When I’m getting ready for hunting season or just heading to the range, ensuring my 12 gauge shotgun is sighted in properly is crucial. There’s nothing more frustrating than wasting precious shells trying to zero in your optics or iron sights. That’s where a reliable bore sight comes in. I’ve personally found that the right bore sight for my 12 gauge shotgun can save a ton of time and ammo, getting me on target faster and more accurately. Let’s dive into some of the top options available, breaking down what makes each one stand out so you can pick the best fit for your needs.
Contents
- Our Top Picks: Best Bore Sights for Your 12 Gauge Shotgun
- Comparison Insights: Finding Your Ideal Match
- Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Bore Sight for 12 Gauge Shotgun
- Q1: How does a laser bore sight for a 12 gauge shotgun actually work?
- Q2: Are laser bore sights accurate enough for zeroing a shotgun?
- Q3: Red laser vs. green laser bore sight for 12 gauge: What’s the difference?
- Q4: Can I use a bore sight for my shotgun’s scope and iron sights?
- Q5: How far can a 12 gauge bore sight effectively project its laser?
- Q6: Do I need special batteries for bore sights, and how long do they last?
- Q7: Will using a bore sight save me money on shotgun ammunition?
Our Top Picks: Best Bore Sights for Your 12 Gauge Shotgun
MidTen Bore Sight 12 Gauge Laser Red Dot Boresighter with…
This MidTen red dot boresighter is a solid, no-nonsense choice for anyone needing a reliable tool to get their shotgun ready. Its sturdy brass construction gives you confidence in its durability and accurate chamber fit. I’ve found it incredibly easy to use – just pop it in, and you’re good to go. It projects a clear red laser, making quick work of initial zeroing and helping you conserve expensive shotgun shells.
Key features that stand out:
– Class IIIA laser, less than 5mW, ensuring safety and visibility.
– Caliber-specific design for the 12-Gauge chamber for a perfect fit.
– Comes with 1 set of batteries (3 AG13) that can last for eight hours.
– Easy to sit perfectly in the bore for fast gun zeroing and sighting.
– High accuracy, reducing cartridges and shells wasted, with a sighting range of 15 to 100 yards.
Pros:
– Very durable brass construction.
– Long battery life per set.
– Simple and straightforward to use.
– Good accuracy for typical shotgun ranges.
Cons:
– Only comes with one set of batteries.
Best for: Hunters and casual shooters who prioritize durability and straightforward operation.
Expert Opinion: This is a classic, reliable red laser bore sight. Its brass construction makes it incredibly robust, and the 8-hour battery life is excellent for extended sighting sessions. It’s a great choice for foundational zeroing.
EZshoot Laser Bore Sight, 12 Gauge Bore Sight Laser Red…
The EZshoot 12 gauge laser bore sight is a fantastic value, especially if you anticipate needing extra juice. Its high-grade aluminum construction makes it lightweight yet durable, and the focus on providing plenty of extra batteries means you won’t be caught off guard mid-session. I appreciate how quickly this bore sight helps me get my red dot or iron sights aligned, really cutting down on the frustration and cost of sighting in.
Key features that stand out:
– Long-lasting Boresighter with upgraded LR44 batteries lasting up to 6.5 hours per set.
– Extra Batteries included: comes with 2 sets (6pcs total), ensuring you’re ready to go.
– High accuracy laser for quick zeroing of scopes and sights, saving time and money.
– Made of high-grade aluminum, it’s compact and easy to use in the 12 Gauge chamber.
– Bright Red Laser (Class IIIA, less than 5mW) with a sighting range of 15-100 yards.
Pros:
– Excellent battery life with included extras.
– Lightweight aluminum construction.
– Highly accurate for quick zeroing.
– Good value for money.
Cons:
– Aluminum might not feel as robust as brass to some users.
Best for: Shooters looking for great battery value and efficiency, especially those who sight in frequently.
Expert Opinion: The EZshoot stands out for its generous battery package and respectable battery life per set. While it’s aluminum, it’s still very functional and accurate, making it a strong contender for its overall value proposition.
MidTen Laser Bore Sight 12 Gauge Green Bore Sight Laser…
If you prefer a green laser or need better visibility in brighter conditions, this MidTen green bore sight is a superb option. I’ve found that the green laser provides a clearer contrast against various backgrounds, which is a huge benefit when zeroing red dot optics. The impressive 30-300 yard sighting range also makes it versatile for different shotgun applications. Plus, it comes with a generous amount of batteries, so you won’t run out mid-tune-up.
