Boresighting a red dot sight is a crucial step in ensuring accurate and reliable performance from your firearm. It's the initial process of aligning your optic with the barrel's bore, providing a close-to-perfect zeroing point before heading to the range. While many assume it's a complex procedure, boresighting can be easily accomplished with the right tools and understanding. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining what boresighting is, when it's necessary, and how to do it correctly.
What is Boresighting?
Boresighting is a preliminary alignment process that verifies the red dot sight's reticle is roughly centered with your firearm's barrel. It's not a substitute for proper zeroing at the range, which requires live fire to fine-tune the adjustment. Think of boresighting as a "rough zero," significantly reducing the time spent at the range making large adjustments. It gets you close enough to confidently begin zeroing in at the range rather than starting from a completely misaligned point.
When is Boresighting Necessary?
Boresighting is essential in several situations:
- New optic installation: After mounting a new red dot sight, boresighting ensures a close alignment before live fire.
- After major maintenance: If your firearm undergoes significant maintenance, such as a barrel replacement or major internal work, boresighting is crucial to re-establish the sight's alignment.
- After accidental impact: If your firearm or optic sustains a significant impact, boresighting helps check for any misalignment.
How to Boresight a Red Dot Sight
There are two primary methods for boresighting a red dot sight: using a boresighting tool or employing a DIY method.
Method 1: Using a Boresighting Tool
This is the most accurate and recommended method. Boresighting tools are specifically designed to fit into the barrel, providing a precise reference point for alignment.
Steps:
- Choose the correct boresighting tool: Ensure the tool is compatible with your firearm's caliber.
- Securely insert the boresighting tool: Carefully insert the tool into the barrel, ensuring it's fully seated and straight.
- Align the reticle: Looking through the boresighting tool, carefully adjust your red dot sight's windage and elevation knobs until the reticle is centered on the tool's sight point.
- Remove the boresighting tool: Carefully remove the tool and verify the alignment.
Method 2: DIY Boresighting (Less Accurate)
This method involves improvising using a safe, straight object and a makeshift aiming point. It's far less accurate than using a dedicated boresighting tool and should only be used if a tool isn't available.
Steps:
- Choose a safe, straight object: Find a thin, straight rod or similar object long enough to extend past the muzzle.
- Securely position the object: Carefully and securely insert the object into the barrel far enough to ensure stability and alignment.
- Establish a reference point: Place a target (e.g., a piece of paper with a dot) at a safe distance.
- Align the reticle: Using the object as a sightline, aim your firearm at the reference point, then align the red dot's reticle with it.
Important Safety Precautions
- Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded. Never point it at anything you don't intend to shoot.
- Use proper eye protection. Even during boresighting, unexpected movements could cause injury.
- Ensure your firearm is unloaded. Double- and triple-check before handling.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. Ensure the area is clear of obstructions and safe before proceeding.
Final Thoughts
While boresighting is a crucial step, remember that it's not a replacement for proper zeroing at the range. Boresighting gets you close, significantly reducing time and ammunition needed for final adjustments. Always prioritize safety and utilize the most accurate method possible for the best results. For best results, always use a dedicated boresighting tool for your firearm's caliber.
