From a practical application I’ve experienced in the midwest. Starting at shorter distance and working my way out was a lot easier than first attempting to make hits at 800 yards or further. At shorter distances I could get a better feel for environmental conditions that day. When I was shooting in Wy at 7200’ ASL was completely different than shooting at 450’ ASL in the midwest. At long range in the midwest it is almost impossible to see your misses where I shoot. You have to be spot on with your dope to get on target within a few shots.
I have a Friend who has been shooting long range quite a few years. I’ve seen him pull his rifle use his Laser to get the distance to target then use his Kestrel and phone app. He then proceeds to shoot at approximately 1000 yards and make a hit on his first or second shot. Granted he is shooting a precision 6.5-284 with a very high quality scope. He knows his equipment and he shoots a lot in the area but has traveled and assisted in teaching firearms classes.
I’m a hobbyist who likes to play. Really depends on your end goal.
I have a Friend who has been shooting long range quite a few years. I’ve seen him pull his rifle use his Laser to get the distance to target then use his Kestrel and phone app. He then proceeds to shoot at approximately 1000 yards and make a hit on his first or second shot. Granted he is shooting a precision 6.5-284 with a very high quality scope. He knows his equipment and he shoots a lot in the area but has traveled and assisted in teaching firearms classes.
I’m a hobbyist who likes to play. Really depends on your end goal.