Laser Bore Sight Instructions: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide provides comprehensive instructions on using a laser bore sight. It is designed to help shooters accurately and efficiently align their firearm’s sights, saving ammunition. Follow these steps for successful boresighting, from setup to final adjustments, ensuring safety throughout the process.
Understanding Laser Bore Sighting
Laser bore sighting is a method of pre-aligning the sights of a firearm with its barrel, significantly reducing the amount of live ammunition needed to achieve zero. It involves inserting a laser device, either into the chamber or muzzle, which projects a visible laser beam down the barrel.
The point where this laser beam strikes a target at a set distance is then used as a reference point to adjust the firearm’s scope or iron sights. This process gets the shooter “on paper” much faster than relying solely on live fire adjustments. Laser bore sighting is particularly useful when mounting new optics or verifying the alignment of existing sights. It offers a cost-effective way to conserve ammunition while enhancing accuracy in the initial stages of sighting in a firearm.
Understanding the principles of laser bore sighting can lead to a more efficient and less frustrating experience at the shooting range. It is important to remember that laser bore sighting is not a substitute for final zeroing with live ammunition; it is rather a tool to get close to the desired point of impact, saving time and money.
Benefits of Using a Laser Bore Sight
Using a laser bore sight offers several notable advantages for firearm enthusiasts. One of the primary benefits is ammunition conservation. By pre-aligning your sights, you significantly reduce the number of rounds needed to achieve zero, saving money and time at the range. This is especially valuable with today’s ammunition costs.
Increased efficiency is another key advantage. Laser bore sighting allows for quick and easy alignment of optics, without the need for immediate live fire. This is particularly useful when mounting a new scope or making adjustments in the field. It allows you to get on paper and close to your zero faster than relying solely on live fire adjustments. Furthermore, the use of a laser bore sight enhances accuracy. It provides a precise point of reference for making adjustments to your sights, leading to more accurate initial shots;
Laser bore sighting also reduces the potential for frustration. By starting with a pre-aligned sight, you minimize the number of adjustments required, making the zeroing process smoother and more enjoyable, and ultimately saving time, money, and ammunition.
Types of Laser Bore Sighters
Laser bore sighters come in several types, each designed for different firearms and user preferences. One common type is the chamber-inserted laser bore sight. These are shaped like cartridges and are inserted directly into the firearm’s chamber. They are caliber-specific, meaning you need a different bore sight for each caliber of firearm you own. While accurate, they require purchasing multiple units if you own various firearms.
Another type is the muzzle-inserted laser bore sight. These are inserted into the muzzle of the firearm and typically use an expanding arbor to fit various calibers. While more versatile than chamber-inserted models, their accuracy can sometimes be affected by the fit within the barrel.
Finally, there are magnetic bore sighters that attach to the muzzle using a magnet. These offer universal compatibility across different calibers and firearms with open muzzles. These are easy to use and self-centering, but the strength of the magnet is critical for reliable and accurate bore sighting.
Choosing the Right Laser Bore Sighter for Your Firearm
Selecting the appropriate laser bore sighter for your firearm is crucial for achieving accurate results. Firstly, consider the caliber of your firearm. Some bore sighters are caliber-specific, resembling cartridges, while others are universal, using expanding arbors to fit various barrel sizes. Ensure the bore sighter you choose is compatible with your firearm’s caliber to avoid any issues.
Next, evaluate the type of firearm you have. Rifles, shotguns, and pistols may require different types of bore sighters. For instance, a chamber-inserted bore sighter might be ideal for rifles, while a muzzle-inserted or magnetic bore sighter could be more suitable for handguns or firearms with varying barrel diameters. Remember that all laser bore sighters are not the same, and you need to ensure that the one that you get is the right size for your weapon.
Assess the quality of the laser bore sighter. Look for models made from durable materials with a bright, clear laser. A high-quality bore sighter will provide consistent and reliable performance, ensuring accurate alignment of your sights.
Setting Up for Laser Bore Sighting
Before starting the laser bore sighting process, proper setup is essential. First, ensure a safe environment. Handle your firearm responsibly and follow all safety precautions. Choose a well-ventilated area, free from obstructions, and always point the firearm in a safe direction. Remember, safety is paramount.
