What Is Bore Sighting?
Bore sighting is a crucial preliminary step in the process of sighting in a firearm. This technique helps align the firearm's barrel (bore) with its sights (optical or iron sights), ensuring that the bullet trajectory closely follows the line of sight. Bore sighting not only saves time and ammunition but also provides a safer and more efficient means of zeroing a rifle, especially at the range.
What is Bore Sighting?
Bore sighting is the process of aligning the bore (the inside of the barrel) of a firearm with its sights to ensure that the point of aim aligns with the point of impact. This technique involves adjusting the sights so that the weapon is roughly on target before fine-tuning at the range. Bore sighting can be done with various tools, including laser bore sighters, optical collimators, or manually through the barrel.
Methods of Bore Sighting
Manual Bore Sighting
Manual bore sighting is the simplest method, involving no additional tools. Here's how it's done:
- Secure the Firearm: Place the firearm on a stable surface or use a gun vise.
- Remove the Bolt: For bolt-action rifles, remove the bolt to have a clear view down the bore.
- Look Through the Bore: Align the barrel with a distant target (e.g., a target placed 25-50 yards away).
- Adjust the Sights: Without moving the rifle, adjust the sights or scope to align with the target seen through the bore.
Laser Bore Sighting
Laser bore sighting involves using a laser device inserted into the chamber or the muzzle. The laser projects a dot on the target, representing the bullet's point of impact.
- Insert the Laser Bore Sighter: Place the laser bore sighter into the chamber or attach it to the muzzle.
- Turn on the Laser: Activate the laser, which will project a dot on the target.
- Adjust the Sights: Align the sights or scope with the laser dot.
Optical Collimators
Optical collimators are another bore sighting tool, often referred to as "bore sighter kits." These devices fit into the muzzle and have a grid pattern or crosshair that appears in the scope.
- Attach the Collimator: Insert the collimator into the muzzle.
- Align the Crosshair: Look through the scope and adjust the sights to align with the collimator's crosshair or grid pattern.
Benefits of Bore Sighting
Saves Time and Ammunition
Bore sighting significantly reduces the amount of ammunition and time required to zero a rifle. By starting with a bore-sighted firearm, shooters can quickly move on to fine-tuning their sights with minimal shots.
Enhances Safety
By ensuring the firearm is roughly on target before live firing, bore sighting enhances safety. This precaution helps avoid errant shots that could pose a danger to bystanders or cause unintended damage.
Increases Accuracy
Bore sighting helps establish a baseline alignment, making the subsequent zeroing process more accurate. Properly bore-sighted firearms have a higher likelihood of consistent performance, improving overall shooting accuracy.
Final Thoughts On Bore Sighting
Bore sighting is a fundamental practice for any shooter looking to zero their firearm efficiently and accurately. Whether done manually, with a laser bore sighter, or using an optical collimator, bore sighting ensures that your firearm is ready for precise and safe shooting. By understanding and implementing bore sighting techniques, shooters can enhance their accuracy, save time and ammunition, and ensure a safer shooting experience.