What is the purpose of bore sighting?

Bore sighting serves a critical role in ensuring that a weapon system, such as a mortar, is properly aligned with its intended target. The primary purpose of bore sighting is to identify and correct deflection and elevation errors in the sighting system. This process involves aligning the line of sight with the bore axis of the weapon, which helps to establish a precise aiming point before firing the first rounds. By addressing these potential errors, the chances of hitting the target accurately are significantly increased.

This is particularly important for mortars, where even slight deviations in elevation or deflection can lead to substantial misses, especially at longer ranges. By using bore sighting, operators can ensure that their firing solutions are based on accurate alignments, contributing to effective and efficient use of ordnance during operations.