Let’s Dive into BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors promises to save shooters time and ammunition by getting them close to zero before heading to the range. This kit, manufactured by BSA Optics, aims to provide a convenient and comprehensive solution for bore sighting various rifles and shotguns. I was particularly intrigued by the inclusion of shotgun arbors, as many bore sighting kits tend to focus solely on rifles.
My quest for this product stemmed from countless frustrating range trips where I’d waste valuable ammunition just getting on paper. Accurately bore sighting my firearms before fine-tuning them at the range felt like a crucial step I was missing. I was looking for a reliable and efficient way to drastically reduce the number of initial shots needed to zero my rifles and shotguns.
Upon unboxing the BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit, I immediately noticed the hard carrying case. It appeared to be fairly durable, which is a good start for protecting the components during storage and transport. The laser unit felt reasonably solid, and the assortment of arbors seemed comprehensive at first glance.
I considered other bore sighting options like the Bushnell Laser Bore Sighter and the Sightmark Universal Bore Sight. However, the BSA Optics kit’s inclusion of shotgun arbors and its competitive price point ultimately swayed my decision. The promise of sighting in both my rifles and shotguns with a single kit was very appealing.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit seemed complete and reasonably well-made for the price. While I wasn’t blown away by the initial feel, I was excited to see how it performed in real-world conditions and if it lived up to its claims of saving time and ammo.
Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit at my local shooting range to sight in a .308 rifle. The initial setup was straightforward, and the instructions were relatively easy to follow. Inserting the correct arbor and laser unit into the rifle’s barrel was simple enough.
The weather was clear and sunny, but even in bright daylight, the laser dot was reasonably visible at 25 yards. I experienced a slight issue with the arbor fit on my .308; it wasn’t perfectly snug, which made me question the accuracy of the initial sighting. After making adjustments based on the laser dot, my first shot at 50 yards was about 6 inches off-center.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on different firearms, including a 12-gauge shotgun and a .22LR rifle, I have mixed feelings about the BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit. While it does get you close to zero, the consistency of the arbor fit across different calibers is questionable. Some arbors fit snugly, while others have noticeable play, affecting the laser’s alignment and thus, the accuracy of the initial sighting.
I’ve noticed some minor wear and tear on the plastic arbors after repeated use. Cleaning the laser unit is simple enough, but keeping the arbors organized in the case can be a bit of a hassle. Compared to using a traditional collimator, the laser bore sighter is quicker to set up, but I still find myself double-checking with a few live rounds to ensure accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors
Specifications
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors includes a laser unit and multiple arbors designed to fit a wide range of firearms. This kit accommodates rifle bore sizes from .17 to .50 caliber and shotgun gauges of 10, 12, 16, 20, and 28. The kit is housed in a hard carrying case for easy storage and transport.
- Fits rifle bore sizes: .17 Arbor, .22 Arbor, .66mm Arbor, .25 Arbor, 6.5 mm Arbor, .27 Arbor, 7 mm Arbor, .30 Arbor, .32 Arbor, .338 Arbor, .35 Arbor, .375 Arbor, .44 Arbor, .45 Arbor, .50 Arbor: This wide range is intended to provide compatibility with the most common rifle calibers. The arbor size is essential for centering the laser in the bore.
- Fits shotgun gauges: 10, 12, 16, 20, 28: This caters to a broad spectrum of shotgun owners. Having shotgun arbors is a relatively unique feature that adds versatility.
- Allows rifle scope sighting in without the use of ammunition: This is the core function of the kit. It saves money and time by getting the shooter close to zero before firing live rounds.
- Comes with a range of different arbor sizes, all packaged in a heavy-duty hard case: The case is essential for protecting the components. A well-organized case prevents damage and makes it easy to find the correct arbor.
Performance & Functionality
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit does a decent job of getting you in the general vicinity of your target. However, it’s crucial to understand its limitations. The accuracy of the initial sighting largely depends on how well the chosen arbor fits the firearm’s bore.
The laser itself is reasonably bright and visible at close ranges, but visibility decreases significantly in bright sunlight or at longer distances. While the kit aims to eliminate the need for excessive ammunition, it’s not a replacement for fine-tuning with live rounds at the range. The inconsistent arbor fit is a significant weakness that affects the overall accuracy and reliability of the kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit is designed with simplicity in mind. The laser unit is compact and easy to handle. The hard carrying case is functional, but the internal layout could be improved for better organization and easier access to the arbors.
The plastic arbors feel somewhat cheap, and the fit isn’t always perfect. There’s no significant learning curve involved, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The laser unit seems reasonably durable, but the plastic arbors are a potential weak point. With proper care and storage, the kit should last for several years of occasional use. Cleaning the laser and arbors is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit includes all the necessary arbors for various rifle and shotgun calibers. There are no additional accessories included, and the kit doesn’t offer any customization options. While the kit is self-contained, some users might benefit from purchasing higher-quality arbors from other brands to improve the fit and accuracy. The kit is not designed to be used with any aftermarket accessories.
Pros and Cons of BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Includes shotgun arbors, providing versatility for both rifle and shotgun owners.
- Hard carrying case offers decent protection for storage and transport.
- Simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
- Can significantly reduce the amount of ammunition needed to get on paper.
Cons
- Inconsistent arbor fit can affect the accuracy of the initial sighting.
- Plastic arbors feel cheap and may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Laser visibility can be limited in bright sunlight or at longer distances.
Who Should Buy BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors?
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want a simple and relatively effective way to get their firearms close to zero. It’s also well-suited for individuals who own both rifles and shotguns and appreciate the convenience of a single bore sighting kit. Beginner shooters who are new to sighting in their firearms can benefit from the ease of use this kit offers.
This product should be skipped by experienced shooters who demand pinpoint accuracy and reliability. Those who frequently shoot long-range or in bright daylight conditions may find the laser visibility insufficient. Shooters with high-end firearms might prefer to invest in a higher-quality bore sighting system with more precise adjustments and better-fitting arbors.
A must-have modification would be purchasing aftermarket arbors from a higher-quality manufacturer to ensure a snug, reliable fit in the bore.
Conclusion on BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors
The BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit with Shotgun Arbors offers a decent value proposition for the price. While it has its limitations, particularly with the inconsistent arbor fit and plastic construction, it can still be a useful tool for getting close to zero and saving ammunition. The inclusion of shotgun arbors sets it apart from many other bore sighting kits in its price range.
The price is justified considering it’s an entry-level product and a complete kit with everything needed to start bore sighting various firearms.
I would cautiously recommend the BSA Optics Laser Bore Sighter Kit to budget-conscious shooters who understand its limitations and are willing to double-check their sighting with live rounds. It’s a helpful tool, but not a replacement for proper range time and careful fine-tuning. If you are looking to save time and money on ammunition, this kit will get you on paper, but remember to always confirm your zero at the range.