First Thoughts on the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter promises to be a game-changer for crossbow enthusiasts, offering a quick and easy way to get on target. Manufactured by Allen, this device aims to significantly reduce the time and frustration associated with sighting in crossbows, scopes, and iron sights. For a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist like myself, the appeal lies in its simplicity and potential time-saving benefits in the field.
My experience with crossbows over the past decade has highlighted the importance of accurate sighting. Achieving this accuracy can be a tedious process, often requiring numerous shots and adjustments. The promise of the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter is to streamline this process, something that immediately piqued my interest.
Unboxing the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter, my initial impression was of a compact and lightweight device. The materials seemed durable enough for its intended purpose, although the build quality didn’t scream “premium.” It felt like a tool designed for functionality over aesthetics, which, in my book, is perfectly acceptable given its low price point of $18.49.
Similar products on the market include bore sighters from Bushnell and Sightmark. I chose the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter primarily due to its affordability and the generally positive reputation of Allen products within the hunting community. Its specific design for crossbows also set it apart.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if this little tool could truly deliver on its promise of simplifying the sighting-in process. I anticipated a significant reduction in the number of bolts needed to achieve accurate sighting, but I also remained realistic about its limitations given the budget-friendly price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter at my local archery range, specifically targeting distances of 20, 30, and 40 yards. The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal conditions for sighting in. I used it with my Barnett Whitetail Hunter Pro STR crossbow, equipped with a 4×32 multi-reticle scope.
The initial setup was straightforward, involving inserting the bore sighter into the crossbow’s arrow rail. The laser beam was clearly visible even in daylight, projecting a bright red dot onto the target. No time was needed to get used to the device; its operation was remarkably intuitive.
The first issue I encountered was the slight looseness of the fit within the arrow rail. This required me to carefully ensure the bore sighter was properly seated before each adjustment. However, this issue was easily mitigated with slight pressure applied while tightening.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter has proven to be a useful, though not flawless, tool. It continues to hold up reasonably well, with no significant signs of wear and tear. The plastic housing shows some minor scuff marks, but the laser itself remains functional.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth to remove dust or debris. The battery life appears to be decent, although I have not yet needed to replace the batteries.
Compared to my previous method of sighting in purely through trial and error, the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter definitely outperforms it, saving time and reducing the number of bolts needed for initial setup. It helps to get you close to accurate quickly. It does not, however, replace fine-tuning at the range.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter
Specifications
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter is designed to work with most crossbows, regardless of the scope or iron sights. Its universal design is a key feature. It uses a laser beam to project a red dot onto the target, allowing for quick and easy initial sighting.
The bore sighter is constructed from durable plastic and lightweight metal components. This keeps the weight down. It operates on small button cell batteries, which are typically included. The compact size allows for easy storage and transport in a range bag or quiver.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter performs its primary function of getting the user close to on-target with remarkable ease. While it doesn’t guarantee perfect accuracy, it drastically reduces the number of shots needed to fine-tune the crossbow. The beam visibility is adequate for daylight use, although it’s most effective in shaded or indoor environments.
The main strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. The weakness, as mentioned earlier, is the potential for a slightly loose fit in some crossbow rails. This can affect the precision of the initial sighting. However, its price point makes it an attractive option for crossbow owners looking to save time and resources.
It meets expectations for a budget-friendly bore sighter, providing a noticeable improvement over traditional sighting methods. It does not replace the need for live-fire fine-tuning, however.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price. The materials are lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand regular use. The compact design ensures it doesn’t interfere with the crossbow’s operation.
It is extremely user-friendly, requiring no specialized knowledge or tools. The simple insertion and activation of the laser make it accessible to both novice and experienced crossbow users. There is virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter is reasonably durable for its intended use. It is important to handle it with care to avoid damaging the laser diode. Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving cleaning and occasional battery replacement.
With proper care, it should last for several seasons of use. Replacing the batteries when needed and storing it in a protective case will further extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter does not come with a wide range of accessories or customization options. It is a standalone tool designed for a specific purpose. No attachments or modifications are typically required.
While there are no official accessories, some users might choose to use shims or tape to ensure a tighter fit in certain crossbow rails. Its simple design ensures compatibility with most crossbow models and scopes.
Pros and Cons of Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter
Pros
- Significantly reduces sighting-in time.
- Easy to use and requires no special skills.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to most crossbow owners.
- Universal design works with most crossbow models and scopes.
- Bright laser beam is visible in daylight.
Cons
- May have a slightly loose fit in some crossbow rails.
- Does not guarantee perfect accuracy; requires live-fire fine-tuning.
Who Should Buy Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter?
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter is perfect for crossbow hunters who want to save time and ammunition when sighting in their crossbows. It’s also ideal for novice crossbow users who are unfamiliar with the sighting-in process and are looking for a simple and effective solution.
Those who demand pinpoint accuracy from the very first shot or are using high-end crossbow setups might find this product too basic. They should consider a more sophisticated laser bore sighting system or stick with traditional sighting methods.
A must-have is a reliable target and a safe shooting range. This bore sighter helps, but it is not a substitute for careful shooting practices.
Conclusion on Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter
The Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter is a valuable tool for any crossbow enthusiast looking to simplify the sighting-in process. Its affordability, ease of use, and noticeable time-saving benefits make it a worthwhile investment. While it’s not a substitute for live-fire fine-tuning, it provides a solid foundation for achieving accurate shots.
The price is certainly justified by the convenience and time saved. It’s an excellent value for crossbow users on a budget.
I would personally recommend the Allen Crossbow Laser Bore Sighter to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to get their crossbow on target. Take the plunge, save some time, and enjoy more time on the range and in the field! Get yours today and start shooting more accurately!