Kestrel Ballistics Support Page
What Calibration and Tune-up services does Kestrel offer?
Every single Kestrel Meter and Kestrel DROP logger is factory tested to validate performance within specifications before it leaves our factory. We don’t rely on spot checks because we know you rely on your Kestrel to give you the accurate readings you need to stay safe, make decisions, and enjoy your activities. Each of our calibration standards is traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), ensuring the highest level of reliability. Our wind/airflow standard is actually calibrated in the NIST laser doppler wind tunnel as this is the only lab in the country that can provide the calibration accuracy we require.
NK offers three types of calibration services to meet your accuracy validation needs. Each of these calibration services can be conveniently ordered through our website, allowing you to cross “Get my Kestrel calibrated” off your to-do list whenever convenient. And, ordering your calibration online creates an order history you can refer to in future. But, if you prefer, you can always call or chat with us during business hours to order your calibration. For more in-depth information about each of the services described below, simply click through to the relevant ordering page.
NIST Calibration Services
NIST Calibration is our most in-depth calibration service. The Kestrel’s measurements are compared to our NIST-traceable standard at two points after an appropriate equilibration period. The NIST Calibration Report and Certificate will show as found and as left values, standard values, acceptable range, and deviation. It will also list the date, serial number and model of the unit, desired recalibration interval, and test technician’s name and signature. NIST Calibration services can be added on to any new Kestrel purchase for customers who require it, or you may return your Kestrel to us at any time after purchase to validate its performance in detail. Please visit our Kestrel Calibration product for more information.
Factory Calibration Services
For Factory Calibration we repeat the tests performed on your unit when it was manufactured and provide a renewed Sensor Calibration Certificate confirming performance within specification, the serial number of the unit, and the signature of the testing agent. Please note that if you need more than one Factory Calibration, Tune-Ups offer a better value! Please visit our Kestrel Calibration product for more information.
Tune-Up Services
Tune-Ups include Factory Calibrations of all sensors on your unit as well as a new impeller, new battery, functional checks, cleaning and leak testing. Tune-Ups are priced at a flat $75 per unit so offer a great value if you need more than one Factory Calibration or just want to ensure your Kestrel is fully tested.
Note on Sensor Correction: If needed and available for the sensor in question, we will also restore your unit’s performance to specification by either replacing the impeller or correcting the sensor. Although not correctable, in our experience, both the temperature sensor (ambient and globe) and newer humidity sensor in the DROP and Kestrel 5 Series have proven extremely stable in performance. Every Kestrel is guaranteed to perform within specification, including the specified drift of the sensor in question, for Five Years from the date of manufacture or documented date of first customer purchase. If your Kestrel is under warranty and does not meet this standard under test, it will be repaired or replaced as covered under the terms of our Limited Warranty. If your Kestrel has an unrepairable problem and is no longer under warranty, you have the option of trading it in for a new or upgraded model under our Kestrel Trade-in, Trade-up Program. Please visit our Kestrel Tune-up product for more information.
Shipping Your Unit: After ordering a calibration or tune-up service online or via phone, please note your order number so you can add it to the outside of the box. Please pack your Kestrel securely and ship to:
Nielsen-Kellerman
21 Creek Circle
Boothwyn, PA 19061
Attn: ORDER####
You will also receive an email confirming these instructions. It is most important that we have your Order Number so we can promptly match your unit with your service request. You can also print your order confirmation and add it to the box.
Questions or clarifications about our calibration services? Email