If you're new to firearms or just looking for a simple way to align your rifle scope without expensive equipment, DIY bore sighting is a great place to start. This method allows you to get your scope close to zero using basic techniques—no specialized tools required. It's a practical, cost-effective approach that helps beginners gain confidence while saving time and ammo at the range.
What’s the solution? Bore sighting.
Getting a new scope dialed in can be frustrating but knowing how to bore sight your rifle optic can reduce this frustration. First, it cuts down on the amount of time you spend trying to get on paper when you first begin sighting in your scope. Additionally, it can also reduce the amount of ammo that you use getting your scope sighted in.
All of this leads to a more streamlined and cost-effective sighting process. While there are many laser bore sights available on the market, the good news is you don’t need one to get the job done. DIY bore sighting allows you to accurately align your rifle scope without investing in extra tools. Whether you prefer using a laser or sticking to the traditional method, the following simple steps will help you complete your bore sighting quickly and effectively.
How To Bore Sight a Rifle with No Laser
Step 1: Make sure everything is prepared. Before you continue, mount your rifle scope on your rifle, set the proper eye relief, and securely fix the rifle in place. If you have a gun vise, this is an excellent tool to use, but it is not a necessary tool. If you do not have a gun vise, you may situate the rifle on a shooting bench or on the ground in the prone position, using bipods and a rear bag to stabilize it. Remove turret caps so that you are ready to adjust your scope at the appropriate time. Place a target with a clear bullseye a short distance (approximately 25 yards) from your rifle.
Step 2: If using a bolt action rifle, remove the bolt from the rifle. If using an AR-style rifle, you will need to break it down and then remove the bolt.
Step 3: Look down the barrel of the rifle and line it up on the bullseye of the target.
Step 4: Adjust the elevation and windage on your scope. Line up your crosshairs on the same bullseye where you centered your barrel.
How To Use a Laser Bore Sight
When using a laser bore sighter, the first two steps are the same as stated above. For step 3, instead of looking down the barrel to line it up, you place the laser bore sight into the chamber or muzzle of the rifle. Whether the laser is placed into the chamber or muzzle of the rifle, will vary depending on which bore sight you buy. Make sure you read all instructions that come with your laser bore sight. Once you place the laser, adjust your scope to center the crosshairs on the laser.
After you complete these four steps, finish zeroing your rifle scope. Place the bolt back into the rifle, back up to your desired distance, and shoot at the target to refine the zero on your rifle scope.
Laser Bore Sighting Vs. Using the Naked Eye
While both methods are effective, using a laser bore sight will usually yield marginally more precise results. If bore sighting is not something that you do relatively often, you are likely just as well off to save your money and use the no-tools method to bore sight your rifles. If you find yourself changing scopes or rifles relatively often, investing in a quality laser bore sight is probably a sound idea.
Many bore sights are available, so research carefully to find the best one that fits your specific needs.
How Often Should You Bore Sight a Rifle Scope?
While knowing how to use a bore sight is useful, you typically don’t need to perform bore sighting very often. Bore sighting a rifle is only necessary when you change a major component in your setup. When you buy a new scope, rifle, or change ammo, a bore sighting can be a helpful tool.
Tips To Properly Bore Sight a Rifle Scope
To further streamline the process, here are a few extra tips to consider when bore sighting your rifle:
- Gather all the items/supplies that you need ahead of time.
- Make sure you are familiar with how your scope works and how to properly adjust it. Read your scope’s manual before removing turret caps or making any adjustments to avoid mistakes.
- Read and understand the instructions before using a laser bore sight to ensure you use it properly.
The Bottom Line
DIY bore sighting your rifle scope is an easy and effective way to begin the zeroing process. It won’t provide a perfect zero but streamlines the process and reduces frustration during sighting-in. Bore sighting helps shooters of all levels save time and ammo, achieving a more accurate zero before range practice.