Key features that stand out:
– Clear Green Laser (wavelength 510-540nm) offers superior visibility, especially for red dot optics.
– Extended Sighting Range of 30-300 yards, surpassing many red laser models.
– Plenty of Batteries: includes 3 sets (9pcs total) of upgraded LR44 batteries.
– Premium Quality Solid brass construction ensures durability and a perfect chamber fit.
– Caliber-specific design for 12 gauge chamber, Class IIIA laser, less than 5mW.
Pros:
– Green laser offers excellent visibility and contrast.
– Significantly longer sighting range.
– Comes with a large supply of batteries.
– Durable brass construction.
Cons:
– Battery life per set (2 hours) is shorter than some red laser options.
Best for: Users who need maximum laser visibility, especially with red dot sights, and desire a longer effective sighting range.
Expert Opinion: The green laser is a significant upgrade for many, offering better daytime visibility. While its individual battery life is shorter, the sheer quantity of included batteries makes up for it. The extended sighting range is also a major plus for specific applications.
Feyachi Laser Bore Sight 12 Gauge Bore Sight Red Dot…
The Feyachi 12 gauge bore sight is another reliable red laser option, built with durable brass casing to withstand regular use. I found it incredibly straightforward to pop in and align my sights, saving me both time and ammunition at the range. The inclusion of three sets of batteries is a nice touch, ensuring you have backup power for several sighting sessions, even if each set only lasts about an hour.
Key features that stand out:
– Class IIIA red dot laser (less than 5 mW, 632-650 nm) for clear visibility.
– Suitable for 12 gauge chamber, ensuring a precise, caliber-specific fit.
– Easy to use, speeding up the zeroing process for red dot sights and saving ammo.
– Machined from reliable and durable brass casing for sturdiness and high accuracy.
– Includes 3 sets (9 total) LR 44 batteries, though each set lasts up to one hour.
Pros:
– Robust and durable brass construction.
– Very easy to use and install.
– Comes with a good quantity of spare batteries.
– Accurate for typical shotgun distances.
Cons:
– Battery life per set (one hour) is on the shorter side.
Best for: Shooters who value durable brass construction and need a straightforward, accurate red laser bore sight with backup power.
Expert Opinion: Feyachi delivers a solid, dependable brass bore sight. While the battery life per set isn’t the longest, the inclusion of three sets means you’re well-equipped. It’s a no-frills option that reliably gets the job done for basic zeroing.
DARKFANG 12 Gauge Laser Bore Sight Easy Sighting Bore…
The DARKFANG 12 gauge laser bore sight impressed me with its focused accuracy and robust design. The brass case and cartridge shape make it feel incredibly solid and ensure a perfect fit in the chamber. What really stands out is its promise of a centered and accurately leveled laser from the factory, which translates to incredibly precise sighting. The bright, small sighting dot means you’re aiming at exactly where your shot will go, reducing guesswork and speeding up the whole process.
Key features that stand out:
– Solid brass case and cartridge shape design for perfect fit and durability.
– Accurately leveled from the factory for precise laser centering.
– Easy and quick sighting with 2 sets of upgraded batteries for up to 3 hours continuous use per set.
– Bright and small sighting dot (1 inch at 50yds) for enhanced accuracy, range 15-100 yards.
– 12 gauge bore sighting Red laser Class IIIA, less than 5mW.
Pros:
– Superior factory-leveled accuracy.
– Robust brass construction.
– Good battery life per set and includes spares.
– Very small and precise aiming dot.
Cons:
– Sighting range is standard, not extended like green laser options.
Best for: Precision-focused shooters who demand the most accurate initial alignment and appreciate a fine laser dot.
Expert Opinion: The DARKFANG emphasizes precision, with its factory-leveled laser and small dot size. This attention to detail is crucial for serious shooters looking to eliminate as much guesswork as possible before hitting the range. It’s a highly reliable choice for accuracy.
Comparison Insights: Finding Your Ideal Match
When you’re sifting through options for the best bore sight for 12 gauge shotgun, a few key things really set them apart.
Laser color is a big one: most bore sights use a red laser, which works great in low light. However, if you’re often sighting in outdoors or have red dot optics, a green laser like the MidTen Green model can offer much better contrast and visibility, even though its individual battery life might be shorter.
Battery life and quantity are also important. The MidTen Red boasts an impressive 8 hours per set, while the EZshoot and DARKFANG offer solid 3-6.5 hour runtimes with extra batteries. The Feyachi has shorter individual battery life but makes up for it with multiple sets. Having extra batteries, as seen with EZshoot, MidTen Green, and Feyachi, is a huge convenience.
