Let’s Dive into NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter promises a quick and easy way to get your shotgun sighted in, saving you time and ammunition at the range. NcStar, known for its affordable optics and accessories, aims to provide a cost-effective solution for slug hunters and recreational shooters alike. The self-contained design is particularly appealing, suggesting a hassle-free setup.
As an avid shotgun hunter who uses a dedicated slug gun every deer season, I’ve always struggled with the initial sighting-in process. The recoil of those heavy slugs is brutal, and burning through box after box just to get on paper is both expensive and unpleasant. I was seeking a faster, less painful method to get my scope roughly zeroed before fine-tuning at the range.
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter arrives in a simple, no-frills package. The sighter itself feels surprisingly solid for its price point. The hard anodized aluminum construction inspires some confidence. While it doesn’t have the premium feel of some high-end bore sighters, it certainly seems robust enough for occasional use.
I considered a magnetic bore sighter that attaches to the muzzle, but I wasn’t sure how well it would work with the varying barrel thicknesses of my shotgun. The appeal of a cartridge-style sighter was its simplicity and universal fit within the specified gauge.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The promise of a quick and easy zeroing solution at such a low price was definitely appealing, but I was also aware that affordability can sometimes come at the expense of quality and accuracy. This would be a real test of balancing cost versus performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter at my local shooting range on a relatively calm, sunny afternoon. My 20-gauge slug gun was already mounted with a scope, so it was ready for action. I set up a target at 25 yards, a distance I find ideal for initially zeroing slug guns.
The bore sighter functioned flawlessly in the mild conditions. Insertion into the chamber was smooth and the red laser dot was easily visible on the target. After aligning my scope reticle with the laser dot, I took a few shots to confirm the alignment. Minor adjustments were needed.
The ease of use was impressive. No complicated setup was required. The biggest surprise was how close the initial alignment was to the actual point of impact; it saved me considerable time and ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a full deer season, the NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter continues to perform admirably. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The anodized finish has held up well to repeated use.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a soft cloth is all that’s needed. I store it in its original packaging to protect the laser lens. It definitely outperforms the old method of just guessing where the first shot will land and making huge adjustments.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter
Specifications
- Manufacturer: NcSTAR
- Beam Color: Red
- Caliber: 20 Gauge
- Material: Hard Anodized Aluminum
- Power Source: Internal Batteries (likely button cell type, though specifics not listed)
- Intended Use: Initial Bore Sighting for 20 Gauge Shotguns
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter’s specifications are pretty straightforward. The use of hard anodized aluminum suggests a decent level of durability and resistance to corrosion, important for a tool that will be used in various environmental conditions. The red laser is a standard choice, offering good visibility in most lighting conditions, though it might be less visible in bright sunlight.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter performs its primary function – getting you on paper – very well. Its accuracy is sufficient for initial zeroing at shorter distances, saving both time and ammunition at the range. Fine-tuning with live rounds is still necessary, but the NcStar drastically reduces the amount of adjustment needed.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The only real weakness is the lack of adjustable windage and elevation, meaning any significant bore misalignment will require guesswork before using the sighter. It meets expectations for a low-cost bore sighting tool, significantly improving the initial zeroing process.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The hard anodized aluminum feels reasonably robust, and the cartridge shape fits snugly into the shotgun chamber. It’s lightweight and doesn’t add any noticeable weight to the gun.
The design is very user-friendly, with no complex controls or adjustments. The smooth exterior makes insertion and removal easy. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter should last for several seasons with proper care. The aluminum construction is resistant to minor impacts and scratches. Replacing the batteries might eventually be necessary.
Maintenance is minimal; keeping the lens clean and storing the sighter in a protective case are the primary concerns. No specialized tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond what’s needed for operation. There are no customization options available, as it is a self-contained unit. It’s designed to work as is, without the need for external attachments or modifications.
Pros and Cons of NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter
Pros
- Significantly reduces the amount of ammo needed to zero a shotgun.
- Simple and easy to use, with no complicated setup required.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to most shooters.
- Durable hard anodized aluminum construction.
- Self-contained design eliminates the need for external accessories.
Cons
- No windage or elevation adjustments limit its effectiveness on shotguns with significant bore misalignment.
- Red laser may be difficult to see in bright sunlight.
Who Should Buy NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter?
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter is perfect for: slug hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who wants to save time and money when sighting in their 20-gauge shotgun. It is a must-have for those who frequently mount and dismount scopes or switch between different types of ammunition.
Those who should skip this product: individuals who require extremely precise zeroing at long ranges or those who own shotguns with significant bore misalignment issues. In those cases, a more advanced bore sighting system with adjustable windage and elevation would be a better choice.
A must-have accessory is a small case or pouch to protect the laser lens during storage and transport. Also, having extra batteries on hand is recommended, although the battery life seems to be pretty decent.
Conclusion on NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter
The NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter is a surprisingly effective and affordable tool for quickly getting your shotgun on paper. While it lacks the precision of more expensive bore sighting systems, it offers excellent value for the price. It’s a simple, reliable way to save time, money, and shoulder pain during the initial zeroing process.
The price is definitely justified, considering the amount of ammunition it saves. I would personally recommend it to any 20-gauge shotgun owner who wants to simplify their sighting-in routine. Stop wasting ammo and start hitting your target sooner! Add the NcStar 20 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter to your range bag today.