TURRET CAP APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING AIMING POINT INFORMATION
The present invention relates to target acquisition and related devices, and more particularly to telescopic gunsights and associated equipment used to achieve shooting accuracy at, for example, close ranges, medium ranges and extreme ranges at stationary and moving targets comprising an elevation turret cap with markings for windage and rate of travel aiming point correction.
This Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/881,411 filed 1 Aug. 2019 hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to target acquisition and related devices, and more particularly to telescopic gunsights and associated equipment used to achieve shooting accuracy at, for example, close ranges, medium ranges and extreme ranges at stationary and moving targets comprising an elevation turret cap with markings for windage and rate of travel aiming point correction.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONAll shooters, whether they are police officers, soldiers, Olympic shooters, sportswomen and sportsmen, hunters, plinkers or weekend enthusiasts have one common goal: hitting their target accurately and consistently. Accuracy and consistency in shooting depend in part on the skill of the shooter and on the construction of the firearm and projectile. At long ranges, the skill of the shooter and the consistency of the ammunition are often not enough to insure that the shooter will hit the target. As range increases, other factors can affect the flight of the bullet and the point of impact down range.
One of these factors is “bullet drop.” “Bullet drop” is caused by the influence of gravity on the moving bullet, and is characterized by a bullet path which curves toward earth over long ranges. Therefore to hit a target at long range, it is necessary to elevate the barrel of the weapon, and the aiming point, to adjust for bullet drop. Other factors, such as wind, Magnus effect (i.e., a lateral thrust exerted by wind on a rotating bullet whose axis is perpendicular to the wind direction), projectile design, projectile spin, Coriolis effect, and the idiosyncrasies of the weapon or projectile can change the projectile's path over long range. Such effects are generally referred to as “windage” effects. Therefore, for example, to hit a target at long range, it may be necessary to correct for windage by moving the barrel of the weapon to the left or the right to compensate for windage effects. Thus, for example, in order to hit a target at long range, the shooter must see the target, accurately estimate the range to the target, estimate the effect of bullet drop and windage effects on the projectile, and use this information to properly position the barrel of the firearm prior to squeezing the trigger.
Accordingly, the need exists for a target acquisition device having a reticle and a turret cap which permits a skilled shooter to rapidly and accurately identify the range to any target of known or estimable size, no matter how large or small, and to make fast and accurate adjustment for projectile drop and windage.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to target acquisition and related devices, and more particularly to telescopic gunsights and associated equipment used to achieve shooting accuracy at, for example, close ranges, medium ranges and long ranges at stationary and moving targets. Certain further and illustrative embodiments of the invention are described below. The present invention is not limited to these embodiments.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a target acquisition device elevation turret cap, comprising a) elevation markings and b) windage markings wherein the elevation markings and the windage markings align to account for the greater effect of windage at greater elevation. In certain embodiments, the elevation markings are milliradian (Mil) elevation markings. In other embodiments, the windage markings are milliradian (Mil) windage markings. In specific embodiments, elevation markings are minute of angle (MOA) elevation markings. In given embodiments, the windage markings are minute of angle (MOA) windage markings. In some embodiments, the windage markings correspond to miles per hour (mph) windage markings. In further embodiments, the windage markings correspond to kilometers per hour (kph) windage markings. In given embodiments, the elevation markings comprise units of any unit of distance, for example, inches, feet, yards, miles, centimeters, meters or kilometers. In certain embodiments, the windage markings comprise ratios of any unit of distance, for example, inches, feet, yards, miles, centimeters, meters or kilometers, to any unit of time, for example, milliseconds, seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months or years. In still further embodiments, the target acquisition elevation turret cap comprises a) milliradian (Mil) elevation markings, b) milliradian (Mil) windage markings, c) minute of angle (MOA) elevation markings and d) minute of angle (MOA) windage markings. It should be understood that the markings may provide any value that allows the user to assess windage correction. In some embodiments, the windage markings correspond to wind speed. In some embodiments, the windage markings correspond to range to target. In some embodiments, the indicia utilize a linear scale. In some embodiments, the indicia utilize a non-linear scale. In particular embodiments, adjusting the elevation turret cap aligns the elevation of the target acquisition device on the firearm.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a target acquisition device, comprising: a) a housing (that can be mounted, for example, in a fixed predetermined position relative to a firearm); b) an objective lens mounted in one end of the housing; c) an ocular lens mounted in the opposite end of the housing; d) an elevation turret cap, comprising 1) elevation markings, and 2) windage markings, wherein the elevation markings and the windage markings align to account for the greater effect of windage at greater elevation, and e) a reticle, comprising: 1) a first horizontal cross-hair, 2) a first vertical cross-hair, 3) a plurality of elevation markings on the first vertical cross-hair below the first horizontal cross-hair, and 4) a plurality of second vertical cross-hairs intersecting, contacting or positioned in proximity to the first horizontal cross-hair. In certain embodiments, the reticle comprises rangefinder markings. In other embodiments, the reticle further comprises unique markings for identification purposes on at least one of the plurality of secondary vertical cross-hairs. In given embodiments, the reticle is configured in a first focal plane within the housing. In other embodiments, the reticle is configured in the second focal plane. In specific embodiments, the reticle is configured in a combination of the first focal plane and the second focal plane. In further embodiments, the reticle is configured in a fixed power target acquisition device. In still further embodiments, the target acquisition device is configured for shooting at a range of less than 500 yards. In particular embodiments, the target acquisition device is configured for shooting at a range of greater than 500 yards. In given embodiments, the turret cap is configured for shooting at a windspeed of zero to 100 miles per hour (mph).
In some embodiments, the present invention provides method for aiming at a target, comprising a) adjusting the elevation turret cap of a target acquisition device and a windage turret of the target acquisition device affixed to a firearm such that a projectile strikes a zero point on a reticle of the target acquisition device at a specified distance, b) measuring or obtaining the range to a target at a second distance, c) adjusting the elevation turret cap such that the elevation of a projectile aimed at the zero point of the reticle is aligned with the elevation of the target at the second distance, d) measuring or obtaining the windspeed and/or rate of travel of the target, e) obtaining a value from markings on the elevation turret cap for the number of second vertical cross-hairs intersecting, contacting or in proximity to the first horizontal cross-hair, f) adjusting the windage hold of the firearm based on the value. In certain embodiments, the second vertical cross-hairs intersecting, contacting or positioned in proximity to the first horizontal cross-hair are evenly spaced at Mils or MOA unit divisions at, for example, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.5 Mils.
In some embodiments, the reticle further comprises one or more or each of: two or more evenly spaced second vertical cross-hairs on the first horizontal cross-hair; two or more evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs on the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair; two or more lead markings to the user's left of the two or more the evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs; and two or more lead markings to the user's right and/or left of the two or more evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs.
