Description
Steve and Caleb from Brownells demonstrate a simple way to bore sight a rifle at the range without a dedicated laser bore sight or other specialized tools. If you can look directly through the bore, you can use this method to help get your optic on paper before starting the final zeroing process.
Using an AR-style rifle, Caleb removes the bolt carrier group and charging handle, supports the upper with a bipod and shooting bag, and visually aligns the bore with a target downrange. He explains how to center the chamber and muzzle openings concentrically before positioning the bore on the center of the target.
Once the rifle is stable and the bore is aligned, the optic can be adjusted toward the same point while repeatedly checking that the rifle hasn't moved.
The goal isn't to establish a perfect zero without firing. Bore sighting simply helps get the first shots on paper, potentially saving ammunition and time when you begin the actual zeroing process.
Steve and Caleb also discuss using the same basic technique with bolt-action rifles, single-shot rifles, break-action firearms, and other platforms where you can get a clear view through the bore.
Always verify the firearm is unloaded before beginning and complete the final zero with live ammunition at the appropriate range.
Chapters
00:00 How to Bore Sight a Rifle
00:08 Bore Sighting Without Special Tools
00:17 Bore Sighting at the Range
00:32 Sighting Through the Bore
00:44 Verify the Rifle Is Unloaded
00:47 Preparing an AR for Bore Sighting
01:11 Supporting the Rifle
01:23 Aligning the Bore With the Target
01:35 Remove the Scope Lens Caps
01:48 Adjusting Rifle Height
02:08 Choosing an Easy-to-Identify Target
02:26 Looking Through the Bore
02:51 Checking Bore Concentricity
03:10 Centering the Bore on the Target
03:18 Bore Sighting vs. Zeroing
03:28 Adjusting the Scope
03:39 Adjusting Elevation
04:04 Adjusting Windage
04:17 Getting the First Shot on Paper
04:23 Understanding Bore and Sight Alignment
04:47 Bore Sighting Other Rifle Types
05:20 Final Bore Sighting Tips
05:40 Brownells Tech Line