Bore sighting your rifle scope using a laser boresighter is a crucial first step before heading to the range. It significantly reduces the time and ammunition needed for zeroing your scope, saving you money and frustration. This guide will walk you through the process accurately and safely.
What is Bore Sighting?
Bore sighting is the process of aligning your rifle scope's crosshairs with the barrel's bore. This initial alignment ensures your shots land near the target, greatly reducing the adjustments required during zeroing at the range. Using a laser boresighter makes this process remarkably simple and precise.
Equipment You'll Need
- Laser Boresighter: This device fits into the barrel of your firearm and projects a laser beam, allowing you to align your scope. Choose a boresighter specifically designed for your rifle's caliber.
- Rifle: Make sure your rifle is unloaded and cleared of any ammunition. Safety is paramount.
- Rifle Scope: The scope you intend to zero.
- Target: A suitable target placed at a safe distance (at least 10-25 yards, but further is better).
- Gun Vice or Rest (Optional but Recommended): This helps to stabilize your rifle and ensures precise alignment.
Step-by-Step Bore Sighting Instructions
1. Safety First!
- Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded. Double-check that your rifle is unloaded and the chamber is empty.
- Wear eye protection. Even though a laser boresighter is relatively low-powered, it's still important to protect your eyes.
2. Prepare the Rifle
- Securely place your rifle in a gun vice or rest. This will ensure stability and prevent movement during the bore sighting process.
- Install the Laser Boresighter: Carefully insert the laser boresighter into the barrel of your rifle. Make sure it's firmly seated to prevent movement.
3. Set Up Your Target
- Place your target at a safe distance, ideally 25 yards or more. The further the distance, the more accurate your alignment will be.
4. Align the Laser
- Turn on the laser boresighter. Observe the laser beam's point of impact on your target.
- Adjust the Scope: Look through your rifle scope and adjust the windage and elevation turrets until the crosshairs are centered on the laser dot on the target. Take your time and make small adjustments.
5. Verify Alignment
- Once the laser dot and crosshairs are aligned, carefully remove the boresighter.
- Double-check your alignment: Reaim your rifle at the target and confirm that your crosshairs are still centered on the previous point of impact. If not, repeat steps 4 and 5 until the alignment is precise.
6. Proceed to the Range
- Once you've completed the bore sighting, you're ready to head to the range for the final zeroing process. Remember that bore sighting only provides a rough alignment. Fine-tuning is still necessary at the range.
Tips for Accurate Bore Sighting
- Use a stable rest: A solid rest prevents rifle movement and ensures accurate alignment.
- Take your time: Rushing the process can lead to inaccuracies.
- Make small adjustments: Adjust the scope turrets in small increments to avoid overcorrection.
- Repeat the process: If you're unsure about the alignment, repeat the entire process to confirm accuracy.
- Understand your scope's adjustments: Familiarize yourself with how your scope's windage and elevation turrets work before you begin.
Conclusion
Bore sighting your rifle scope with a laser boresighter is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your shooting experience. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can ensure your scope is properly aligned, saving time and ammunition at the range. Remember to always practice safe gun handling procedures.