Construction material often dictates durability. Most of these, including MidTen Red, MidTen Green, Feyachi, and DARKFANG, feature sturdy brass casings, which are generally more robust and provide a more consistent chamber fit. The EZshoot uses aluminum, which is lighter but perhaps less impact-resistant over time.
Finally, consider sighting range and precision. Most red lasers offer a practical sighting range of 15-100 yards, which is perfectly adequate for shotguns. The MidTen Green laser extends this significantly to 30-300 yards, appealing to those with specific long-range needs. For pinpoint accuracy, the DARKFANG’s factory-leveled laser and small dot really stand out.
Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations
Choosing the best bore sight for your 12 gauge shotgun really boils down to your personal priorities.
If durability and long-lasting power are at the top of your list, the MidTen Bore Sight 12 Gauge Laser Red Dot Boresighter with its 8-hour battery life and solid brass construction is an unbeatable choice. It’s a workhorse you can rely on.
For those who prioritize maximum visibility, especially outdoors or with red dot sights, and appreciate a longer sighting range, the MidTen Laser Bore Sight 12 Gauge Green Bore Sight Laser is clearly the winner. Its green laser and extensive range make it incredibly versatile.
However, if precision and a factory-calibrated beam are your main concerns, aiming to get the tightest initial zero possible, then the DARKFANG 12 Gauge Laser Bore Sight truly shines. Its commitment to accuracy makes it a favorite for meticulous shooters.
Ultimately, any of these bore sights will get the job done, but picking the one that aligns with your specific needs will enhance your shooting experience and save you valuable time and ammo.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Bore Sight for 12 Gauge Shotgun
Q1: How does a laser bore sight for a 12 gauge shotgun actually work?
A laser bore sight for a 12 gauge shotgun works by inserting a small, laser-emitting cartridge into your shotgun’s chamber, just like a regular shell. Once activated, it projects a laser beam directly down the barrel. You then adjust your shotgun’s sights or optic (like a red dot or scope) until their aiming point aligns with the projected laser dot. This gives you a preliminary zero without firing a single shot, saving you time and ammunition.
Q2: Are laser bore sights accurate enough for zeroing a shotgun?
Yes, laser bore sights are generally accurate enough for getting a very close initial zero on your 12 gauge shotgun. They allow you to align your optics or iron sights with the bore, significantly reducing the number of live rounds you’ll need to fine-tune your zero at the range. While they provide an excellent starting point, a final check and adjustment with live ammunition at your intended shooting distance is always recommended for absolute precision.
Q3: Red laser vs. green laser bore sight for 12 gauge: What’s the difference?
The main difference between red and green laser bore sights for 12 gauge shotguns is visibility. Green lasers are typically much brighter and more visible to the human eye, especially in daylight or brighter environments. This makes them ideal for outdoor use or when trying to see the dot on darker targets. Red lasers are more common, generally consume less power, and are perfectly adequate for indoor use or in lower light conditions.
Q4: Can I use a bore sight for my shotgun’s scope and iron sights?
Absolutely! A bore sight is versatile and can be used to align both traditional iron sights and various optics, including scopes, red dot sights, and holographic sights, on your 12 gauge shotgun. The principle remains the same: align your chosen sighting system with the laser dot projected from the bore.
Q5: How far can a 12 gauge bore sight effectively project its laser?
The effective projection range of a 12 gauge bore sight varies, but most standard red laser models are effective from about 15 to 100 yards. Green laser bore sights, like the MidTen Green model we reviewed, can often project much further, sometimes up to 300 yards, with good visibility. The actual visible range also depends on ambient light conditions – the darker the environment, the further the dot will be visible.
Q6: Do I need special batteries for bore sights, and how long do they last?
Most 12 gauge bore sights use common small watch-style batteries, such as LR44 (also known as AG13). The battery life varies significantly between models, ranging from as little as one hour to up to eight hours of continuous use per set. Many bore sights come with multiple sets of batteries, which is a great bonus. It’s always a good idea to remove the batteries after use to prevent drainage and store them separately.
Q7: Will using a bore sight save me money on shotgun ammunition?
Yes, using a bore sight for your 12 gauge shotgun can definitely save you money on ammunition. By getting your sights or scope closely aligned before you even fire a shot, you dramatically reduce the number of rounds needed for zeroing at the range. Instead of wasting boxes of shells trying to get on paper, you can often achieve a good zero with just a few shots, which adds up to significant savings over time.
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