Let Me Tell You About the AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade
As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across a diverse range of environments – from outdoor expeditions and demanding workshop tasks to precise laboratory work and rugged field applications – I approach every piece of equipment with a critical eye. My recent acquisition, the AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade, caught my attention as a potential solution to a persistent annoyance in my shooting gear. The core promise is simple: extend the battery life of the AimShot BS9 9mm laser bore sight significantly. This upgrade replaces the tiny, often fiddly watch batteries with a more robust external pack powered by common AAA cells.
The specific issue that drove me to seek an upgrade was the frustratingly short operational time of my existing BS9 bore sight. During extended range sessions or when calibrating multiple firearms, I found myself constantly replacing the small button cells, which not only interrupted workflow but also added a recurring expense and a minor environmental concern with frequent disposal. This upgrade directly addresses that pain point, offering a claimed run time of over 20 hours, a substantial leap from its original capabilities.
Upon unboxing the unit, my initial impression was one of practical utility. The components – the external battery pack and its connecting wire – felt reasonably durable, constructed from what appears to be sturdy, matte-finished plastic. It’s a straightforward, no-frills design, prioritizing function over aesthetics. I briefly considered generic battery adapters, but the proprietary nature of laser bore sights often makes direct compatibility a gamble. This AimShot offering, however, is specifically designed for their BS9 unit, offering a higher degree of confidence in fit and function. My first reaction was one of quiet anticipation, a hope that this simple modification would indeed solve my battery drain woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local indoor shooting range, a controlled environment perfect for calibrating firearms. I attached the AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade to my 9mm pistol caliber carbine, specifically a 9mm AR platform where the chamber doesn’t need to close for bore sighting. The connection was secure, and the external pack, while slightly cumbersome, was manageable. I powered up the laser and began the bore sighting process, noting how much more relaxed I felt knowing I wasn’t on a ticking clock dictated by tiny batteries.
During this first session, I performed extended zeroing for several firearms that utilized the BS9. The AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade performed flawlessly, maintaining a consistent laser output without any noticeable degradation in brightness. The difference in usability was immediate; the ability to leave the laser on for extended periods without worry allowed for a more thorough and less rushed calibration. No issues or surprises cropped up; it simply worked as advertised, providing a stable power source.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent weeks, I integrated this battery pack upgrade into my regular range routine and for general firearm maintenance. I used it for multiple firearms, including pistol caliber carbines and even some fixed-barrel pistol setups where the chamber doesn’t necessitate closure. The claimed 20+ hours of run time proved to be a conservative estimate in my experience; I easily surpassed this mark before the AAA batteries needed replacement.
Durability has been impressive. The unit has been handled, stored in range bags alongside heavier equipment, and has seen constant on/off cycling. There are no visible signs of stress, cracking, or material degradation. The connecting wire remains flexible and shows no signs of fraying, which is a common failure point in similar accessories. Maintenance is practically non-existent. Replacing the two AAA batteries is a simple twist of the end cap. This is significantly easier and quicker than wrestling with the tiny, recessed watch batteries of the original setup. Compared to the original unit’s reliance on specialized, often expensive button cells, this AAA battery system is both more economical and more convenient.
Breaking Down the Features of AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade
Specifications
The AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade boasts a few key specifications that contribute to its enhanced functionality. It is designed to house 2 AAA batteries, a common and readily available power source. The unit itself has a length of 73 mm and a weight of 1.7 oz, adding minimal bulk to the bore sight. The battery compartment is secured with a simple screw-on end cap.
These specifications are important because they directly translate to improved user experience and operational longevity. The use of AAA batteries means that power is easily sourced from virtually any store, eliminating the need for specialized battery purchases. The 73 mm length and 1.7 oz weight are discreet enough not to significantly alter the balance or handling of the firearm during bore sighting. The simple end cap design makes battery replacement a quick and tool-free task.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade is to provide a sustained power source for the AimShot BS9 laser bore sight, and in this regard, it excels. Its main job is to keep the laser illuminated for extended periods, and it absolutely delivers. The consistent power delivery ensures a stable laser beam, crucial for accurate bore sighting.