Next, prepare your target. Typically, the most common distance to bore sight a rifle is about 25 yards with 5-15 yards as a common range to bore sight a handgun. Set up your target at the appropriate distance, ensuring it is stable and clearly visible. A paper target with a defined center point is ideal for this purpose. Some really sunny days make it extremely difficult to see the laser dot, so consider your environment.
Secure your firearm in a stable rest or vise. This will minimize movement during the bore sighting process, allowing for more accurate adjustments. Ensure the firearm is level and properly supported to maintain consistent alignment. Double-check that the firearm is unloaded before proceeding.
Finally, gather all necessary tools, including your laser bore sight, any required adapters, and adjustment tools for your scope or sights. Having everything within reach will streamline the process and prevent unnecessary delays.
Laser Bore Sighting Procedure: Step-by-Step
Begin by inserting the laser bore sight into your firearm. For chamber-inserted models, it’s like loading a round. Ensure it fits snugly and securely. For muzzle-inserted types, gently insert the device into the end of the barrel. Activate the laser bore sight, projecting a visible laser dot onto your target.
Observe the laser dot on the target; Without moving the firearm, adjust your scope’s windage and elevation turrets until the crosshairs align with the laser dot. This step roughly aligns your scope with the bore. If the laser bore sighter was off-center, this will help correct that.
Make incremental adjustments, constantly checking the alignment between the laser dot and the crosshairs. Precision is key here. Remember to account for the height over bore of your scope. Some high quality bore sighters will allow you to see them clearly from your rifle scope up to a distance of 100 yards.
Confirm the alignment by gently rotating the bore sight within the chamber or muzzle, if possible. If the laser maintains a consistent point of impact, your initial bore sighting is complete. However, this is just a preliminary step; final zeroing at the range is crucial.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Laser dot not visible: Ensure the bore sight’s batteries are fresh and properly installed. Bright ambient light can also wash out the laser; try bore sighting in a shaded area. If the laser remains dim, the bore sight itself may be defective. Check the batteries first, as this is a common issue.
Inconsistent laser dot: A loose or improperly installed bore sight can cause the laser dot to wander. Re-seat the bore sight, ensuring a snug fit. Also, check for debris in the barrel that might interfere with the laser’s path. If you want to be more accurate, spin the boresight in the barrel and it will make a circle on the target. The center of that circle is closer to the actual axis of the bore.
Significant discrepancy between laser dot and scope: This often indicates a major misalignment issue. Double-check that you’ve selected the correct bore sight caliber for your firearm. Also, verify that the scope mounts are secure and properly aligned.
Bore sight won’t fit: Ensure you’re using the correct type of bore sight (chamber or muzzle) for your firearm. For chamber-inserted models, confirm that the caliber matches your firearm’s chambering.
Important Safety Precautions
Before handling any firearm or bore sight, ensure the firearm is unloaded and the action is open. Verify the chamber is empty and no ammunition is present. Never point the firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot, even during bore sighting.
Always wear appropriate eye protection when working with firearms and laser bore sights. Although the laser is low-powered, direct exposure to the beam can be harmful to the eyes. Avoid looking directly into the laser beam at any time.
Treat the bore sight as you would any other firearm accessory. Store it securely when not in use, and keep it out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals. Be aware that laser bore sighters will send the laser down range from the moment you power it up.
Never attempt to bore sight a firearm with live ammunition nearby. Keep all ammunition separate from the firearm and bore sight during the procedure to prevent accidental discharge. AFTER THE FIREARM IS BORESIGHTED, BE SURE TO REMOVE THE BORESIGHTER FROM THE GUN.
Final Zeroing at the Range
Laser bore sighting is a preliminary step; final zeroing must be done at the shooting range with live ammunition. After boresighting, the firearm should be close to zero, but fine-tuning is essential for optimal accuracy.
Set up targets at the desired zeroing distance, typically 25 yards for handguns and 100 yards for rifles. Use high-quality ammunition that matches the firearm’s caliber and intended use. Remember that after final sighting in is done, the firearm will be ready for use.
Begin by firing a group of three to five shots at the target. Analyze the group’s location and adjust the scope’s windage and elevation turrets accordingly. Make small adjustments and continue firing groups until the shots are consistently hitting the center of the target.
Consider environmental factors such as wind and temperature, which can affect bullet trajectory. Make adjustments as needed to compensate for these variables. This final zeroing process ensures the firearm is accurately sighted for real-world shooting conditions.
