Accurate zeroing is crucial for any AR-15 owner, ensuring your shots land where you intend. While a range day is essential for final adjustments, boresighting with a laser significantly reduces the time and ammunition needed. This guide explores AR-15 boresighting lasers, their benefits, and how to use them effectively.
What is an AR-15 Boresighting Laser?
An AR-15 boresighting laser is a tool designed to align your rifle's sights with the barrel's bore. It inserts into the barrel's chamber, projecting a laser beam that simulates the path of a bullet. By adjusting your sights to match the laser's point of impact, you create a much closer zeroing starting point at the range, drastically reducing the number of rounds required for precise adjustments. This translates to cost savings on ammunition and time spent on the range.
Types of AR-15 Boresighting Lasers
Several types of boresighting lasers cater to different needs and budgets:
1. Chamber-Inserted Lasers:
These lasers are inserted directly into the rifle's chamber. They're generally more accurate because they're positioned closer to the actual bullet path. They require an empty chamber, naturally.
2. Muzzle-Mounted Lasers:
These lasers attach to the muzzle of the barrel, offering an alternative method of boresighting. While convenient for some, they may provide slightly less accuracy than chamber-inserted lasers due to potential variations in mounting position.
Benefits of Using a Boresighting Laser for Your AR-15
Using a boresighting laser offers several significant advantages:
- Faster Zeroing: Substantially reduces the time needed to zero your rifle at the range.
- Ammunition Savings: Fewer rounds are needed for final adjustments, saving you money.
- Improved Accuracy: Helps achieve a more precise zero, resulting in better shot grouping.
- Safety: Reduces the chance of accidental discharges during the zeroing process by eliminating the need for live fire during initial alignment.
- Suitable for all skill levels: Simple to use for both beginners and experienced shooters.
How to Use an AR-15 Boresighting Laser
The specific instructions will vary slightly depending on the model of your laser, but the general process remains consistent:
- Safety First: Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded. Double-check that the chamber is empty and the safety is engaged.
- Insert the Laser: Carefully insert the chamber-inserted laser into the rifle's chamber. (For muzzle-mounted lasers, securely attach them to the muzzle.)
- Adjust your Sights: Point the rifle at a target (ideally, at a safe distance). Observe the laser's point of impact on the target. Adjust your sights (rear and front) until the laser point aligns with your desired point of aim.
- Test at the Range: While the boresighting laser provides a significant head start, always verify and refine the zero at the range using live ammunition.
Choosing the Right AR-15 Boresighting Laser
Several factors should guide your selection:
- Accuracy: Look for lasers with high precision and minimal divergence for optimal results.
- Durability: Choose a laser made from robust materials to withstand potential impacts and rough handling.
- Type (Chamber or Muzzle): Consider your preference and the trade-offs between accuracy and convenience.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life minimizes interruptions during use.
- Price: Balance cost with the features and quality you require.
Conclusion
An AR-15 boresighting laser is a valuable tool for any responsible AR-15 owner. By significantly reducing the time and ammunition needed for zeroing, it offers considerable advantages in terms of efficiency, cost savings, and safety. Remember that boresighting is a preliminary step, and range time with live ammunition remains essential for final zeroing confirmation and refinement. Always prioritize safe firearm handling practices.
