First off since you have the master model it has the remote display or face feature. Assuming your within cord reach of the chrony/bench the display should be out of harms way. As for the unit itself I believe chronymentions the tip: of marking the rods for the sky screens at 4 - 6" above the "eyes" or sensors as a aim reference point. 4" is for open sites and 6" is for scoped...if you use both then mark both reference points with coloured tape to allocate your aim point for the particular situation.

As to your question, clear scotch tape or packing tape placed over the "eye" or sensor will keep debris from this area. However if that isn't your style to go taping up your new toy or building something, Chrony does sell a plastic protective guard for this purpose for 10 bucks.

The tip about a tripod with 2 legs to the rear is a good one, seen more than few tip over at the range after a stiff muzzle blast.

I set my chrony up approx. 15 feet from the bench for CF and ML.

* Noteif your wanting to chrony a shot load from the 12 gauge,may want to bring that in tighter!!!*

Enjoy