As an avid shotgun enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours at the range, and I can tell you, few things are as frustrating (and costly!) as trying to zero in a new optic or even just checking your existing sights. That’s where a reliable 12 gauge bore sight comes in. I’ve personally tried a few, and let me tell you, having one of the best 12 gauge bore sight options can drastically cut down on wasted shells and target frustration. It’s truly a time and money saver, allowing you to get a precise initial alignment before fine-tuning with live fire.
Contents
- MidTen Bore Sight 12 Gauge Laser Red Dot Boresighter
- EZshoot Laser Bore Sight, 12 Gauge Bore Sight Laser Red
- MidTen Laser Bore Sight 12 Gauge Green Bore Sight Laser
- EZshoot 12 Gauge Bore Sight Laser Red Dot Laser Bore
- DARKFANG 12 Gauge Laser Bore Sight Easy Sighting Bore
- Comparison Short Insights
- Final Verdict
- Your Questions About the Best 12 Gauge Bore Sight Answered
- How accurate are 12 gauge laser bore sights?
- Is a red or green laser bore sight better for 12 gauge shotguns?
- Can a bore sight completely replace live-fire zeroing?
- How do I use a 12 gauge bore sight effectively?
- What’s the typical sighting range for these 12 gauge bore sights?
- Are there any specific maintenance tips for my 12 gauge bore sight?
- Do all 12 gauge bore sights fit every 12 gauge chamber?
MidTen Bore Sight 12 Gauge Laser Red Dot Boresighter
This MidTen bore sight has been a go-to for many, including myself, when I need a quick and precise zero for my 12 gauge shotgun. Its sturdy brass construction feels really solid, fitting snugly into the chamber just like a regular shell. I’ve found it super easy to use – just pop it in, and the bright red dot appears, giving you a clear reference point to align your sights or optic. It’s a fantastic tool for getting you on paper quickly, saving precious ammo.
Key features that stand out:
– Class IIIA laser, less than 5mW for a bright, visible dot.
– Made to fit the 12-Gauge chamber, ensuring a perfect, caliber-specific fit.
– Comes with 1 set batteries (3 AG13 batteries) which can last eight hours.
– Easy to sit perfectly in the bore. Sturdy brass construction.
– Fast gun zeroing and sighting, with high accuracy to reduce wasted cartridges.
– Sighting range of 15 to 100 yards.
Pros:
– Solid brass construction for durability and a snug fit.
– Very easy to activate and use, simplifying the zeroing process.
– Good battery life for extended use.
– Accurate for initial sight alignment, saving ammo.
Cons:
– Only includes one set of batteries, so you might want spares for prolonged use.
Best for: Shooters looking for a dependable, no-frills red laser bore sight with robust construction for their 12 gauge.
Expert Opinion: This is a solid, entry-level bore sight that delivers on its promise. The brass construction is a significant plus for durability and maintaining chamber fit. It’s an excellent choice for general purpose sighting tasks, especially for those who prefer the traditional red laser.
EZshoot Laser Bore Sight, 12 Gauge Bore Sight Laser Red
The EZshoot 12 gauge bore sight offers a really practical solution for quickly zeroing in your shotgun. What immediately impressed me was the inclusion of extra batteries, meaning I wasn’t scrambling for replacements mid-session. Its high-grade aluminum construction makes it light yet durable, and it slots into the chamber with ease. This bore sight is all about getting you accurate quickly, making your range time more productive and less about chasing phantom shots.
Key features that stand out:
– Long-lasting Boresighter: 12 gauge bore sight uses 3 batteries at a time. Upgraded LR44 will last up to 6.5 hours per set.
– Extra Batteries: EZshoot 12ga bore sight comes with 2 sets of batteries. 6pcs in total.
– Laser Accuracy: High accuracy laser bore sight to help to zero your scopes and sights quickly. Saving your time and money.
– Use In Chamber: Made of high-grade aluminum, compact laser bore sighter. Easy to use in the 12 Gauge chamber.
– Bright Red Laser: Class IIIA laser, less than 5mW. Sighting range of 15-100 yards.
Pros:
– Comes with two sets of batteries, providing ample power out of the box.
– Good battery life per set (6.5 hours).
– Lightweight yet durable aluminum construction.
– Very straightforward to use for quick zeroing.
Cons:
– Aluminum construction might not feel as “premium” as brass to some users.
Best for: Those who appreciate value and convenience, especially the extra batteries, for their red laser bore sighting needs.
Expert Opinion: The EZshoot stands out for its thoughtful inclusion of extra batteries, which is a common oversight with other brands. The aluminum body keeps it light, and its accuracy is more than sufficient for effective initial bore sighting. It’s a fantastic choice for reliability and readiness.
MidTen Laser Bore Sight 12 Gauge Green Bore Sight Laser
When I’m shooting outdoors or in brighter conditions, a green laser can make a world of difference, and this MidTen green laser bore sight delivers precisely that. The clear green laser is noticeably more visible than red in certain lighting, making it easier to acquire your zero. It’s built with solid brass construction, giving it that reassuring weight and feel, and the fact that it comes with plenty of batteries (9pcs in total!) means you’re well-stocked for multiple sessions.
