Laser bore sighters have revolutionized firearm zeroing, offering a faster, safer, and often more convenient alternative to traditional methods. But how accurate are they, really? The answer, as with most things, isn't a simple yes or no. Accuracy depends on several factors, and understanding these is crucial to maximizing the effectiveness of your laser bore sighter.
Factors Affecting Laser Bore Sighter Accuracy
Several elements influence the precision of a laser bore sighter, impacting how closely the laser point reflects the actual bullet trajectory:
1. Quality of the Bore Sighter Itself:
- Manufacturing Tolerances: Like any precision instrument, variations in manufacturing can impact accuracy. Reputable brands generally maintain tighter tolerances, resulting in more consistent and reliable results. Cheap, poorly made bore sighters can introduce significant error.
- Laser Alignment: The critical factor is the precise alignment of the laser with the bore axis. Slight misalignments, even fractions of a degree, can lead to noticeable discrepancies at longer ranges. Look for bore sighters with robust construction and precise alignment mechanisms.
- Laser Power and Clarity: A strong, clear laser beam is essential for accurate sighting, especially in bright conditions. Weak or diffused beams make precise aiming more challenging.
2. Proper Use and Technique:
- Clean Bore: A dirty or obstructed barrel can deflect the laser beam, leading to inaccurate readings. Ensure your barrel is meticulously cleaned before using a laser bore sighter.
- Stable Platform: Using a stable rest or vice is crucial for consistent results. Any movement during the sighting process will introduce error.
- Correct Insertion: The bore sighter must be inserted straight and securely into the barrel to avoid misalignment. Forcing the sighter can damage either the sighter or the firearm.
- Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures, especially heat, can affect the accuracy of the laser.
3. Ammunition and Firearm Factors:
- Ammunition Type: Different ammunition types (e.g., different bullet weights, powder charges) can produce slightly different trajectories. The laser bore sighter only accounts for the bore axis; variations in the ammunition can introduce slight inaccuracies.
- Firearm Characteristics: The firearm's design and barrel characteristics (e.g., twist rate, barrel length) also play a role in bullet trajectory. The bore sighter provides a baseline, but these factors can cause minor deviations.
Accuracy Expectations: Close Enough, But Not Perfect
A high-quality laser bore sighter, used correctly, can generally get you within a few inches of zero at typical sighting-in distances (25-100 yards). This is sufficient for many shooters to quickly establish a baseline zero, saving time and ammunition. However, it's crucial to always follow up with live fire and fine-tune your sights using proper sighting-in techniques. The laser bore sighter should be considered a valuable tool for getting close, not a perfect replacement for live fire zeroing.
Conclusion: A Powerful Tool, Used Wisely
Laser bore sighters are incredibly useful tools for speeding up the zeroing process. However, understanding their limitations and using them correctly is paramount. While not perfect, a high-quality bore sighter used with proper technique can significantly improve the efficiency and convenience of firearm sighting-in. Remember, it's a starting point – always confirm and refine your zero with live fire.
