Introduction
When it comes to elevating the accuracy and effectiveness of your AR-15 rifle, laser sights are a game-changer. These compact devices provide quick target acquisition and improved aiming, making them a valuable addition to your firearm.
In this article, we will explore what to look for in a laser sight, highlight some of the best AR-15 Lasers on the market, provide a buying guide, and conclude with answers to frequently asked questions.
What To Look For In A Laser
Selecting the best AR-15 lasers for your AR-15 is a crucial decision, as it can significantly impact your shooting experience. To help you make an informed choice, let’s dive deeper into the key factors to consider:
Red Or Green Laser
When deciding between a green or red laser, it’s essential to think about where and how you’ll be using your AR-15. Here’s a closer look at each option:
Red Laser:
- Visibility: Red light lasers are generally visible in various lighting conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Battery Life: Red light lasers tend to be less power-hungry than green lasers, which can translate to longer battery life.
- Cost: Red lasers are often more budget-friendly than their green counterparts, making them an attractive option for those watching their wallet.
Green Laser:
- Visibility: Green lasers are exceptionally visible, especially in bright daylight. This makes them ideal for long-range shooting and outdoor scenarios.
- Battery Life: Green light lasers typically consume more power than red lasers, which may result in shorter battery life. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications for exact figures.
- Cost: Green laser sights are usually more expensive than red lasers due to their increased visibility and demand.
Choosing between green and red lasers comes down to your shooting environment and personal preferences. If you primarily shoot outdoors in well-lit conditions, green laser sights may offer a noticeable advantage. However, if you’re on a budget or intend to use your laser indoors, a red laser can be a practical choice.
Light And Laser Combo?
Some laser come equipped with an integrated tactical light. This combination can be advantageous for several reasons:
- Versatility: A light and laser combo provides a multi-purpose tool, suitable for both aiming and illuminating your target.
- Cost-Efficiency: Purchasing a combo unit can be more cost-effective than buying a laser and a separate flashlight.
- Simplicity: Operating one device with both light and laser functions can be more straightforward and efficient, especially in high-stress situations.
However, keep in mind that combo units can be bulkier than standalone laser, potentially affecting the aesthetics and balance of your AR-15. Additionally, they may not offer the same level of illumination as dedicated tactical lights.
Brightness
The brightness of your laser is a critical factor that directly influences its visibility. Here’s what you need to know:
Adjustable Brightness: Look for laser sihts with adjustable brightness settings. This feature allows you to fine-tune the laser’s intensity to match the ambient lighting conditions. Being able to dim the laser in low-light situations or increase its brightness on sunny days is invaluable for accuracy.
Laser Dot Clarity: A laser with a clear, well-defined dot is easier to see and aim accurately. Check reviews and user feedback to ensure that the laser maintains its clarity even at different brightness levels.
A laser with versatile brightness settings ensures that your aiming point remains visible and sharp, regardless of the lighting conditions, enhancing your accuracy in various shooting environments.
Durability
Durability is paramount when choosing a laser for your AR-15, as this accessory must withstand the recoil, elements, and potential rough handling. Here’s what to look for in terms of durability:
Construction Material: Opt for laser constructed from robust materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum or high-impact polymer. These materials are known for their durability and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Recoil Resistance: Verify that the laser is designed to endure the recoil generated by your AR-15. Models explicitly marketed as “shock-resistant” or “recoil-proof” are more likely to hold zero and maintain accuracy.
Water Resistance: Depending on your shooting activities, having a water-resistant or waterproof laser can be advantageous. It ensures functionality even in wet or rainy conditions.
Mounting System: Pay attention to the mounting system of the laser. A secure and stable attachment method is essential to prevent the laser unit from shifting or becoming loose during shooting.
Best Laser Sights For AR 15 Rifles
Now that you know what to look for, let’s explore some of the top laser for AR-15 rifles:
1. Ozark Armament Green Laser
The Ozark Armament Green Laser sight is a budget-friendly laser designed to enhance the accuracy and precision of your AR-15.
