Abstract: An aiming system provides precision aiming assistance to a user based on the availability of a windage variable that is used in the computation of a windage hold-off. In an exemplary embodiment, the aiming system comprises a processing module, a wind-reading scope, and a windage compensation table comprising tabulated windage variables. In one or more other embodiments, the aiming system further comprises a security module, which may be used to store the windage compensation table in electronic form, store an authorization code, or otherwise serve as an enabling device for operation of the aiming system. Regardless, unless a valid windage variable as obtained from the windage compensation table is made available to the processing module, the aiming system does not compute a precision hold-off. If the windage variable is available, along with any other needed parameter, such as target range and wind speed, the processing module computes the hold-off value.

Abstract: A scope for use on a long-range firearm comprises a pulse train of light that moves across the field of view of the scope. A shooter may synchronize the pulse train of light to the speed with which a mirage image moves across the field of view to estimate a wind speed at a target location.

Abstract: A gravity drop hammer apparatus for mounting on the bucket attachment mechanism of a skid loader, in which at least a distal portion of the hammer apparatus is capable of dropping, under forces of gravity, from a raised position toward an impact position upon release by an operator of the skid loader, the hammer apparatus allowing for variable impact at distal locations from the skid loader. The gravity drop hammer apparatus comprises a hammer member, a mounting plate member which is pivotally attached to the hammer member for attaching the hammer member to the bucket attachment mechanism of the skid loader, and a releasable latching assembly for latching the hammer member to the mounting plate member prior to pivotally raising the hammer member to its raised position. Upon release of the releasable latching assembly, the hammer member is allowed to fall, under the forces of gravity, from the raised position to the impact position.