Bore sighting is a preliminary alignment process used to bring a firearm's sights or optic reasonably close to the bore axis before final zeroing at the range. A bore sighter can simplify initial setup and help reduce the amount of live ammunition required to establish a final zero.

Laser Bore Sighters

Laser bore sighters project a visible reference point that can be compared with the firearm's sights or optic. They are commonly used during scope installation, red-dot setup, sight replacement, or when checking an existing sighting system before live-fire confirmation.

In-Chamber Laser Boresights

In-chamber bore sighters are shaped for a specific cartridge chamber and position the laser along the bore axis. These models require correct caliber and chamber compatibility, so the firearm's exact chambering should be confirmed before selecting a product.

Universal Bore Sighters & Arbors

Universal bore-sighting systems may use interchangeable arbors, adapters, or expanding components to fit multiple bore diameters. These systems can be convenient for users who maintain or sight in several firearms of different calibers.

Choosing the Right Bore Sighter

• Caliber Compatibility: For in-chamber designs, verify that the bore sighter matches the exact cartridge or compatible chamber dimensions listed by the manufacturer.
• Mounting Style: Compare in-chamber, muzzle-mounted, magnetic, arbor-based, and other available designs.
• Laser Visibility: Red and green lasers can differ in visibility depending on distance, ambient lighting, target surface, and product design.
• Firearm Type: Confirm that the device is appropriate for the rifle, pistol, shotgun, or other firearm being aligned.

Setting Up a Scope or Red Dot

A bore sighter can provide an initial reference when mounting or adjusting a rifle scope, red dot sight, prism optic, or other compatible aiming system. It is intended to help establish a starting point rather than replace live-fire confirmation.

Bore Sighting Is Not Final Zeroing

Bore sighting does not account for ammunition characteristics, trajectory, sight height, environmental conditions, or the exact point of impact of a particular firearm and load. Final sight adjustment should be confirmed with live ammunition at an appropriate range and distance.

Safe Bore-Sighting Setup

Follow the bore-sighter and firearm manufacturer instructions. When using a laser bore-sighting device, avoid direct eye exposure to the laser. Remove the bore-sighting device from the firearm before loading or live firing, and verify the firearm's condition before beginning range use.