Kestrel Windmeter

I have been using Kestrel atmospheric measurement and ballistic computers for more than eight years and the 5700 Elite holds one of the guaranteed spaces in my everyday range bag. The company have now sought to bring some of the functionality seen there into a more compact package for the sportsman wanting simplified ballistics calculated to a limited maximum 875-yard (800m) ranges with a little less complication.

The 2700 measures wind speed, direction, temperature and pressure so you can enter a range to target from your rangefinder, set up a bearing to target and then allow the 2700 to calculate cross wind effect when pointed into the wind (at the firing position) to give you a ball park solution to dial into your scope. Temperature and atmospheric pressure are also figured in with a simple three button display controlling all functions for real-time use.

Make the Link

Setting up the Kestrel makes use of the LiNK Ballistics app available for phone and tablets. This sets up external ballistics with key measurements from your rifle like muzzle velocity, click values on the scope etc. before enabling Bluetooth transfer across to the 2700. When out shooting, you have no more need for the app/phone unless you want to make any changes and since many of us shoot to escape from the office, not having to drag your phone along or rely on connectivity in pressure situations is where Kestrel have always scored heavily over app-based ballistic solvers. And that is without the fact Kestrel measure atmospherics for you! G1 and G7 ballistic coefficients are held within the Applied Ballistics library for immediate access on your phone and these are regularly updated by AB.

Available in a tan colour, all is carried on a lanyard protected within a solid slip over cover to assure the five-year warranty on a product built to withstand Military Standard 810 drop tests, and IP-67 waterproof. Power is delivered from a single CR2032 battery under a coin slot in the rear of the case.

Conclusion

It’s good to see Kestrel catering for simpler needs with a correspondingly lower price and although once you have had to ultimate capability on an Elite unit, the 2700 is a breath of fresh air in terms of a simpler life for realistic hunting and varminting ranges, fewer complications to understand or distract you in the field. Simply having accurate elevation results displayed on its clear LCD screen with larger letters is enough for many but having approximate wind correction details can be invaluable.