In some embodiments, the two or more lead markings to the user's left of the two or more evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs, and the two or more lead markings to the user's right of the two or more evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs are evenly spaced. In other embodiments, the distance between the two or more evenly spaced lead markings to the user's left of the two or more evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs, and the two or more evenly spaced lead markings to the user's right of the two or more evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs increases with the distance of the evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair (e.g., evenly spaced lead marking associated with second crosshair X are separated from each other by a distance Y and evenly spaced lead marking associated with a second crosshair Z below the second crosshair X are separated from each other by a distance greater than Y).
In some embodiments, a reticle comprises a gap at the intersection of any two crosshairs (e.g., a gap at the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair). In some embodiments, the gap comprises a marking centered within the gap. In further embodiments, a reticle comprises at least two gaps and a marking centered within at least one gap on the first vertical cross-hair above the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair wherein the marking indicates a range of 100 yards or 100 meters to a target.
In some embodiments, a reticle comprises two or more evenly spaced second vertical cross-hairs on the first horizontal cross-hair that contact the first horizontal cross-hair or intersect the first horizontal cross-hair at predetermined distances, for example, 0.1 Mil, 0.2 Mil, 0.4 Mil, etc. In further embodiments, the two or more evenly spaced second vertical cross-hairs on the first horizontal cross-hair alternate in length along the first horizontal cross-hair (e.g., alternate between such that a every other second vertical cross-hair or every other fifth vertical cross-hair is either long or short relative to its immediate neighbor).
In some embodiments, the lengths of the two or more evenly spaced second vertical cross-hairs on the first horizontal cross-hair, the distance of the evenly spaced second horizontal cross-hairs on the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair, and the distance of the two or more unevenly spaced aiming points on the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair are dimensioned in milliradians (Mils) or in minute of angle (MOA), although any desired unit of measure may be used. In particular embodiments, the lengths and the distances correspond to a predetermined dimension of a target at a predetermined range.
In some embodiments, at least one of the two or more second horizontal cross-hairs on said first vertical cross-hair above or below said first vertical cross-hair is an uninterrupted straight line. In other embodiments, at least one of the two or more second horizontal cross-hairs is an interrupted straight line (e.g., a line made of dashes, dots, or other features separated by spaces). In other embodiments, at least one interrupted second horizontal cross-hair comprises markings. In further embodiments, at least one interrupted second horizontal cross-hair comprises one or more lead markings. In still further embodiments, at least one the second horizontal cross-hair comprises an interrupted line and an uninterrupted line.
In some embodiments, two or more lead markings are selected from a group consisting of a solid dot, a hollow dot, a cross, an x, a line, a number, and a line comprising two or more numbers. In some embodiments, two or more lead markings are calibrated for the velocity of movement of a target, properties of a projectile, properties of a firearm, and/or properties of the environment. In certain embodiments, the properties of the environment comprise altitude, wind speed, wind direction, and wind angle.
In some embodiments, the first horizontal cross-hair is a line. In certain embodiments, the line is a straight line. In other embodiments, the straight line is an uninterrupted straight line. In particular embodiments, the first horizontal cross-hair has a predetermined thickness. In further embodiments, the predetermined thickness is a single thickness along the length of the first horizontal cross-hair.
In some embodiments, the first vertical cross-hair is a line. In certain embodiments, the line is a straight line. In other embodiments, the straight line is an uninterrupted straight line. In further embodiments, the first vertical cross-hair has a predetermined thickness. In still further embodiments, the predetermined thickness is a single thickness along the length of the first vertical cross-hair. In particular embodiments, the horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair physically cross at an intersection point.
In some embodiments, the at least one of the two or more second horizontal cross-hairs is a predetermined thickness. In certain embodiments, the predetermined thickness is a single thickness along the length of the at least one of the two or more second horizontal cross-hairs.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a target acquisition device (e.g., a riflescope), comprising a housing, an objective lens mounted in one end of the housing, an ocular lens mounted in the opposite end of the housing, and a reticle as described above or herein.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for shooting a target comprising: aiming a target acquisition device comprising a reticle as described above or herein; and firing the target acquisition device.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a reticle as described above or herein comprising: placing markings on a disc or wafer. In some embodiments, the markings are placed by etching, placements of wires, generation of illuminated elements, or other suitable approaches. In some embodiments, the position of the aiming point specific to a first projectile and the position of the aiming point specific to a second projectile are positioned on the reticle at distances above the first horizontal cross-hair selected such that at least one aiming point positioned on the first vertical cross-hair below the first horizontal cross-hair accurately direct the shooter to hit a target at a given distance (e.g., 400 yards) regardless of whether the aiming device is shot with the first or second projectiles. In some embodiments, two or more such aiming points are positioned on the first vertical cross-hair below the first horizontal cross-hair that correspond to distances (e.g., 400 yards, 500 yards, 600 yards, etc.) useful for either the first or second projectile. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a turret cap comprising placing markings on said turret cap by engraving, etching, printing, illuminate elements or other suitable approaches.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides ballistics software, calculators, or other computing devices comprising or utilizing information associated with a reticle or turret caps described above or herein. In some embodiments, the ballistics software, calculators, or other computing devices calculate an aiming solution for such reticle, display a reticle (e.g., an electronic display; in an eyepiece or other component of a riflescope, etc.), and/or project an aiming point on a reticle.
A better understanding of the invention and its advantages will be apparent from the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The present invention relates to target acquisition and related devices, and more particularly to telescopic gunsights and associated equipment used to achieve shooting accuracy at, for example, close ranges, medium ranges and extreme ranges at stationary and moving targets comprising an elevation turret cap with markings for windage and rate of travel aiming point correction.
In some embodiments, the elevation turret cap of a target acquisition device of the present invention performs two functions. In a first function, an elevation turret cap of the present invention enables a user to “zero” a firearm by adjusting (for example, by “dialing”) the elevation turret cap such that a target acquisition device is aligned with the ballistic pathway of a projectile from a firearm to strike a target a predetermined location on the target using a predetermined aiming point of a reticle at a predetermined distance between the shooter and the target i.e. the vertical “zero” aiming point of the reticle. After zeroing the target acquisition device and the firearm at a first known distance, the shooter determines a range to a second target. The shooter then adjusts the turret cap in Mils or MOA up or down in keeping with the distance to the second target. By adjusting the aiming point on a first vertical cross-hair up or down a specified distance in Mils or MOA depending on the relationship between the range to the second target and the range at which the target acquisition device and the firearm were zeroed, the aiming point to strike the target at the second distance is the same aiming point used to zero the target acquisition device and firearm. Similarly, a windage turret of a target acquisition device is adjusted so that a target acquisition device and firearm are aligned with the ballistic pathway of a projectile from a firearm to strike a target a predetermined location on the target using a predetermined aiming point of a reticle at a predetermined distance between the shooter and the target i.e. the horizontal “zero” aiming point of the reticle that accounts for the lateral effects of wind and target rate of travel on a projectile's ballistic pathway.