Key Features:
Green Laser Sight: The Ozark Armament laser boasts a green laser diode, offering excellent visibility, especially in bright outdoor conditions. This enhanced visibility can significantly improve target acquisition and accuracy.
Compact Design: Its compact and lightweight design ensures that it won’t add unnecessary bulk or weight to your AR-15, maintaining its sleek profile.
Windage and Elevation Adjustments: The laser features adjustable windage and elevation settings, allowing you to zero in on your target with precision. This flexibility ensures that you can calibrate the laser to align perfectly with your point of impact.
Quick Installation: Installing the Ozark Armament Green Laser sight is a straightforward process. It comes with the necessary mounting hardware, and most users can attach it to their AR-15 quickly.
Affordable: This laser offers an affordable option for shooters on a budget who still want to enjoy the benefits of improved accuracy through laser targeting.
Pros:
- High Visibility: The green laser sight is exceptionally visible, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting environments, including bright daylight.
- Budget-Friendly: Its affordability makes it accessible to a broad audience, allowing shooters to upgrade their AR-15 without breaking the bank.
- Ease of Use: The Ozark Armament laser is user-friendly, with straightforward controls and easy installation.
Cons:
- Battery Life: Green lasers typically consume more power than red light lasers, which can result in shorter battery life. Users should carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions.
- Durability: While it offers value for its price, the Ozark Armament laser may not be as durable as higher-end models. It may not withstand extremely rugged use or harsh environmental conditions as well.
Final Verdict:
The Ozark Armament Green Laser sight is an affordable entry into the world of laser for AR-15 rifles. Its standout feature is the highly visible green laser sights, which excels in outdoor shooting scenarios. This laser is ideal for budget-conscious shooters looking to improve their accuracy without a substantial investment.
However, keep in mind that the lower price point may come with some trade-offs in terms of battery life and overall durability. It’s an excellent choice for recreational shooting and occasional use but may not be the best option for professional or tactical applications where ruggedness and extended battery life are critical.
2. Streamlight TLR-4
The Streamlight TLR-4 is a versatile laser and light combo designed to enhance the functionality of your AR-15.
Key Features:
Light & Laser Combo: The standout feature of the Streamlight TLR-4 is its dual functionality, combining a high-intensity LED light with a laser. This combination provides both target illumination and aiming capabilities in one compact unit.
C4 LED Technology: The TLR-4 utilizes Streamlight’s C4 LED technology, offering a bright and focused beam with a long runtime. The LED is shock-resistant and has a long lifespan.
Red Laser: The integrated red laser offers enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
User-Friendly Controls: The ambidextrous controls allow for easy activation of both the light and laser, whether you’re right or left-handed. The toggle switch makes it simple to choose between light, laser, or both.
Secure Mounting: The TLR-4 features a quick and secure rail clamp, ensuring that it remains firmly attached to your AR-15 without shifting during recoil or heavy use.
Pros:
- Dual Functionality: The combination of a bright LED light and a laser makes the TLR-4 a versatile tool for home defense and tactical situations.
- Ambidextrous Controls: The user-friendly controls cater to both right and left-handed shooters, enhancing ease of use.
- Shock-Resistant LED: Streamlight’s C4 LED technology is known for its durability and long life, ensuring that the light remains reliable over time.
- Secure Mounting: The rail clamp ensures a stable and secure attachment to your AR-15, preventing any wobble or movement during shooting.
Cons:
- Cost: The added functionality of the light & laser combo comes at a higher price point compared to standalone laser.
- Battery Life: Operating both the light and laser simultaneously may drain the battery more quickly. It’s advisable to carry spare batteries for extended use.
Final Verdict:
The Streamlight TLR-4 is a top choice for those seeking a versatile laser and light combo for their AR-15. Its dual functionality provides illumination and aiming capabilities in a single, compact unit, making it particularly well-suited for home defense and tactical applications.
While it comes at a higher price point compared to standalone laser, the added benefits of a bright LED light and ambidextrous controls can outweigh the cost for those who require both features.
