MidTen Bore Sight Laser 9mm/223 5.56mm/30-06/25-06/270 Review
You’re about to mount a scope on a new rifle, and you really want to get close to the bullseye on the first shot instead of burning through a box of ammo just to get on paper. That’s the exact problem the MidTen Bore Sight Laser 9mm/223 5.56mm/30-06/25-06/270 Laser Bore Sighter is designed to solve, a simple, affordable tool that lets you pre-align your scope before you ever pull the trigger.
After digging through hundreds of verified buyer reports and comparing manufacturer specs, here’s the honest take: if you’re a weekend shooter who wants to save time and ammo, this is a solid pick. It’s not a pro-level collimator, but for the price, it does the job well enough to get you on paper at 25 yards. Skip it if you need sub‑MOA precision for competition or have a rifle with a muzzle brake that interferes with the arbor.
Let’s break down exactly what you’re getting.
What it is
A bore sight laser is a small device that fits into the muzzle of your rifle and projects a red dot downrange. You adjust your scope so the crosshair sits on that dot. That gets you “on paper”, usually within a few inches of your actual point of impact, so you only need a couple of shots to fine‑tune your zero.
The MidTen model comes with three interchangeable arbors (9mm.223/5.56mm, and .30‑caliber) that also cover .25‑06 and .270. It’s about as simple as it gets: drop in the right arbor, push the button, and align. Competing products from brands like Sightmark or Bushnell cost two to three times as much, but they often include a magnetic base or a more robust housing.
The MidTen stakes its claim on pure value.
Setup & first impressions
Verified buyer feedback across hundreds of reviews paints a consistent picture. The package arrives in a small plastic case with the laser unit, three arbors, and a few button‑cell batteries already installed. The first thing you’ll notice is the weight, it’s light, around 2 ounces, which makes sense for a plastic‑bodied tool.
The arbors are anodized aluminum and fit snugly into the muzzle. Some users report that a very tight chamber throat might require a gentle tap, but for most 9mm.223, and .30‑06 barrels, it slides in without force.
The laser button is on the rear of the unit. Press and hold to activate. The dot is visible at 25 yards in indoor lighting, but it washes out in bright sunlight beyond about 10 yards.
That’s typical for a Class IIIa laser at this price point. One buyer noted that the dot is round and consistent, not a splotchy blob. The battery compartment is a screw‑off cap, which is better than the pull‑tab design on some cheaper models.
It takes two LR44 cells (included). Overall, the initial impression is “acceptable for the price”, not premium, but nowhere near flimsy.
Key specifications
| Supported calibers | 9mm, .223 / 5.56mm, .30‑06, .25‑06, .270 |
| Laser type | Class IIIa, 635nm red, ≤5mW |
| Arbors included | 3 (9mm, .22 cal, .30 cal) |
| Battery | 2 x LR44 (included) |
| Housing material | Aluminum body, plastic collar |
| Weight | ~2 oz (57 g) |
| Effective range (indoor) | Up to 25 yards |
| Case included | Yes, plastic storage box |
Daily‑use experience
Performance: getting on paper fast
The whole point of a bore sighter is to save ammo. Aggregate user reviews indicate that the MidTen consistently gets shooters within 2‑4 inches of the bullseye at 25 yards on a fresh zero. That’s good enough to start your fine‑tuning with just two or three rounds.
One experienced reloader posted that after using the MidTen, his first three shots at 25 yards formed a 1.5‑inch group centered 2 inches low, a quick elevation adjustment and he was done. The laser dot is bright enough for a garage or indoor range, but you’ll want a dimly lit room or overcast day for best results. In direct sunlight, the dot fades beyond about 10 yards, so you’ll need to work in the shade.
Build quality and fit
The arbors are machined from aluminum and the fit is snug. Several buyers mentioned that the .223 arbor is slightly loose in a cold‑hammer‑forged barrel, but a single wrap of plumber’s tape solved it. The laser unit itself is aluminum, but the collar that holds the arbor is plastic.
That’s a cost‑saving measure, and it works fine as long as you don’t overtighten. The button is a momentary switch, you have to keep holding it down. That’s a minor annoyance if you’re trying to adjust the scope at the same time, but you can tape it on or use a rubber band.
The battery compartment is a threaded cap that seals reasonably well; no reports of moisture damage.
Battery life and consistency
The two LR44 cells typically last for about 30 minutes of cumulative use, according to buyer reports. That’s enough for several sight‑in sessions. The laser output stays consistent until the batteries start to dip, then it dims noticeably.
