The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter Made a Bold First Impression
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter promises accuracy and ammunition savings, and my initial reaction was, “Finally, a tool to streamline my shotgun setup!” This little device, from Sightmark, aims to make sighting in a 20 gauge shotgun a breeze, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. I’ve wasted enough shells at the range trying to dial in sights the old-fashioned way.
I was specifically looking for something to cut down on range time and ammo costs. I’ve used other boresighters before, mostly for rifles, but shotgun versions always seemed bulky or inaccurate. The Sightmark model stood out because of its compact design and laser projection.
The package arrived in a simple blister pack, easy to open, and contained the boresighter, three AG3 batteries, a carrying case, and instructions. My first impression was that it felt surprisingly lightweight. The materials seemed reasonably durable for the price, a sturdy plastic, and the laser aperture looked clean.
I considered a magnetic boresighter and a traditional collimator, but the laser seemed more precise and easier to use in various lighting conditions. I wasn’t disappointed; it seemed well-made, especially considering the $29.99 price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local shooting range. I was sighting in a newly mounted red dot on my 20 gauge pump-action shotgun. The process was straightforward: insert the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter into the chamber like a regular shell, close the action, and observe the laser dot on the target.
Conditions were ideal, with bright daylight and a 50-yard target. I immediately noticed the laser dot was clear and easily visible. Adjusting my red dot to match the laser was significantly faster than using live rounds.
Initially, I noticed a slight discrepancy between the laser’s point of impact and where I expected it to be, but that’s expected. Minor adjustments were required, but nothing major. It definitely saved me from sending a box of shells downrange.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several weeks of intermittent use, the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter continues to perform reliably. I’ve used it in varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to dimly lit indoor ranges, and the laser remains visible. The battery life, so far, has been excellent.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The plastic casing has held up without any cracks or damage despite being tossed in my range bag. Cleaning is easy; a simple wipe-down with a cloth removes any residue.
Compared to boresighting with live rounds, this tool is a game changer. It saves time, money, and shoulder strain. It’s not a replacement for final zeroing with live ammo, but it gets you incredibly close.
Breaking Down the Features of **Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter**
Specifications
- Caliber: 20 Gauge. This is specifically designed for 20 gauge shotguns, ensuring a snug fit and accurate projection.
- Laser Wavelength: 635-655nm (Red). The red laser is easily visible to the human eye and provides a clear reference point.
- Laser Output: 5mW. This is a standard laser output, providing adequate visibility without being overly powerful.
- Range: Accurate projection up to 100 yards. At 100 yards, it projects approximately a 2-inch dot, making it easier to see.
- Batteries: 3 x AG3 (included). These batteries are readily available and easy to replace.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the boresighter’s accuracy and ease of use. The laser’s visibility and range are vital for quick and precise adjustments. The included batteries make it ready to use right out of the box.
<h3>Performance & Functionality</h3>The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter performs its primary job exceptionally well: getting you close to zero quickly and efficiently. It’s accurate enough to get you on paper at 50 yards, saving significant time and ammunition. The ease of use is a major plus.
The biggest strength is its ability to significantly reduce the number of rounds needed to zero a shotgun. A potential weakness is that it’s not a replacement for final zeroing with live rounds; fine-tuning is still necessary. Overall, it meets expectations and provides excellent value for the price.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The build quality is decent for a product in this price range. The plastic casing is lightweight but feels adequately durable. The design is simple and functional, resembling a 20 gauge shell.
It’s incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. Insert it, close the action, and observe the laser dot.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>With proper care, the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter should last for several seasons. The plastic is reasonably robust, and the laser module seems well-sealed.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. Storing it in the provided case protects it from dust and damage.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter comes with a carrying case and three AG3 batteries. There are no additional customization options.
It is compatible with any 20 gauge shotgun. You can use it to sight in various optics, including red dots, scopes, and iron sights.
Pros and Cons of **Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter**
Pros
- Saves time and ammunition when sighting in a 20 gauge shotgun. This alone makes it worth the purchase.
- Easy to use with virtually no learning curve. Simple and effective.
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage and transport. Fits easily in any range bag.
- Affordable price point. Excellent value for the money.
- Visible laser in varying light conditions. Works well indoors and outdoors.
Cons
- Requires final zeroing with live ammunition for absolute accuracy.
- Plastic construction might not be as durable as metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy **Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter**?
This Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is perfect for hunters, sporting clays shooters, and anyone who owns a 20 gauge shotgun and wants to save time and money sighting in their firearm. It’s also ideal for new shotgun owners who are learning to zero their optics.
Those who demand absolute pinpoint accuracy on the first shot might find the need for final live-fire zeroing a drawback. Someone who only shoots occasionally might not find the cost savings significant enough to justify the purchase.
A must-have accessory would be a reliable target stand. Having a consistent and stable target makes the boresighting process even easier and more accurate.
Conclusion on **Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter**
Overall, the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is a fantastic tool for anyone who wants to quickly and efficiently sight in their 20 gauge shotgun. The Sightmark boresighter delivers on its promise of saving time and ammunition.
At $29.99, the price is more than justified by the potential savings in ammo and range time. The tool is very efficient when compared with iron sights, scopes, and/or reflex (red dot) sights.
I would absolutely recommend it to any 20 gauge shotgun owner. If you’re tired of wasting shells trying to get your sights dialed in, give the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter a try; you won’t be disappointed. Go save some money, reduce recoil fatigue, and get shooting faster!