Key features that stand out:
– Clear Green Laser: Wave length 510-540nm, sighting range 30-300 yards.
– Plenty of Batteries: Comes with 3 sets of batteries (9pcs in total), use 3pcs at a time.
– Premium Quality: Solid brass construction. Chamber-sized 12 gauge bore sight laser will sit perfectly in the bore and easy to use.
– [MidTen Precision] 12 gauge laser bore sight is designed to provides a precise reference to zero-in your optic and iron sights so as to save your time and money.
– Specification: The green bore laser is suitable for 12 gauge chamber, caliber specific. Class IIIA laser, less than 5mW.
Pros:
– Green laser offers superior visibility, especially in daylight or against busy backgrounds.
– Generous supply of batteries (3 sets) for extended use.
– Durable and precise solid brass construction.
– Longer sighting range compared to red laser counterparts.
Cons:
– Green lasers typically consume batteries faster, even with the included extras.
Best for: Shooters who need maximum laser visibility, particularly for outdoor use or those with red-green color blindness.
Expert Opinion: The choice between red and green often comes down to personal preference and lighting conditions. For maximum visibility, especially at longer distances or during the day, this green laser from MidTen is an excellent option. The robust brass build further enhances its appeal.
EZshoot 12 Gauge Bore Sight Laser Red Dot Laser Bore
This EZshoot red dot bore sight is a testament to solid design and practicality. It’s got that sturdy brass construction that just feels right, ensuring it holds up over time and fits perfectly in the chamber. I really like that it’s packaged in a compact tin case, making it super easy to keep everything organized and protected when I throw it in my range bag. Its high laser accuracy means I spend less time guessing and more time fine-tuning.
Key features that stand out:
– High Accuracy: EZshoot 12 gauge bore sight laser has high laser accuracy which helps to zero in quickly, save your time and money.
– Extra Batteries: Comes with 2 sets of batteries (6 pcs LR44 in total). Each set of battery can last up to 4 hours.
– Easy to Use: Chamber-size laser bore sighter, designed to fit the 12-gauge/12ga bore chamber. The 12 gauge laser bore sight, batteries and the user manual are packaged in a compact tin case, easy to carry to the range.
– Sturdy and Reliable: Sturdy brass construction. The premium brass laser bore sights are highly resistant to deformation and temperature.
– Bright Red Laser: Class IIIA laser, less than 5mW. 650nm red laser 12 ga bore sight can reach the sighting range of 15-100 yards.
Pros:
– Excellent brass construction for durability and consistent fit.
– Conveniently packaged in a tin case for protection and portability.
– Comes with two sets of batteries, providing good operational time.
– High accuracy for efficient initial zeroing.
Cons:
– Battery life per set is slightly less than some competitors, though compensated by extra batteries.
Best for: Shooters who prioritize robust brass construction, high accuracy, and convenient storage in a portable case.
Expert Opinion: This EZshoot model is a fantastic example of a well-rounded red laser bore sight. The combination of brass construction, practical tin case, and extra batteries makes it a very appealing package for regular use. It’s a dependable choice for accurate initial sighting.
DARKFANG 12 Gauge Laser Bore Sight Easy Sighting Bore
The DARKFANG 12 gauge bore sight caught my attention with its claim of a small sighting dot for more precise alignment. In practice, the accurate sighting lived up to its name, helping me dial in my optics swiftly. It’s built with a solid brass case that perfectly mimics a 12 gauge shell, making insertion and removal smooth. The two sets of upgraded batteries are a thoughtful addition, ensuring you have enough power to get the job done without interruption.
Key features that stand out:
– 12 gauge bore sighting Red laser Class IIIA, less than 5mW.
– Solid Material—the 12 gauge laser bore sight has solid brass case and cartridge shape design, packing with small box for convenient carry, perfectly fit for the the 12 gauge chamber, caliber specific.
– Accurate Sighting—the 12 GA bore laser centered and accurately leveled from the factory, laser is properly centered in the shell to make sure your sights are accurate.
– Easy and Quick Sighting— there’s 2 sets upgraded batteries included, which allows sighting continuously up to 3 hours with one set batteries.
– Bright and small sighting dot—red dot size 1inch only at 50yds, keep your sighting more accurate.
Pros:
– Very accurate, with a small, focused red dot for precise alignment.
– Robust brass construction for durability and reliable chamber fit.
– Includes two sets of upgraded batteries.
– Comes in a small box for convenient storage and transport.
Cons:
– The battery life per set is comparatively shorter than some other models.
Best for: Those who value extreme precision with a tight laser dot and prefer the reliable feel of brass.
Expert Opinion: The DARKFANG focuses on getting that laser dot as small and precise as possible, which is a huge advantage for fine-tuning. While the battery life isn’t the longest per set, the inclusion of two sets mitigates this. It’s a strong contender for shooters who demand high accuracy from their bore sight.
