The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter Made a Bold First Impression
The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter promises a quick and easy way to get your rifle sighted in, saving both time and ammunition. For someone like me, who frequently swaps optics on my AR platform rifles for different applications (from 3-gun competitions to varmint hunting), a reliable boresighter is an invaluable tool. Having spent over a decade dialing in rifles the old-fashioned way, I was eager to see if this little device from SME could live up to the hype.
I’d been struggling with consistently accurate zeroing, especially after swapping scopes. The traditional method of bore sighting by eye and then fine-tuning at the range was time-consuming and frustrating. The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter seemed like a cost-effective solution to streamline this process.
The boresighter arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Removing it, I immediately noticed its compact size and lightweight design. While the materials felt a little basic, it seemed sturdy enough for occasional use. Compared to some of the more expensive magnetic or chamber-based boresighters, this one seemed less robust but also significantly more affordable. I chose the SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter due to its simplicity, caliber-specific design, and enticingly low price point of $15.49.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly right, but I wondered if such an inexpensive tool could deliver accurate results. Hopefully my experience would be positive and simplify my zeroing procedure.
Real-World Testing: Putting SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter came during a scope swap on my primary AR-15. I was heading to a local outdoor shooting range to dial it in before a weekend coyote hunt. The weather was clear and mild, perfect conditions for testing.
The process was simple: insert the boresighter into the chamber, close the action, and observe the laser dot on the target. I immediately appreciated the ease of use. After a few adjustments to the scope, the laser dot was closely aligned with the crosshairs. However, the laser was not extremely bright, making it difficult to see on the target at 100 yards in bright sunlight.
To my surprise, my first few shots at 50 yards were on paper and clustered within a few inches of the bullseye. Minimal adjustments were needed to achieve a perfect zero. While the initial alignment wasn’t perfect, it saved me a significant amount of time and ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter has held up surprisingly well. Despite its plastic construction, there are no signs of significant wear or damage. The laser remains relatively consistent, although I’ve noticed slight variations in its intensity over time.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a dry cloth is usually sufficient. The battery life is decent, but I always keep extra batteries on hand just in case. Compared to my previous method of visual bore sighting, the SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter has proven to be significantly faster and more accurate, providing a solid starting point for zeroing. This boresighter definitely out performed my expectations!
Breaking Down the Features of SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter
Specifications
The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter is designed specifically for 222/223 Remington caliber rifles. It features a laser diode that emits a red beam to aid in aligning the firearm’s sights or scope. The unit is constructed from lightweight plastic and is powered by batteries (likely button cell, though specific details are not provided). The simplicity of design emphasizes ease of use and affordability.
These specifications are important because they dictate the SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter‘s compatibility and overall effectiveness. The caliber-specific design ensures a snug fit in the chamber, while the laser provides a visual reference point for aligning the sights. The lightweight construction contributes to ease of handling and storage.
Performance & Functionality
The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter performs its primary function of providing a rough zero adequately. While it’s not a substitute for fine-tuning at the range, it gets you on paper quickly and reduces the amount of ammunition wasted during the initial zeroing process. The laser is consistent enough for short-range bore sighting, but its visibility can be limited in bright daylight.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The weakness is the plastic construction and relatively dim laser, which could affect long-term durability and visibility. It meets expectations for its price point, but don’t expect it to perform like a higher-end boresighter.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional. The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter is shaped like a cartridge and inserts directly into the chamber. The plastic material keeps the weight down. Overall it is comfortable to handle during insertion and removal.
It is very user-friendly. There is no real learning curve. Just insert and observe.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction raises concerns about long-term durability, especially with repeated use. However, if handled with care, it should last for a reasonable amount of time. Maintenance is minimal: keep it clean and store it properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter does not come with any additional accessories or offer customization options. The basic design is intended to be a standalone solution for quick bore sighting. Given its intended function, there is little need for accessories or customization.
Pros and Cons of SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter
Pros
- Inexpensive and affordable.
- Easy to use: simply insert into the chamber.
- Speeds up the initial zeroing process.
- Caliber-specific design ensures a snug fit.
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage.
Cons
- Plastic construction raises durability concerns.
- Laser brightness could be better, especially in daylight.
Who Should Buy SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter?
Perfect for: Budget-conscious AR-15 owners who frequently swap optics and want a quick and easy way to get a rough zero. This is also good for new shooters to save time and money learning the zeroing process.
Who should skip this product? Those who demand extreme precision or require a more durable and versatile boresighting solution. Serious competitive shooters or professional armorers might want to invest in a higher-end product.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Extra batteries are essential. Also, having a target with clearly defined gridlines can aid in accurate alignment.
Conclusion on SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter
The SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter is a surprisingly effective tool for its price. While it’s not perfect, it provides a quick and convenient way to get your rifle on paper, saving time and ammunition.
The value proposition is excellent. For around $15, you get a tool that significantly simplifies the bore sighting process. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use boresighter for their AR-15.
If you are looking to save time and money when zeroing your rifle, then pick up the SME Sight-Right Laser 223 Remington Boresighter today!