Optics Advisors is partnered with certain retailers who sell optics and related products. When Optics Advisors links to these retailers’ websites, we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases. The presence of an affiliate link does not in any way impact our recommendations or advice. We only recommend products that we believe in and use ourselves.
There are many reasons why one would want to use a laser sight on their handgun. They can help guide the firearm, making it easier for you to control and line up shots. A laser sight is also effective in non-combat situations, such as in hunting and shooting sports.
The best handgun laser sights will also help you conserve ammo, as it is hard to miss with a laser guiding your shots. In today’s article, we will look at some of the best handgun laser sights on the market right now.
Without further ado, these are the 4 best handgun laser sights:
- Crimson Trace Rail Master Universal Fit Green Laser Sight CMR-206
- Viridian C5L Universal Sub-Compact ECR Laser
- LaserMax Gripsense Laser
Our top pick – “SureFire X300 Ultra Weapon Light“
Check price at Optics Planet
The X300 Ultra Weapon Light is one of the best handgun lasers made by SureFire. It’s built to withstand the most extreme conditions, is super easy to use, and gives you a powerful beam that will ensure you have no problem sighting your target even in low light situations.
The laser is powered by two CR123A batteries that give out about an hour of battery life on high mode, which outputs 1000 lumens of light.
The X300 is built with high-performance optics, so you can expect 100% reliability and durability in any weather situation. This weapon light is also designed to withstand recoil shock on even the largest magnum handguns without breaking or damaging the unit.
The X300 Ultra boasts a streamlined design that won’t snag or hinder your draw, so you can use it with any holster style. It’s lightweight too, which makes it easy to attach and remove. And because the batteries are easy to replace in the field, you don’t have to worry about running out of juice when you need it most.X300 was one of the first laser sights I ever bought. And, it is still as reliable as ever.
Crimson Trace Rail Master Universal Fit Green Laser Sight CMR-206
Check price at Optics Planet
The Crimson Trace Rail Master Universal Fit Green Laser Sight CMR-206 is a green laser sight for firearms. This product can be used with Picatinny, Weaver rails, or standard tactical rail systems. The laser sight also features ambidextrous push button, or rocker switch controls.
The Crimson Trace Rail Master Universal Fit Green Laser Sight CMR-206 features a low profile design for use with handguns and tactical weapons alike. The universal fit of this laser sight allows it to fit a large selection of firearms. The green laser beam is 532nm and has a power output of 5mW, with a visibility of up to 100 yards in daylight conditions.
In conclusion, the Crimson Trace Rail Master Universal Fit Green Laser Sight CMR-206 is well built, and has many great features. It would be a good choice for anyone who wants to add a laser sight to their firearm.
Viridian C5L Universal Sub-Compact ECR Laser
Check price at Optics Planet
The Viridian C5L is a quality firearm accessory that fits conveniently on almost any gun available. With the universal compatibility of this product, it is no wonder that many have purchased the product. Its clear materials allow for sharp targeting when aiming via laser sight under low light conditions.
The C5L has 4 pulsing modes which are user selectable.
The low profile design allows for other accessories such as flashlights or cameras to be attached without interfering with the laser sight itself.
The switch required to activate or deactivate the laser is easily accessible and located on the slide of the handgun. The trigger guard must be pressed down on the switch to activate or deactivate the laser sight. This requires more effort than one would normally need to turn on a flashlight, but it prevents accidental activation by movement that can occur with other designs.
LaserMax Gripsense Laser
Check price at Optics Planet
The LaserMax Gripsense Laser is a solid green/blue (both options available) laser sight that fits underneath the grips of most Smith & Wesson M & P models.
The LaserMax is ambidextrous and features an easy-on feature that turns the laser off when pressure is released from either grip button.
This product boasts a low profile design and can be easily disassembled for cleaning. It also features an optional manual on/off switch, so you can turn the device off if desired. The product is backed by a five year warranty policy, which covers the normal wear and tear on the laser itself, but not the grips.
The LaserMax Gripsense is a great product for personal defense handguns. Out of all the handgun lasers on the market, this one provides users with some of the best prices and customer service.
A low profile design ensures that you can’t be seen with the device, and the laser itself is powerful enough to be used in both indoor and outdoor shooting conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who manufactures the best laser sight for a pistol?
The field of pistol laser sights is quite competitive, and several brands make excellent products. However, determining the ‘best’ really depends on what you’re looking for in terms of functionality, compatibility with your specific pistol, and price range. Some of the leading manufacturers include brands like Crimson Trace, LaserMax, and Streamlight. These companies are known for their quality construction, reliable performance, and range of options to suit different firearms and user preferences. As always, the ‘best’ is somewhat subjective and often comes down to personal preference and specific use case scenarios. I’d advise doing some research, reading user reviews, and potentially testing out a few models to find the best fit for your particular needs and firearm.
Which laser sight performs the best?
Again, the notion of ‘best’ will vary depending on your specific needs and the firearm you’re using. That being said, many experts and users alike highly rate sights from manufacturers like Crimson Trace for their accuracy, durability, and ease of use. Models like the Crimson Trace Rail Master, for example, are known for their robust construction, simple installation, and intuitive operation. However, what really sets these sights apart is their bright green laser, which remains clearly visible even in bright daylight, enhancing your shooting precision significantly. As always, the best way to find the ‘best’ for you is to research, test, and see what works best for your firearm and shooting style.
What is the most suitable color for a pistol laser sight?
Laser sights typically come in two colors: red and green. While both are effective, green laser light tends to be more visible in bright conditions – such as a clear, sunny day at the shooting range. This is due to the way our eyes work: we have around 6 million cones in our eyes that react to light, and green light stimulates a larger number of these cones than red light. So in terms of visibility, a green laser sight can often give you an edge, especially in brightly lit settings. Of course, personal preference plays a role here, too: some people might find a red laser easier to use or more comfortable on the eyes. But purely from a visibility standpoint, green is generally considered the superior choice.
What is the ideal light laser combo for a pistol?
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable and versatile pistol light and laser combo, I’d recommend checking out the Streamlight TLR-2. This is a model that’s got a lot going for it: it combines a bright, high-performance LED light with a red or green laser sight, offering you maximum versatility in a wide range of shooting situations. The TLR-2 is also designed for durability and ease-of-use, with a sturdy construction and straightforward controls. As a bonus, it’s compatible with a wide range of firearms, making it an excellent all-around choice. But as always, I’d suggest taking the time to research, read user reviews, and perhaps even test out the unit before making a final decision, to ensure it’s the right fit for you and your firearm.