Additionally, Streamlight’s reputation for durability and quality ensures that the TLR-4 will perform reliably in a variety of shooting scenarios. If you’re looking for a multifunctional accessory to enhance your AR-15’s capabilities, the Streamlight TLR-4 is an excellent investment.
3. Crimson Trace CMR-301
The Crimson Trace CMR-301 is a laser designed for precision aiming and enhanced accuracy for AR-15 rifles.
Key Features:
Green Laser: The CMR-301 features a high-visibility green laser that is exceptionally bright and easily distinguishable, even in daylight. This offers quick target acquisition and improved accuracy.
Compact Design: The laser is designed with a compact and low-profile form factor, ensuring that it doesn’t obstruct your view or add unnecessary bulk to your AR-15.
Quick and Secure Attachment: The CMR-301 comes with a universal rail mount, allowing for quick and secure attachment to various firearms with Picatinny or Weaver-style accessory rails.
Windage and Elevation Adjustments: This laser offers easy-to-use windage and elevation adjustments, enabling precise calibration of the laser to align with your point of impact.
Momentary Activation: The CMR-301 features a momentary activation switch that allows you to activate the laser when needed without toggling it on constantly.
Pros:
- High-Visibility Green Laser: The standout feature of the CMR-301 is its extremely visible green laser, which excels in various lighting conditions, including daylight. This enhances accuracy and target acquisition.
- Compact and Low-Profile: The design of the laser ensures that it doesn’t interfere with your sight picture and maintains the aesthetics of your AR-15.
- Quick and Secure Attachment: The universal rail mount ensures a stable attachment to your rifle, preventing any movement during shooting.
- Momentary Activation: The momentary activation switch provides convenience, allowing you to control when the laser is on to conserve battery life.
Cons:
- Cost: The Crimson Trace CMR-301 is positioned at a higher price point compared to some other laser, reflecting its quality and features.
- Battery Life: Green lasers typically consume more power than red laser sight, which may result in shorter battery life. It’s advisable to carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions.
Final Verdict:
The Crimson Trace CMR-301 is an exceptional choice for AR-15 owners seeking a high-performance laser with a focus on visibility and accuracy. Its standout feature is the remarkably bright green laser, which excels in a variety of shooting environments, making it particularly suitable for outdoor use and long-range shooting.
While it comes at a higher cost than some other options, the CMR-301 justifies its price with its quality, performance, and visibility. Its compact design and momentary activation switch enhance the user experience, and the quick and secure attachment ensures stability during shooting.
If you prioritize accuracy and target acquisition, the Crimson Trace CMR-301 is a worthy investment for your AR-15.
4. Steiner eOptics DBAL-A3 Green Laser Devices w/ IR Pointer and IR Illuminator
If you’re in search of a laser aiming device that combines precision, versatility, and ruggedness, the Steiner eOptics DBAL-A3 Green Laser with IR Pointer and IR Illuminator 9008 Color is worth serious consideration.
Key Features:
Dual Laser Functionality: The DBAL-A3 stands out with its dual laser capabilities. It offers a highly visible green laser for daytime and low-light conditions, along with an infrared laser for night vision use. This versatility ensures you’re prepared for various shooting scenarios.
Infrared Illuminator: In addition to the lasers, this device includes a potent infrared illuminator. This feature significantly enhances your night vision capabilities, making it an invaluable tool for nighttime operations.
Military-Grade Durability: Steiner eOptics is renowned for producing military-spec equipment, and the DBAL-A3 lives up to this reputation. It is built to withstand harsh conditions, including recoil, extreme temperatures, and rough handling.
Quick and Secure Attachment: The DBAL-A3 features a quick-detach throw-lever mount for easy and secure attachment to your firearm’s accessory rail. This ensures stability during shooting and quick removal when needed.
Remote Cable Pressure Pad: The device comes with a remote cable pressure pad for convenient activation of the lasers and illuminator without shifting your grip on the rifle.
Pros:
- Versatility: The DBAL-A3’s dual laser functionality, combined with the infrared illuminator, makes it an all-in-one solution for various shooting environments, including both daytime and nighttime scenarios.
