How to Boresight an AR Rifle: A Comprehensive Guide to Precision Shooting

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Boresighting?
3. Tools Needed for Boresighting an AR Rifle
4. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Boresight an AR Rifle
5. Additional Tips for Successful Boresighting
6. Conclusion
7. FAQs

Introduction

Imagine the thrill of gearing up for a day at the range, your AR rifle meticulously prepped with a brand new optic. Your excitement, however, quickly turns to frustration as you realize that achieving pinpoint accuracy requires more than just mounting your scope. In fact, without proper sighting, your shots could land anywhere but the bullseye. This is where the art of boresighting comes in—a crucial step that helps you align your optic with the barrel of your rifle, saving you time, money, and the headache of wasted ammunition.

Boresighting is not just a technical necessity; it is a fundamental skill for any tactical enthusiast or survivalist seeking to enhance their shooting performance. With the right approach, you can begin your shooting session confidently, knowing that your first shots will land on target. In this blog post, we will delve into the ins and outs of how to boresight an AR rifle, covering everything from the tools you'll need to the specific steps involved in the process. By the end of this guide, you will have a comprehensive understanding of boresighting and how it can dramatically improve your shooting experience.

Whether you are a novice just stepping into the world of firearms or a seasoned marksman looking to refine your technique, this article will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to ensure your rifle is accurately sighted in. From understanding the concept of boresighting to practical tips and tricks, we will explore every facet of this essential skill.

What is Boresighting?

Boresighting is the process of adjusting a firearm's optics to align with the barrel's bore, thereby ensuring that the point of aim (POA) matches the point of impact (POI). The ultimate goal of boresighting is to get your rifle "on paper" at a specified distance before you start firing live rounds. This can save you significant time and ammunition, especially when sighting in a new scope or red dot sight.

The Importance of Boresighting

Understanding how to boresight an AR rifle is vital for several reasons:

1. Saves Ammunition: By ensuring your scope is roughly aligned before you fire, you can reduce the number of shots needed to achieve zeroing, which in turn saves you money on ammunition.

2. Increases Efficiency: With a properly boresighted rifle, you can spend less time adjusting your sights at the range and more time honing your shooting skills.

3. Improves Accuracy: A well-bore-sighted rifle allows for faster adjustments to be made during shooting, leading to improved overall accuracy.

4. Enhances Confidence: Knowing that your optic is aligned with your barrel gives you the confidence to take decisive shots in critical situations, whether in competition or self-defense scenarios.

Common Misconceptions About Boresighting

Many people believe that boresighting is a foolproof method that guarantees pinpoint accuracy from the first shot. While it is an excellent tool for getting on target quickly, it is essential to remember that boresighting is only a preliminary step in the sighting-in process. After boresighting, you will still need to fine-tune your optics with live rounds to achieve the precision required for effective shooting.

Tools Needed for Boresighting an AR Rifle

Before diving into the boresighting process, it's essential to gather the necessary tools. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:

1. Laser Boresighter: This device projects a laser beam down the barrel of your rifle, allowing you to align your optic with your bore. Laser boresighters come in several forms, including chamber inserts and muzzle devices.

2. Sturdy Shooting Rest: A stable platform is critical for maintaining accuracy while boresighting. Use a bipod, sandbags, or a dedicated shooting rest.

3. Target: Set a target at a distance appropriate for your boresighting process. Typically, 25 yards is a good starting point for initial alignment, while longer ranges can be used for final adjustments.

4. AR Cleaning Kit: Keeping your firearm clean is vital for optimal performance. A cleaning kit can help ensure that your barrel is free of debris before you begin.

5. Screwdriver: Depending on your optic, you may need a screwdriver to make adjustments to the mounting system.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Boresight an AR Rifle

Now that you have all your tools ready, let's walk through the process of boresighting your AR rifle.

Step 1: Prepare Your Rifle

1. Safety First: Always ensure that your rifle is unloaded. Remove any magazines and visually inspect the chamber to confirm there are no rounds present.

2. Clean the Barrel: If your rifle has not been used recently, it’s a good practice to clean the barrel to ensure there is no debris that could affect accuracy.

3. Mount Your Optic: Securely mount your chosen optic according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that it is tightened appropriately to avoid any movement during firing.

Step 2: Install the Laser Boresighter

1. Insert the Boresighter: Depending on the type of boresighter you are using, either insert it into the chamber or attach it to the muzzle. For chamber inserts, ensure it fits snugly without being forced.

