Let’s Dive into Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models
The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models promises a quick and easy way to sight in your rifle without wasting expensive ammunition. Marketed by Sightmark as a tool for hunters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement, it claims precision accuracy and ease of use. This bore sight piqued my interest as a way to save time and money at the range, particularly with the rising cost of .17HMR ammunition.
I’ve always been a proponent of traditional sighting methods, but the convenience of a laser bore sight was too tempting to ignore. The promise of reducing wasted cartridges and shells was particularly attractive, especially when preparing for varmint hunting season. The initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the compact size and lightweight design suggested easy portability. While I haven’t used other .17HMR specific bore sights, I’ve experimented with universal magnetic ones in the past, finding them less precise and cumbersome. I was hoping this chamber-specific model would offer a superior experience.
First impressions were a mix of cautious optimism and curiosity. The compact carrying pouch hinted at the product’s field-ready design. Would it live up to the hype and save me precious range time, or would it be another gadget relegated to the back of the safe?
Real-World Testing: Putting Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local outdoor shooting range, under typical sunny conditions. I used it with my .17HMR bolt-action rifle, which I primarily use for small game and varmint hunting. The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight was incredibly easy to use. I simply chambered it like a regular cartridge and observed the red laser dot on the target at 25 yards.
No time was needed to get used to it, as the process was intuitive. The only slight surprise was the laser dot’s brightness; it was perfectly visible in daylight, but I could see it being less effective in very bright conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Sightmark Laser Bore Sight has proven to be a reliable tool. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being tossed in my range bag multiple times. Cleaning is unnecessary, further adding to its ease of use. Compared to previous experiences with universal bore sights, this Sightmark model is significantly more accurate and much easier to use repeatedly.
It definitely outperforms the universal models in terms of precision and consistency. I also feel like I’m not risking damaging the bore by shoving something in that isn’t precisely made for the caliber.
Breaking Down the Features of Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models
Specifications
The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models is specifically designed for .17HMR caliber rifles. It utilizes a red laser for visibility. The precise weight isn’t listed, but it’s incredibly lightweight, likely only a few ounces. Its function is to project a straight red laser beam down the bore, allowing you to adjust your scope or sights to align with the laser point on the target.
These specifications are important because the caliber-specific design ensures a snug and accurate fit in the chamber, maximizing the precision of the bore sighting process. The red laser is generally visible in most lighting conditions, making it a versatile tool for both indoor and outdoor use.
Performance & Functionality
The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight performs its primary function admirably. It offers a quick and reasonably accurate initial zeroing of the rifle scope. While it doesn’t replace live fire for final adjustments, it significantly reduces the number of rounds needed to achieve a precise zero. The greatest strength is its simplicity and ease of use, which saves valuable time and ammunition.
The main weakness lies in its reliance on a stable surface or setup. The laser dot can shift slightly if the rifle is not perfectly still. It meets expectations as a time-saving tool for initial zeroing but requires live fire confirmation.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality appears solid, with durable materials designed to withstand repeated chambering. Its lightweight design is comfortable and doesn’t add any noticeable weight to the rifle. The user-friendly design requires no special skills or tools for operation; simply chamber and observe.
The absence of adjustable features like laser intensity or beam focus may be seen as a limitation by some users, but it also contributes to the simplicity of the design.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Sightmark Laser Bore Sight is reasonably durable. The brass casing seems robust enough to withstand repeated use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth to remove any residue. Given its simple construction, it’s likely to last for many years with proper care.
Repair would likely involve replacing the entire unit should the laser diode fail, as there are no user-serviceable parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight comes with a lightweight carrying pouch for protection and storage. There are no inherent customization options, as it’s designed as a single-purpose tool. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is not applicable, as it functions independently. There are no other accessories that are explicitly needed or recommended.
Pros and Cons of Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models
Pros
- Significantly reduces ammunition waste during scope zeroing.
- Easy and intuitive to use, even for beginners.
- Compact and lightweight design, perfect for carrying in a range bag.
- Relatively accurate for initial scope adjustments, saving time at the range.
- Affordable price point compared to other sighting tools.
Cons
- Not a replacement for live fire zeroing; requires final adjustments with ammunition.
- Laser dot visibility can be affected by very bright sunlight.
Who Should Buy Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models?
The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models is perfect for .17HMR rifle owners who want to save time and ammunition when sighting in their scopes. It is particularly useful for hunters preparing for the season and competitive shooters who need to frequently check their zero. Anyone new to using optics will also benefit from the simple method.
Those who demand absolute pinpoint accuracy without any live fire confirmation should skip this product. Similarly, those who primarily shoot at very long ranges (beyond what’s typical for .17HMR) may find the initial zero less helpful. A quality rifle rest or shooting platform is a must-have accessory to ensure the rifle is stable during the bore sighting process.
Conclusion on Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models
The Sightmark Laser Bore Sight, .17HMR, Red, SM39022 – 1 out of 29 models is a valuable tool for any .17HMR rifle owner looking to streamline the scope zeroing process. At a price of $39.97, it’s an affordable investment that can save a significant amount of money on ammunition over time. While it doesn’t replace the need for live fire confirmation, it gets you close enough to save time and hassle at the range.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who wants a quick and easy way to get their scope on paper before fine-tuning with live rounds. If you’re tired of wasting ammo trying to find your zero, give the Sightmark Laser Bore Sight a try – you might be surprised at how much time and money it can save you. Make your mark more efficiently!