In a second function, an elevation turret cap of the present invention provides markings for the shooter's use in selecting a horizontal aiming point on a reticle that accounts for the greater effect of wind and target rate of travel the longer time the projectile must travel at a distance greater than the distance at which a target acquisition device and firearm were zeroed. The further away a target is from a shooter, the longer time a projectile must spend in travel, the greater will be the effect of constant wind speed or target rate of travel speed on the accuracy of the projectile. Accordingly, the marked turret caps of the present invention provide a shooter with the number of second vertical cross-hairs that are on, that contact or that intersect a first horizontal cross-hair that the shooter must hold the aiming point lateral to the elevation-adjusted zero point at a second distance, to account for the combined effects of wind speed/and or target speed of travel with the duration of projectile travel.
For example, using the elevation turret and turret cap of
A target at 300 yards requires 2 Mils of elevation.
2 Mils elevation aligns with 5 mph windage markings on the elevation turret cap. (See
A target at 600 yards requires 7 Mils of elevation.
7 Mils elevation aligns with 2.5 mph windage on the elevation turret cap. (See
A target at 383 yards requires 3 Mils of elevation.
3 Mils of elevation aligns with 4.5 mph windage on the elevation turret cap. (See
For example, using the elevation turret and turret cap of
In some embodiments, the present invention provides alternative combinations of turret cap markings and reticles. For example, in certain embodiments, reticles may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5 or more second vertical cross-hairs interposed between longer second vertical cross-hairs. In certain embodiments, the second vertical cross-hairs are evenly spaced. In particular embodiments, the second vertical cross-hairs are evenly spaced at 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 Mil or MOA or other even spacing. In specific embodiments, the second vertical cross-hairs are unevenly spaced. In particular embodiments, the second vertical cross-hairs are spaced in a combination of even and uneven spacing.
In some embodiments, the elevation and windage markings and alignments of the present invention are provided in a shooter's line of sight on an elevation turret cap. In other embodiments the elevation and windage markings and alignments of the present invention are provided in a display, for example, a projected display, a heads-up display, a goggle display, a video display, or a display shared with one or more spotters or other shooters. In particular embodiments, the elevation and windage markings and alignments of the present invention are displayed on a reticle, for example, a projected reticle in an analog or in a digital format.
In some embodiments, an elevation turret cap of the present invention is not physically in contact with a mechanism that adjusts the elevation of a target acquisition device. In certain embodiments, an elevation turret cap of the present invention comprising a) elevation markings and b) windage markings wherein the elevation markings and the windage markings align to account for the greater effect of windage at greater elevation, is secured on the elevation turret of a target acquisition device, but is not used to adjust elevation of the target acquisition device. In particular embodiments, the elevation turret cap is secured by tightening the elevation turret cap on screw threads of a turret.
In some embodiments, a range to a target is determined by direct measurement, for example, using a laser, radar, or other electromagnetic or photonic detection. In other embodiments, a range to a target is determined by range markings on a reticle or other optical device. In certain embodiments, a range to a target is provided by a spotter or by a map, for example, a physical or digital map. In specific embodiments, a range to a target is determined by global position system (GPS) or other positioning system.
In some embodiments, wind speed is determined by a shooter using a vane-based device. In other embodiments, wind speed is determined by satellite or other meteorologic assessment. In particular embodiments, target speed of travel is determined by laser, by radar, or by other electromagnetic or photonic detection.
In one embodiment, the present invention provides an elevation turret cap and a reticle for use in any target acquisition device, fixed power scope or a variable power telescopic gunsight, image amplification device, or other aiming device. In some embodiments, the reticle comprises a substantially transparent disc, although the present invention is not limited to the use of disc shaped reticles, or to substantially transparent reticles, or to electronically generated reticles. In some embodiments, the reticle has an optical center and an edge for mounting said reticle in a housing (e.g.,, between an objective lens and the ocular lens of a scope), one or more aiming points positioned on said reticle, wherein the aiming points are formed, for example, by a first vertical cross-hair intersecting a first horizontal cross-hair intersecting said first vertical cross-hair to form an upper right sector (e.g., quadrant), an upper left sector, a lower right sector, and a lower left sector or by one or more second horizontal cross-hairs or other markings on or near the first vertical cross-hair.
The cross-hairs may be of any length, any width, and may comprise contiguous lines or may have gaps (e.g., dashed or dotted lines). In some embodiments, the second horizontal and vertical cross-hairs comprise intersecting continuous lines. In other embodiments, the second horizontal and vertical cross-hairs comprise intersecting discontinuous lines. In further embodiments, the cross-hairs comprise a pillar connecting, for example, the cross-hair to the circumference of the reticle with a line of different thickness. In some embodiments, at least one intersecting cross-hair crosses beyond at least one other cross-hair. In other embodiments, at least one intersecting cross-hair contacts but does not cross at least one other cross-hair. In further embodiments, first and second cross-hairs comprise triangles, circles, squares, straight lines, curved lines, arcs, solid dots, hollow dots, numbers, letters, crosses, stars, solid shapes, hollow shapes, or shapes in silhouette in a linear or curvilinear orientation to one another.
In one embodiment, unique markings (e.g., numbers) identify at least some of the second cross-hairs or other markings appearing on the reticle. In a further embodiment, the first horizontal cross-hair intersects that first vertical cross-hair at the optical center of the reticle. In another embodiment, the first horizontal cross-hair intersects that first vertical cross-hair below the optical center of the reticle. In a further embodiment, the first horizontal cross-hair intersects the first vertical cross-hair above the optical center of the reticle. In a yet further embodiment, a plurality of second horizontal cross-hairs are evenly spaced at predetermined distances along the first vertical cross-hair. In another embodiment, at least some of the second horizontal cross-hairs are unevenly spaced at predetermined distances along the first vertical cross-hair. In a still further embodiment, two or more second vertical cross-hairs are evenly spaced at predetermined distances along at least some of the second horizontal cross-hairs. In another embodiment, at least some of the second vertical cross-hairs are unevenly spaced at predetermined distances along the first horizontal cross-hair. In yet another embodiment, the reticle additionally includes range-finding markings on the reticle. The range finding markings may be in one of the sectors formed by the first vertical and horizontal cross-hairs, or may be on the first vertical or horizontal cross-hairs, or on the second vertical or horizontal cross-hairs. In some embodiments, the first or second cross-hairs themselves are used as range-finder markings. Examples of crosshair styles and configurations that may be applied include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,869,530, 9,612,086, 9,574,850, 9,500,444, 9,459,07, 9,335,123, 9,255,771, 9,250,038, 9,068,794, 8,991,702, 8,966,806, 8,959,824, 8,905,307, 8,893,971,8,707,608, 8,656,630, 8,353,454, 8,230,635, 8,109,029, 7,946,048, 7,937,878, 7,856,750, 7,832,137, 7,712,225, 6,681,512, 6,516,699, 6,453,595, 6,032,374, and 5,920,995, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
In still further embodiments, the reticle is optionally illuminated for day use, for twilight use, for night use, for use in low or absent ambient light, or for use with or without night vision. In yet a further embodiment, illuminated dots at, for example, even or odd Mil Radian spacing are separately illuminated in the shooter's field of vision.