- Night Vision Capability: The inclusion of an infrared laser and illuminator expands its usability to low-light and nighttime operations, making it an excellent choice for military, law enforcement, and advanced civilian users.
- Durability: Built to military standards, this device is designed to endure extreme conditions, ensuring that it remains reliable even in the harshest environments.
- Remote Pressure Pad: The remote cable pressure pad allows for convenient and quick activation of the lasers and illuminator while maintaining control of your firearm.
Cons:
- Price: The Steiner eOptics DBAL-A3 Green Laser with IR Pointer and IR Illuminator 9008 Color is positioned at a premium price point due to its advanced features and military-grade construction. It may not be within the budget of all users.
- Complexity: Some users may find the device’s multiple functions and settings somewhat complex and may require training to fully utilize all its capabilities.
Final Verdict:
The Steiner eOptics DBAL-A3 Green Laser with IR Pointer and IR Illuminator 9008 Color is a top-tier laser aiming device designed for those who demand the utmost in versatility, durability, and precision.
Whether you’re in law enforcement, the military, or an advanced civilian shooter, this device offers a comprehensive solution for enhancing your accuracy and night vision capabilities.
While the price may be a significant consideration, the DBAL-A3 justifies its cost with its quality, performance, and durability.
If you require a laser aiming device that can excel in the most demanding conditions, provide versatile laser options, and enhance your nighttime operations, the Steiner eOptics DBAL-A3 is an exceptional choice for your firearm. It’s an investment in your shooting capabilities and readiness for a wide range of scenarios.
5. Sightmark LoPro Green Laser Sight
Key Features:
Visible Green Laser: The Sightmark LoPro Green light Laser is equipped with a highly visible green light laser, making it effective in various lighting conditions and enhancing target acquisition.
Compact and Low-Profile Design: The laser unit boasts a compact and low-profile design that won’t obstruct your line of sight or add unnecessary bulk to your AR-15.
Multiple Mounting Options: It includes both Picatinny and Weaver mounts, offering flexibility in attachment to various firearms with different rail systems.
Windage and Elevation Adjustments: The laser unit provides easy-to-use windage and elevation adjustments for precise calibration, ensuring the laser aligns accurately with your point of impact.
Quick and Secure Attachment: The LoPro features a secure and quick-detach lever, allowing for rapid installation and removal while maintaining stability during shooting.
Pros:
- High-Visibility Green Light Laser: The standout feature of the Sightmark LoPro is its exceptionally bright green light laser, providing excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Compact and Low-Profile: Its design ensures that it doesn’t interfere with your sight picture or the aesthetics of your AR-15.
- Multiple Mounting Options: The inclusion of both Picatinny and Weaver mounts increases its compatibility with different firearms.
- Quick and Secure Attachment: The quick-detach lever makes it easy to install and remove the laser sight while ensuring it remains stable during use.
Cons:
- Battery Life: Green light lasers, while highly visible, tend to consume more power than red lasers, potentially resulting in shorter battery life during extended use.
- Durability: While the LoPro offers good quality, it may not be as rugged as some higher-end models designed for more demanding conditions.
Final Verdict:
The Sightmark LoPro Green light Laser Sight is an excellent choice for AR-15 owners seeking an affordable yet high-performance laser aiming device. Its standout feature is the bright green light laser, which excels in a variety of shooting environments, including daylight, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition.
Its compact and low-profile design ensures that it doesn’t interfere with your sight picture or the aesthetics of your AR-15. The inclusion of both Picatinny and Weaver mounts adds versatility, allowing you to use it with a wide range of firearms.
While the LoPro may not be as rugged as some premium models, it offers solid performance and is well-suited for recreational shooting, home defense, and general target practice. If you’re looking to enhance your aiming capabilities without a substantial investment, the Sightmark LoPro Sight is a practical choice for your AR-15.
6. TruGlo MICRO-TAC Tactical Micro Laser
Key Features:
Red Laser: The TruGlo MICRO-TAC features a red laser with adjustable windage and elevation settings for precise aiming.
Compact Design: This compact laser sight boasts a compact and lightweight design that won’t add significant weight or bulk to your AR-15.
