The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors
My workbench, often a chaotic symphony of tools and half-finished projects, recently welcomed the AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience navigating everything from dusty workshops to sterile lab environments, I approach new gear with a healthy mix of curiosity and skepticism. This particular kit promised to streamline the often tedious process of initial optic or sight alignment for a wide array of pistols. I was looking for a reliable way to get my firearm’s sights roughly on target before heading to the range, a task that can eat up valuable time and ammunition. While I’d used similar bore sighting tools in the past, none had offered the breadth of caliber support in a single, organized package. My initial impression of the kit was positive; the components felt well-made, and the included zippered pouch offered a neat and tidy solution for storage. It certainly felt like a step up from the generic, single-caliber bore sighters I’d previously relied on.
Real-World Testing: Putting AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my home workshop, a space that sees its fair share of firearms, tools, and general tinkering. I focused on a few common handguns – a 9mm semi-automatic and a .357 Magnum revolver – to gauge the kit’s versatility right out of the box. The process of selecting the appropriate arbor and fitting the laser module was straightforward, taking mere moments to swap between calibers. The visible red laser beam projected clearly onto my workshop wall, providing a distinct aiming point. I found the system surprisingly intuitive; there wasn’t a steep learning curve, and the instructions provided were clear enough for immediate use.
One minor quirk I noticed immediately was the somewhat limited run time of the 30 Carbine laser module when used without the external battery pack. The product description indicated around 10 minutes, and this proved to be fairly accurate, meaning you need to be efficient. Fortunately, the inclusion of the external battery packs for both the 9mm and the .30 Carbine laser modules addresses this concern significantly, offering 20+ hours of run time. This feature was a welcome surprise and a smart addition for extended sighting sessions.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks, I integrated this bore sight kit into my routine for new optic installations and sight adjustments on various pistols. It became my go-to for those initial “rough zero” tasks, saving me trips to the range solely for sight alignment. The kit has held up remarkably well. Despite being jostled around in my range bag and occasionally finding its way onto my workbench amidst heavier tools, the components show no signs of significant wear. The arbors, made of what appears to be brass, have resisted marring or deformation, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy.
Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is a huge plus. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is all that’s ever needed. Unlike some cheaper alternatives that might develop loose connections or finicky switches, this kit has remained consistently functional. When compared to the frustrating experience of using universal bore sighters that never quite fit perfectly or disposable laser cartridges that die after a few uses, the AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors feels like a robust, long-term solution. Its reliability in repeatedly providing a consistent aiming point has genuinely impressed me, especially given its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors
Specifications
The AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors is designed to cover a substantial portion of the common handgun calibers. It includes two distinct laser modules: one for 9mm and another designated for .30 Carbine, which serves as the base for pistol caliber arbors. The kit is bundled with six key pistol arbors: AR38/357 (for .38 Special and .357 Magnum), AR40SW (for .40 S&W), AR44REM (for .44 Magnum), AR45COLT (for .45 Colt), and AR45ACP (for .45 ACP). The specifications also mention that the 9mm laser module uses L736 batteries, while the .30 Carbine module uses 4 L626F batteries.
The standout feature for extended use is the inclusion of two external battery packs, each running on AAA batteries. These packs dramatically increase the run time, especially for the .30 Carbine module, extending it to over 20 hours. This is a critical detail for anyone who spends significant time sighting in multiple firearms or needs a reliable tool for extended setup periods. The laser’s wavelength is listed as 650nM, which results in a visible red beam, generally adequate for most indoor and semi-outdoor sighting tasks in daylight. The entire kit is conveniently housed in a zippered pouch, making storage and transport manageable.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function – bore sighting – the AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors performs admirably. The laser provides a clear, consistent point of reference that allows for rapid initial sight alignment. For example, when setting up a red dot sight on a Glock 19, I was able to get the dot within a few inches of the laser’s point of aim at 10 yards before even firing a shot. Similarly, for revolvers like a Ruger Blackhawk in .44 Magnum, the appropriate arbor fit snugly, and the projected laser made it easy to get the fixed sights roughly aligned with the desired impact point.
The main strength here is the caliber versatility. Having a single kit that can adapt to 9mm, .357 Mag, .40 S&W, .44 Mag, .45 Colt, and .45 ACP is a significant advantage over buying individual bore sighters. This saves not only money but also considerable storage space. The primary weakness, as noted earlier, is the short battery life of the 30 Carbine laser module when used independently. While the external battery packs mitigate this, it’s something to be aware of if you intend to use that module without the pack. The red beam color is functional but can struggle in very bright, direct sunlight at extended distances, a common limitation for most laser bore sights.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this bore sight kit prioritizes functionality and adaptability. The laser modules themselves are relatively compact and designed to seat securely within the selected arbor. The arbors, which are the crucial interface between the laser module and the firearm’s bore, are precision machined. The brass construction not only provides a good balance of durability and malleability (less likely to damage bore rifling than harder metals) but also contributes to a premium feel.