In a further embodiment, reticles are constructed from an optically transparent wafer or electronically generated disc having an optical center that coincides with a center of a field of vision when the wafer is mounted in a scope. The reticles of the present invention may be made of any suitable material. The reticles may have any suitable markings that permit use as described above and elsewhere herein. The markings may be generated by any means, including, but not limited to, engravings, etchings, projections, wires, digital or analog imaging, raised surfaces (e.g., made of any desired material), etc. The reticles may be used in any type of device where there is use for second or multiple aiming points. The reticles may be used in conjunction with one or more additional components that facilitate or expand use (e.g., ballistic calculators, devices that measure exterior factors, meteorological instruments, azimuth indicators, compasses, chronographs, distance ranging devices, etc.).
In one embodiment, the present invention provides an improved target acquisition device using the elevation turret caps and reticles of the present invention. In some embodiments, the target acquisition device has one or more of a housing, an objective lens mounted in one end of the housing, and an ocular lens mounted in the opposite end of the housing. In some embodiments, the target acquisition device is a fixed power telescopic gunsight, or a variable power telescopic gunsight. When optics are mounted in the housing to permit the power to be varied along a predetermined range, the reticle is most preferably mounted between the objective lens and the variable power optics, although all configurations are contemplated by the present invention. The reticle may be configured in a target acquisition device in any desired focal plane (e.g., first focal plane, second focal plane, or a combination of both), or incorporated into a fixed power telescopic gunsight. In a further embodiment, the reticles of the present invention are incorporated for use in, for example, electronic target acquisition and aiming devices. In some embodiments, the target acquisition device comprises an elevation turret and a windage turret. In other embodiments, the elevation turret and windage turret comprise turret caps.
While the reticles of the present invention find use in long-range target acquisition devices they can be used with equal effectiveness at close and medium ranges. In one embodiment, the reticles of the present invention are adapted for use in a mid-range telescopic gunsight, or close range telescopic gunsight, or other device.
In some embodiments, a ballistics calculator or ballistics software is used to assist a shooter in selecting an aiming point for firing a weapon. In some embodiments, the ballistics calculator is used to project an aiming point on the reticle. In some embodiments, the ballistics calculator is used to project, illuminate, or otherwise display one or more markings (e.g., crosshairs, aiming points, etc.) on a reticle. In some embodiments, the ballistics calculator receives or employs information regarding one or more of: external/environmental field conditions (e.g., date, time, temperature, relative humidity, target image resolution, barometric pressure, wind speed, wind direction, hemisphere, latitude, longitude, altitude), firearm information (e.g., rate and direction of barrel twist, internal barrel diameter, internal barrel caliber, and barrel length), projectile information (e.g., projectile weight, projectile diameter, projectile caliber, projectile cross-sectional density, one or more projectile ballistic coefficients, projectile configuration, propellant type, propellant amount, propellant potential force, primer, and muzzle velocity of the cartridge), target acquisition device and reticle information (e.g., type of reticle, power of magnification, first, second or fixed plane of function, distance between the target acquisition device and the barrel, the positional relation between the target acquisition device and the barrel, the range at which the telescopic gunsight was zeroed using a specific firearm and cartridge), information regarding the shooter (e.g., the shooter's visual acuity, visual idiosyncrasies, heart rate and rhythm, respiratory rate, blood oxygen saturation, muscle activity, brain wave activity, and number and positional coordinates of spotters assisting the shooter), and the relation between the shooter and target (e.g., the distance between the shooter and target, the speed and direction of movement of the target relative to the shooter, or shooter relative to the target (e.g., where the shooter is in a moving vehicle), and direction from true North), and the angle of the rifle barrel with respect to a line drawn perpendicularly to the force of gravity.
In some embodiments, the output of a ballistics program is selected to produce aiming point information for a specific target at a known range, or multiple targets at known or estimable ranges. In a further embodiment, the target acquisition device is a conventional telescopic gunsight comprising a reticle of the present invention in which the scope is adjusted to hit a target at range by rotating horizontal and vertical adjustment knobs a calculated number of “clicks.”
In some embodiments, the reticle is configured for use in day light illumination. In some embodiments, the reticle is configured for use in low light illumination.
In some embodiments, reticles of the present invention comprise a first horizontal cross-hair, a first vertical cross-hair that intersects said first horizontal cross-hair, and one or more or each of: two or more mil lines of graduated length on said first horizontal cross-hair, two or more mil lines of graduated length on said first vertical cross-hair, two or more offset mil lines subtending the gap between the third and the fourth mil lines on the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair to the left, to the right, and above the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair, two or more range markings along the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair, two or more wind markings to the left and to the right of the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair, two or more simultaneously visible second horizontal cross-hairs at predetermined distances on said first vertical cross-hair, and two or more simultaneously visible second vertical cross-hairs at predetermined distances on said simultaneously visible second horizontal cross-hairs, wherein an intersection of at least one of said two or more simultaneously visible second vertical cross-hairs and at least one of said two or more simultaneously visible second horizontal cross-hairs provides an aiming point.
In some embodiments, the two or more mil lines of graduated length on the first horizontal cross-hair and the two or more mil lines of graduated length on the first vertical cross-hair are graduated in length in a replicated pattern. In further embodiments, the two or more mil lines of graduated length on the first horizontal cross-hair and the two or more mil lines of graduated length on the first vertical cross-hair are successively 0.5 mils, 0.6 mils, 0.7 mils, 0.8 mils and 0.9 mils in length in a pattern that is replicated thereafter along the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair.
In some embodiments, the two or more offset mil lines subtending the gap between the third and the fourth mil lines on the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair to the left, to the right and above the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair are offset in a V-shape. In other embodiments, the two or more offset mil lines subtending the gap between the third and the fourth mil lines on the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair to the left, to the right and above the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair are successively spaced at 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8 and 3.9 mils.
