Accurate shooting with your AR-15 starts long before you hit the range. Proper boresighting ensures your rifle is pointing where you intend, significantly reducing the time and ammunition spent zeroing in at the range. This guide will walk you through the process of boresighting your AR-15, explaining the necessary tools, steps, and safety precautions.
What is Boresighting?
Boresighting is a preliminary alignment process that verifies the barrel's bore (the inside of the barrel) is aligned with the sights or optic. It's a crucial first step in the zeroing process, ensuring your initial adjustments aren't drastically off-target. While boresighting doesn't replace proper zeroing at the range, it dramatically reduces the time and ammunition needed to achieve a precise zero.
Tools Needed for Boresighting an AR-15
You'll need a few essential tools to boresight your AR-15 effectively:
- AR-15 Boresight Tool: This is the most critical tool. These tools are designed to fit snugly into the barrel's chamber, offering a clear sightline through the bore. They come in various styles, some using laser technology and others employing a simpler alignment system. Choose a tool compatible with your AR-15's caliber.
- Target: A simple paper target will suffice. It's helpful to have a target at a known distance, ideally 25 yards.
- Measuring Tape: Accuracy is key. Using a measuring tape ensures you place the target at the appropriate distance.
- Safety Glasses/Eye Protection: Always wear eye protection when handling firearms.
Step-by-Step Boresighting Process
Safety First: Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded, even during boresighting. Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to fire (at the range, during zeroing).
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Prepare Your Rifle: Ensure your AR-15 is unloaded and clear. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine well to confirm no ammunition is present. If you have an optic mounted, make sure it's properly tightened.
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Secure the Boresight Tool: Carefully insert the boresight tool into the chamber of your AR-15. Ensure it's securely seated and aligned with the barrel.
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Set Up Your Target: Place your target at your chosen distance (25 yards is recommended).
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Align the Boresight: With the boresight tool in place, carefully aim your AR-15 at the target. Adjust your rifle's position until the boresight's laser or alignment device is centered on the target. This may require minor adjustments to your stock and stance.
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Mark Your Target: Once you have a consistent alignment, mark the point of impact on your target.
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Remove the Boresight Tool: Carefully remove the boresight tool from the chamber.
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Record Your Results: Note the point of impact and the distance to the target. This information will be crucial during the zeroing process at the range.
Moving to the Range: Zeroing Your AR-15
Boresighting provides a preliminary alignment; it’s not a replacement for proper zeroing. After boresighting, head to the range to fine-tune your sights or optic. Start with adjustments based on your boresighting results, making small incremental changes until you achieve your desired accuracy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a Damaged Boresight Tool: A damaged tool will provide inaccurate results. Ensure your boresight tool is in good condition.
- Incorrect Target Distance: Using an inaccurate distance will throw off your alignment and subsequent zeroing process.
- Ignoring Safety Procedures: Always prioritize safety. Treat your firearm with respect and follow all safety guidelines.
By following these steps, you can effectively boresight your AR-15, saving time and ammunition at the range. Remember, boresighting is just the first step towards achieving accurate shooting. Always practice safe firearm handling and enjoy the precision of your AR-15.
