Does Academy Bore Sight Rifles? What to Expect and How It Works

Does Academy bore sight rifles before or after purchase? Academy offers bore sighting services both when you buy a rifle and as a separate service afterward. This helps you quickly align your scope with the barrel, saving you time and ammunition at the range. Start by asking about bore sighting availability when purchasing to streamline your setup process.

Does Academy Bore Sight Rifles Before or After Purchase?

Academy Sports + Outdoors does not bore sight rifles before purchase. Customers should expect to receive their new rifle without bore sighting done by the store. This means you’ll need to handle aligning your scope or sights on your own after buying the firearm. The absence of pre-sale bore sighting allows Academy to keep rifles in factory condition prior to sale, but it also requires shooters to perform or arrange bore sighting independently once they get home or before heading to the range.

After purchasing your rifle at Academy, you can return to the store to have it bore sighted free of charge. The bore sighting process usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on store busyness, and is performed by trained staff who use precise tools like laser bore sighters or optical alignment devices. During this service, your unloaded rifle is securely mounted on a rest to ensure steady and accurate alignment between the barrel bore and the scope. This quick alignment significantly reduces the time and ammunition you’d otherwise spend adjusting at the shooting range.

While Academy offers bore sighting as a free service, you must bring the firearm back after purchase for them to provide it. There is no automatic bore sighting completed when you first buy the rifle, and no option to require that a rifle be bore sighted beforehand. This policy applies across most rifle types Academy sells, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action models. Customers should plan accordingly and expect to do the initial scope or sight alignment themselves or take advantage of Academy’s bore sighting service shortly after buying the gun.

Keep in mind that bore sighting is a preliminary step that helps align your sights or optic close enough to hit a target on paper at short range, usually around 25 yards. After bore sighting at Academy, you will still need to zero your rifle at the range to fine-tune your adjustments for longer distances. Proper bore sighting saves time and ammo by allowing you to start near the point of aim instead of guessing in the dark. It also helps avoid frustration that comes with missing repeatedly because the scope and barrel weren’t aligned well before firing live rounds.

The bore sighting process at Academy involves mounting your unloaded rifle firmly to avoid movement, inserting a laser bore sighter or using an optical tool aligned with the bore’s axis, and adjusting the scope’s crosshairs until they match the laser dot or visual alignment reference. This ensures your scope is aligned precisely with the barrel, making initial shots closer to your intended target. Because the service is free but only available after purchase, plan to allocate a short visit and bring your firearm back to the store, or consider learning how to bore sight yourself using affordable laser tools or other methods if you prefer to do it at home.

How Academy Bore Sighting Services Work Step-by-Step

At Academy, bore sighting a rifle is a quick and precise process that typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. The service includes thorough safety checks, careful mounting of your rifle, and the use of laser and optical tools to align your sights efficiently. You’ll need to arrive with a clean, unloaded rifle free from obstructions to ensure accurate results.

Initial Rifle Setup and Safety Checks

Before starting the bore sighting, Academy staff perform important safety and preparatory steps. The rifle must be unloaded and checked inside and out to remove any debris or obstructions from the barrel. Confirming that the action is clear prevents damage to equipment and ensures technician safety.

Once safety is verified, the rifle is securely mounted using stable fixtures to prevent movement during the bore sighting. Proper mounting is important as even slight motion can cause alignment errors. Customers should bring their rifle cleaned and ready to avoid delays in this initial phase.

1. Unload the rifle and double-check it is safe to handle.
2. Inspect and clean the barrel if necessary to remove obstructions.
3. Securely mount the rifle on the bore sighting fixture or vice.
4. Verify that all scope mounts or iron sights are firmly attached.
5. Confirm your desired distance for bore sighting, typically 25 yards.

Make sure your rifle is unloaded and clean before arrival to prevent delays and ensure safety during the bore sighting process.

Using Laser and Optical Alignment Tools

Academy uses a combination of laser bore sighters and optical alignment devices to achieve precise sight alignment. The laser bore sight projects a beam down the barrel onto a target at a set distance, allowing technicians to adjust the sights toward the point of impact quickly.

Optical devices complement the laser tool by providing magnified views of the bore and sight alignment. Mechanical bore sighters are also employed to double-check the positioning, especially for rifles with variable setups or specialized optics. These tools speed up what used to be a lengthy process reliant on firing rounds at the range.

