Understanding the Basics of Laser Boresighters
What is a Laser Boresighter?
At its core, a laser boresighter is a device designed to help you roughly align your scope’s crosshairs with the bore of your firearm before you even fire your first shot. It does this by emitting a laser beam that travels down the bore of the barrel. The laser dot is then projected onto a target, allowing you to adjust your scope’s turrets to align with that dot. This essentially provides a starting point, greatly reducing the amount of time and ammunition needed to get your scope “zeroed” – meaning, accurately adjusted to hit your desired point of impact. It’s an essential process when Using A Laser Boresighter.
The mechanics are relatively straightforward. The laser unit, which is typically battery-powered, houses a small laser emitter that emits a focused beam of light. The key is how this laser is placed in the firearm.
There are different forms that a laser boresighter can be. Chamber-style boresighters are designed to fit directly into the chamber of your firearm, effectively replacing the cartridge. Muzzle-style boresighters, on the other hand, attach to the muzzle of your barrel, often using adapters to accommodate different calibers. Both types serve the same purpose: to establish a common line of sight between the barrel and the scope.
Another important distinction is between universal and caliber-specific laser boresighters. Universal models often come with a set of adapters to fit a range of calibers. Caliber-specific boresighters are designed for a particular cartridge and are thus more precise, but you’ll need a different one for each caliber you own. The choice depends on your needs and the variety of firearms in your collection, but the goal is consistent, regardless.
Why Use a Laser Boresighter?
Why bother with a laser boresighter? There are several compelling reasons to incorporate this tool into your shooting setup. When Using A Laser Boresighter, the benefits are considerable.
One of the most significant advantages is the time saved. Sighting in a scope traditionally involves firing a series of shots, making adjustments to your scope, firing again, and repeating the process. It can be a lengthy and often frustrating process, potentially consuming a significant portion of your range time. With a laser boresighter, you can get your scope “on paper” in a matter of minutes. Instead of spending hours making minute adjustments, you can start with a significantly closer approximation, allowing you to spend more time actually enjoying the shooting experience.
Beyond time, Using A Laser Boresighter is a major ammunition saver. Every shot you fire while sighting in costs money. Depending on the caliber and the current price of ammunition, the cost can add up quickly. By using a boresighter to get you closer to your target from the get-go, you will reduce the number of rounds needed to achieve a proper zero. This, in turn, translates to significant savings, especially if you’re a frequent shooter.
Furthermore, laser boresighters are incredibly beginner-friendly. The process is relatively simple to understand and execute, removing much of the guesswork often associated with sighting in a scope. For new shooters, the learning curve is significantly reduced, allowing them to focus on improving their shooting skills rather than struggling with complex scope adjustments. The simplicity of the process makes Using A Laser Boresighter a great introduction to the world of optics for new gun owners.
Another advantage is the convenience. You can often perform the initial boresighting step at home, eliminating the need to travel to the range just to get your scope roughly aligned. This is particularly helpful if you are mounting a new scope or making significant adjustments to an existing one. It provides the ability to reduce the time and costs of a shooting day.
Acknowledging the Limitations of Laser Boresighters
While laser boresighters are a fantastic tool, it’s important to acknowledge their limitations. It’s vital to approach this method with a realistic perspective, knowing the process is about a good starting point and not perfection. When Using A Laser Boresighter, it is not a substitute for proper range zeroing.
A laser boresighter is designed to get you on paper, meaning your shots will land on the target, ideally close to your desired point of impact. However, because of slight variations in the manufacturing of firearms, scopes, and the boresighter itself, the initial alignment is just an approximation. You will almost certainly need to make fine adjustments at the shooting range to achieve a perfect zero.
The accuracy of the laser boresighter depends on several factors, including the quality of the device, the fit of the boresighter in your firearm, and the care you take in aligning the laser dot with the scope’s crosshairs. Lower-quality boresighters might not be as precise, so investing in a reputable brand is generally a good idea. Proper handling and maintenance is also required to ensure the longevity of the equipment.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Laser Boresighting
Safety is Paramount!
Before you even think about turning on the laser, safety must be your top priority. Never compromise on safety. First and foremost:
- Thoroughly and carefully clear your firearm. Visually and physically inspect the chamber and magazine (if applicable) to ensure that it is completely unloaded.
- Double-check that your firearm is unloaded. Do this before every step, for any reason. It’s never too redundant.
- Always wear appropriate eye protection. A stray reflection or an unexpected malfunction can pose a risk. Safety glasses are a must.
