The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve spent years squinting down barrels, using everything from cumbersome collimators to the ‘eyeball it’ method. Accuracy is paramount, whether I’m dialing in a hunting rifle for that once-in-a-lifetime elk tag or ensuring my sidearm is true for tactical scenarios. So, when I saw the Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 promising “meticulous accuracy,” I was intrigued, and a little skeptical. The GSM Site-Rite bore sighter promised precision at an entry-level price.
My main issue was time; I needed a quick and reliable way to verify zero on my firearms without burning through boxes of ammunition. Unboxing the Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44, my initial impression was mixed. The brass casing looked reasonably well-machined, but it felt incredibly light, which raised concerns about durability. I picked this over the magnetic bore sighters, figuring a chamber-specific device would offer inherently better alignment. I hoped the GSM Site-Rite could deliver on its promise, especially considering the budget-friendly price of $8.99.
Real-World Testing: Putting Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my local indoor range. The lighting was consistent, providing a stable environment to gauge accuracy. I wanted to use the Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 on my favorite Winchester Model 94 chambered in, you guessed it, .44 Magnum. Sliding the bore sighter into the chamber was straightforward, and the laser dot appeared immediately on the target downrange.
The dot was visible, but not intensely bright. I had to dim the lights a little to see it clearly at 25 yards. While not ideal for outdoor use in broad daylight, it worked reasonably well indoors. There were no immediate issues, but I did question its use in bright light.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of sporadic use, I began to notice some inconsistencies. Sometimes the laser dot would flicker, suggesting a loose connection with the batteries. The brass casing, while initially appearing well-made, started showing minor scratches and dents after only a handful of chamberings.
Cleaning was easy enough, just a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth. However, I’m concerned about the long-term durability of the casing. Compared to more expensive, magnetic bore sighters I’ve used, the Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 feels significantly less robust. At this point, I’d have to say it is not outperforming the expensive laser bore sighters.
Breaking Down the Features of Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44
Specifications
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 is designed specifically for firearms chambered in .44 Magnum. The casing is constructed from precision-machined brass. It features a high-output laser powered by three alkaline button cell batteries. The GSM Site-Rite product is factory aligned for caliber-specific accuracy.
The caliber-specific design is intended to provide a precise fit within the chamber. This ensures accurate laser projection. While the high-output laser promises visibility, the button cell batteries suggest limited runtime.
Performance & Functionality
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 performs its primary function adequately, projecting a visible laser dot onto the target. Accuracy is acceptable within close ranges (25-50 yards) for initial zeroing. However, the dot’s dimness, combined with the potential for battery inconsistencies, hinders its overall performance.
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 is functional but leaves room for improvement. The main strengths are ease of use and caliber-specific design. Weaknesses include battery reliability and questionable long-term durability. For the price, it meets basic expectations but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The brass casing offers a familiar feel, similar to a regular cartridge. It is lightweight, which can be both a pro and a con. The lightweight nature of the Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 is easy to handle, but the construction raises concerns about resilience.
The GSM Site-Rite design prioritizes simplicity. There’s no on/off switch; the laser activates upon chambering. While user-friendly, the lack of a power switch increases the risk of accidental battery drain.
Durability & Maintenance
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44‘s long-term durability is questionable. The brass casing is susceptible to scratches and dents, potentially affecting accuracy over time. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning and battery replacement.
Given its construction, I estimate a limited lifespan for the Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44. I would not depend on this for heavy or consistent use. Repairing the item isn’t really possible; the low cost of the unit dictates its replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 comes with three alkaline button cell batteries. There are no other included accessories or customization options.
The GSM Site-Rite product is a self-contained unit with no provisions for add-ons or modifications. You get what you see. As it is specific for the .44 caliber, you cannot adapt the product to other calibers.
Pros and Cons of Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious shooters.
- Caliber-specific design ensures a precise fit and alignment in the .44 chamber.
- Easy to use, simply chamber and observe the laser dot.
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store.
- Offers a quick and convenient method for initial bore sighting.
Cons
- Laser dot is not very bright, limiting visibility in daylight conditions.
- Questionable long-term durability, especially the brass casing.
- Battery life and reliability can be inconsistent.
Who Should Buy Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44?
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 is perfect for casual shooters or hunters on a tight budget who need a basic bore sighting tool for their .44 Magnum firearms. It is also a good option for those who only need to perform this task infrequently. This would benefit someone who primarily shoots indoors.
Those who should skip this product are serious competitive shooters, professional guides, or anyone requiring consistent accuracy and reliability in harsh conditions. For these users, a higher-quality, more robust bore sighting system is a worthwhile investment. Must-have accessories include extra batteries and a protective case to prevent damage.
Conclusion on Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44
The Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44 offers a basic, budget-friendly solution for initial bore sighting. While it delivers on its core promise of projecting a laser dot, its limitations in brightness, durability, and battery reliability are undeniable. The value proposition is debatable.
For $8.99, it’s a cheap tool, but it may be worth investing in a more reliable option if precision and longevity are priorities. I would recommend it with reservations, primarily to those on a very tight budget. It serves as a decent entry-level option but don’t expect professional-grade performance from the GSM Site-Rite Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter 44.