How to Properly Bore Sight Your Rifle Scope

Congratulations on properly installing your rifle scope according to the intended torque specifications! Now, the next crucial step is bore sighting. Bore sighting is often overlooked, but when done correctly, it can save you both ammunition and frustration—especially when you’re struggling to even hit paper at 25 yards.

In this guide, we’ll explain the purpose of bore sighting, explore various methods, and walk you through the steps to ensure your optic is aligned for precision shooting.

What is Bore Sighting?

Bore sighting is the process of aligning the center of your rifle’s bore with the center of your optic. The goal is to get your rifle as close to zero as possible before heading to the range for live fire. There are several methods and tools available for bore sighting, each with its own pros and cons.

Methods of Bore Sighting

1. Collimator Bore Sighter: Collimator bore sighters are a popular tool that attaches to the crown of the barrel using a magnet. However, this method isn’t foolproof because the elevation is influenced by where you place the collimator on the barrel. Even a slight variation in placement can lead to inaccurate alignment, making this method less reliable.
2. Laser Bore Sighter: Laser bore sighters are another common option, but they have limitations. If you try to use a laser bore sight indoors, you may quickly run out of elevation because MOA (Minute of Angle) is an angular measurement. Essentially, 1 MOA equals 1 inch at 100 yards, which means that the shorter the distance, the more adjustments or “clicks” are needed to get on target.
3. Manual Bore Sighting: The most basic method of bore sighting is to remove the bolt from your rifle and look through the barrel at a target while the rifle is securely rested. Then, look through your scope and adjust the reticle as necessary. This method works best at 25 or 50 yards with a large, easily visible target. It’s simple, cost-effective, and surprisingly accurate if done carefully.

My Preferred Method: The Collimator Grid

Personally, I prefer the old-school collimator style with a rod that inserts into the muzzle. The rod keeps the collimator in a fixed position, providing a stable and level reference point. This method is generally the most accurate, especially when working with traditional rifles. However, with some modern rifles, the collimator might sit too low in relation to the optic. If that happens, I recommend keeping the elevation at optical center and only adjusting the windage to align with the center.

Step-by-Step Bore Sighting Guide

1. Stabilize Your Rifle: Start by placing your rifle in a gun vice or on a stable rest. Stability is key to ensuring accurate bore sighting.
2. Set Up the Bore Sighter: If you’re using a collimator bore sighter, select the appropriate rod for your rifle’s caliber and attach it to the collimator. Insert the rod into the muzzle, making sure it’s snug and secure.
3. Level the Bore Sighter: Once the collimator is in place, level it properly. When you look through the scope, you should see a grid pattern. This grid will help you make the necessary adjustments to align the reticle with the bore.
4. Adjust the Scope: If you’re using a rifle with a 20 MOA base, set the elevation to the optical center and focus on adjusting the windage. Make small adjustments to bring the reticle in line with the grid on the bore sighter.
5. Final Checks: Double-check that everything is level and aligned. If everything looks good, your rifle is now bore sighted and ready for the range!

Next Steps: Range Time

With your rifle bore sighted, you’re ready to head to the range to fine-tune your zero. Bore sighting gets you close, but the final adjustments should always be made with live ammunition at the range. Start at a short distance, like 25 yards, and work your way out to your desired zero distance, making small adjustments as needed.

By taking the time to properly bore sight your scope, you’ll save time, ammo, and avoid the frustration of missing your mark right out of the gate. Happy shooting!