In some embodiments, the two or more range markings along the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair comprise a gap. In other embodiments, the gap corresponds to a predetermined dimension of a target at a predetermined range. In further embodiments, the two or more range markings along the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair comprise an oval. In still further embodiments, the longest diameter of the oval corresponds to a predetermined dimension of a target at a predetermined range.
In some embodiments, the two or more wind markings to the left and to the right of the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair are selected from a group consisting of a dot, a cross, an uninterrupted line, an interrupted line, a number and a line comprising two or more numbers. In other embodiments, the two or more wind markings to the left and to the right of the first vertical cross-hair below the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair are calibrated for the velocity of a target, properties of a projectile, properties of a firearm, or properties of the environment. In further embodiments, the properties of the environment comprise density altitude, wind speed, wind direction, and wind angle. Further embodiments comprise velocity-of-a-target-markings above or below the first horizontal cross-hair. In some embodiments, the wind markings to the left and to the right of the first vertical cross-hair are arranged in vertically curvilinear lines.
In some embodiments, at least one of the two or more second horizontal cross-hairs is shorter in length than the first horizontal cross-hair. In still other embodiments, at least one of two or more second vertical cross-hairs on at least one second horizontal cross-hair is an uninterrupted straight line. In some embodiments, at least one of the two or more second vertical cross-hairs is a predetermined thickness. In some embodiments, the predetermined thickness is single thickness along the at least one of the two or more second vertical cross-hairs. In other embodiments, at least one of the two or more second vertical cross-hairs is shorter in length than the first vertical cross-hair. In some embodiments, a plurality of the two or more second vertical cross-hairs are evenly spaced. In certain embodiments, the two or more wind markings are evenly spaced on at least one of said two or more simultaneously visible second horizontal cross-hairs. In other embodiments, the two or more wind markings are evenly spaced at intervals that differ between at least two of said two or more simultaneously visible second horizontal cross-hairs. In still further embodiments, rangefinder markings and the wind markings are identified by numbers. Some embodiments comprise a zero aiming point at the intersection of the first vertical cross-hair and the first horizontal cross-hair. Certain embodiments comprise a zero aiming point above the intersection of the first horizontal cross-hair and the first vertical cross-hair. Other embodiments comprise at least one simultaneously visible straight line second horizontal cross-hair on the first vertical cross-hair above the first horizontal cross-hair.
As used herein, the term “firearm” refers to any device that propels an object or projectile, for example, in a controllable flat fire, line of sight, or line of departure, for example, handguns, pistols, rifles, shotgun slug guns, muzzleloader rifles, single shot rifles, semi-automatic rifles and fully automatic rifles of any caliber direction through any media. As used herein, the term “firearm” also refers to a remote, servo-controlled firearm wherein the firearm has auto-sensing of both position and directional barrel orientation. The shooter is able to position the firearm in one location, and move to a second location for target image acquisition and aiming. As used herein, the term “firearm” also refers to chain guns, belt-feed guns, machine guns, and Gatling guns. As used herein, the term firearm also refers to high elevation, and over-the-horizon, projectile propulsion devices, for example, artillery, mortars, canons, tank canons or rail guns of any caliber.
As used herein, the term “internal barrel caliber” refers to the diameter measured across the lands inside the bore, or the diameter of the projectile. As used herein, the term “internal barrel diameter” refers to a straight line passing through the center of a circle, sphere, etc. from one side to the other and the length of the line used in ballistics to describe the bore of the barrel.
As used herein, the term “cartridge” refers, for example, to a projectile comprising a primer, explosive propellant, a casing and a bullet, or, for example, to a hybrid projectile lacking a casing, or, for example, to a muzzle-loaded projectile, compressed gas or air-powered projectile, or magnetic attraction or repulsion projectile, etc. In one embodiment of the present invention, the projectile travels at subsonic speed. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the projectile travels at supersonic speed. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the shooter is able to shift between subsonic and supersonic projectiles without recalibration of the scope, with reference to range cards specific to the subsonic or supersonic projectile.
As used herein, the term “target acquisition device” refers to an apparatus used by the shooter to select, identify or monitor a target. The target acquisition device may rely on visual observation of the target, or, for example, on infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), radar, thermal, microwave, or magnetic imaging, radiation including X-ray, gamma ray, isotope and particle radiation, night vision, vibrational receptors including ultra-sound, sound pulse, sonar, seismic vibrations, magnetic resonance, gravitational receptors, broadcast frequencies including radio wave, television and cellular receptors, or other image of the target. The image of the target presented to the shooter by the target acquisition device may be unaltered, or it may be enhanced, for example, by magnification, amplification, subtraction, superimposition, filtration, stabilization, template matching, or other means finding use in the present invention. In some embodiments, the target image presented to the shooter by the target acquisition device is compared to a database of images stored, for example, on a medium that is readable by the ballistics calculator system of the present invention. In this fashion, the ballistics calculator system performs a match or no-match analysis of the target or targets. The target selected, identified or monitored by the target acquisition device may be within the line of sight of the shooter, or tangential to the sight of the shooter, or the shooter's line of sight may be obstructed while the target acquisition device presents a focused image of the target to the shooter. The image of the target acquired by the target acquisition device may be, for example, analog or digital, and shared, stored, archived, or transmitted within a network of one or more shooters and spotters by, for example, video, physical cable or wire, IR, radio wave, cellular connections, laser pulse, optical, 802.11b or other wireless transmission using, for example, protocols such as html, SML, SOAP, X.25, SNA, etc., Bluetooth™, Serial, USB or other suitable image distribution method.
As used herein, the term “lens” refers to an object by means of which light rays, thermal, sonar, infrared, ultraviolet, microwave or radiation of other wavelength is focused or otherwise projected to form an image. It is well known in the art to make lenses from either a single piece of glass or other optical material (such as transparent plastic) which has been conventionally ground and polished to focus light, or from two or more pieces of such material mounted together, for example, with optically transparent adhesive and the like to focus light. Accordingly, the term “lens” as used herein is intended to cover a lens constructed from a single piece of optical glass or other material, or multiple pieces of optical glass or other material (for example, an achromatic lens), or from more than one piece mounted together to focus light, or from other material capable of focusing light. Any lens technology now known or later developed finds use with the present invention. For example, any lens based on digital, hydrostatic, ionic, electronic, magnetic energy fields, component, composite, plasma, adoptive lens, or other related technologies may be used. Additionally, moveable or adjustable lenses may be used.
