Behind the Box: Testing the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit promises to quickly align your scope or sights with your rifle’s barrel, saving ammunition and frustration. Bushnell, a trusted name in optics, aims to provide a user-friendly tool for achieving better accuracy. I was intrigued by the promise of easy setup and broad compatibility, so I decided to put it to the test.
My biggest frustration has always been wasting ammo getting on paper during initial scope mounting or after travel. A boresighter seemed like the ideal solution to minimize range time and maximize shooting enjoyment. The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit stood out due to its seemingly robust design and included arbors for various calibers.
Upon opening the kit, I was immediately impressed by the organized and secure carrying case. The metal construction of the boresighter itself felt solid and well-made, lending an air of quality. Compared to cheaper, plastic alternatives, the Bushnell inspired confidence.
While other laser boresighters exist, I chose this one for its reputation and included arbors, simplifying the process. I was excited to see if it lived up to its claims of getting me on paper quickly. The initial impression was a mix of anticipation and cautious optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit at my local shooting range, using both a .22LR rifle and a .223 AR-15. The weather was clear and sunny, providing optimal conditions for sighting in. The kit was simple to use, requiring minimal setup time.
Inserting the appropriate arbor and attaching the boresighter was straightforward. Aligning the reticle with the scope’s crosshairs was relatively easy, although precise alignment proved a bit challenging. The .22LR arbor felt particularly tight, almost concerningly so.
After making adjustments based on the boresighter, my first shots with the .22LR were on the target, but slightly off-center. The .223 AR-15 fared similarly, with rounds grouping, but not perfectly aligned with the bullseye. I experienced a slight initial disappointment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and uses on different rifles, the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit has held up well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the boresighter body itself. However, the expandable arbors show some minor scratches from insertion and removal.
Cleaning is straightforward, simply wiping down the boresighter and arbors with a clean cloth. I store the kit in its case to prevent damage and keep the components organized. While it gets you close, it doesn’t replace proper range sighting.
Compared to completely unaided sighting, the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit definitely speeds up the process. However, it doesn’t provide the pinpoint accuracy of traditional methods. It is a useful tool, but not a replacement for range time and careful adjustments.
Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit
Specifications
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit is designed for use with firearms chambered in calibers between .22 and .45. It features a metal construction for durability. The kit includes three expandable arbors to accommodate different bore sizes.
The large diameter objective lens aims to provide a clear and high-resolution image. The kit comes complete with a carrying case for convenient storage and transport. These specifications matter because they determine the versatility and ease of use of the boresighter.
Performance & Functionality
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit performs adequately in getting you on paper at shorter distances, typically around 25-50 yards. While it does not provide pinpoint accuracy, it significantly reduces the amount of adjustments needed at the range. Its accuracy is good enough for initial setup, but final zeroing should always be done with live fire.
The kit’s strengths lie in its ease of use and versatility. Its primary weakness is its inability to achieve precise zeroing. The boresighter meets expectations for a basic sighting tool, but falls short of being a precision instrument.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit features a solid, all-metal build, giving it a robust feel. The weight is manageable and doesn’t feel cumbersome. The included case is well-designed and keeps everything organized.
The user experience is relatively simple, requiring minimal technical knowledge. The expandable arbors are easy to insert and adjust, but can be a little tight. While the kit itself is user-friendly, achieving perfect alignment requires patience and a steady hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The metal construction of the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit suggests it should last for many years with proper care. The arbors, being subjected to friction and pressure, might wear down over time, however. Regular cleaning and careful storage are essential for prolonging the kit’s lifespan.
Maintaining the boresighter is straightforward: wipe clean after each use and store in a dry place. There are no readily replaceable parts, but the solid construction minimizes the need for repairs. The overall design indicates good durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit comes with three expandable arbors and a carrying case. No additional accessories are included. There are no customization options available for the unit itself.
Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited, as the boresighter is a self-contained unit. While you might be able to purchase individual arbors for different calibers separately, they must be Bushnell-compatible. The absence of customization options is a slight drawback.
Pros and Cons of Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit
Pros
- Easy to use: The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit is simple to set up and operate, even for beginners.
- Versatile: The kit includes three expandable arbors, accommodating a wide range of calibers from .22 to .45.
- Durable construction: The all-metal design ensures the boresighter can withstand regular use.
- Convenient storage: The included carrying case keeps the kit organized and protected.
- Saves ammunition: Gets you on paper quickly, minimizing wasted rounds during initial sighting.
Cons
- Not pinpoint accurate: Requires live fire for final zeroing, as it doesn’t achieve perfect alignment.
- Arbors can be tight: Some users have reported difficulty inserting and removing the arbors.
Who Should Buy Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit?
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who want to save time and ammunition when sighting in their rifles. It is also a valuable tool for gunsmiths and firearm enthusiasts who frequently mount scopes. This product is ideal for those who want a quick and easy way to get their rifles on paper before fine-tuning at the range.
Those seeking ultimate precision should skip this product, as it does not replace the need for careful live-fire adjustments. Someone needing extreme accuracy will be disappointed. Those on a tight budget may want to consider less expensive options, but keep in mind the potentially lower quality.
Must-have accessories would include a sturdy rifle rest or shooting vise to ensure stable and accurate alignment during the boresighting process. Having a good quality target and reliable ammunition is also essential for the final zeroing at the range. A set of gunsmithing tools may also be helpful for adjusting scopes and mounts.
Conclusion on Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit
The Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit is a useful tool for getting your rifle on paper quickly and efficiently. It is easy to use, versatile, and relatively durable. While it doesn’t replace the need for live-fire zeroing, it significantly reduces the amount of adjustments required at the range.
At a price of $106.01, the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit offers good value for the convenience and time savings it provides. For the average shooter, the price is justified. Someone who frequently sights in rifles will appreciate the investment.
I would recommend the Bushnell Banner Laser Boresighter Kit to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to streamline the scope mounting and sighting process. If you’re tired of wasting ammunition and range time, this tool is worth considering. Get yours today and spend less time sighting and more time shooting!