Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II was a real treat to shoot. Its accuracy was on par with 1911 pistols we have tested that cost far more. Reliability was 100 percent with all types of ammunition tested. What more can we say? The Kimber Gold Combat II is one of the finest such pistols we\u2019ve ever evaluated. For more information, visit kimberamerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber Gold Combat II .45ACP M1911 Review","post_excerpt":"Accurate and reliable it\u2019s M1911 perfection!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 11:53:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 16:53:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2007\/08\/01\/kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129212,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2019-02-13 06:02:35","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-13 11:02:35","post_content":"\r\n\r\nWhile the use of laser sights<\/a> for hunting is still relatively uncommon, there is ample reason to expect their use to expand. At present, most states don\u2019t permit the use of lasers or lights on firearms when hunting protected big game such as deer, but most states allow their use for hunting wild hogs (and other pest animals) and about half the states allow them for small game. Laser sight purchases have easily doubled in the last decade. Though most laser sights are ending up on personal defense handguns and tactical rifles, the same things that make the lasers useful on these firearms apply to hunting guns.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201515\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\nLaser Sights for Hunting: Pros & Cons<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAmong the benefits are more confident target acquisition (particularly in low light); the ability to focus the eyes entirely on the target area, which is beneficial for following the movement of your target animal as well as a great help to aging eyes. The ability to aim the firearm accurately in a \u201cheads-up\u201d manner, rather than with the traditional marksmanship holds we use to shoot with iron sights and scopes. The laser can also be used to point out game to other hunters, and the visual indication of the bullet\u2019s impact point is a constant reminder of the need for safe gun handling and muzzle control.\r\n\r\nThe downside is that the laser\u2019s maximum range is limited by both its power and (more likely) your eyesight. Laser light is diffused somewhat by humidity in the air (rain or fog). The point of impact is less precise the farther you get from your target, and it can be difficult to spot the laser dot in bright light. Laser sights require batteries and most are not waterproof. Lasers aren\u2019t yet universally legal for hunting in all states, either. Hunters need to check their own state\u2019s specific laws before using them.\r\n\r\nLasers have a definite place on hunting rifles, handguns, shotguns and bows for use on terrestrial animals large and small, as well as fish. Duck hunting, or any other wingshooting, is out though. There\u2019s no way to see the laser dot against the sky to track a bird in flight, and aiming your laser skyward is a threat to civil aviation. In addition, if you are good enough to put a laser on a flying bird, you don\u2019t need a laser sight.\r\n
Where They Shine<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights can be a significant advantage in the woods, in dimmer light and heavy cover, but lasers also have night hunting applications (for example, for raccoons, foxes and wild pigs) where conventional scopes and sights would be difficult to use. The laser excels on the hunt for terrestrial animals at ranges you would normally shoot with open sights, 100 yards or less.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s no magnification or optical enhancement of any kind with a laser sight, only your natural visual acuity and the laser dot. If you can\u2019t see the game with your eyes, a laser isn\u2019t going to help you at all. However, most older hunters don\u2019t have trouble seeing the game. They have trouble seeing the iron sights, and this is where a laser sight shines. Because it puts target and aiming point in the same distant focal plane, it compensates for the loss of close focus that typically affects human eyes as they age.\r\n\r\nPeople under 40, have you ever wondered who\u2019s buying all those reading glasses on display in every pharmacy and big box store? You get farsighted as you get older, and this can make it very hard, if not impossible, to see your rear sight clearly enough to get a good sight picture with open sights. (Aperture sights can still be more or less usable, since the rear sight is supposed to be out of focus anyway.)\r\n
Growing Dot<\/h3>\r\nIf you wanted to have a magnified view of your target, there\u2019s no reason you couldn\u2019t use a telescopic sight in conjunction with a side- or bottom-mounted laser sight. This would partially negate the situational awareness the laser allows, in return for some greater precision. I say some, because the front of the laser beam fans out more the farther away it goes. The beam is typically 0.5-inch diameter spot at 50 feet. I measured it at 50 yards and found it grew into a fat ellipse over 2 inches at its widest point. The green laser will project over 100 yards in sunlight, but that dot is going to get even bigger.\r\n\r\nThe growing dot phenomenon begs the question: Do the animals notice the laser? I suspect they do, but not in the spectacular way we see it. They get shafts of light penetrating the forest canopy and shining on their bodies, so a laser dot doesn\u2019t seem like it should be so unique. I would not make a point to shine it in their eyes. That might get their attention, annoy them and cause them leave before you can shoot.\r\n
Pistol Hunting<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights seem particularly good for pistol hunting, where the ranges are closer. Further, I find that not having to get down on the iron sights or scope in a traditional marksmanship pose allows me to shoot from more comfortable and stable heads-up positions. When you elevate your head over the iron sights, the laser dot appears to rise over them too, and this is one of the advantages of the laser in the field.\r\n\r\nUnlike traditional marksmanship, which concentrates on maintaining perfect sight alignment while taking aim at the target, shooting with a laser sight is all about watching the dot. I\u2019ve hunted squirrels from a seated position resting the barrel on a little Polecat shooting stick with my arms steadied on my knees. Initially, I had a little trouble spotting my laser dot because the trees were bare and a lot of sky was showing. The solution was to aim at the ground in front of me and \u201cwalk\u201d the laser right up to the target. It actually takes more time to describe than it does to do it.\r\n