Reticles of the present invention are typically (but not necessarily) constructed using optical material, such as optical glass or plastic, or similar transparent material, and takes the form of a disc or wafer with substantially parallel sides. The reticle may, for example, be constructed from wire, spider web, nano-wires, an etching, or may be analog or digitally printed, or may be projected (for example, on a surface) by, for example, a mirror, video, holographic projection, or other suitable means on one or more wafers of material. In one embodiment, illuminated reticles are etched, with the etching filled in with a reflective material, for example, titanium oxide, that illuminates when a light or diode powered by, for example, a battery, chemical or photovoltaic source, is rheostatically switched on compensating for increasing (+) or decreasing (−) light intensity. In a further embodiment, the illuminated reticle is composed of two or more wafers, each with a different image, for example, one image for daylight viewing (that is, a first reticle), and one image for night viewing (that is, a second reticle). In a still further embodiment, if the shooter finds it undesirable to illuminate an entire reticle, since it might compromise optical night vision, the second reticle illuminates a reduced number of dots or lines. In yet another embodiment, the illuminated first and second reticles are provided in any color. In a further embodiment, the illuminated reticle of the shooter's aiming device is identical to one or more spotter target acquisition devices such that the spotting device independently illuminates one or both of the reticles.
In a further embodiment, the illuminated reticles of the present invention are used in, for example, low light or no light environments using rheostat-equipped, stereoscopic adaptive binoculars. With one eye, the shooter looks through a target acquisition device equipped with an aiming reticle of the present invention. With the opposite eye, the shooter observes the target using a night vision device, for example, the PVS 14 device. When the reticle and night vision device of the binocular are rheostatically illuminated, and the binocular images are properly aligned, the reticle of the target acquisition device is superimposed within the shooter's field of vision upon the shooter's image of the target, such that accurate shot placement can be made at any range in low light or no light surroundings.
In one embodiment, the reticle of the present invention is electronically projected on a viewing screen comprising the shooter's image of the target. As used herein, the term “image” refers to data representation of a physical object or space. In another embodiment, an electronic image receptor receives an image from lenses made of, for example, plastic, glass or other clear material. In a further embodiment, the electronic image receptor is permanently affixed to the target acquisition device. In a further embodiment, two or more electronic image receptors are simultaneously or sequentially available to the shooter for acquisition of different spectral images including, for example, IR, thermal, visible light, ultra-violet light (UV), radiation including X-ray, gamma ray, isotope and particle radiation, microwave, night vision, radar, vibrational receptors including ultra-sound, sound pulse, sonar, seismic vibrations, magnetic resonance, gravitational receptors, broadcast frequencies including radio wave, television and cellular receptors, etc. In an additional embodiment, the electronic image receptor is a replaceable component of the target acquisition device. In some embodiments, the reticle of the present invention is a thick or thin line-weight reticle.
In one embodiment, the electronic image is projected from the shooter's target image acquisition device to a ballistics calculator processing unit by, for example, physical cable, IR, Bluetooth™, radio wave, cellular connections, laser pulse, optical, 802.11b or other wireless transmission using, for example, protocols such as html, SML, SOAP, X.25, SNA, etc., and may be encrypted for security. The processing unit may be any sort of computer, for example, ready-built or custom-built, running an operating system. In further embodiments, manual data is input to the processing unit through voice recognition, touch screen, keyboard, buttons, knobs, mouse, pointer, joystick, or analog or digital devices. In a further embodiment, the reticle of the present invention is electronically projected on a viewing screen comprising one or more spotter's image of the target. In a still further embodiment, the electronic image of the spotter's target image acquisition device is projected to the ballistics calculator by, for example, cable, IR, Bluetooth™ or other wireless transmission. In a further embodiment, viewing screens of the ballistics calculator system comprising, for example, aiming points, ghost rings and targeting data are projected on one or more shooter's and one or more spotter's viewing screens. In some embodiments the visual display includes LCD, CRT, holographic images, direct corneal projection, large screen monitors, heads up display, and ocular brain stimulus. In other embodiments, the display is mounted, for example, on the scope, in portable head gear, on glasses, goggles, eye wear, mounted on the firearm, or in a portable display standing apart from the firearm.
In some embodiments, the shooter is able to use the processing unit of the ballistics calculator system to electronically select the color of the reticle or image, and, through electronic enhancement of the target image, for example, to defeat mirage, to increase or decrease the brightness and contrast of the reticle, to increase or decrease the brightness and contrast resolution of the target image, to stabilize the image, to match the image with an electronic library of stored images, to electronically amplify the target image through pixel replication or any other form of interpolation, to sharpen edge detection of the image, and to filter specific spectral elements of the image. In other embodiments, image types can be combined by the processing unit of a ballistic calculating system to assist in resolving images, for example, performing digital combinations of visible spectrum with thermal imaging, overlapping ultraviolet images with X-ray images, or combining images from an IR scope with night optics. The processing unit gathers all data on, for example, target size, angles and locations of spotters and shooters, and constructs an accurate position of the target in relation to the shooter. In a further embodiment, the ballistics calculator displays the electronic image observed by the shooter's or spotter's target image acquisition devices. In a further embodiment, after the firearm is discharged the targeting grid of the electronic target image acquisition device and ballistics calculator system is adjusted so that the point of impact is matched to the targeting grid, thereby establishing a rapid zero aiming point. In yet another embodiment, firearm and telescopic aiming device are zeroed electronically.
In one embodiment, the target acquisition device is not mounted on a firearm. An advantage of not having the target acquisition device image receptor be mounted on the scope or firearm is that much larger, more powerful and more sensitive imaging components can be deployed, making it easier to acquire better images without burdening the shooter with additional bulk and weight. In addition, a stand-apart image receptor is not exposed to recoil from the firearm. In the stand-apart ballistics calculating system shooters, spotters and other interested parties view the target via a target image acquisition device, for example, a thermal imaging device, that projects an image on a video monitor or glasses, goggles, an eye-piece, a contact lens, a headset, or on the retina of the viewer. In some embodiments, the image receptor is in a spotting scope beside the firearm. In another embodiment, the image receptor is mounted on a nearby firearm. In a further embodiment, the image receptor is at a separate location, or remote site. In a further embodiment, the image receptor is in an airborne vehicle, drone, or satellite. In a further embodiment, the image is available as previously stored information. In another embodiment, the one or more shooters use multiple or composite image receptors.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the reticle is projected on glasses, goggles, an eye-piece, a contact lens, a headset, or on the retina of the shooter. In another embodiment, the reticle is superimposed on any suitable image of the target, for example an optical image, a thermal image, an ultrasonic image, a sonar image, a radar image, a night vision image, a magnetic image, an infrared image, an enhanced image of any kind, or a holographic projected electronic image. In still further embodiment, the reticle is superimposed on the intended target and the aiming point is illuminated by a laser. Where the markings on a reticle are generated or moveable, in some embodiments, the markings may be modified to account for changes in the environment and/or desired function. For example, the position, size, spacing of cross-hairs, etc. may be automatically or manually adjusted to improve function.
