NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter Review

Let’s Dive into NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours sighting in everything from high-powered rifles to slug shotguns. The process can be tedious, expensive, and downright frustrating without the right tools. That’s why I was intrigued by the NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter, a device promising to get you “on paper” without firing a shot.

My primary motivation for acquiring this boresighter was to streamline the process of mounting and zeroing red dot sights on my tactical shotguns. Having struggled in the past with traditional bore sighters that don’t account for the added height of a scope or red dot mount, I was seeking a more efficient and accurate method.

Upon unboxing, the NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter felt surprisingly solid. The hard anodized aluminum construction gave it a reassuring heft, and the overall design was simple and straightforward. Compared to some of the bulkier universal bore sighters I’ve used, its compact cartridge-style design was immediately appealing. It seemed like a much more elegant solution for shotguns. I chose this over a magnetic muzzle bore sighter because those can be unreliable on barrels with varying thicknesses or muzzle devices.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the price was attractive, but the proof would be in the performance. Would it hold zero? Would it fit snugly in the chamber? And most importantly, would it actually save me time and ammunition? Let’s find out.

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Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was my local shooting range, where I planned to mount a new red dot sight on my Mossberg 500 tactical shotgun. The range offered both indoor and outdoor facilities, allowing me to test the NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter under varying lighting conditions. I also deliberately waited for a slightly drizzly day to see if moisture would affect its performance. Using the NcStar bore sighter, I was able to quickly align the red dot sight with the laser dot at 25 yards.

It was simple to use, sliding easily into the chamber and projecting a clear red dot. After a few minor adjustments, the red dot sight was roughly aligned, and I was ready for live fire. I was relieved that I did not need to spend a lot of time getting the sight onto the paper as I have had to do with past installations. The initial test was a success, significantly reducing the number of rounds needed to achieve a proper zero.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions spanning a few months, the NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter continues to perform admirably. I even used it to confirm zero after a particularly rough hunting trip where my shotgun took a few tumbles. While the aluminum construction shows a few minor scratches from repeated use, there are no signs of functional degradation. It still fits snugly in the chamber and projects a consistent laser dot.

Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a soft cloth after each use is sufficient. Compared to the hassle of traditional bore sighting methods, which often involve multiple trips downrange and numerous wasted shells, the NcStar has proven to be a time-saving and cost-effective tool. It certainly outperforms some of the cheaper, generic bore sighters I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter

Specifications

The NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns. It features a self-contained red laser module housed in a hard anodized aluminum cartridge. Its key specifications include:

• Caliber: 12 Gauge
• Laser Color: Red
• Length: 2.4 inches
• Weight: 1.7 oz (with batteries)
• Material: Hard Anodized Aluminum

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The 12-gauge specific design ensures a proper fit within the shotgun chamber, promoting accurate alignment. The red laser provides a clear and visible aiming point, even in moderately lit environments. The aluminum construction contributes to its durability while keeping the weight minimal, so it doesn’t add bulk to your shotgun.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter performs its primary function—bore sighting—effectively. Its accuracy is sufficient for getting you “on paper” at typical shotgun ranges (25-50 yards). From there, minor adjustments with live ammunition are usually all that’s needed to achieve a perfect zero.

The main strength lies in its ease of use and time-saving capabilities. Its main weakness is that it is designed specifically for 12 gauge shotguns; it is not a universal tool. It absolutely meets expectations for a budget-friendly bore-sighting solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter is designed for simplicity and ease of use. The aluminum construction feels robust, and the cartridge shape ensures a snug fit in the chamber. There’s essentially no learning curve; simply insert it into the chamber, close the action, and observe the laser dot.

The design is inherently user-friendly, requiring no complicated adjustments or assembly.

Durability & Maintenance

The hard anodized aluminum construction suggests a decent level of durability, and my testing so far confirms this. With proper care and storage, the NcStar should last for years. Maintenance is minimal, consisting mainly of cleaning the exterior with a soft cloth and storing it in a dry place.

Replacing the batteries, when needed, is a simple process.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter is a self-contained unit and does not require any additional accessories for its primary function. However, it is often used in conjunction with tools for adjusting scopes or red dot sights. There are no customization options available for the bore sighter itself.

Compatibility with various shotgun models is excellent, provided they are chambered in 12 gauge.

Pros and Cons of NcStar 12 Gauge Cartridge Red Laser Bore Sighter