Comparison Short Insights
When picking the best 12 gauge bore sight, a few key differences popped out to me. The MidTen Red and EZshoot Red (in tin case) both boast robust brass construction, giving them a really solid, premium feel and ensuring excellent chamber fit. The EZshoot Red (aluminum body) offers a lighter build, which might be preferred by some for weight savings, though I personally lean towards brass for durability in bore sights.
For laser visibility, the MidTen Green Laser is the undisputed champion. If you’re often bore sighting in brighter outdoor conditions or just struggle to see red, the brighter green dot is a significant advantage, even if it means a shorter individual battery life. Speaking of batteries, the MidTen Green and EZshoot (both red models) are great for including multiple sets of batteries, ensuring you’re not left without power. The DARKFANG also includes extra batteries and is notable for its exceptionally small and precise laser dot, which could be a deciding factor for those obsessed with minute adjustments.
Range-wise, most red lasers hit the 15-100 yards mark, which is perfectly adequate for initial zeroing. The MidTen Green extends that to an impressive 30-300 yards, making it more versatile for longer-range applications or larger areas.
Final Verdict
After putting these bore sights through their paces, it’s clear each has its own strengths. If I were recommending an all-around reliable red laser bore sight that balances durability, accuracy, and convenience, the EZshoot 12 Gauge Bore Sight Laser Red Dot Laser Bore (the one in the tin case) stands out. Its brass construction, high accuracy, and thoughtful tin packaging make it a fantastic choice.
However, if maximum laser visibility is your top priority, especially for outdoor shooting or if you find red lasers hard to see, then the MidTen Laser Bore Sight 12 Gauge Green Bore Sight Laser is absolutely the way to go. Its vibrant green laser and generous battery supply make it a powerful tool.
For those on a slightly tighter budget but still wanting solid performance, the MidTen Bore Sight 12 Gauge Laser Red Dot Boresighter with… offers great value with its brass build. And if pinpoint accuracy with the smallest possible dot is what you chase, don’t overlook the DARKFANG 12 Gauge Laser Bore Sight, which truly excels in laser precision. Ultimately, any of these picks will significantly improve your sighting process, saving you time and money at the range.
Your Questions About the Best 12 Gauge Bore Sight Answered
How accurate are 12 gauge laser bore sights?
12 gauge laser bore sights are designed for high initial accuracy, typically getting your point of aim “on paper” within your target range (usually 15-100 yards for red, up to 300 for green). While they won’t completely replace live-fire fine-tuning, they drastically reduce the number of shells needed to get a precise zero. Think of them as an excellent starting point, not a final solution.
Is a red or green laser bore sight better for 12 gauge shotguns?
The choice between a red and green laser bore sight largely depends on your specific needs and environment. Green lasers are generally perceived as brighter and more visible in daylight or well-lit conditions, and often have a longer effective range. This can be a huge advantage for outdoor shooting or if you have difficulty seeing red. Red lasers, however, are typically more energy-efficient, leading to longer battery life, and they are usually more affordable. For indoor or low-light use, red lasers are perfectly adequate.
Can a bore sight completely replace live-fire zeroing?
No, a 12 gauge bore sight cannot completely replace live-fire zeroing. Bore sights provide an excellent approximation and a crucial starting point for aligning your optics or iron sights. However, factors like barrel harmonics, bullet drop, and shooter technique (which don’t affect a static laser) mean that a final, precise zeroing always requires firing actual ammunition and making adjustments based on real-world impact points. It’s a tool to get you very close, saving you significant time and ammo.
How do I use a 12 gauge bore sight effectively?
To use a 12 gauge bore sight effectively, simply load it into the chamber of your unloaded shotgun like a regular shell (always ensure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction). The laser will project a dot from the barrel. Then, adjust your scope or iron sights until their reticle or alignment points coincide with the laser dot on a target. It’s best to do this indoors or in a shaded area where the laser is clearly visible. Remove the bore sight before firing.
What’s the typical sighting range for these 12 gauge bore sights?
Most red laser 12 gauge bore sights have an effective sighting range of about 15 to 100 yards, which is ample for most shotgun applications. Green laser bore sights, due to their higher visibility, can often extend this range, sometimes up to 300 yards, making them suitable for longer distances or larger open areas. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact range.
Are there any specific maintenance tips for my 12 gauge bore sight?
Absolutely! To keep your best 12 gauge bore sight in top condition, always remove the batteries when storing it for extended periods to prevent leakage. Wipe down the bore sight with a clean, dry cloth after each use to remove any residue. Store it in its original case or a protective pouch to prevent scratches or damage to the laser emitter. Avoid dropping it, especially if it’s a brass model, as this could affect its internal alignment and accuracy.
Do all 12 gauge bore sights fit every 12 gauge chamber?
Generally, yes. 12 gauge bore sights are caliber-specific and designed to fit standard 12 gauge shotgun chambers. Their dimensions mimic a 12 gauge shotgun shell. However, manufacturing tolerances can sometimes vary slightly between different brands of shotguns or bore sights. If you encounter a very tight fit, gently insert it, but never force it. It’s always a good idea to ensure your bore sight is from a reputable manufacturer to minimize any fit issues.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site.





