How to Choose the Right Laser Sight for Your Rifle

If you're a hunter, competitive shooter, or simply concerned about home defense, adding a  laser sight to your rifle can significantly improve your accuracy and confidence.

Unlike iron sights, laser sights project a visible beam of light that shows where your barrel is pointing. It makes it easier to hit targets under low-light conditions. Also, laser sights don't rely on eye alignment like iron sights, so you don't need to worry about maintaining a dominant eye or holding the rifle correctly. Compared to red dot sights, which can sometimes obstruct your view, especially tube-type, laser sights don't interfere with your line of sight or peripheral vision, making them suitable for close-range shooting.

However, not all laser sights are created equal. Therefore, it's essential to select the right one for your rifle and specific use case to get the most out of your investment. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know to choose the ideal laser sight for your rifle.

Rifle Laser Sight Designs

Unlike pistol lasers, which can be mounted on a trigger guard, placed instead of the rear sights, or attached to the grip, rifle laser sights are typically designed to be attached to the rail system - on the side, bottom, or top. Actually, attaching a laser to the side is the worst. You see, the laser beam travels in a straight line. So if your laser sight is zeroed to 100 yards, it will hit the target at 100 yards. However, if the target is further away, it will be a miss because the beam shifts to the side. The same thing will happen with a laser sight attached on the top or bottom, but adjusting your follow-up shots up and down is much easier than left to right.

Now, there are two main types of laser sights: standalone laser sights and light-and-laser combos.

Standalone laser sights, as the name suggests, are dedicated laser sights that project a highly visible beam of light to provide a clear target picture. They are easy to mount and adjust, making them ideal for shooters who want a straightforward and minimal targeting system. One potential downside of standalone laser sights is that they lack any additional visual cues or illumination beyond the laser beam. It can make targeting more difficult when there is little ambient light or when the target is moving quickly.

Light-and-laser combos, on the other hand, combine a laser sight with an integrated tactical flashlight. The light provides additional illumination to help the shooter identify and track targets in low-light conditions, while the laser sight provides pinpoint accuracy. Combining the two into a single unit can help reduce the total amount of gear you need to carry on your rifle, simplifying your setup and reducing weight a little. However, these combo units are heavier and can be more complicated to mount and adjust.

Features to Consider When Shopping for an AR-15 Laser Sight

When choosing a laser sight for your rifle, there are several important technical specifications to keep in mind to ensure you get the best performance and value for your investment. Here are the top specifications you should focus on when evaluating different laser sight models:

• Range & Lumens: The range of a laser sight refers to the distance at which it can accurately and reliably project a beam of light. It's closely related to the intensity of the beam, which is measured in lumens and can impact the overall effectiveness and visibility of the laser sight in different shooting conditions. It's important to choose a laser sight with a range that matches your specific shooting needs and scenarios.
• Battery Life: Longer battery life reduces the need for frequent replacement and can increase the overall reliability of the laser sight.
• Durability: Materials used and IP ratings are key factors to consider. Common materials used for laser sights include aluminum, stainless steel, and high-grade polymer materials. Aluminum is a popular choice due to its lightweight and overall durability, but it may wear down over time with heavy use. Stainless steel offers a higher level of longevity than aluminum but is heavier and may impact the balance of the firearm. Polymer, on the other hand, is the lightest. Additionally, it's typically easy to manipulate and can be molded into different shapes and sizes to fit specific rifle models. However, while some polymer laser sights are very durable, others may be more fragile and prone to damage. You should also consider the IP rating, which refers to the laser sight's ability to withstand dust and water exposure. A higher IP rating indicates a better resistance to harsh environmental conditions and can impact the laser sight's overall longevity.
• Size and Weight: Larger and heavier laser sights may be more difficult to mount and can affect the overall balance of the firearm. Consider choosing a compact and lightweight laser sight that minimizes these issues.
• Windage & Elevation Adjustment: Being able to adjust the windage and elevation of the laser sight is a crucial feature for accurate shooting.

Red vs. Green Laser Sight

Situations where one may need to use their rifle in the daytime, such as during tactical operations, competitive shooting events, or home defense, are more common than you may think. It brings us to the main advantage of a green laser sight - superior visibility in bright daylight conditions compared to red lasers. Green laser sights typically have a visibility range of up to 100 yards, significantly greater than the maximum range of 30 yards for red laser sights. It makes green lasers ideal for outdoor shooting scenarios and home defense.

However, green laser sights may have some drawbacks to consider. One significant disadvantage is their higher price point compared to red laser sights. Green lasers require more sophisticated technology, which drives up the cost for manufacturers and consumers alike. Additionally, green laser sights may be less durable and more prone to weather damage and recoil-related issues. Additionally, green lasers may also have a shorter battery life.

Red laser sights, on the other hand, are common and widely used by shooters due to their affordability and overall reliability. Red lasers are typically less expensive than green lasers and can still perform well in low-light and indoor shooting scenarios. While red lasers may not be as visible as green lasers in bright conditions, they are still effective for short-range targeting and can be a great option for those looking for a more budget-friendly option.

Let's sum up.

Red Rifle Laser Sights:

• Cheaper;
• More durable;
• Better battery life;
• Less visible in bright light - up to 30 yards.

Green Rifle Laser Sights:

• More visible in bright light - up to 100 yards;
• Less durable;
• Less affordable;
• Shorter battery life.

Conclusion

A laser sight may not be the best primary sighting system for your rifle, but it definitely works great as a secondary system for low-light conditions. We hope this guide has helped you make your decision. If so, welcome to our gun store. We offer a great selection of both affordable and high-end laser sights and laser-and-flashlight combos from top brands such as Viridian, LaserMax, Holosun, iProtec, and Truglo to name a few. Don't be shy - explore the best laser sights for AR-15 and other rifle platforms.

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