The process typically involves aligning your sights roughly with the projected laser point, then fine-tuning adjustments with the optical aids. This combined approach can bring your sights within a few inches of your intended point of impact at 100 yards before live-fire zeroing.

Final Alignment and Customer Review

Once the technician completes the adjustments, they will remove the fixtures and hand back your rifle for inspection. You get to confirm the visual alignment and discuss any remaining concerns about your setup. Academy staff often advise on final zeroing steps after bore sighting to ensure optimal accuracy at the range.

Your rifle should be ready to shoot with minimal rounds spent on sighting in, saving time and ammunition. If you bring a rifle with newly mounted optics or irons, this step significantly reduces the trial-and-error commonly involved in initial zeroing.

Costs for bore sighting at Academy can vary by location but generally fall within a modest fee that reflects the 10 to 15-minute service time. Some stores may offer this service complimentary with optics purchases, check your local store’s policy before arrival.

Tools and Methods Academy Uses for Bore Sighting Rifles

Academy uses a combination of laser, mechanical, and optical tools for bore sighting rifles, tailoring the method to rifle type and caliber. Laser bore sighters are the primary tool for rifles where you can’t see through the barrel, such as semi-automatics and lever actions, due to their precision and ease of use. Mechanical and optical devices are still employed for rifles with visible bores, offering reliable alignment without batteries or complex optics.

Laser Bore Sighting Devices and Features

Laser bore sighters project a laser beam through or along the barrel, allowing you to see where the bore points at various distances. These tools are popular at Academy because they significantly reduce setup time compared to older methods, such as zeroing an AR at 25 yards for a 200-yard zero. A quality laser bore sighter includes a bright green or red laser, sturdy housing, and standard batteries.

Laser bore sighters are especially useful for rifles that don’t allow direct viewing through the barrel, such as certain semi-automatic or lever action models. They work by inserting a cartridge-shaped laser into the chamber or attaching it in line with the barrel. Accuracy depends on matching the bore sighter precisely to the rifle’s caliber or chamber size.

Mechanical Bore Sighting Tools and Uses

Mechanical bore sighters at Academy are simple, lens-free tools that help align sights with the barrel by physically referencing the bore diameter. Unlike laser sighters, they don’t require batteries or optics, which can make them more durable and reliable in some conditions. These tools commonly include a rod or collimator inserted into the barrel, allowing you to visually center the sights on it.

Mechanical bore sighters work well for rifles where the barrel is accessible and visible, typically bolt-action rifles with traditional hunting calibers. They are favored for their simplicity and low cost but demand careful handling to avoid damaging the barrel. These tools do not provide a projected aiming point but create a direct line of sight inside the bore.

Optical Alignment Devices at Academy

Optical bore sighting devices combine lenses with precise alignment tubes to help line the rifle’s sights or scope to the bore. These devices require clear visibility through the barrel and are often used on rifles with larger calibers and clean barrels. Optical tools provide direct visual confirmation of bore alignment, making them a preferred choice for riflers seeking a precise initial zero before live firing.

Although optical devices need more setup and care than lasers, they can offer excellent accuracy without batteries or lasers. Academy uses optical bore sighters primarily for standard bolt-action rifles with calibers where a clean bore view is possible. They help shooters understand the relationship between bore and sight by showing the actual barrel interior. The following table compares the key bore sighting tools that Academy uses, summarizing features, typical rifle types, and advantages:

Each bore sighting tool requires correct matching to your rifle’s caliber and type for accurate results. Laser sighters are effective for quick, general alignment across multiple calibers, while mechanical and optical devices offer precise, no-battery options for rifles with accessible bores. Choosing the right tool depends on your rifle’s action type and whether you need fast setup or detailed visual alignment.

Rifle Types and Calibers Academy Bore Sights Regularly

Academy offers bore sighting services for a wide range of rifles and calibers, but some limits apply depending on the rifle type and its design. Most traditional centerfire and rimfire rifles, including bolt-action, lever-action, and semi-automatic models, can be bore sighted at Academy. This service aligns the barrel’s bore axis with the optical sight or iron sights, providing a baseline before firing live rounds.

AR-style rifles require slightly different handling due to their scope mounting. The scope sits around 2.5 inches above the bore, so bore sighting for these rifles usually involves setting the initial aim point about 1.5 inches low at 25 yards. This adjustment accounts for the vertical offset and ensures closer zeroing at your intended zero distance, which could be 100 yards or farther. Academy staff use this approach routinely to help AR shooters get on target faster and conserve ammo.