Easy Activation: It includes ambidextrous push-button activation, allowing both right and left-handed shooters to quickly turn on the laser.
Quick Installation: The TruGlo MICRO-TAC comes with a tool-less rail clamp for easy and secure attachment to your firearm’s accessory rail.
Pros:
- Affordability: The TruGlo MICRO-TAC offers an affordable option for shooters looking to add a laser sight to their AR-15 without a substantial investment.
- Compact and Lightweight: Its small footprint ensures it won’t affect your rifle’s balance or aesthetics.
- Ease of Use: The ambidextrous activation buttons make it user-friendly for shooters of all orientations.
Cons:
- Battery Life: As with most red laser sight, extended use may require spare batteries, as they tend to have shorter battery life compared to green light lasers.
- Limited Visibility: Red light lasers may not be as visible in bright daylight or at longer distances as green light lasers.
Final Verdict:
The TruGlo MICRO-TAC Tactical Micro Laser is a budget-friendly option for AR-15 owners looking to enhance their accuracy with a laser sight. While it may not offer the visibility of green light lasers, its red laser can still be effective in many shooting scenarios.
Its compact and lightweight design, ambidextrous controls, and easy installation make it a practical choice for those on a budget or new to lasers.
7. L3Harris AN/PEQ-15 (ATPIAL)
Key Features:
Dual Laser Functionality: The ATPIAL includes both a visible red laser and an infrared laser, providing versatility for different shooting conditions, including night vision use.
Infrared Illuminator: This device also features an infrared illuminator, enhancing its effectiveness with night vision goggles.
Military-Grade Durability: Built to military specifications, the ATPIAL is rugged and designed to withstand harsh conditions, including recoil and extreme temperatures.
Remote Cable Pressure Pad: It comes with a remote cable pressure pad for easy activation of the lasers and illuminator while maintaining a firing grip on your rifle.
Pros:
- Versatility: The dual laser functionality, infrared illuminator, and night vision compatibility make the ATPIAL an ideal choice for military and law enforcement applications.
- Durability: Built to military standards, this device is designed to endure extreme conditions and maintain its reliability.
- Remote Pressure Pad: The remote cable pressure pad allows for convenient and quick activation of the lasers and illuminator without shifting your grip.
Cons:
- Price: The ATPIAL is positioned at a premium price point due to its advanced features and military-grade construction.
- Complexity: Some users may find the device’s multiple functions and settings somewhat complex and may require training to fully utilize all its capabilities.
Final Verdict:
The L3Harris AN/PEQ-15 (ATPIAL) is a top-tier laser aiming device designed for military, law enforcement, and advanced civilian users who demand the utmost in versatility, durability, and precision.
Its dual laser functionality, infrared illuminator, and night vision compatibility make it suitable for a wide range of applications, including low-light and nighttime operations.
While the price may be a significant consideration, the ATPIAL justifies its cost with its quality, performance, and durability. If you require a laser aiming device that can excel in the most demanding conditions and provide the ultimate in versatility and precision, the L3Harris AN/PEQ-15 (ATPIAL) is an exceptional choice for your AR-15.
8. Feyachi Green Laser Sight
Key Features:
Green Laser: The Feyach Sight features a highly visible laser for quick and accurate target acquisition.
Compact Design: It boasts a compact and lightweight design that doesn’t add significant weight or bulk to your AR-15.
Windage and Elevation Adjustments: The laser sight includes adjustable windage and elevation settings for precise calibration.
Easy Activation: It offers ambidextrous push-button activation, making it user-friendly for both right and left-handed shooters.
Quick Installation: The Feyachi Green Sight comes with a tool-less rail clamp for easy and secure attachment to your firearm’s accessory rail.
Pros:
- High-Visibility Green Laser: The standout feature is the bright visible laser, providing excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: Its small size ensures it won’t affect your rifle’s balance or aesthetics.
- Ease of Use: The ambidextrous activation buttons make it user-friendly for shooters of all orientations.
- Affordability: The Feyachi Sight offers an affordable option for shooters looking to add a visible laser to their AR-15.
