First Thoughts on the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter
The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter promises a quick and easy way to get your shotgun sighted in, or at least close enough to save ammunition at the range. Manufactured by XSI-LASER CASTING, this seemingly simple tool aims to streamline the often tedious process of boresighting. It is especially appealing to those, like myself, who value efficiency and minimizing range time for sighting in a firearm.
My introduction to the need for a boresighter came years ago, struggling to zero a slug gun for deer season. It was a frustrating and expensive endeavor, wasting valuable ammunition. This led me on a quest to find a reliable and cost-effective boresighting solution.
Unboxing the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter, my initial impression was one of simplicity. It’s a brass-colored cartridge-shaped device, housing the laser mechanism. The weight is negligible, and the brass construction appears reasonably solid, though certainly not what I would call heavy-duty. I was eager to test its accuracy and ease of use compared to traditional methods.
Similar products on the market include magnetic muzzle-mounted lasers and more complex universal boresighting systems. I chose the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter primarily for its simplicity and cartridge-style design, believing it would offer a more direct and potentially more accurate alignment within the shotgun’s bore. The price point was also a significant factor, as it is considerably more affordable than most alternatives.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the design seemed straightforward, but I was keen to determine whether the simple construction would translate to effective and accurate boresighting. The low price point made it an easy purchase, with the hope that it would significantly reduce the cost and frustration of sighting in shotguns.
Real-World Testing: Putting SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter at my local shooting range. The conditions were ideal: a clear, sunny day with minimal wind. I used it on my Mossberg 500, a common and reliable shotgun that I use for both sporting clays and home defense.
The initial setup was incredibly simple. I opened the breech, inserted the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter like a regular shotshell, and closed the action. A bright red laser dot immediately appeared on the target, approximately 25 yards downrange. Adjusting the sights to align with the laser dot proved to be a fast and efficient process.
There was one minor issue. The battery cap seemed a bit loose, causing the laser to flicker intermittently. A small piece of paper fixed this problem, and the laser held steady.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter continues to perform adequately, although the initial battery issue has resurfaced. I have found it necessary to keep a small shim handy to ensure a consistent laser output. The brass casing shows no significant signs of wear, despite being inserted and removed multiple times.
While it gets me on paper, it’s not a replacement for actual live fire. It shaves off some ammo and time, but I still have to make final adjustments at the range. I find this to be the case with most boresighting devices though.
The maintenance is simple. I wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use, and store it in a dry location to prevent corrosion. Compared to my previous method of visually aligning the sights and barrel, the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter offers a noticeable improvement in speed and accuracy, saving time and ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter
Specifications
- Style: Cartridge. This design allows for easy insertion into any 12-gauge shotgun chamber, mimicking the loading of a standard shotshell.
- Material: Brass. The brass construction provides durability and resistance to corrosion, although its thinness is a potential concern.
- Battery: Alkaline. Alkaline batteries provide a reasonable lifespan for the laser, but replacement availability should be considered.
- Mount: Muzzle. The cartridge design effectively mounts the laser at the muzzle end of the shotgun, ensuring alignment with the bore.
These specifications are essential for understanding the tool’s functionality and limitations. The cartridge style ensures compatibility, while the brass material offers a degree of durability.
Performance & Functionality
The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter performs its primary function of aligning the sights reasonably well, getting you close to zero. It saves ammunition by allowing initial adjustments to be made before firing live rounds.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use, offering a quick and straightforward boresighting solution. The weakness, however, is the potential for battery connection issues and the question of long-term durability. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly boresighting tool, but it’s not a high-precision instrument.
Design & Ergonomics
The brass construction feels adequate, though a thicker gauge metal would inspire more confidence. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and insert into the shotgun’s chamber.
The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter is exceptionally user-friendly. There’s no learning curve. You simply insert it into the chamber and observe the laser dot on the target.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter is a potential concern, given the thin brass construction and the delicate nature of the laser diode. The battery contact issue suggests a potential point of failure.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply keep it clean and dry. Replacement batteries are readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter is a standalone tool and does not require additional accessories. However, a laser rangefinder or spotting scope can aid in observing the laser dot at longer distances.
The product isn’t customizable in the traditional sense. There are no modular components or aftermarket upgrades.
Pros and Cons of SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter
Pros
- Easy to use: The cartridge-style design allows for quick and simple insertion, mimicking the loading of a standard shotshell.
- Affordable: The price point makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious shooters.
- Saves ammunition: The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter can significantly reduce the number of rounds needed to zero your shotgun.
- Portable: The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a range bag or hunting pack.
- Simple and Effective: Gets you close to zero without the hassle of traditional boresighting methods.
Cons
- Durability concerns: The thin brass construction raises concerns about long-term durability and potential damage.
- Battery contact issues: The loose battery cap can cause the laser to flicker, requiring a shim for consistent operation.
- Not a replacement for live fire: The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter provides a starting point, but final sight adjustments must be made with live rounds.
Who Should Buy SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter?
The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter is perfect for shotgun owners who want a quick and affordable way to get their sights aligned. It is especially useful for hunters preparing for the season and sporting clays enthusiasts looking to save ammunition. It’s a good option for individuals who value convenience and ease of use over high-precision accuracy.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who demand absolute precision and reliability, or those who prefer more robust and durable tools. If you are seeking a boresighting solution for critical applications, investing in a higher-quality, more durable option would be best.
A must-have accessory would be a small screwdriver or multi-tool to assist with battery replacement and potential adjustments to the battery cap. It might also be beneficial to keep spare batteries on hand.
Conclusion on SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter
The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter offers a simple and affordable solution for getting your shotgun sights aligned. While it’s not a substitute for live-fire sighting, it can save valuable time and ammunition at the range.
The price is justified by the convenience it offers, although the durability and battery contact issues are noteworthy drawbacks. The SME Sight-Right 12 Gauge Laser Boresighter is a worthwhile addition to your range kit, especially for its cost-effectiveness.
I would recommend it with reservations. For casual shotgun owners looking for a budget-friendly solution, it’s a useful tool. Just be aware of its limitations and potential durability issues. Get yours today and experience a slightly easier way to sight in your shotgun; just be prepared to do some final adjustments at the range!