Bore sighting at Academy generally covers common calibers, from small .22 LR rimfire rifles to larger calibers like .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield. If you bring an unusual caliber or exotic rifle, it’s best to check with the store first to confirm they can accommodate your firearm. The basic process remains consistent, aligning the bore to the sight, but specific adapters or bore sights may be necessary for certain barrel diameters or types.

Academy also provides bore sighting for air rifles, even though they often don’t require it as urgently as firearms due to their minimal recoil and different ballistic characteristics. Bore sighting an air rifle still helps save time and pellets when zeroing. Similar tools and techniques apply, but air rifles often use smaller bore diameters, so ensuring the correct bore sight device fits is key. Services for air rifles might be less available or require checking in advance, but many locations offer it nonetheless.

The bore sighting service at Academy typically takes only a few minutes per rifle and may be offered as a free add-on when purchasing optics or firearms, or at a nominal cost if done separately. Achieving good results means having the rifle’s barrel and reticle aligned closely enough to make the first shots at the range land on paper near the center. Poor results can happen if the bore sight tool is loosely fitted, the firearm’s bolt or chamber isn’t properly prepared, or the rifle is not secured firmly, leading to wasted time at the range and more ammunition spent on zeroing.

Different shooting distances matter when bore sighting. Though many opt for 25 yards, the choice depends on how you use your rifle. Shorter ranges suit indoor settings or initial alignment, while 50 or 100 yards better represent typical zero distances for hunting or tactical shooting. Communicate your goals with Academy staff, so they can help choose the best distance for your bore sighting service, making the process more effective and tailored to your needs.

How Bore Sighting at Academy Saves Time and Ammunition

Bore sighting improves your efficiency at the range by aligning your rifle’s barrel with the scope before firing a shot. This initial alignment cuts down the scope adjustment time significantly because your first shots land close to the target, reducing trial-and-error adjustments. Without bore sighting, you’ll spend valuable range time and ammunition figuring out where your rifle is actually shooting relative to the scope’s crosshairs.

One practical impact is the reduction in ammo consumption. Bore sighting can reduce the rounds needed to zero your rifle by up to 50%. Instead of shooting dozens of rounds to find the target, you might only need half that amount, saving money on ammo and limiting wear on your barrel. This is particularly helpful for expensive or limited rounds, like precision or hunting ammunition.

The importance of the initial alignment extends beyond saving time and ammo. Proper bore sighting ensures early shots are on or near the bullseye, which builds shooting confidence. If the scope start point is off, you risk missing essential shots, especially under time-sensitive conditions such as hunting. Aligning the scope with the bore ensures your adjustments are meaningful and efficient.

• Secure your rifle using a gun rest or sandbag for stability.
• Insert the bore sighter device into the barrel for a reference point.
• Adjust the scope’s windage and elevation knobs to match the bore sighter’s aim.
• Take a test shot at a target 25 to 50 yards away to confirm initial alignment.
• Fine-tune scope adjustments at the range with fewer rounds than usual.
• For different rifle types, like bolt actions versus semi-autos, adjust the resting method to reduce movement.
• Consult Academy’s bore sighting when unsure to avoid common setup mistakes.

Costs for bore sighting services or devices are usually modest compared to ammo prices. Even a basic laser bore sighter that costs about $30 to $50 can pay for itself with one zeroing session by reducing ammunition use. Using Academy’s bore sighting service also helps avoid errors that lead to frustrating range sessions and inaccurate zeroing.

Failing to secure your rifle properly before bore sighting can lead to misalignment and wasted ammo during zeroing, always stabilize the gun firmly before inserting the bore sighter.

Common Bore Sighting Mistakes and How Academy Helps Avoid Them

Bore sighting rifles requires steady handling and precise technique to avoid misalignment that leads to frustration and wasted ammo. Shaky hands or improper mounting of the bore sight device can cause the laser or sight to move, which shifts your aim point. This makes you chase your zero rather than establishing it confidently. Using an adapter bore sight incorrectly, such as forcing it into the barrel of a semi-automatic rifle not designed for that method, creates false readings. Also, picking the wrong bore sight tool or ignoring recommended distances reduces the usefulness of your initial aiming adjustments.

