First Thoughts on the NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
The NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter promises a quick and easy way to get your rifle roughly zeroed, saving time and ammunition at the range. Coming from NcSTAR, a company known for budget-friendly optics and accessories, it immediately piqued my interest. Could this small, blue laser cartridge actually deliver on its promise?
My need stemmed from frustration with traditional boresighting methods. They’re often cumbersome and inaccurate, especially when switching optics between rifles. I hoped this laser boresighter would provide a faster, more convenient solution.
The NcSTAR boresighter arrives in simple packaging, which is expected at this price point. The blue aluminum body feels lightweight, almost insubstantial, but the threads are clean and the laser aperture looks well-defined. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, but a little skeptical.
Compared to a traditional mechanical boresighter that uses multiple arbors for different calibers, the NcSTAR is incredibly compact. I also considered a magnetic boresighter that attaches to the muzzle, but I worried about potential scratches on the barrel. The cartridge-style seemed like a safer, more precise method.
The initial excitement was tempered by the low price; can something this cheap really be accurate and reliable? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter was at my local outdoor shooting range. I used it with my trusty .30-06 hunting rifle, mounting a newly acquired scope. I inserted the laser boresighter into the chamber and easily identified the bright red dot on the target at 25 yards.
Zeroing became noticeably faster, as I only needed minor adjustments to align the scope’s crosshairs with the laser dot. This cut down on the number of rounds I sent down range. The laser was easily visible, even in bright sunlight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the NcSTAR boresighter is still performing consistently. I’ve used it for three scope changes across two different .30-06 rifles. It’s saved me a significant amount of time and ammunition each time.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the aluminum body, but I am mindful of the threads. I carefully clean and store it after each use. Compared to my previous attempts at boresighting, the NcSTAR has been far more efficient and repeatable.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
Specifications
The NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is designed for .30-06 Springfield rifles, but also works with .25-06 Rem, .270 Win, and .35 Whelen cartridges. It emits a 635-655nm red laser with a maximum output of less than 5mW, classifying it as a Class IIIa laser. This makes it visible even in daylight but requires caution to avoid direct eye exposure.
The boresighter is constructed from aluminum and weighs a mere 0.6 oz. This lightweight design ensures it doesn’t affect the rifle’s balance. It has a length of 2 1/2 inches, matching the approximate dimensions of a .30-06 cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The NcSTAR boresighter performs its primary function admirably: getting you on paper quickly. Initial accuracy is surprisingly good, usually placing shots within a few inches of the bullseye at 25 yards. This significantly reduces the amount of fine-tuning needed with live ammunition.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The weakness lies in its non-adjustable nature; you’re relying on the factory alignment of the laser. It certainly meets my expectations for a budget-friendly boresighting tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum build feels adequate, though not particularly robust. The lightweight design is a plus for portability. Inserting and removing the boresighter is simple, just like loading a regular cartridge.
There’s virtually no learning curve; if you can load a cartridge, you can use this boresighter.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its price point and construction, I wouldn’t expect the NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter to last forever. However, with proper care and storage, it should provide a reasonable lifespan. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a cloth.
Replacing the batteries is straightforward, requiring only the removal of the base.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It’s a self-contained unit. There are no customization options available. The laser itself is fixed and non-adjustable.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
Pros
- Inexpensive and readily available.
- Easy to use; no special tools or skills required.
- Saves time and ammunition when zeroing a rifle.
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport.
- Works with multiple calibers (.25-06 Rem, .270 Win, .35 Whelen, in addition to .30-06 Springfield).
Cons
- Factory alignment is non-adjustable, which may affect accuracy.
- Aluminum construction feels somewhat fragile.
- Not suitable for precise, long-range zeroing; only for initial setup.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter?
The NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who want a quick and easy way to get their rifles roughly zeroed. It’s also useful for gun owners who frequently swap optics between rifles. This is also great for the budget conscious gun owner.
Those seeking pinpoint accuracy or needing to zero at long distances should skip this product and invest in a more precise, adjustable boresighting system. A quality scope is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the boresighter’s capabilities.
Conclusion on NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
The NcSTAR 30-06 Springfield 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is a surprisingly effective tool for the price. It’s not a replacement for careful range work and fine-tuning, but it will get you on paper much faster than traditional methods. At $18.99, the price is definitely justified.
I would recommend this product to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, time-saving boresighting solution. Give it a try, and spend less time chasing paper and more time enjoying your rifle. Get yours today!