The Straight DOPE
The Straight DOPE
Chris Way
Discussing practical marksmanship, riflekraft, hunting and precision rifle with an emphasis on improving skill and knowledge.
Next Cycle, ammo tests, brackets, wind, and FaQ
How to evaluate factory ammunition using group size and consistencyThe importance of testing at different ranges (100 vs. 200 yards) and understanding mil measurementsHow reticle size correlates with target impact and shot placementAddressing common shooter errors, including natural point of aim shifts and fundamentalsThe significance of verifying data and understanding ballistic brackets for long-range shootingWhy blaming external factors like wind is often a mitigation of shooter errorsTips for practicing stability, follow-through, and position consistencyHow to interpret target groups and improve your shooting craft
Feb 3
21 min
Match 1 of season final prep and comp report.
I was sick with Flu so playing catchup. Match 1 was good.Got trophy in factory division, discuss tune up elements and match.TakeawaysPrecision and timing are crucial in competitive shooting.Equipment choices can significantly impact performance.Mental preparation is key to handling competition stress.Dynamic wind calls require practice and adaptability.RifleKraft offers valuable insights for shooters.PRS competitions demand quick transitions and adaptability.Understanding your equipment's limitations is essential.Consistent practice leads to improved performance.Adapting to different shooting conditions is vital.Effective time management can make or break a match.
Jan 25
32 min
Baseline Metrics Review and Next steps
TakeawaysBaseline metrics are crucial before starting training.System inherent accuracy helps in understanding shooting performance.Different ammunition can affect point of impact.Positional shooting requires familiarity and practice.Self-imposed stress can help identify shooting errors.Environmental factors influence ammunition performance.Preparation reduces stress during competitions.Understanding equipment is key to successful shooting.Shooting is a problem-solving game.Continuous assessment and adaptation are essential for improvement.
Dec 26, 2025
22 min
The Straight Dope : Metrics
Takeaways Practical application is crucial for skill development. Skill should be prioritized over expensive gear. Measuring performance variables helps identify areas for improvement. Technology can be misleading; always verify data. Continuous learning is essential in shooting. Tracking progress with data is key to improvement. Identifying strengths and weaknesses allows for targeted practice. Consistency across positions is vital for effective shooting. Real-world application of skills is necessary for success. Quality practice is more effective than sheer volume.
Dec 19, 2025
34 min
The Straight Dope Video Podcast intro
Keywordsshooting, competition, metrics, fundamentals, training, long range shooting, problem solving, rifle craft, performance, coachingSummaryIn this episode of The Straight Dope, Chris Way introduces the revamped podcast and shares his journey in the shooting community. He discusses the importance of measurable metrics in shooting performance, the discomfort of training, and the art of problem-solving in shooting. Chris outlines his goals for the upcoming competitions and emphasizes the significance of understanding fundamentals and metrics in improving shooting skills.TLDRThe Straight Dope has been revamped and is now available on multiple platforms.I aim to compete more in 2026 and share journey.Metrics are essential for tracking progress in shooting.Training is uncomfortable and requires effort to improve.Shooting is a thinking art that requires problem-solving skills.Understanding fundamentals is crucial for performance.Revamping The Straight Dope: A New EraThe Quest for the Perfect Circle in Shooting00:00 Introduction to The Straight Dope02:42 The Journey Back to Shooting05:33 Metrics and the Quest for Improvement08:37 Understanding Shooting Fundamentals11:12 The Importance of Competition14:00 The Role of Psychological Factors in Shooting16:57 Future Plans and Community Engagement
Dec 18, 2025
25 min
NRL Hunter Class, Hawkins 2.5"mount, and atmospherics
This is just a short update podcast but tomorrow there will be an awesome one coming and wanted to get you psyched. You wont want to miss.Atmospherics, Ballistic Calculators, What you need and why if you want to hit in a new location.
Feb 20, 2025
27 min
Live with Frank!!
I decided to share this because it's fun and cool and full of things I think worth sharing. Its a live chat but still entertaining...please thank Mile High Shooting for supporting this project and go to HideTV in order to have an account (its free) and see all the other cool shit going on.if you want to help support the podcast directly go to riflekraft.com and get a supporter sub.thanks
Feb 13, 2025
1 hr 18 min
NRL and field Playbook part 3
This is a multi part series because the recording was so long. In the sections I will cover everything I think you need to know, have, be able to do, and prepare for an event as well as training ideas, expectations, and timelines to get better in.EquipmentRiflesCalibersRangingEngagingStrategyWindDOPEBallisticsTrainingMoreIf you like consider a supporter subscription at riflekraft.comAlso make sure to thank MileHighShooting.com for helping make this project a reality.
Feb 7, 2025
39 min
NRL Hunter and field playbook part 2
This is a multi part series because the recording was so long. In the sections I will cover everything I think you need to know, have, be able to do, and prepare for an event as well as training ideas, expectations, and timelines to get better in.EquipmentRiflesCalibersRangingEngagingStrategyWindDOPEBallisticsTrainingMoreIf you like consider a supporter subscription at riflekraft.comAlso make sure to thank MileHighShooting.com for helping make this project a reality.
Feb 6, 2025
1 hr 2 min
ALL THINGS NRL and FIELD part 1
This is a multi part series because the recording was so long. In the sections I will cover everything I think you need to know, have, be able to do, and prepare for an event as well as training ideas, expectations, and timelines to get better in.EquipmentRiflesCalibersRangingEngagingStrategyWindDOPEBallisticsTrainingMoreIf you like consider a supporter subscription at riflekraft.comAlso make sure to thank MileHighShooting.com for helping make this project a reality.
Feb 5, 2025
52 min
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