In an additional embodiment, the reticle is provided with a circumscribing ring visible through the target acquisition device, to aid in centering the eye relative to the target acquisition device. This ring helps reduce shooting inaccuracy caused by the misalignment of the shooter's line of sight through the target acquisition device. The ring assures a repeatable check weld to the firearm that is beneficial to repeatable shooting. By providing a visual component to align the reticle within the target acquisition device, the shooter is able to produce more accurate and more repeatable results. In one embodiment, the reticle of the present invention further comprises a substantially transparent disc having an optical center and an edge for mounting said disc, and a ring positioned optically between said optical center and said edge, said ring spaced from said edge and circumscribing said optical center and one or more aiming points, whereby said ring can be visually centered in a field of view for aligning a line of sight through the target acquisition device. In some embodiments, the ring-equipped reticle allows the shooter to rapidly discriminate the ring in the target acquisition device's field of view. The shooter thereby naturally and subconsciously focuses on the center of the ring. In further embodiments, a central dot is used for finer or more precise targeting as time allows. As used herein, a “central dot” refers to any geometric shape, for example, a circle, a square, a cross, or a diamond. In some embodiments, the central dot is solid. In other embodiments, the central dot is hollow. In further embodiments, the central dot is indicated by interrupted lines.
In some embodiments, the reticles of the present invention comprise two or more rings. In further embodiments, at least one ring is within another ring. In still further embodiments, a circumscribing ring is differentially illuminated from at least one component of the reticle. In some embodiments, the ring diameter is suitable for use at a near, an intermediate or a distant target. More accurate results can be achieved if a shooter centers the reticle while looking through the target acquisition device. However, aligning the user's eye with the optical center of the target acquisition device is not always easy. The present invention can also be provided with a “ghost ring.” The ghost ring is a visible ring which has as its center the optical center of the scope, and which circumscribes the markings on the reticle. The ghost ring aids shooters by helping them align their sight with respect to the target acquisition device and reticle. By insuring that the ghost ring is centered within the field of view of the target acquisition device, the reticle will likewise be centered. In additional embodiments, the ring-equipped reticle gives the shooter the ability to rapidly acquire and engage targets at very close distances to plus or minus 300 yards. When a target is spotted, and time is of the essence, the central ring that encases all or part of the reticle gives the shooter the ability to quickly discriminate the object to be targeted. In some embodiments the ring is designed with a thick line, for example a line that subtends, or covers, 5 MOA at 100 yards. In other embodiments, a thinner line is employed compatible with, for example, specific target acquisition devices, further magnification powers, weapons of choice, or assigned missions. In some embodiments, the area subtended by the ring is selected depending on targeting and weapon requirements. In further embodiments, the area of the ring on an electronic reticle is selected by programming the ballistics calculator system.
In some embodiments, the ring is partitioned into 4 equal quadrants by horizontal and vertical cross-hairs. In other embodiments, the quadrants bounded by horizontal and vertical cross-hairs are unequal in area. In another embodiment, the ring is a geometric shape, for example an oval or diamond, positioned at the center of the optical field of view. In other embodiments, the ring is a geometric shape, for example an oval or a diamond, located at the point that the horizontal and vertical cross-hairs physically intersect. In specific embodiments, the ring may take any geometric shape for example, a circle, a rhombus, a diamond, a triangle, and the like. In still other embodiments, the ring is a geometric shape, for example an oval or a diamond, located at the point that interrupted horizontal and vertical cross-hairs intersect if linearly projected. In some embodiments, the geometric shape of the ring subtends 5 MOA at exactly 100 yards. In one embodiment, the geometric shape of the ring is continuous. In another embodiment, the geometric shape of the ring is interrupted (e.g., composed of dashed or dotted lines). In yet further embodiments, the size and shape of the ring is selected depending on the mission, weapon and type of ammunition.
To use a target acquisition device and reticle of the present invention, it is suggested that the shooter becomes familiar with the characteristics of the firearm, projectile and ammunition to be used. The target acquisition device and reticle can be calibrated to work with almost any type of firearm, for example, handguns, pistols, rifles, shotgun slug guns, muzzleloader rifles, single shot rifles, semi-automatic rifles and fully automatic rifles of any caliber, air rifles, air pistols, chain guns, belt-feed guns, machine guns, and Gatling guns, to high elevation or over the horizon projectile devices, artillery, mortars, or canons or rail guns of any caliber. The target acquisition device and reticle can be calibrated to work with any type of ammunition, for example, a projectile comprising a primer, powder, a casing and a bullet, a hybrid projectile lacking a casing, a muzzle-loaded projectile, gas or air-powered projectile, or magnetic projectile.
In some embodiments, reticles of the present invention comprise lead markings. In some embodiments, lead markings on the reticle are used to aid the shooter in determining the direction and rate of movement of the target in relation to the shooter in order to target a moving object. As used herein, “rate of movement” refer to a unit of distance traveled per unit time. Any unit of distance and any unit of time are suitable for indicating rate of movement. In some embodiments, units of distance include, for example, inches, feet, yards, miles, centimeters, meters, or kilometers. In some embodiments, units of time include, for example, milliseconds, seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months or years. Lead markings may occupy any position in relation to first and second vertical or horizontal cross-hairs. In some embodiments, lead markings occupy positions, for example, above a cross-hair, below a cross-hair, upon a cross-hair, between cross-hairs, or at the end of a cross-hair.
In one embodiment, “lead markings” or “wind markings” are evenly spaced. In other embodiments, lead markings are unevenly spaced. In further embodiments, lead markings are spaced according to average rates of movement. In some embodiments, lead markings are projected on the reticle by a ballistics calculator system. In other embodiments, projected lead markings are spaced on the reticle by a ballistics calculator system to account, for example, for the target's distance from the shooter, the target's direction of movement, the target's velocity of movement, the target's rate of acceleration, the reaction time of the shooter, or the lock time of the firearm.
As used herein, “lead markings” may take any shape or configuration. In some embodiments, lead markings may be, for example, triangles, circles, squares, straight lines, curved lines, arcs, dots, numbers, letters, crosses, stars, solid shapes, or shapes in silhouette. Lead markings may be any color, in some embodiments, for example, black, white, red or blue in color. In other embodiments lead markings serve more than one purpose serving, for example, as identification markings or range-finding markings as well as lead markings. In one embodiment, the lead markings are along at least one of the first cross-hairs. In another embodiment, the lead markings are along at least one of the second cross-hairs. In yet another embodiment, the lead markings are along at least one first cross-hair, and at least one second cross-hair. In a further embodiment, the plurality of lead markings comprises at least three lead markings. In further embodiments, the lead markings are second vertical cross-hairs on a first and/or second horizontal cross-hair. In one embodiment, lead markings are arcs along a first and/or second horizontal cross-hair. In another embodiment, lead markings are solid circles along a first and/or second horizontal cross-hair. In still another embodiment, lead markings are solid triangles along a first and/or second horizontal cross-hair.