Holding the bore sight device steady is important. Even small movements blur the laser dot or target view, producing inaccurate feedback. Wrong distances affect the point of impact calculations too. For example, aiming for 1-inch low at 25 yards suits many deer rifles with scopes 1.75 to 2 inches above the bore. AR-style rifles with higher scope mounts, around 2.5 inches, require a 1.5 inch low hold at the same range for proper zeroing later. Failure to adjust these parameters based on rifle type undermines bore sighting accuracy.

Academy helps avoid these mistakes by providing trained staff who mount and handle bore sight devices correctly. Their experience ensures steady positioning and the right tool matches your rifle’s design and your scope’s height above the bore. Academy also guides users on proper sight-in distances tailored to common rifle setups, reducing guesswork. This process identifies any gross misalignments early, protecting your rifle and scope from unnecessary wear during follow-up shooting sessions.

• Keep the rifle firmly supported on a stable rest or sandbag to reduce movement.
• Use only the bore sight style that fits your rifle’s action and barrel type.
• Verify distances based on your rifle’s scope height: 25 yards is typical for initial aiming.
• Have the laser bore sight cleaned regularly to avoid dirt interference.
• Follow manufacturer instructions closely for your specific bore sight device.
• Trust trained staff to mount and align the bore sight in store for best results.

By relying on Academy’s expertise and service, you get consistent bore sighting results that save time and ammunition later. You avoid common pitfalls like shaky aiming, improper tool use, or incorrect distance that cause inaccurate zeroing and frustration. Professional bore sighting makes it easier to confirm your rifle is on the right path from the start, setting you up for faster and more reliable target shooting or hunting sessions.

Can I Bore Sight My Rifle at Home and How Does It Compare?

Bore sighting your rifle at home requires the right tools and a steady setup. You typically need a bore sight tool or laser bore sight, a stable rest for your rifle like a sandbag or bench vise, and a target placed about 25 yards away. The process involves aligning the bore sight in the barrel while keeping the rifle perfectly still. This initial alignment helps you get on paper before you start live-fire zeroing.

Accuracy at home depends heavily on your toolkit and technique. A quality laser bore sight can help you center shots within 1 to 2 inches at 25 yards. This is usually good enough to get on target but not precise enough for final zeroing, especially at longer distances. Professional services like those at Academy use specialized equipment and stable rifle supports that guarantee a more precise bore sight. Their setup minimizes human error and ensures the rifle is positioned exactly as it would be when shooting.

The main challenges you’ll face at home include keeping your rifle stable and perfectly aligned. Even slight movement of the rifle or the bore sight tool causes misalignment. Target placement also matters, too close or uneven ground can skew results. Laser bore sights vary in quality; cheaper models may give false readings or have battery issues. Proper eyesafety and careful handling during set up are important to avoid accidents or damage.

Consider a professional bore sighting service if you want a precise starting point without fumbling through equipment or uncertain results. Professionals use superior tools and ensure the rifle is stable, so you begin live-fire zeroing closer to true alignment. This reduces wasted ammunition and range time. A service is especially advisable if you are zeroing a higher-powered or expensive rifle, or if you have little experience with bore sighting gear. Use this checklist to decide whether to bore sight at home or go to a professional:

1. You have a laser bore sight and a sturdy rifle rest? Try home bore sighting first.
2. You lack the proper tools or a stable setup? Consider the professional service.
3. Your rifle is high-value or requires precision beyond an inch at 25 yards? Choose professional bore sighting.
4. You want to save time and ammo or avoid re-checking alignment? Use the professionals.

What to Expect After Bore Sighting: Adjusting and Zeroing Your Rifle

After bore sighting your rifle, you should focus on adjusting your scope at the range and shooting zeroing rounds to confirm accuracy. Bore sighting sets up a reliable starting point but is not a substitute for zeroing with live fire. Regular maintenance and occasional recalibration keep your bore sighting tool effective for future sessions.

Adjusting Windage and Elevation

Once bore sighting aligns your scope roughly with the rifle’s bore, use the windage and elevation adjustments on the scope to fine-tune the reticle position. This puts the aiming point close to where your bullet will impact but does not guarantee precision yet.

To perform these adjustments, look through your scope at a stable target and turn the windage knob to move the reticle left or right and the elevation knob to move it up or down. The goal is to center the reticle over the bore sighter’s projected target.

