The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter Made a Bold First Impression
There’s nothing more frustrating than spending time and ammunition chasing zero on a rifle, especially when you’re eager to get out into the field. The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter promises a quick and efficient solution to this problem, offering a caliber-specific tool designed for pinpoint accuracy. SME boasts exacting tolerances and a high-output laser, piquing my interest immediately.
For years, I’ve relied on traditional bore sighting methods, often involving visual alignment through the barrel which can be tedious and less precise, especially in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. I needed a faster and more reliable way to get my .17 HMR rifles roughly zeroed before heading to the range, saving both time and valuable ammunition.
Upon receiving the SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel. Machined from what appears to be a brass casing, it felt robust and well-made. It’s a small tool, easily fitting in my palm, and the high-output laser aperture looked promising. I’ve used generic laser boresighters in the past, those universal ones that fit a range of calibers, and they always felt flimsy and unreliable. This SME model felt like a significant upgrade.
Compared to those universal models, which often rely on magnetic attachments or expanding arbors, the SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter’s caliber-specific design offered a much more secure and precise fit. I also considered a magnetic boresighter that attaches to the muzzle, but I prefer the chamber-inserted design for its more direct alignment with the bore’s axis. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism; the build quality seemed excellent, but the proof would be in the performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter was at an outdoor shooting range on a relatively clear day. I inserted the boresighter into the chamber of my Savage A17 rifle, ensuring it was fully seated. The laser immediately projected a bright red dot onto the target 25 yards downrange.
Initially, the laser dot was significantly off from my scope’s crosshairs. However, with a few quick adjustments to my scope, I was able to align the crosshairs with the laser dot. This process took only a few minutes, a fraction of the time it would have taken using traditional bore sighting methods.
The only minor issue I encountered was ensuring the rifle was perfectly level. Any canting of the rifle would obviously shift the laser dot, requiring extra care in setting up the rifle before making adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the brass casing despite repeated use. It still seats firmly in the chamber and the laser remains bright and consistent.
Cleaning the boresighter is also incredibly simple; a quick wipe with a clean cloth is all that’s needed to remove any residue. Compared to my previous experiences with less precise sighting methods, this tool has significantly reduced the amount of time and ammunition required to zero my rifles.
Breaking Down the Features of SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter
Specifications
- The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter is specifically designed for the .17 HMR caliber. This ensures a precise fit and accurate alignment within the chamber.
- It is precision machined from a brass casing. The brass casing provides durability and resists corrosion, crucial for repeated use.
- The boresighter utilizes a high-output laser. The bright laser dot is easily visible in various lighting conditions, making sighting adjustments easier.
- It is powered by three (3) button cell batteries. This offers convenient and readily available power source.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the accuracy and ease of use of the boresighter. The caliber-specific design eliminates any guesswork, while the high-output laser ensures visibility. The brass casing and readily available batteries contribute to the tool’s overall reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a quick and accurate method for roughly zeroing a rifle, saving time and ammunition at the range. Its main strength lies in its simplicity and precision.
However, it’s important to remember that a boresighter is not a substitute for proper zeroing at the range. Fine-tuning with live ammunition is still necessary to achieve optimal accuracy. Overall, this tool meets and exceeds my expectations for a basic boresighter.
Design & Ergonomics
The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter features a simple and functional design. The brass casing feels solid and well-made, while its compact size makes it easy to store and transport. There’s no learning curve involved; inserting it into the chamber and activating the laser is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass casing suggests that this boresighter will last for years with proper care. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove any residue. The simple design also minimizes the risk of any mechanical failures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter comes with three button cell batteries. There are no other included accessories or customization options, as it is a simple, single-purpose tool. However, this simplicity is part of its appeal, and it doesn’t require any additional components to function effectively.
Pros and Cons of SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter
Pros
- Caliber-specific design ensures precise alignment.
- High-output laser is bright and easily visible.
- Durable brass casing construction.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Saves time and ammunition during the zeroing process.
Cons
- Requires the rifle to be perfectly level for accurate sighting.
- Does not eliminate the need for final zeroing with live ammunition.
Who Should Buy SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter?
The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter is perfect for .17 HMR owners who frequently mount or remount scopes on their rifles. It’s also ideal for shooters who want to save time and ammunition when zeroing their rifles at the range. This tool would be especially beneficial for hunters and varmint shooters who need to ensure their rifles are accurately sighted before heading into the field.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who only occasionally shoot their .17 HMR rifles and don’t mind spending extra time zeroing with live ammunition. Also, individuals looking for a one-size-fits-all boresighting solution should explore universal models instead.
A must-have accessory to get the most out of this boresighter is a stable rifle rest or sandbags to ensure the rifle is perfectly level during the sighting process.
Conclusion on SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter
The SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter is a simple, effective, and affordable tool that delivers on its promise of quick and accurate bore sighting. At a price of $15.49, it’s a worthwhile investment for any .17 HMR owner who values their time and ammunition. The caliber-specific design and high-output laser ensure precise alignment and ease of use.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to get their .17 HMR rifles roughly zeroed. It’s a small tool that can make a big difference in your shooting experience. Stop wasting time and ammunition and pick up a SME Sight-Right 17 HMR Laser Boresighter today!