AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit Review

Everything I Learned from the AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit

The AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit promises a streamlined approach to aligning pistol sights, a task that can be tedious and time-consuming without the right tools. This particular kit, assembled by AimShot, aims to cover a broad spectrum of common pistol calibers, consolidating several individual laser modules and arbors into one package. My motivation for acquiring this kit stemmed from a persistent frustration with traditional bore-sighting methods. The constant need to load dummy rounds, cycle the action, and squint down the barrel for minute adjustments was becoming a bottleneck in my firearm maintenance routine. I had previously used the rifle version of an AimShot product and found it to be a reliable performer.

Considering alternatives, I had looked at individual boresight lasers for specific calibers, but the idea of a universal kit held appeal. The initial impression upon unboxing was one of mixed practicality; the components felt reasonably well-made, but the complexity of managing multiple small parts was immediately apparent. There was a definite sense of curiosity, a hope that this kit would indeed simplify a chore I’d come to dread.

Real-World Testing: Putting AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit to the Test

My testing primarily took place in my home workshop, where I have controlled lighting conditions and a stable surface, as well as at a local indoor shooting range during a dedicated range day. The environments allowed for both precision adjustments and confirmation of the boresight’s effectiveness on the target. I focused on using the kit with a few different pistols in my collection to gauge its universality.

The AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit experienced inconsistent performance from the outset. While the laser was bright enough in dimmer conditions, its reliability was a significant concern. There were instances where the laser simply refused to activate, requiring multiple attempts to get it to fire. This intermittency made the process frustrating, as I couldn’t always depend on it to function when needed.

Extended use proved to be even more disappointing. The primary issue that emerged was the unreliability of the laser modules themselves. Even after ensuring fresh batteries and proper assembly, the lasers would frequently fail to ignite. The user feedback I’d seen online mirrored my own experience, highlighting that the lasers often worked only sporadically, if at all. This made the kit less of a tool for quick adjustments and more of a potential source of irritation.

Maintenance proved to be a straightforward affair in terms of cleaning, but the inherent electrical unreliability overshadowed any ease of care. If a component isn’t functioning, ease of cleaning becomes a secondary concern. Compared to simpler, dedicated boresights or even the traditional method, the lack of consistent performance made this kit fall short of expectations. The promised convenience was unfortunately undermined by its inconsistent functionality.

First Use Experience

My initial attempt involved a 9mm pistol. I selected the appropriate laser module and an arbor, though finding the exact fit for some of the older or less common pistol designs required careful observation. The laser itself, when it worked, cast a bright red dot onto my workshop wall, providing a visual reference for the barrel’s point of aim. However, the critical requirement for a tilt-barrel pistol, like the Taurus PT111G2 mentioned in user feedback, presented an immediate hurdle.

Fitting the laser module into the chamber of my Taurus PT111G2 was problematic. The slide would not close completely with the laser installed, a necessity for the pistol’s operation and a critical step in accurate boresighting. Applying gentle pressure, or even a slight tap, was sometimes needed to get the slide to seat fully. This is a significant deviation from a truly “universal” fit and an inconvenience for any pistol owner.

Once the slide was closed and the laser finally activated (after a few tries), the brightness was adequate for indoor use. Adjusting the iron sights to align with the laser dot was a straightforward process. However, the true test came upon reinstallation: after removing the laser to preserve battery life, reinserting it and closing the slide again resulted in… no light. This became a recurring theme, with the laser only occasionally producing a dim glow, often at an odd angle during the cap-tightening process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several attempts to troubleshoot, including consulting the manufacturer’s FAQ for suggestions about removing extractor springs (a rather involved step not clearly outlined in the initial instructions), the reliability issue persisted. The most I could achieve was a very faint light, which would flicker briefly when the cap was almost fully screwed on. This unreliability made the AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit practically unusable for its intended purpose.

The issue wasn’t limited to just one laser module; the 30-caliber laser also exhibited similar intermittent behavior. This suggests a broader problem with the electronic components or power delivery within the kit. The brass arbors themselves seemed sturdy enough, but their utility was negated by the failing laser modules. Ultimately, the kit transformed from a promising tool into what felt like a very small, zippered pouch for my range bag, housing components that offered more frustration than function.

Breaking Down the Features of AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit

The AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit is designed as a comprehensive solution for pistol owners looking to simplify the sight-alignment process. It includes a variety of laser modules and arbors, aiming to cater to a wide range of firearm calibers. The core components are the laser modules and the specialized arbors that interface with the firearm’s chamber and bore.

Specifications

The kit includes two primary laser bore sight modules: the BS9 for 9mm Luger and the BS30 for .30 Carbine. The BS30 is highlighted as the foundation of the system, designed to work in conjunction with the various arbors. These arbors are crucial for adapting the laser’s position to different pistol calibers.

The included arbors are:

• AR38: For .38 Special and .357 Magnum.
• AR40: For .40 S&W.
• AR44REM: For .44 S&W Special.
• AR45ACP: For .45 ACP.
• AR45COLT: For .45 Colt.

