Gear review: Skan Pro1 Series 3 Diamond Chrono

An increasing number of airgun aficionados are appreciating the benefits of owning their own chronograph, and those benefits are many and varied. Allowing home analysis of a gun's performance with a variety of different pellets gives an insight into the suitability of particular ammunition, yet just as important is the legal aspect; being able to check and ensure that a gun's power level stays within the confines of the legal limit.

Informed Choice

If you've come to the conclusion that you need a chronograph, and I would strongly recommend their use, then with a host of models available, which is the best one to buy? The short answer is that many will do the job, but as someone who has owned a few, it's fair to say that many rely on decent lighting in order to function correctly. Too bright a day, or too dull, and the damn thing could well pack up altogether!

On test here is a model from Skan Electronics – the  Skan Pro 1 Series 3 Diamond Chronograph, 40th Anniversary Model, and I’m extremely impressed! I've been aware of this British manufacturer since the year dot, and the clue is in the name – any company that has passed a 40th anniversary, can definitely be described as 'well and truly established'. Yes, Skan has earned its reputation, from a concept way back in 1977, to its lofty position in the airgun market today.

Suffice to say, many police forces use their kit, along with plenty of airgun manufacturers, so they're clearly doing something right. Ease of use will be part of it, and a wide sensor beam and the use of infrared sensors bypasses the issues mentioned earlier. The Skan requires no special lighting, and is even immune to fluorescent lighting. Hallelujah!

Preparation

This Skan is mains operated, but it can work from two 9v batteries wired together (not supplied). There's also an upgraded computer version, with interface and enhanced diagnostics for an additional fee.  So, donning my safety glasses, the initial consideration was to set up some form of support to hold the gun level, in order to ensure that shots passed through the centre of the tube. I used a firm cushion to maintain the gun’s up and down level – the rest I can do by eye – but you might prefer a more rigid support/v block. As for the backstop, shooting into a padded target holder with steel sheets behind it, I was happy the workshop rig was fit for purpose.

In Operation

With the Skan's wires connected and the unit plugged in, the LCD first flashes a warning to keep the muzzle of the gun at least 10 inches away from the shoot tube. There are four control buttons on the side; press 'Yes' and the display will now show the self-check figure. This is a clever feature that sees the Skan actually check its own accuracy, which will come in at 99.5%, incidentally! 

Press 'Yes' again, and  'Continuous Mode' will now be displayed. This effectively means standard mode. At this point, we have the option of pressing 'No', and the display will switch to 'Storage Mode', allowing for the use of the 50-shot memory. 

Use the up and down arrows to switch between five memories  A,B,C, D or E. Shot values will be stored and here, all data is retained even after the chrono’ has been powered off. Either option takes the user to 'Pellet Weight' and this can be set precisely in the display, again with the arrows, up to 49.9 grains. Press ‘Yes’ to OK the weight, and it shows ready to fire.

The basic principle of this type of chrono’  for those unfamiliar, is as follows: The  pellet passes over the first sensor and starts the clock, then stops the clock at the second sensor. Speed of the projectile is therefore known. Each shot shows as velocity in fps, and also energy in ft.lbs. As for robustness, the front is rubber armoured, and I have it on good authority from Skan that the polycarbonate material utilised for the shoot tube, should withstand most direct hits. 

Verdict

In use, the Pro1 Series 3 can't fail to impress, and a combination of easy operation and more complicated features available if required, means that it should satisfy a wide range of enthusiasts. Skan does indeed have an impressive portfolio, and with a two-year guarantee to factor into the equation, I came to the conclusion whilst testing this product, that adding the Pro 1 Series 3 Diamond to my personal range set-up, was something of a no-brainer. Need I say more?

Prices and contact

Skan Pro 1 Series 3 Diamond Chronograph as shown: £225 inc p&p (UK)
Skan Pro 1 Series 3 Diamond Chronograph c/w USB interface & Software: £349 inc P&P(UK) 
Airsoft versions available
Visit: www.skanar.co.uk
Tel: 01144 701021/07974611638