Ergonomically, the kit is straightforward. There’s no complex interface or button arrangement to master. You select an arbor, insert it into the bore, screw the correct laser module onto the arbor, and turn it on. The external battery packs are designed to be clipped onto a belt or pocket, keeping them accessible without adding bulk directly to the firearm. The zippered pouch is a thoughtful touch, keeping all the pieces together and protected. It’s a well-executed design that focuses on ease of use for its intended purpose.
Durability & Maintenance
The AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors appears to be built for longevity, especially for its intended application. The laser modules themselves are housed in robust casings, and the arbors, as mentioned, are made from durable brass. I have not experienced any issues with parts loosening or becoming damaged during normal use. The zipper on the carrying pouch is also of good quality, suggesting that the overall construction is intended for regular use.
Maintenance is minimal to none. For the laser modules, keeping the battery contacts clean is the only real consideration, which can be achieved with a simple pencil eraser or a cotton swab. The arbors can be wiped down with a soft cloth. There are no complicated mechanisms to clean or lubricate. Given that this is a tool for initial sight alignment rather than a component subjected to recoil or extreme environmental conditions, its durability should easily match that of the firearms it’s used with, provided reasonable care. Potential failure points are primarily limited to the electronic components within the laser modules or the AAA batteries in the external packs, standard consumable items.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors comes as a complete package, with the primary “accessories” being the six top pistol arbors and the two external battery packs. These are not mere add-ons but integral components that define the kit’s value and utility. The arbors are specifically designed for a range of common pistol calibers, ensuring a snug fit in the bore of your firearm. The external battery packs are a crucial enhancement, addressing the limitation of shorter battery life in the laser modules themselves and allowing for extended periods of use without interruption.
While the kit itself is quite comprehensive for its purpose, there isn’t significant “customization” in the traditional sense, as it’s a specialized tool. However, the broader context of its use implies customization. For instance, if you were to mount a specific type of optic that requires a slightly different zeroing distance, you would adjust your firearm accordingly after using the bore sight. The kit’s functionality is tied to the calibers it supports, and the selection of arbors is key to its adaptability. There are no user-replaceable parts other than the batteries themselves, making it a straightforward, no-fuss system.
Pros and Cons of AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors
Pros
- Exceptional Caliber Versatility: The kit covers a wide range of popular pistol calibers with its included arbors, making it a one-stop solution for many handgun owners.
- Extended Battery Life Options: The inclusion of external battery packs provides over 20 hours of runtime, significantly improving usability for longer sighting sessions.
- Organized Storage: The zippered pouch keeps all components together, preventing loss and making it easy to transport.
- Durable Construction: Made with brass arbors and sturdy laser modules, this kit feels built to last through repeated use.
- Intuitive Operation: Simple to use, requiring minimal setup and no complex instructions to get started.
Cons
- Limited Run Time (without external pack): The 9mm and .30 Carbine laser modules have a short operational time of about 10 minutes when used independently.
- Red Beam Visibility: While functional indoors, the red beam can be difficult to see in bright, direct sunlight at longer distances.
- No Micro-Adjustments: As with most bore sights, it provides a general alignment; fine-tuning still requires live fire.
Who Should Buy AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors?
This kit is an excellent choice for home gunsmiths, firearm enthusiasts, and competitive shooters who frequently mount or adjust sights and optics on a variety of handguns. If you own multiple pistols across different calibers (9mm, .357 Mag, .40 S&W, .44 Mag, .45 ACP), this kit will save you considerable time and money compared to purchasing individual bore sighters. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to get their firearms roughly on target quickly before heading to the range, significantly reducing the number of shots needed for a full zero.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals who only own a single firearm in a common caliber and rarely make adjustments, or those who need an extremely high-precision, sub-minute-of-angle (MOA) initial aiming point without any live fire. If your primary need is for long-range, daylight outdoor visibility, a different type of bore sighting device might be more suitable. Recommended complementary items would simply be good quality batteries (AAA for the packs, and knowing the correct L-series for the modules) and a clean cleaning cloth for the arbors.
Conclusion on AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors
The AimShot Pistol Laser Bore Sight Kit w/Top 6 Arbors is a highly practical and well-executed tool for anyone serious about handgun maintenance and zeroing. Its strength lies in its remarkable versatility across a wide range of pistol calibers, combined with the smart inclusion of external battery packs that overcome the inherent limitation of short battery life in smaller laser modules. For its price point of $115.99, the value proposition is strong, offering a robust solution that outshines cheaper, single-caliber alternatives.
I would personally recommend this kit to any shooter who finds themselves frequently sighting in different handguns. It streamlines the process, saves ammunition, and provides a reliable baseline for optic or iron sight alignment. While it’s not a magic bullet for achieving a perfect zero without live fire, it significantly reduces the guesswork and effort involved. If you’re looking for a durable, adaptable, and user-friendly bore sighting solution for your pistol collection, this AimShot kit is a solid investment.