In some embodiments, reticles of the present invention comprise refined mil markers, speed-shooting features, moving target holds, speed-shooting wind markings and holdover crosses. In some embodiments, reticles of the present invention provide refined mil markings at one or more locations on the reticle for measuring targets and milling distances. In further embodiments, these mil markers are arranged in clusters throughout the reticle, thereby providing fast intuitive measuring guides in 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0 mil increments. For example, in some embodiments, the reticles of the present invention provide clusters of refined mil-markers arranged in bird-flock shaped chevron patterns. These bird-flock chevrons allow refined milling of targets at 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 mils. In still further embodiments, such clusters are embedded within the reticle's first horizontal and first vertical cross-hair. In certain embodiments, three bird-flock clusters of refined mil markers are embedded into first horizontal and vertical cross-hairs of the present invention. Each cluster may be comprised of five 0.1 mil increments, enabling rapid measuring from 0.1 to 0.5 mils. However, the locations of the markings an appear on any desired location on the reticles, including above or below the first horizontal cross-hair and to the left and/or right of the first vertical cross-hair.
In some embodiments, the reticle's first horizontal and vertical cross-hairs are intersected by hash marks (i.e., hack marks or second vertical cross-hairs) at 1-mil increments. In further embodiments, the lengths of the hash marks lengthens from 0.5 mils, to 0.6, to 0.7, 0.8, and 0.9 mils in order. This pattern then repeats itself. In further embodiments, the repeating pattern of expanding lengths provides a mechanism for precisely measuring targets along the reticle's two first cross-hairs, but does not appear along the portion of the reticle's first vertical cross-hair contained within the aiming grid. In some embodiments, reticles of the present invention comprise first horizontal and vertical cross-hairs that are incremented with repeating patterns of hash marks. In further embodiments, the larger of the hash marks are spaced at 1.0 mil increments. In certain embodiments, the 1.0 mil increments are subdivided by a repeating pattern of smaller hash marks. The smaller repeating pattern provides fast milling at 0.2, 0.5, 0.8 and 1.0 mil increments in a pattern that repeats throughout the reticle's first horizontal and vertical cross-hairs above the 10.0 mil drop line. In some embodiments, the pattern does not occur within the aiming grid.
All publications and patents mentioned in the above specification are herein incorporated by reference. Various modifications and variations of the described compositions and methods of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. One skilled in the art will recognize at once that it would be possible to construct the present invention from a variety of materials and in a variety of different ways. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific further embodiments, it should be understood that the invention should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. While the further embodiments have been described in detail, and shown in the accompanying drawings, it will be evident that various further modification are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in marksmanship, computers or related fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.
Claims
1. A target acquisition device elevation turret cap, comprising:
- a) elevation markings; and
- b) windage markings;
- wherein said elevation markings and said windage markings align to account for the greater effect of windage at greater elevation.
2. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said elevation markings are milliradian (Mil) elevation markings.
3. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said windage markings are milliradian (Mil) windage markings.
4. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said elevation markings are minute of angle (MOA) elevation markings.
5. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said windage markings are minute of angle (MOA) windage markings.
6. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said windage markings correspond to miles per hour (mph) windage markings.
7. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said windage markings correspond to kilometers per hour (kph) windage markings.
8. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, comprising:
- a) milliradian (Mil) elevation markings;
- b) milliradian (Mil) windage markings;
- c) minute of angle (MOA) elevation markings; and
- d) minute of angle (MOA) windage markings.
9. The target acquisition device elevation turret cap of claim 1, wherein said elevation turret cap aligns the elevation of said target acquisition device.
10. A target acquisition device, comprising:
- a) a housing;
- b) an objective lens mounted in one end of said housing;
- c) an ocular lens mounted in the opposite end of said housing;
- d) and elevation turret;
- e) an elevation turret cap, comprising: 1) elevation markings; and 2) windage markings, wherein said elevation markings and said windage markings align to account for the greater effect of windage at greater elevation; and
- f) a reticle, comprising: 1) a first horizontal cross-hair; 2) a first vertical cross-hair; 3) a plurality of elevation markings on said first vertical cross-hair below said first horizontal cross-hair; and 4) a plurality of second vertical cross-hairs intersecting, contacting or near said first horizontal cross-hair.
11. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said reticle further comprises rangefinder markings.
12. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said reticle further comprises unique markings for identification purposes on at least one of said plurality of secondary vertical cross-hairs.
13. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said reticle is configured in a first focal plane.
14. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said reticle is configured in the second focal plane.
15. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said reticle is configured in a combination of the first focal plane and the second focal plane.
16. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said reticle is configured in a fixed power target acquisition device.
17. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said target acquisition device is configured for shooting at a range of less than 500 yards.
18. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said target acquisition device is configured for shooting at a range of greater than 500 yards.
19. The target acquisition device of claim 10, wherein said turret cap is configured for shooting at a windspeed of zero to 100 miles per hour (mph).
20. A method for shooting a target, comprising:
- a) adjusting the elevation turret cap of the target acquisition device of claim 1 and windage turret of said target acquisition device of claim 1 affixed to a firearm such that a projectile strikes a zero point on a reticle of said target acquisition device at a specified distance;
- b) measuring or obtaining the range to a target at a second distance;
- c) adjusting said elevation turret cap in Mils or MOA such that the elevation of a projectile aimed at the zero point of said reticle is aligned with the elevation of said target at said second distance;
- d) measuring or obtaining the windspeed and/or rate of travel of said target;
- e) aligning an elevation marking on said elevation turret cap with a corresponding windage speed marking on said elevation turret cap to obtain a value for the number of second vertical cross-hairs intersecting said first horizontal cross-hair; and
- f) adjusting the windage hold of the firearm thereby based on said value.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein said second vertical cross-hairs intersecting said first horizontal cross-hair are evenly spaced at 0.2 Mils.
22. The method of claim 20, wherein said elevation markings comprise units of inches, feet, yards, miles, centimeters or kilometers.
23. The method of claim 20, wherein said windage markings comprise ratios of units of distance in inches, feet, yards, miles, centimeters or kilometers to units of time in milliseconds, seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months or years.
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 31, 2020
Publication Date: Feb 4, 2021
Inventors: Todd Hodnett (Arthur City, TX), Klaus Johnson (Orofino, ID), Nathaniel P. Gallery (Lewiston, ID)
Application Number: 16/944,838