2. Activate the Laser: If using a laser boresighter with a battery, ensure it is activated and projecting a beam down the bore.

Step 3: Align the Optic with the Boresighter

1. Set Up Your Target: Position your target at the chosen distance, typically 25 yards for the initial alignment.

2. Look Through the Optic: While looking through your optic, adjust it until the reticle aligns with the laser dot projected on the target. This may involve adjustments to both the elevation and windage settings.

3. Make Adjustments: Using the adjustment knobs on your optic, move the reticle to match the laser point. This step is critical, as it sets the foundation for your subsequent shots.

Step 4: Confirm Alignment

1. Remove the Boresighter: Eject the boresighter as you would a live round.

2. Fire a Test Shot: Take your rifle to the range and fire a test shot at the target. This first round should ideally be on or near the target paper.

3. Adjust Based on Impact: Depending on where your shot lands, make the necessary adjustments to your optic. If the bullet hole is significantly off the mark, you can repeat the boresighting process to refine your alignment.

Step 5: Fine-Tune Your Zero

1. Group Shots: Once you are on paper, shoot a group of 3 to 5 rounds to determine your point of impact.

2. Adjust for Accuracy: Use the information gathered from your group to fine-tune your optic's settings. If your shots are consistently low and to the right, for example, make the necessary adjustments to elevate and move left.

3. Repeat: Continue this process until you achieve a tight group around your desired point of aim.

Summary of the Boresighting Process

Boresighting your AR rifle involves preparing your firearm, utilizing a laser boresighter for alignment, and then confirming accuracy with live rounds. This step-by-step approach not only saves ammunition but also increases your overall shooting efficiency and confidence.

Additional Tips for Successful Boresighting

While the above steps provide a solid foundation for boresighting, here are some additional tips to enhance your experience:

• Use Quality Gear: Investing in quality optics and boresighting tools can significantly impact your results. Consider exploring Crate Club’s curated collection of tactical gear, including laser boresighters and optics, to ensure you have the best tools for the job. Explore the Crate Club Shop.

• Choose the Right Distance: While 25 yards is a common distance for initial boresighting, feel free to adjust based on your specific needs. If you plan to shoot at longer ranges, boresighting at 50 yards may yield better results.

• Practice Patience: Boresighting can be a meticulous process, and it may take multiple attempts to achieve the desired results. Stay patient and focused, as this will pay off in your shooting accuracy.

• Engage with the Community: Join the Crate Club community of tactical enthusiasts. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can provide valuable insights into improving your boresighting and shooting techniques.

Conclusion

Boresighting your AR rifle is an essential skill that can save time, improve accuracy, and increase your confidence when shooting. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your optic is properly aligned with your bore, allowing you to hit your target effectively.

As you continue to develop your shooting skills, remember that boresighting is just the beginning. Regular practice, combined with the right tools and techniques, will lead to greater proficiency and success on the range. Don't hesitate to explore Crate Club's subscription services, which offer monthly curated tactical gear to enhance your shooting experience. Subscribe to Crate Club and take your tactical skills to the next level.

FAQs

What is the best distance to boresight an AR rifle?

The best distance to boresight an AR rifle is typically 25 yards, as this provides a good starting point for aligning your optic. However, if you plan to shoot at longer distances, you may opt for 50 yards to achieve better initial alignment.

Do I need to use a laser boresighter?

While you can boresight using traditional methods such as peering through the bore, using a laser boresighter is highly recommended. It simplifies the process and provides more accurate alignment with less hassle.

Can I boresight without firing live rounds?

Yes, boresighting can be done entirely without firing live ammunition, especially when using a laser boresighter. This feature allows you to align your optic accurately before heading to the range.

How do I know if my rifle is properly boresighted?

After boresighting, you should fire a test shot at your target. If the shot lands on or near the target paper, your rifle is likely boresighted correctly. You will then fine-tune your optic based on subsequent shots.

What should I do if my shots are consistently off the target?

If your shots are consistently off target after boresighting, double-check your optic’s alignment and ensure there are no obstructions in the barrel. You may also want to try a different type of ammunition or clean your rifle to improve accuracy.

By mastering the art of boresighting, you are taking a significant step towards becoming a more proficient and confident shooter. So gear up, head to the range, and enjoy the satisfaction of hitting your targets with precision.