Finding the perfect zero for your .17 HMR rifle is crucial for accuracy. While traditional sighting-in methods at the range work, they can be time-consuming and expensive. A .17 HMR laser bore sighter offers a faster, more efficient, and cost-effective solution. This guide explores everything you need to know about using a laser bore sighter for your .17 HMR, ensuring you’re ready to hit your target with precision.
Understanding Laser Bore Sighters
A laser bore sighter is a device that uses a small, bright laser to project a beam through the barrel of your firearm. This laser beam simulates the path of your bullet, allowing you to quickly and easily align your sights or scope. Instead of firing numerous rounds to adjust your zero, you can make precise adjustments using the laser. This is especially valuable for the .17 HMR, known for its velocity and smaller margin for error.
Advantages of Using a 17 HMR Laser Bore Sighter
- Speed and Efficiency: Zeroing your rifle is significantly faster. You eliminate the time and ammunition spent firing multiple rounds at the range.
- Cost Savings: Reduced ammunition consumption translates to substantial cost savings, particularly with the higher cost of .17 HMR ammunition.
- Convenience: You can use a laser bore sighter virtually anywhere, eliminating the need for a dedicated shooting range.
- Improved Accuracy: By accurately aligning your sights or scope before hitting the range, you can achieve better accuracy from the first shot.
- Safety: No live rounds are fired during the bore sighting process.
Disadvantages of Using a 17 HMR Laser Bore Sighter
- Not a Replacement for Range Zeroing: While helpful for initial sighting, it’s vital to finalize the zeroing process on the range to account for real-world conditions and bullet trajectory.
- Potential for Inaccuracy: An improperly seated laser bore sighter can lead to inaccurate readings.
- Cost: Laser bore sighters themselves represent an upfront investment.
- Limited Range: Laser visibility is limited to closer distances. This is less of an issue for the .17 HMR's short to mid-range accuracy focus.
Choosing the Right 17 HMR Laser Bore Sighter
The market offers several laser bore sighters, so careful consideration is necessary. Here are key factors to consider:
- Caliber Compatibility: Ensure the sighter is specifically designed for the .17 HMR caliber. Using an incorrect size can damage your firearm or lead to inaccurate results.
- Laser Power: Higher-power lasers offer increased visibility in bright conditions. But it should be noted that this does not necessarily correlate with accuracy.
- Construction and Durability: Choose a robustly built sighter that can withstand the rigors of use.
- Ease of Use: Opt for a sighter with a simple and intuitive design for effortless setup and usage.
- Adjustability: Some models offer adjustable features to fine-tune the laser's position.
How to Use a 17 HMR Laser Bore Sighter: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Safety First: Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded, even when using a laser bore sighter.
- Prepare the Rifle: Ensure your rifle is unloaded and the bolt is open.
- Insert the Laser Bore Sighter: Carefully insert the laser bore sighter into the barrel until it's firmly seated. Make sure the sighter is properly aligned within the barrel.
- Activate the Laser: Turn on the laser and point the rifle downrange at a safe backstop.
- Adjust the Sights or Scope: Align the crosshairs or reticle of your sights or scope with the laser dot. Make adjustments until perfectly aligned.
- Verify the Alignment: Move to another distance and check the laser's alignment; this helps in adjusting elevation and windage.
- Remove the Laser Bore Sighter: Once you are satisfied with the alignment, carefully remove the laser bore sighter.
- Range Zeroing: This is crucial. This process only gets you close. Go to the range and perform a thorough zeroing with live ammunition to get precise adjustments.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Laser Dot is Off Center: The laser might not be properly seated in the barrel. Carefully reinsert it, ensuring it’s straight.
- Laser is Dim or Unclear: Check the batteries. A low battery can impact the laser's visibility.
- Difficulty Aligning the Laser: Adjust the sighting mechanism of the rifle to align your sights or scope with the laser.
Case Study: Improving Accuracy with a Laser Bore Sighter
A competitive shooter using a .17 HMR for small-bore competition found it difficult to zero their scope consistently. After implementing a laser bore sighter, the shooter significantly reduced the time spent at the range for zeroing their scope. This led to improved accuracy during competitions and a reduction in the total cost of ammunition.
Conclusion
A 17 HMR laser bore sighter is a valuable tool for efficiently and accurately zeroing your .17 HMR rifle. While it shouldn't replace range time for final adjustments, it significantly accelerates the process, resulting in time savings, cost reduction, and improved overall accuracy. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible firearm handling. Remember to always follow all local, state and federal firearm laws and regulations.