What is Bore Sighting?
Are you a shooter, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out? We’ve all been there. You meticulously mount that brand-new scope on your prized rifle, you head out to the range, you fire a few shots, and… they’re all over the place! Frustration mounts, ammunition burns, and your targets remain stubbornly unacquainted with your bullets. This initial struggle is a common one, but there’s a crucial step you can take to prevent it: bore sighting.
Bore sighting is an essential first step in the scope setup process. It’s the secret to saving you valuable time, a substantial amount of ammunition, and, most importantly, the frustration that often accompanies a new scope. This guide will equip you with a clear, step-by-step process to master bore sighting, setting you up for success on the range.
The benefits of taking the time to bore sight are significant. It can bring you significantly closer to achieving your zero in a much faster and more efficient manner. This means fewer adjustments, fewer wasted rounds, and a quicker path to hitting your intended targets.
So, let’s dive in and learn how to achieve accurate results right from the beginning.
In its simplest form, bore sighting means aligning your scope’s crosshairs with the existing bore (the hole drilled through the barrel of your rifle). It’s the process of getting the two aligned before you even fire a shot. Think of it as a pre-alignment step.
Why is this so important? When you mount a scope, it’s not always perfectly aligned with the barrel. Even the most meticulous mounting can leave a slight deviation. The scope may be slightly angled, or the mount itself might have some play. This misalignment means your first shots will likely be far off the mark. Bore sighting addresses this potential issue right from the start.
It’s crucial to understand the difference between bore sighting and zeroing. Bore sighting is the *initial* alignment; zeroing is the *final* process of adjusting your scope to consistently hit the point of aim at a specific distance. Bore sighting gets you *close*, zeroing gets you *precise*.
There are a couple of main methods for bore sighting: visual and laser. We will explore these options in detail later. Both aim to achieve the same goal: getting your scope aligned with your barrel.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before you start, gather all the necessary tools and equipment. Proper preparation is key for a smooth and successful bore sighting session. Here’s a comprehensive list:
Required Equipment
Your Rifle or Firearm with the Scope Mounted: Obviously, you need the firearm itself. Make sure it’s in good working order and that your scope is securely attached.
The Scope Itself: Make sure it’s properly mounted on the rifle before you begin. Check that your scope rings are correctly tightened and that the scope is level.
Optional Equipment
Bore Sighting Aids (Optional, but often helpful):
Visual Bore Sighting: This method relies on your own eyes.
Laser Bore Sighting: These devices project a laser dot down the barrel.
Solid and Stable Gun Rest: This is absolutely essential for a stable platform. A bench rest is ideal, but sandbags or a sturdy shooting rest will also work. Stability is critical for accurate results.
Allen Wrenches or Tools for Scope Mounting: Depending on your scope rings and mounting system, you’ll need the appropriate tools for adjustments and tightening.
Optional Gear for Improved Targeting:
Targets: A blank piece of paper will do, but a target with a grid or a clearly defined bullseye makes the process much easier.
Step-by-Step Visual Bore Sighting
Now, let’s get into the core of the process with the visual method. Follow these steps carefully to ensure you’re on the right track.
Safety First
Always, always, ensure the firearm is unloaded and safe. Check the chamber to make sure it’s empty. Remove the magazine (if applicable). Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
Stable Positioning
Place the rifle securely on your stable gun rest. Make sure the rest is positioned on a level surface. This eliminates movement and ensures your adjustments are accurate.
Accessing the Bore
For bolt-action rifles, this typically means removing the bolt. For other types of rifles, you might need to open the action. The goal is to provide a clear line of sight *down* the barrel.
Looking Through the Bore
Position yourself behind the rifle and carefully look *down* the bore (the barrel). You are essentially using the bore as a giant sight. Focus your eye on a distant target. Choose something with a distinct point, like a small dot or a clear cross-section of a defined object. The more detailed the target, the better.
Adjusting the Scope
Without moving the rifle, start adjusting the Scope: Using the appropriate dials on your scope, adjust the elevation and windage until the crosshairs are properly aligned with the center of that distant target you’ve picked.
Understanding the Turrets
Elevation turrets control the up/down movement of the crosshairs, while windage turrets control the left/right movement. Rotate the turrets slowly, and make small adjustments. Most scopes have clear markings or clicks that indicate the amount of adjustment.
Step-by-Step Guide: Using a Laser Bore Sight
If you’re using a laser bore sight, the process becomes even easier, although, if you are using an inferior model, you should also check the rifle to confirm the scope is mounted properly. Remember, safety is always paramount.
Safety First
Just like with visual bore sighting, you need to confirm that the firearm is unloaded and completely safe. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber.
Stable Support
Set up the rifle on your stable rest. Ensure it is positioned securely.
The Laser Bore Sight
Insert the appropriate laser bore sighter into the barrel. Some models come with a set of adapters to fit different calibers. Follow the instructions that are provided.
Activate the Laser
Turn on the laser bore sight (if applicable). It will project a laser dot.
Look Through the Scope
Carefully look through your scope and locate the laser dot on the target. The dot will appear on the target if the bore sighter is working correctly.
Align the Crosshairs
Use the elevation and windage turrets on your scope to adjust the crosshairs until they perfectly align with the laser dot. Focus on making small, precise movements to match the crosshairs with the dot.
Removing the Laser
After you have correctly sighted it in, turn off the laser bore sight, and carefully remove the laser and properly stow it.
Important Considerations and Potential Issues
Target Distance
A suggested bore-sighting distance might be between 25 and 50 yards. This offers a good balance between ease of alignment and the practical distances you will work with at the shooting range.
Parallax Adjustment
Many scopes have a parallax adjustment. If your scope has it, adjust the parallax setting to the same distance you’re using for bore sighting. This helps to reduce errors caused by the apparent movement of the crosshairs relative to the target.
Level Scope Mount
Make sure your scope is mounted level. A tilted scope can lead to inaccurate results. Use a leveling tool to confirm that your scope is perfectly aligned with the rifle.
Scope Mount and Ring Problems
The scope and mount must be secure and well-fitted, as this is a huge factor in performance.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Crosshairs Not Aligning Properly: Double-check your rifle’s rest. Ensure the crosshairs are centered in the scope. Review your turret adjustments.
Difficulty Seeing the Target Through the Bore: Make sure you have adequate lighting. Clear your glasses.
Scope Adjustments Not Responding: Make sure you are using the correct turrets. Check to make sure the turret caps are loosened (if applicable).
Limitations
Remember that bore sighting is not a substitute for zeroing. It provides a solid foundation, but final adjustments will be necessary at the range. Bore sighting gives you a starting point.
Zeroing Your Scope: The Next Step
After bore sighting is complete, the next crucial step is zeroing your scope. This involves firing live rounds at a known distance and making fine adjustments to achieve the desired point of impact.
The Zeroing Process: Fire a few three-shot groups. Observe where your shots are landing on the target. Adjust the elevation and windage turrets to move the point of impact closer to your desired zero. Repeat these steps until your shots consistently hit where you want them to.
Conclusion
Bore sighting is a fundamental skill that every shooter should master. By correctly following these steps, you can significantly reduce the time, ammunition, and frustration associated with scope setup. From saving precious ammunition to bringing you closer to accuracy, bore sighting is a solid tool to use.
Remember to always put safety first, handle firearms responsibly, and take your time.
If you want to further improve your shooting skills, or get more information about scope use, search for these topics and expand your knowledge.