Cons:
- Battery Life: Visible lasers, while highly visible, tend to consume more power than red lasers, potentially resulting in shorter battery life during extended use.
Final Verdict:
The Feyachi Sight is a budget-friendly choice for AR-15 owners seeking improved accuracy with a visible laser (green). Its high-visibility laser is its standout feature, making it effective in various shooting environments.
Its compact and lightweight design, ambidextrous controls, and easy installation make it suitable for shooters on a budget or those new to an AR-15 laser. If you’re looking to enhance your aiming capabilities without a substantial investment, the Feyachi Sight is a practical choice for your AR-15.
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing the best laser sight for your AR-15, there are several crucial factors to consider. Let’s delve into these factors and guide you through the decision-making process.
How Will You Use It?
Before selecting a laser sight, it’s essential to define how you intend to use it:
Home Defense: If your primary concern is home defense, you’ll want a laser sight that provides quick target acquisition in low-light conditions. Models with both laser and light functions can be particularly effective in these situations.
Range Shooting: For precision shooting at the range, choose a laser sight with adjustable windage and elevation settings. The ability to fine-tune your laser’s alignment is crucial for achieving accuracy at different distances.
FYI: You may want to consider getting a good AR-15 Optic if you wish to increase your accuracy at longer distances.
Hunting: When hunting, consider a laser sight with a visible laser, as it’s highly visible in various lighting conditions, especially during the day. Look for durability features to withstand the rigors of the outdoors.
Tactical Applications: If you’re a law enforcement or military professional, you may require a laser aiming device with infrared capabilities for use with night vision goggles. Models like the Steiner DBAL – I2 or L3Harris AN/PEQ-15 (ATPIAL) are designed for such scenarios.
Quality vs. Price
A good AR-15 laser is available in a wide price range, and it’s essential to strike a balance between quality and price based on your needs:
Premium Models: Higher-end laser sights often come with advanced features, durability, and precision. They are suitable for professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best performance, even in extreme conditions.
Mid-Range Options: Mid-range laser sights offer a good balance of performance and affordability. They are ideal for recreational shooters and those looking for reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Budget-Friendly Choices: Budget-friendly laser sights provide a cost-effective way to enhance your accuracy. While they may have limitations in terms of battery life or durability, they are suitable for those on a tight budget or for occasional use.
Other factors that can also improve your AR-15’s accuracy include:
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best laser sight for your AR-15 requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re enhancing your home defense capabilities, improving your accuracy at the range, or preparing for tactical operations, there’s a laser sight that suits your requirements.
Remember to think about factors like laser color (red or green lasers), versatility, durability, and your budget. Each of the AR-15 laser mentioned in this article has its unique strengths, so it’s crucial to select the one that aligns with your shooting style and objectives.
Ultimately, investing in a quality laser sight can significantly improve your shooting accuracy and overall firearm performance, making it a valuable addition to your AR-15 setup.
FAQ’s
Let’s address some frequently asked questions regarding AR-15 laser sights:
Are laser lights legal for civilian use?
In most places, laser sights are legal for civilian use on firearms. However, it’s essential to check your local, state, and national laws and regulations, as they can vary. Always comply with applicable laws when using laser sights.
Do I need special training to use a laser effectively?
While laser sights can enhance your accuracy, it’s still crucial to receive proper firearm training and practice safe firearm handling. Familiarize yourself with your laser sight’s controls and operation for optimal results.
Can I use a laser during the daytime?
Yes, you can use laser sights during the daytime, but their visibility may vary depending on whether you choose a red or green laser. These lasers are generally more visible in bright daylight conditions.
How do I zero in my laser sight?
Zeroing in your laser sight involves adjusting its windage and elevation settings to align the laser’s point of impact with your point of aim. Refer to your laser sight’s user manual for specific instructions on zeroing, and use a stable shooting platform for accuracy.
What’s the typical battery life for laser sights?
Battery life varies depending on the laser sight model, laser color, and usage. Red light lasers tend to have longer battery life than green. Always carry spare batteries, especially during extended shooting sessions or critical applications.