How to Bore Sight a Rifle Scope with a Laser: A Comprehensive Guide
Bore sighting your rifle scope with a laser is a crucial step to ensure accurate shooting. Even with a high-quality riflescope, a lack of proper bore sighting can cause you to miss your intended target. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to bore sight a rifle scope with a laser.
Why Laser Bore Sighting
Laser bore sighting technology has revolutionized the traditional method of bore sighting rifles. Traditional bore sighting can be time-consuming, inconsistent, and often inaccurate due to human error. Modern laser bore sighting tools remove these limitations, allowing hunters and shooters to achieve near-perfect alignment in the comfort of their own workspace.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- A laser bore sighting tool (compatible with your rifle’s caliber)
- A rifle scope capable of being adjusted ( parallax-free or zero-stops)
- A friend or spotting scope (recommended)
- A solid rear rest or shooting rest (optional)
Pre-Cleaning and Preparation
Pre-cleaning your rifle’s bore is essential for two reasons:
- To ensure a clear line-of-sight for the bore sighting process
- To prevent any residue build-up that could interfere with the laser’s signal reception
Step 1: Attach the Laser Sensor
Attach the laser bore sighting tool to your barrel, ensuring it’s level and securely fastened using the provided adapter. Rotate the sensor until the bright spot is centered within the laser’s viewable cone. Make sure you have a clear viewable cone to ensure proper measurement.
Step 2: Zero the Red Dot
Using your dot sight or aiming light adjust the red dot until its center is aligned with the bright spot on the opposite side of the scope turret. This will eliminate any parallax and alignment errors.
Step 3: Zero in the Scope
Move up to the scope’s top turret and adjust it counter-clockwise until the outermost aiming point on your scope’s reticle just barely covers the brightness peak of the spot on the opposite side (centered within the parallax-free zone).
Please note that some modern hunting rifles may have specialized locking mechanisms for the top turrets. Consult your owners’ manual for specific lock-out procedures.
Verifying the Zero
Verify the zero by checking multiple points on the aiming plan to ensure the bright dot is aligned with the proper adjustment marks. Make adjustment marks on the turrets for future reference. Make sure to log both the windage and elevation adjustments
Best Practise for Laser Bore Sighting
- Keep the bore axis straight: Ensure your sight line is parallel to your rifle’s bore for effective bore sighting.
- Maintain the factory-to- factory alignment: Store your rifle in its prescribed position to prevent excessive mechanical stress.
- Perform regular maintenance: Wipe down your laser to prevent debris accumulation.
| Calibrated Scope | Laser Type (Wavelength) | Scope Parallax (FOV) | Laser Output Strength (mW) | Effective Range (yd/l) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H&H 10×40 | 532-nm (green) 1.5-22 mW | 72′ @ 10Yd | 20mA @ 1% eff | 100Y-300Y | |
| Primary Arms 4-12×44 | 880-nm (invisible-infrared) 30 nW | 22 ‘ @ 12yd, 4’ @ | 20mA @ -5 dBm | 100Y-900Y |
Post Operation Check
After completion:
- Ensure scopes’ adjustment marks are properly kept
- Inscribe a record of maintenance
- Consult for future reference
Conclusion
