First Impressions of Simmons Laser Boresighter
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of sighting tools, from old-school iron sights to high-end optical systems. But when it comes to convenience and getting on target quickly, a boresighter can be a lifesaver, saving valuable time and ammunition at the range. That’s why I decided to pick up the Simmons Laser Boresighter.
I was looking for a simple, portable, and affordable solution to get my firearms roughly zeroed before heading to the range. I’ve always been a proponent of getting on paper quickly and making fine adjustments with live rounds. This product appeared to offer just that.
The Simmons Laser Boresighter comes in a simple clam pack, revealing the unit itself along with an assortment of arbors. My initial thought was that it seemed lightweight and compact, making it easy to toss into a range bag. The build quality appears decent for the price point, though I wouldn’t expect it to withstand extreme abuse.
Compared to some pricier magnetic boresighters I’ve used in the past, the Simmons model relies on arbors to fit different calibers. This means more pieces to keep track of, but also greater versatility across a wider range of firearms. I passed on a couple of other laser boresighters that appeared to be cheaply constructed copies, preferring the Simmons name and reputation.
I was cautiously optimistic, intrigued by its versatility but also slightly concerned about its long-term durability given its plastic construction. For the price, however, it seemed worth a try. I hoped it would save me time and ammo during my next zeroing session.
Real-World Testing: Putting Simmons Laser Boresighter to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Simmons Laser Boresighter at my local outdoor range, specifically to get a .223 AR-15 close to zeroed. The conditions were relatively mild, dry with a slight breeze. I started by selecting the appropriate arbor for the .223 caliber and inserting it into the boresighter.
The initial setup was straightforward, though getting the boresighter perfectly centered in the barrel took a few tries. I needed to carefully adjust the arbors to ensure a snug fit. After a few minutes, I had the laser projecting onto a target 25 yards away.
The dot was easily visible, even in daylight, making it simple to adjust my scope’s windage and elevation until it aligned with the laser. It definitely shaved off at least 15-20 minutes of what normally would have been required to find the paper with rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on different rifles and even a shotgun, the Simmons Laser Boresighter has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the plastic housing, but nothing that affects its functionality. It is very important to store it properly when not in use to avoid bending any of the adapters.
I clean the arbors after each use to remove any residue, ensuring a consistent fit in the bore. The laser itself seems to maintain its brightness, though I did replace the batteries after about a month of moderate use.
Compared to a more expensive magnetic boresighter I used to own, the Simmons model requires more fiddling to get properly aligned. However, the added versatility of the arbors makes it suitable for a wider range of firearms. For the price, the performance is acceptable, making it a worthwhile addition to my range bag.
Breaking Down the Features of Simmons Laser Boresighter
Specifications
The Simmons Laser Boresighter is a compact sighting tool designed to quickly align the sights of firearms with the bore. It measures approximately 6 inches overall, making it highly portable.
It is compatible with a wide range of firearms, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles, thanks to the included arbors. The unit is powered by batteries (typically button-cell batteries). It projects a red laser beam to indicate the point of impact.
These specifications are important because they determine the range of firearms the boresighter can be used with and its ease of portability. The arbor system is especially crucial for ensuring a precise fit within the bore of different calibers.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Simmons Laser Boresighter is to provide a quick and accurate initial alignment of sights. It excels at getting you on paper quickly. At the range, this can save time and ammunition.
The boresighter does have some limitations, such as requiring a stable surface to rest the firearm while adjusting the sights. A magnetic boresighter provides a more stable connection, but for the money the Simmons gets the job done. The accuracy is also dependent on the user carefully selecting and fitting the correct arbor.
Overall, the Simmons Laser Boresighter meets expectations for a product in its price range. It’s a basic but effective tool for quickly getting close to zero. It is not a replacement for live fire sighting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Simmons Laser Boresighter features a simple and straightforward design. The plastic housing is lightweight, making it easy to handle. The unit is compact enough to fit in most range bags or toolboxes.
The arbor system is functional but can be a bit cumbersome, requiring careful selection and insertion. While the build quality is adequate for its intended purpose, it doesn’t feel particularly robust. A little extra care should be taken during transport to prevent damage.
The boresighter is reasonably user-friendly, though some practice may be required to get the arbors properly aligned. The laser activation switch is easily accessible and provides a clear indication when the laser is active.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction of the Simmons Laser Boresighter suggests that it’s not designed for heavy-duty use. While it has held up well during my testing, I would anticipate it being more susceptible to damage than a metal-bodied boresighter. Proper storage is important to prevent damage to the unit or arbors.
Maintenance is relatively simple, primarily involving cleaning the arbors and replacing the batteries as needed. The laser aperture should also be kept clean to ensure a clear and consistent beam.
With proper care, the Simmons Laser Boresighter should provide a reasonable lifespan for occasional use. However, those seeking a more rugged and durable boresighting solution may want to consider a higher-end model.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Simmons Laser Boresighter includes a set of arbors to accommodate various calibers of firearms. There are no other included accessories or customization options.
While it doesn’t offer direct compatibility with aftermarket accessories, the boresighter can be used in conjunction with other sighting tools. This includes laser rangefinders or ballistic calculators, to achieve even greater accuracy at the range.
Pros and Cons of Simmons Laser Boresighter
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Versatile compatibility with handguns, shotguns, and rifles thanks to included arbors.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability.
- Saves time and ammunition during the initial sighting-in process.
- Easy to use with a minimal learning curve.
Cons
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Arbor system requires careful selection and alignment, which can be fiddly.
- Accuracy is dependent on proper arbor fit and a stable shooting platform.
Who Should Buy Simmons Laser Boresighter?
The Simmons Laser Boresighter is perfect for casual shooters, hunters, and recreational firearm owners who want a quick and affordable way to get their firearms roughly zeroed before heading to the range. It is also helpful for new shooters looking to learn the basics of sighting in a rifle or pistol.
Those who should skip this product are professional shooters, competitive marksmen, or individuals who require extreme precision and durability. They would be better served by investing in a higher-end boresighting system with enhanced features and build quality.
Must-have accessories to use the Simmons Laser Boresighter effectively include a stable shooting rest or vise, a target for sighting, and a set of batteries. It’s also beneficial to have a small cleaning kit to maintain the arbors and ensure a proper fit.
Conclusion on Simmons Laser Boresighter
The Simmons Laser Boresighter is a budget-friendly option for quickly aligning the sights of various firearms. Its versatility, ease of use, and compact design make it a practical addition to any shooter’s range bag. While it may not be the most durable or precise boresighting system on the market, it offers excellent value for its price.
The $43.99 price tag is definitely justified, especially when considering the time and ammunition it can save during the sighting-in process. For anyone seeking a simple and effective way to get on paper quickly, the Simmons Laser Boresighter is worth considering.
I would personally recommend the Simmons Laser Boresighter to casual shooters and recreational firearm owners who are looking for an affordable and versatile tool for initial sight alignment. If you’re tired of wasting time and ammo trying to get on target, give the Simmons Laser Boresighter a try and experience the convenience of quick and easy boresighting.