into the capabilities of ballistic programs like Cold Bore, layers and terrain effects, and a one stop reference for some formulas I havent used in the past but intend on testing downrange. With match ammo running $1-$2 a shot and first round hits worth double than second round hits in a match, applying the knowledge in this book should easily pay for itself the first time out. Happy shooting and S/F.

I’ve just recently started to get into long range and precision shooting. Spent a lot of time trying to learn about external ballistics, gear, etc. This book is a great introduction to the mysterious subject of wind. I really like the way he divided it into a Science and and Art section. A very worthwhile read. Videos and summary of ballistic calculators are nice also.