Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors Review

Let’s Dive into Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is a tool designed to quickly and accurately align a firearm’s sights without firing a single round. Manufactured by Bushnell, this device offers a bright laser and multiple arbors to fit various calibers, promising to save time and ammunition during the sighting-in process. I was initially skeptical of such tools, considering them gimmicky, but the promise of saving valuable range time and expensive ammo piqued my interest.

My journey to the Bushnell Laser Boresighter began with increasing frustration over the time and ammunition wasted when mounting new optics on my rifles. I needed a solution to get on paper quickly, minimizing the initial adjustment process. I had considered other bore sighting methods, including traditional mechanical bore sights, but the laser offered a perceived advantage in speed and ease of use.

Unboxing the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors revealed a compact device with a metallic body and a set of plastic arbors. The unit felt reasonably solid, though the plastic arbors did raise some concerns about durability. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the device seemed simple enough to use, but I remained unconvinced of its accuracy.

I considered the Sightmark Triple Duty and a traditional Bushnell mechanical bore sighter. The Sightmark’s magnetic attachment wouldn’t work with all my firearms, and the mechanical bore sighter seemed cumbersome in comparison. The Bushnell Laser Boresighter’s universal arbor system seemed like the best fit for my diverse collection.

My first impression was a mix of curiosity and trepidation. I was excited by the prospect of drastically reducing my sighting-in time but also wary of the potential for inaccuracy and wasted effort. Ultimately, the promise of saving time and money outweighed my skepticism, and I was eager to put the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors to the test.


Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors was conducted indoors at a makeshift 10-yard range. I mounted a new scope on my AR-15 in 5.56 caliber and used the boresighter to align the reticle with the laser dot on a target. The entire process took less than 15 minutes, which was significantly faster than my traditional method.

The device performed surprisingly well, even in the dimly lit environment of my basement range. The laser was clearly visible, and the arbors, though plastic, seemed to hold the boresighter securely in the barrel. After the initial bore sighting, I headed to an outdoor range to test the accuracy at 50 yards.

The ease of use was immediately apparent; selecting the appropriate arbor and inserting the device was straightforward. There was a slight learning curve in terms of tightening the arbor screw to achieve a snug fit. I discovered that over-tightening could cause the laser to shift, so a delicate touch was required.

Initially, I noticed a slight wobble of the laser dot, which caused concern. I re-seated the arbor, ensuring it was as snug as possible, and the wobble diminished, but didn’t disappear entirely. This raised questions about the absolute precision of the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors on various rifles, I can confidently say it has become a valuable tool in my arsenal. It consistently gets me on paper at 25 yards, saving significant time and ammunition. While it may not be perfect, it provides a solid starting point for the final sight-in process.

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors has held up surprisingly well, despite my initial concerns about the plastic arbors. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the laser remains bright and consistent. I store it in its original pouch to protect it from dust and impacts.

Maintaining the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is incredibly easy. I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally check the battery. The batteries are easily replaceable, and a single set has lasted through numerous sighting-in sessions.

Compared to my previous method of visually aligning the bore with the target, the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is a game-changer. It drastically reduces the amount of time and ammunition required to zero a rifle. While it may not replace the need for fine-tuning at the range, it certainly streamlines the initial sighting process.

Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors

Specifications

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors features a bright red laser powered by LR44 batteries. It includes seven arbors designed to fit firearms ranging from .22 caliber to .50 caliber, as well as 12 and 20-gauge shotguns. The body is constructed from metal, offering reasonable durability, while the arbors are made of plastic.

The universal caliber compatibility is a significant advantage, eliminating the need for separate bore sighting tools for different firearms. The bright red laser ensures visibility in various lighting conditions, facilitating quick and easy alignment. The LR44 batteries are readily available and provide ample power for extended use.

Performance & Functionality

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors performs admirably in getting a firearm’s sights aligned quickly and efficiently. It significantly reduces the time and ammunition needed to zero a rifle or shotgun. While it may not provide pinpoint accuracy, it provides a solid foundation for further adjustments at the range.

The bright laser is easily visible, even in moderately bright conditions, allowing for convenient use in various environments. The arbor system is versatile, accommodating a wide range of calibers. The simple operation makes it accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.

The slight wobble of the laser dot and the plastic arbors are the main weaknesses. The arbor system might not be the most durable solution.

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors exceeds my expectations in terms of convenience and time-saving. It provides a significant improvement over traditional bore sighting methods. While it may not be perfect, its benefits far outweigh its drawbacks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors boasts a compact and lightweight design. This design makes it easy to handle and store. The metal body provides a solid feel, while the plastic arbors contribute to the overall lightweight.

The device is user-friendly, with a simple on/off switch and an intuitive arbor system. The only learning curve involves finding the right amount of tension on the arbor screw to achieve a snug fit without causing the laser to shift.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and storage, the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors should last for many years. The metal body is reasonably durable. The plastic arbors are the most vulnerable component, but replacements are available if needed.

Maintaining the boresighter is straightforward. Regularly wiping it down with a clean cloth and storing it in its pouch will help prevent dust and damage. Battery replacement is also simple and requires no special tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors comes with seven arbors and a storage pouch. There are no additional accessories or customization options available directly from Bushnell. However, replacement arbors can be purchased separately if needed.

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is compatible with any firearm within the specified caliber range. It also works with various scope mounts and sighting systems. While there are no specific Bushnell accessories, the device’s versatility allows it to be used with a wide range of firearms and optics.

Pros and Cons of Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors

Pros

  • Saves time and ammunition during sight-in.
  • Universal caliber compatibility.
  • Bright and visible laser.
  • Easy to use and maintain.
  • Affordable price.

Cons

  • Plastic arbors may lack durability.
  • Slight wobble of laser dot.


Who Should Buy Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors?

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is perfect for:

  • Hunters who want to quickly zero their rifles before hunting season.
  • Competitive shooters who need to switch between optics frequently.
  • Gun enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with their firearms and optics.
  • Anyone looking to save time and ammunition when sighting in a firearm.

Those who demand absolute precision and are willing to invest in higher-end bore sighting tools may want to skip this product. Additionally, individuals who primarily use firearms outside the .22 to .50 caliber range may find this product unsuitable.

A must-have accessory for the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is a high-quality gun vise to ensure the firearm remains stable during the bore sighting process.

Conclusion on Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors

The Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors is a valuable tool for any firearm enthusiast looking to save time and ammunition during the sight-in process. While not perfect, it offers a significant improvement over traditional bore sighting methods. Its universal caliber compatibility and ease of use make it accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.

At a price of $45.89, the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors offers excellent value for its performance. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently mounts new optics on their firearms. The time and ammunition saved will quickly offset the cost of the device.

I would personally recommend the Bushnell Laser Boresighter w/ Arbors to anyone seeking a convenient and affordable bore sighting solution. Despite its minor flaws, it is a reliable tool that will streamline the sighting-in process and get you on target faster. Grab yours today and start saving time and ammunition at the range!

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