Its biggest strength is undoubtedly the vastly extended run time it provides. This allows for much more practical and efficient zeroing, especially for those who frequently switch between firearms or are setting up new ones. The functionality is so straightforward that there’s almost no learning curve. It simply replaces the original battery cap and allows you to connect an external power source. While its function is straightforward, its impact on usability is profound.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this battery pack is purely utilitarian, focusing on practicality and ease of use. It’s constructed from a durable black plastic, which feels solid and capable of withstanding the typical knocks and bumps associated with firearms accessories. The finish is a matte black, which helps reduce glare and blends in well with most firearms.
Ergonomically, the design is simple. The battery pack itself is cylindrical, and the connecting cable is sufficiently long to allow for comfortable placement without obstructing handling. The screw-on end cap for accessing the AAA batteries is easy to grip and turn, even with slightly greasy fingers after a range session. There’s no complex interface, just a connection that fits securely onto the BS9 laser.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade feels like it’s built to last. The plastic housing appears robust, and the connection point to the bore sight is solid. Given its intended use, it’s unlikely to be subjected to extreme conditions, but for the typical workshop, range, or field environment, it should hold up well.
Maintenance is exceptionally low. The only required task is the occasional replacement of the two AAA batteries. This simplicity is a major advantage, as it minimizes the time and effort required to keep the bore sight operational. There are no delicate electronics or complex mechanisms to worry about, making it a very low-maintenance accessory.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade comes with its own set of included components: the modular battery pack itself, a cable to connect it to the BS9 laser, and importantly, 2 AAA batteries. This is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing users to get the upgrade operational right out of the package without an immediate trip to the store.
Beyond the included batteries, there are no further customization options for this specific upgrade unit. It’s a self-contained power solution. However, its modularity implies that it’s designed to work seamlessly with the AimShot BS9 bore sight, which is its primary point of compatibility.
Pros and Cons of AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade
Pros
- Significantly extended battery life: Offers 20+ hours of continuous use, a massive improvement over standard watch batteries.
- Uses common AAA batteries: Easily sourced and replaced, making it economical and convenient.
- Simple, tool-free installation: Replaces the original end cap quickly and easily.
- Durable construction: Built with sturdy plastic that feels capable of handling regular use.
- Improved workflow: Allows for uninterrupted bore sighting and calibration sessions.
Cons
- Requires chamber to remain open: This upgrade is not suitable for firearms where the chamber must be closed to bore sight (most semi-automatic pistols).
- Adds external component: Requires managing an external battery pack and cable, which can be slightly less streamlined than an internal solution.
- Limited to AimShot BS9: This is a proprietary upgrade and won’t work with other brands of bore sights.
Who Should Buy AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade?
The AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade is an excellent choice for owners of the AimShot BS9 9mm laser bore sight who primarily use it on firearms where the chamber remains open during bore sighting. This includes users of pistol caliber carbines (like 9mm AR platforms), bolt-action rifles, or any setup where the bore sight can be inserted without closing the action. It’s also ideal for anyone who frequently bore sights multiple firearms and finds the battery life of the standard BS9 to be a bottleneck.
However, users who need to bore sight semi-automatic pistols where the chamber must be closed to retain the bore sight should avoid this product. The design necessitates an open chamber to accommodate the external battery pack’s cable and housing. While it’s a straightforward upgrade, it doesn’t require any specialized tools, making it accessible to most users.
Conclusion on AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade
Overall, the AimShot Modular BS9 Battery Pack Upgrade is a highly effective and practical modification that dramatically improves the usability of the AimShot BS9 laser bore sight. For the target user, the extended battery life, coupled with the convenience of using common AAA batteries, transforms the bore sighting experience from a potentially frustrating task into a smooth, efficient process. The $9.99 price point is exceptionally reasonable for the value it provides, essentially turning an annoyance into a non-issue.
For anyone with a 9mm BS9 laser bore sight and a compatible firearm setup, I wholeheartedly recommend this upgrade. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution that delivers on its promise, making your bore sighting tasks significantly less tedious and more enjoyable. It’s a prime example of how a small, well-designed accessory can make a big difference in the field.