Preparing Your Firearm and Laser Boresighter
Once you’ve confirmed your firearm is completely safe, you can begin the preparation phase.
- Select the correct boresighter for your caliber. Double-check the markings on the boresighter and the caliber of your firearm to ensure compatibility. For chamber-style boresighters, ensure a snug fit. For muzzle-style boresighters, use the appropriate adapters if necessary.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for inserting the boresighter. With chamber-style models, it’s a simple matter of inserting the boresighter into the chamber. Muzzle-style models attach to the muzzle of your barrel. Ensure a secure fit without forcing anything.
- Securely mount your firearm. Ideally, you should place your firearm in a stable shooting rest, a vise, or some other secure platform. This will prevent movement and ensure accurate alignment of the laser and the scope.
Aligning the Laser with the Scope’s Reticle
This is where the magic happens.
- Turn on the laser boresighter. Most boresighters have a simple on/off switch. Make sure the laser is emitting a clear, visible dot.
- Aim the firearm at a target. The ideal target is a sheet of paper with a clear aiming point, such as a bullseye. A distance of twenty-five yards or meters is usually recommended for the initial alignment, as the laser dot is more easily visible. This allows for easier and more precise adjustments.
- Adjust the scope’s windage and elevation turrets to center the crosshairs on the laser dot that you see on the target. Take your time and make small, deliberate adjustments.
- Understand how to read the scope turrets. Scope turrets are typically marked in MOA (Minutes of Angle) or clicks. MOA is a unit of angle that translates to approximately 1 inch at 100 yards. Each click on the turret typically moves the point of impact a fraction of an inch at 100 yards (e.g., ¼ MOA or ⅛ MOA).
- Relate the adjustment to the target. For example, if the laser dot is to the left of your crosshairs, you will need to turn the windage turret in the direction marked “R” (right) or “Up” on the scope. The goal is to move the crosshairs until they are centered on the laser dot. The key is patience and small, incremental adjustments.
Confirming and Fine-Tuning at the Firing Range
Once you’ve aligned the crosshairs with the laser dot, it’s time to head to the shooting range.
- Fire a small group of shots at the target. Ideally, fire three to five rounds to establish a clear point of impact.
- Make final adjustments to your scope based on the impact point of your shots. If your shots are consistently hitting to the left, adjust the windage turret accordingly.
- Repeat the process, firing a group of shots, making adjustments, and firing another group of shots until your shots are hitting the desired point of impact.
Helpful Advice for Successful Laser Boresighting
Use a Stable Rest
A stable rest will prevent any accidental movement of the firearm, leading to more accurate alignment.
Work in Good Lighting
Ensure that you have sufficient light to see the laser dot and the crosshairs clearly. If using the boresighter outside, make sure you are in a shady spot so the dot is easier to see.
Consider the Zero Distance
The zero distance is the distance at which your scope is perfectly aligned. While 25 yards is a good starting point, you may want to zero your scope at a longer range, such as 100 yards or 200 yards.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush the process. It’s better to take your time and make careful adjustments than to rush and waste ammunition.
Verify the Zero with Different Ammunition
Different types of ammunition can have slightly different ballistics. Once you achieve a zero with one type of ammo, confirm the zero with the type of ammo you plan to use for shooting.
Addressing Common Challenges
The Laser Dot Won’t Align with the Scope.
- Make sure the boresighter is correctly seated. If you are using a chamber-style boresighter, ensure that it’s fully inserted into the chamber. If you are using a muzzle-style model, ensure it is properly attached and that there are no obstructions.
- Check the batteries. A weak battery can result in a dim or erratic laser dot. Replace the batteries if necessary.
- Verify the caliber compatibility. Make sure that you are using the correct boresighter or adapter for your firearm’s caliber.
Scope Adjustments Don’t Seem to be Working.
- Confirm that you are turning the correct turret. Some scopes have windage and elevation adjustments that are reversed. Double-check the markings on your scope to ensure you are using the correct turret.
- Make sure the turrets are not “locked.” Some scopes have locking turrets that must be unlocked before adjustments can be made.
Final Thoughts
Using a laser boresighter is a great way to start the process of zeroing your scope quickly and economically. It saves time, money, and effort, helping to get you to the range sooner with more confidence. Though it is not perfect, it allows a better start to sight in your scope.
Remember that proper, final adjustments at the range are essential for achieving a perfect zero. The laser boresighter is a valuable tool, but the range is where your precision is ultimately perfected.
Now that you understand the principles and techniques, go out and put them to the test. Practice makes perfect, and the more you use your laser boresighter, the more comfortable and proficient you will become. Happy shooting!