1. Set up your rifle on a stable rest.
2. Insert the bore sighting tool into the rifle’s chamber or muzzle.
3. Look through your scope and find the bore sight’s illuminated or laser dot.
4. Adjust the windage knob slowly until the reticle is horizontally centered on the dot.
5. Adjust the elevation knob until the reticle is vertically centered on the dot.
6. Remove the bore sighter before heading to the shooting range.
7. Check that all screws and mounts remain tight after adjustments.

Never fire your rifle with the bore sighting device still in place; always remove it before live shooting to avoid damage.

Conducting Zeroing Shots at the Range

Bore sighting places your reticle near the point of impact, reducing the number of sight-in shots needed at the range. However, actual zeroing requires firing live rounds at a known distance and adjusting the scope based on where bullets land.

Begin zeroing at a standard distance, often 100 yards for most rifles, but follow the scope or ammunition manufacturer’s recommendation. Shoot a three- or five-shot group, observe the impact points, and fine-tune your windage and elevation knobs accordingly. This process may require 10 to 20 rounds in total, depending on initial alignment and shooting precision.

Good zeroing results show your shots grouping tightly around your aimed target. Avoid rushing adjustments; small, steady changes provide more consistent results than large corrections.

Maintaining Accuracy over Time

Routine maintenance of your bore sighting tool and rifle scope helps ensure ongoing accuracy. Clean the bore sight device carefully after use to prevent dust or debris from affecting its laser or optics.

Regularly check your scope mounts for tightness, especially after transportation or hard recoil cycles. Re-bore sight your rifle if you change scopes, mounts, or after heavy usage. This prevents drifting sights and costly zeroing sessions later.

Storing your equipment in a dry, temperature-controlled environment also guards against damage. Maintenance steps are generally quick and inexpensive but save time and ammunition in the long run by reducing the need for excessive zeroing shots.

Step-by-Step Action Plan for Bore Sighting Your Rifle

Follow this plan to bore sight your rifle efficiently, whether you use Academy’s service or do it at home. The key is to combine careful alignment and follow-up adjustments to save time and ammo.

1. Before your first range trip: If you purchased a rifle from Academy, ask about their bore sighting service right after buying. Confirm that the rifle is bore sighted before leaving the store.
2. Day 1 (At home): Use a bore sighting tool or laser to align your rifle’s barrel with the reticle. Check that the tool fits your caliber and follow the instructions precisely.
3. After bore sighting: Secure your rifle on a stable rest or bench at the range to minimize movement during shooting. This helps maintain your initial bore sight adjustments.
4. First few shots at the range: Fire a three-shot group at 25 yards to verify the point of impact. Adjust your scope or sights to bring the group within your desired target area.
5. After zeroing at 25 yards: Move to your typical shooting distance, such as 100 yards, and test with another group. Make final scope or iron sight adjustments based on where your bullets land.
6. Ongoing maintenance: After every few range sessions, recheck bore alignment especially if you change scopes or mounts. This ensures consistent accuracy over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Academy Bore Sight Rifles After Purchase Only?

Yes, Academy only bore sights rifles after purchase, not before sale. This ensures your new rifle is aligned properly before you start shooting.

How Long Does It Take Academy to Bore Sight a Rifle?

Bore sighting at Academy usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on store busy-ness. They securely mount your unloaded rifle and align it using precise tools.

Can Academy Bore Sight All Types of Rifles?

Academy can bore sight most rifles, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and lever-action models. This service helps improve your shooting accuracy quickly.

Do I Need to Pay Extra for Bore Sighting at Academy?

Bore sighting at Academy is typically offered as a service, but availability and cost vary by location. Check with your local store for details.

What Tools Does Academy Use for Bore Sighting Rifles?

Academy uses precise tools like laser bore sighters and optical devices to align your rifle’s barrel with the scope for accurate initial sighting.

Why Is Bore Sighting My Rifle at Academy Better Than at Home?

Academy’s trained staff handle shaky rifle mounting and tool use, ensuring accurate alignment you might miss at home. This saves time and ammo at the range.

Final Thoughts

Academy does offer bore sighting services that help you start shooting accurately with less wasted ammo and time. Whether you use their service or bore sight your rifle at home, correct alignment before shooting improves your results. The next step is to schedule a bore sighting with Academy at your nearest location or invest in a quality bore sighting tool to try at home.