Are Laser Bore Sighters Any Good? A Comprehensive Review
Are laser bore sighters worth the investment? The short answer is: it depends. While they aren't a replacement for proper zeroing at the range, laser bore sighters offer several advantages that can significantly improve your shooting experience and save you time and ammunition. This comprehensive review will delve into the pros, cons, and considerations to help you decide if a laser bore sighter is right for you.
What is a Laser Bore Sighter?
A laser bore sighter is a device that utilizes a small laser to project a red or green dot down the barrel of a firearm. This projected dot indicates the point of impact at a given distance, allowing you to roughly align your sights or scope before heading to the range. Think of it as a quick and dirty initial alignment tool.
Advantages of Using a Laser Bore Sighter:
- Significant Time Savings: Instead of spending countless rounds zeroing your weapon, a laser bore sighter lets you get close to zero quickly. This is particularly valuable when zeroing multiple weapons or scopes.
- Ammunition Conservation: By getting your sights close to zero before live fire, you'll drastically reduce the number of rounds needed for fine-tuning at the range.
- Convenience: Laser bore sighters are easy to use and require minimal setup. This makes them ideal for quick adjustments or initial sight alignment in the field (with appropriate safety precautions).
- Safety Enhancement (Indirectly): By reducing the number of rounds fired during the zeroing process, you inherently reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall safety.
- Cost-Effective (In the Long Run): While there's an initial investment, the savings in ammunition and range time can quickly offset the cost, especially for frequent shooters.
Disadvantages of Using a Laser Bore Sighter:
- Not a Replacement for Proper Zeroing: A laser bore sighter provides an approximation of point of impact. It does not account for factors like bullet drop, windage, or the specific characteristics of your ammunition. Always verify zeroing at the range.
- Potential for Inaccuracy: The accuracy of a laser bore sighter depends on several factors, including the quality of the device, the proper seating of the laser, and the condition of the firearm's bore. A dirty or damaged barrel can lead to inaccurate readings.
- Limited Applications: Some laser bore sighters may not be compatible with all firearms or calibers. Always check compatibility before purchasing.
- Potential for Bore Damage (if misused): Improper handling or use of the laser bore sighter could potentially damage the bore of your firearm. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Choosing the Right Laser Bore Sighter:
Several factors influence the choice of a laser bore sighter. Consider:
- Caliber Compatibility: Ensure the sighter is compatible with the calibers of your firearms.
- Laser Color: Green lasers are generally easier to see in various lighting conditions.
- Durability: Opt for a sighter constructed from durable materials to withstand the rigors of use.
- Ease of Use: Choose a sighter that is simple to operate and adjust.
Conclusion:
Laser bore sighters are valuable tools for shooters who want to save time, ammunition, and improve the overall efficiency of the zeroing process. However, it's crucial to remember that they are not a replacement for proper zeroing at the range. Used responsibly and in conjunction with range time, a laser bore sighter can be a beneficial addition to any shooter's toolkit. Treat it as a helpful aid, not a substitute for precision.
