First Thoughts on the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter promises to be a quick and easy solution for getting shotguns on target. This little tool from Sightmark aims to save shooters time and ammunition, a tempting prospect for anyone who’s ever spent an afternoon chasing their zero.
Like many shotgun owners, I’ve experienced the frustration of burning through boxes of shells just to get a consistent point of impact. The promise of a device that minimizes this waste and gets you closer to bullseye before even firing a shot is something I found compelling. Unboxing revealed a simple, brass-colored cylinder, the laser aperture clear and distinct. It felt surprisingly solid for its size and price point.
Compared to more elaborate, universal boresighting kits, the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is a targeted solution for 20 gauge shotguns. This simplicity is appealing, as it avoids the hassle of multiple attachments and adjustments. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; if it works as advertised, it could be a valuable addition to my range bag.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter to my local outdoor range to test it with my trusty Mossberg 500. The weather was clear and cool, ideal for shooting. Inserting the boresighter into the chamber was straightforward; it seated snugly without any forcing.
The red laser projected a clear dot onto the 25-yard target I had set up. I adjusted my sights to align with the laser dot, a process that took only a few minutes. The first shot after boresighting landed within a few inches of the bullseye, a significant improvement compared to my usual initial shots without any boresighting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several trips to the range over a couple of months, the Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter continues to prove its worth. It consistently gets me close to zero with minimal effort. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear on the brass housing.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a dry cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous method of purely relying on Kentucky windage and hope, this boresighter has saved me a considerable amount of money and frustration. It’s a far superior, and more scientific, approach.
Breaking Down the Features of Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
Specifications
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is designed specifically for 20 gauge shotguns. Its laser output is 5mW, projecting a red dot visible at various distances.
The body is constructed from brass. Power is supplied by three AG3 batteries. The boresighter mounts directly into the shotgun’s chamber. The brass construction is vital for durability and proper chamber seating.
Performance & Functionality
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter performs its primary function well: getting the shooter close to zero before firing live rounds. The laser is bright enough to be seen in daylight at shorter distances, enhancing its usability. However, it’s essential to remember that it’s a boresighter, not a replacement for proper sight-in procedures with live ammunition.
Its main strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. A slight weakness might be its specificity; it only works with 20 gauge shotguns. It does exactly what it is intended to do, and does it well.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter’s simple cylindrical design makes it easy to handle and insert into the chamber. Its brass construction gives it a solid feel without adding significant weight. The design is inherently user-friendly; there are no complicated settings or adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass construction suggests reasonable durability for normal use. I anticipate it will last for quite some time. Maintenance is minimal; keeping it clean and storing it properly should ensure a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter comes with a carrying case, three AG3 batteries, and instructions. There are no customization options or accessories. The lack of additional accessories or modifications speaks to its single, focused function: boresighting. The included carrying case protects the boresighter during storage and transport.
Pros and Cons of Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
Pros
- Easy to use: Simple insertion into the chamber and immediate laser projection.
- Saves ammunition: Gets you close to zero before firing live rounds, reducing waste.
- Durable construction: The brass housing provides a solid and reliable feel.
- Affordable: At $29.99, it’s a cost-effective tool for any 20-gauge shotgun owner.
- Improved accuracy: Minimizes the guessing game involved in sighting in a shotgun.
Cons
- Caliber-specific: Only works with 20 gauge shotguns.
- Not a replacement for live-fire sighting: Fine-tuning with live ammunition is still necessary.
Who Should Buy Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter?
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is perfect for:
- Hunters looking to quickly sight in their 20 gauge shotgun before hunting season.
- Sport shooters who want to minimize ammunition waste during target practice.
- Anyone who wants a simple and effective tool for initial shotgun sighting.
Those who should skip this product:
- Owners of shotguns in calibers other than 20 gauge.
- Individuals seeking a comprehensive, universal boresighting kit.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- A sturdy gun vise or rest to hold the shotgun steady during the boresighting process.
- A clearly marked target at a known distance (25-50 yards is ideal).
Conclusion on Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter
The Sightmark 20 Gauge 5mW Red Laser Boresighter is a simple, effective, and affordable tool that delivers on its promise. It gets you close to zero with minimal effort. The price is absolutely justified.
I would personally recommend it to any 20 gauge shotgun owner looking to save time and ammunition. It’s a valuable addition to any range bag. Get yours today and start hitting your target with greater precision and less frustration!