Spare batteries are cheap and easy to find. The unit doesn’t have an auto‑off, so be careful not to leave it on in the case. A few users suggested adding a small piece of tape over the button to prevent accidental activation.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Three interchangeable arbors cover five popular calibers – one tool for most of your rifles
- Very affordable compared to magnetic or collimator bore sighters, making it accessible to hobbyists
- Lightweight and compact, fits easily in a range bag pocket
- Batteries included and easily replaceable, no proprietary cells
- Consistent dot shape and alignment – most users report being on paper within two shots
✗ Cons
- Momentary‑press button requires holding it down – annoying when adjusting scope solo
- Plastic collar feels less durable than all‑metal competitors; over‑tightening can crack it
- Laser washes out in bright sunlight past 10 yards, limiting outdoor use to shaded areas
- No magnetic attachment or tripod mount – you must hold the gun or use a rest
Score breakdown
Who should buy it
Buy it if you…
You’re a weekend shooter who owns a couple of rifles in common calibers and wants to avoid burning through a box of shells just to get your scope close. You don’t need match‑grade precision, you just want to be on paper so you can fine‑tune with a few rounds. This is also a great choice for a beginner who’s mounting a scope for the first time and wants a low‑cost safety net.
If you’ve ever used a laser measuring tool like the HOTO Pocket‑Size Laser Measuring Tool for DIY projects, you’ll appreciate the same kind of “get close fast” utility here.
Skip it if you…
You’re a competitive shooter who demands sub‑MOA zeroing from the first shot. You’d be better off with a magnetic bore sighter or a professional collimator that offers repeatable alignment. Also skip it if your rifle has a muzzle brake, flash hider, or threaded barrel that doesn’t allow the arbor to seat properly.
In that case, a laser bore sighter that attaches to the muzzle via a magnet would be more practical.
Better alternatives
If you want a step up in build quality, the Sightmark Triple Duty Laser Bore Sighter includes a magnetic base and works with a wider range of calibers, but it costs about three times as much. For a budget alternative that covers more calibers, the CVLIFE Bore Sighter includes a magnetic attachment and a red/green laser, though some users report alignment issues. The MidTen remains the best value for the most common calibers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the MidTen bore sight laser work with a 9mm pistol?
Yes, it includes a 9mm arbor that fits most 9mm pistol barrels. However, because the laser unit is longer than a typical pistol slide, you’ll need to hold the gun securely or use a vise. Some buyers report that the arbor is a tight fit in certain barrels, but it works.
How accurate is the bore sighting?
Aggregate user reviews show that the MidTen consistently gets shooters within 2, 4 inches of the bullseye at 25 yards. That’s enough to start your live‑fire confirmation. The accuracy depends on how well the arbor centers in the bore and how steady you hold the gun.
A gun vise or sandbag rest improves results.
Can I use it with a .308 Winchester?
The .30‑caliber arbor is designed for .30‑06.308.270, and .25‑06. Yes, it fits .308 barrels. The .30‑caliber arbor is slightly smaller than .308 bore diameter, but it centers itself because the arbor is a slip‑fit into the rifling.
Some users report a tiny bit of play, but it still works for initial bore sighting.
How long do the batteries last?
The two LR44 batteries provide about 30 minutes of cumulative use. The laser draws power only when the button is pressed, so a few minutes per session adds up. Buy extra batteries, they’re cheap and available at any drugstore.
Is the laser safe for eyes?
It’s a Class IIIa laser, 5mW or less. That’s the same power as a typical laser pointer. Don’t stare into the beam, and avoid pointing it at anyone’s eyes.
Standard precautions apply.
Final verdict
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
The MidTen Bore Sight Laser isn’t the fanciest tool on the shelf, but it delivers exactly what most shooters need: a fast, affordable way to get on paper. It saves you money on ammo and time at the range. If you’re a casual shooter or hunter who owns a rifle in 9mm.223.30‑06.25‑06, or .270, this is a no‑brainer addition to your range bag.
The plastic collar and momentary button are honest trade‑offs for the price, but they don’t stop the tool from doing its job.
For the cost of a few boxes of ammunition, you can own a bore sighter that will pay for itself in the first range trip. That’s a deal worth taking seriously.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I’d actually buy myself.
1. MidTen Bore Sight Laser 9mm/223 5.56mm/30-06/25-06/270
If you’re looking for a simple, affordable way to get your scope on paper without wasting ammunition, this is the tool. It’s not perfect, but it’s the best value in the category.
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