All these arbors are intended to be used with the BS30 laser module. The primary laser module, the BS9, is specifically for 9mm. The kit specifies a brass construction for the arbors, which provides a good balance of durability and non-marring properties. The lasers themselves are powered by AAA batteries, with the kit including 2 of them. The kit is listed as New condition.

These specifications mean that the kit should theoretically cover a wide range of popular pistol calibers, from the common 9mm and .45 ACP to revolver cartridges like .38 Special and .357 Magnum. The brass construction of the arbors is a positive point, as it suggests they are designed to be robust without scratching the firearm’s chamber or bore. The use of readily available AAA batteries is also convenient, though the quantity of batteries and their initial inclusion is a small but practical detail.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit is to provide a consistent and accurate laser dot within the bore of the pistol, allowing for quick sight alignment. Unfortunately, this is where the kit falters significantly. Its main function is severely compromised by its unreliability.

The laser often failed to activate, and when it did, the beam could be dim or inconsistent. This directly impacts its ability to perform its core function of providing a stable reference point for sight adjustment. The requirement for some pistols to have the slide slightly ajar to accommodate the laser module further complicates its universal claim. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it can prevent the tool from being used with certain firearm designs without modification or workarounds.

The inconsistency means that the kit barely meets expectations, and in many cases, falls short. Its performance is highly variable, rendering it unreliable for anything other than perhaps a very dim, momentary confirmation in a completely dark room. The price point, while not exorbitant, feels too high for a product that doesn’t reliably perform its fundamental task.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit involves a collection of individual components. The laser modules are small, cylindrical units that are designed to be inserted into the chamber. The arbors are conical or stepped brass pieces that fit into the chamber mouth and guide the laser module to the correct position.

The build quality of the brass arbors appears decent; they have a smooth finish and feel solid. However, the laser modules themselves, particularly their electronic components and activation mechanisms, feel less robust. The overall ergonomics suffer due to the inconsistent functionality. While the concept of fitting an arbor and then a laser is straightforward, the execution is hampered by the unreliability of the activation.

Practical design details, such as clear markings for caliber compatibility on the arbors, are present and helpful. However, the design flaw regarding tilt-barrel pistols, where the slide must be fully closed, is a significant ergonomic hurdle. This design oversight limits its true universality and creates a practical issue for a substantial number of pistol owners. The placement of the activation button or switch on the laser modules also felt somewhat awkward to operate consistently.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the durability of the AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit is questionable, primarily due to the electronic components in the laser modules. While the brass arbors are likely to last for a very long time with proper care, the lasers themselves are the weak link. The intermittent failures suggest a potential issue with internal wiring, switches, or the battery contacts.

Maintenance is relatively simple: the arbors can be wiped clean, and the laser modules should be kept dry and clean, with batteries removed when not in use to prevent corrosion. However, the recurring problem of the laser not turning on renders extensive maintenance moot. If the core functionality is compromised, the long-term durability is inherently limited. There were no obvious failure points like cracks or severe wear after my testing period, but the internal electronic issues are a major concern for longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit itself is essentially a kit of accessories, providing multiple components to cover different calibers. The primary “accessories” are the various arbors, which allow the single BS30 laser to be used across different calibers. The kit comes with two AAA batteries, which are essential for its operation.

There are no significant customization options for the laser itself, beyond ensuring the correct arbor is used for the caliber. The kit is not designed to interface with other accessories from different brands. Its sole purpose is to provide a boresighting solution. While the included arbors are functional, the kit does not offer alternative laser colors or power levels.

Pros and Cons of AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit

Who Should Buy AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit?

This AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit is difficult to recommend for most pistol owners. It might appeal to someone who primarily owns firearms where the slide can be fully closed with the laser installed and who requires a wide range of calibers in a single kit. Furthermore, an individual who is exceptionally patient and willing to troubleshoot or even potentially modify the unit might find some limited use.

However, anyone seeking a reliable, no-nonsense boresighting tool should steer clear. Those with tilt-barrel pistols, such as many Glock, SIG Sauer, Taurus, and others, will likely find this kit incompatible out of the box. If you require precision and dependability for your firearm maintenance, consider dedicated boresight lasers for each specific caliber or a high-quality, single-caliber boresight. For those who value their time and don’t want the added frustration, investing in a more reliable single-purpose tool is advisable.

Conclusion on AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit

The AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit presents a compelling idea: a single tool to bore-sight a multitude of pistol calibers. Unfortunately, its execution falls dramatically short of its promise. The core functionality, the reliable emission of a laser beam, is so inconsistent that the kit becomes more of a nuisance than a helpful tool. While the brass arbors are a decent component and the concept of universality is appealing, the unreliable laser modules render the entire package practically useless for its intended purpose.

The value proposition here is weak; the $89.99 price point is steep for a set of components that frequently fail to operate. For that cost, one could purchase multiple high-quality, single-caliber boresights that are far more dependable. I cannot personally recommend the AimShot Universal Laser Boresight Pistol Kit. While it might serve as a conversation starter or a display piece for its collection of parts, its practical application in accurately boresighting pistols is severely compromised by its inherent unreliability. If you value your time and need a tool that simply works, look elsewhere.