Red Or Green?<\/h3>\r\nThe color of your laser is important. Red lasers are the least expensive, have the longest battery life and are excellent for close-range defensive shooting. In daylight on the range, I find them hard to spot at 25 yards. The newer green lasers are the best choice for hunters. They really pop out to the eye downrange, even in sunlight. That\u2019s because our eyes see green light wavelengths much better than red ones. The green lasers are more complex to make and retail for about 25 percent more than red. Going green will also use up your battery power about twice as fast, but this is really a non-issue while hunting because there\u2019s no reason to turn the laser sight on until you are preparing to aim your gun. Whether you have two hours or four hours of battery is not going to matter during the course of a season.\r\n\r\nMost laser sights are designed to attach to Picatinny or Weaver rails, which is great if you have a tactical rifle, shotgun or pistol. Most traditional (bolt-action) hunting rifles and shotguns will need a rail attached before they can mount a laser. If it\u2019s a newer gun, it\u2019s possible the scope mounts are already attached to small sections of rail screwed onto the receiver. That makes mounting the laser a snap. Take off the scope and rings, mount the laser to the same base, tighten it up and sight in.\r\n
Crimson Trace<\/h3>\r\nBy far the largest laser sight manufacturer, and the market leader, is Oregon-based Crimson Trace Corporation (crimsontrace.com). They have the broadest range of green laser options for hunters. Their compact, lightweight plastic housing Rail Master green laser (CMR-206) was designed to fit in front of a pistol\u2019s triggerguard on a rail. It is turned on by tapping a small paddle on either side of the case. MSRP on this sight is $199, but I\u2019ve seen it at major retailers for as low as $159.99. This is an excellent sight at an entry-level price.\r\n\r\nMounting it on top of your gun requires it to be upside down. This doesn\u2019t affect its function, but it might make it more susceptible to rain since the battery cover will be facing up. As a precaution, just cover it with a piece of clear packing tape to keep it dry. Just don\u2019t obstruct the beam. They also make a J-frame green laser grip (LG-350G, MSRP $399) ideal for the .22 Kit Gun (the laser mounted in the right-side grip panel), but none yet for the popular larger-frame hunting revolvers.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201977\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n
Light & Laser<\/h3>\r\nIf you want to get a little more sophisticated, Crimson Trace makes the Rail Master Pro (CMR-204) which is boxy, slightly larger and heavier (its case is made of aluminum) because it includes a 100-lumen white LED light, which can be operated alone or in conjunction with the laser. The light and laser combo would be great for raccoon hunting at night with a pistol or rifle, but some might find this unit a little too big for mounting on the top rail of a traditional sporting long gun or pistol. It would be perfectly at home attached to the tactical rail near the muzzle of a modern sporting rifle. The CMR-204 has an MSRP of $379, but I have seen it advertised for $350.\r\n
Going Green<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace has three great rail-mounted combination green laser and light products specifically for railed-up modern sporting rifle platforms that are out-of-the-box perfect for hunters who prefer these rifles. The new CMR-300 is like the CMR-204, with a brighter 300-lumen light and an on-off button on the back. MSRP is $249. This would be commonly mounted on the bottom rail near the muzzle, which means you\u2019ll have to reach forward to activate it.\r\n\r\nTo address this minor inconvenience, Crimson Trace created a new wireless radio signal-operated unit called the LiNQ system. The LNQ-100G requires substitution of your normal pistol grip with the LiNQ grip, which houses all the light and laser controls so there\u2019s no need to move your hands from firing position. Otherwise it uses the same green laser and 300-lumen white LED light as the CMR-300. MSRP is $429, but I have found it as low as $384 on sale. There\u2019s also a LiNQ system for the AK platform.\r\n\r\nThe final laser\/light combo from Crimson Trace looks more at home on a tactical rifle than a hunting gun, but consider that your AR carbines, especially in 300 Blackout, are popular for tough wild hogs. The Crimson Trace MVT-515G is an extremely rugged aluminum and polymer vertical foregrip that houses the laser and a 200-lumen white light. Also, the controls are ambidextrous, and the light operates in momentary and constant-on mode, with or without the laser. MSRP is $649, but I have seen it as low as $575. By the way, all these lasers\/lights have a strobe setting if you needed to use them in conjunction with the laser in a defensive situation.\r\n
Other Green Lasers<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace is the biggest game in town, but they aren\u2019t the only one. Four other rail-mounted green laser sights worth a look are made by Viridian (viridianweapontech.com) and LaserMax (lasermax.com). Viridian\u2019s rugged C5 Universal Subcompact Green Laser has an MSRP of $279. Additionally, the C5L adds a white light in the same size unit (MSRP $349). Viridian has a seven-year warranty too, the longest in the industry. LaserMax\u2019s Green Uni-Max Laser (MSRP $309) has the lowest profile, operated by direct-wired remote trigger, and has a rail of its own so you can stack something else on top of it. Finally, LaserMax\u2019s Green Micro II is the shortest rail-mounted laser, with an MSRP of $169.\r\n\r\nTrigger control and a steady hand are still critical to successfully hitting the target, but the visual challenges of iron sights and low light, and even some physical limitations, can be partly overcome with the use of laser sights. Also, for younger hunters with first-person-shooter video game experience, lasers will seem perfectly natural, and new or occasional hunters will find a laser increases their confidence and success within the laser\u2019s effective range. Above all, hogs, little varmints and some deer, beware.\r\n\r\nThis article is from the 2019 Modern Guns issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a><\/em><\/strong>. For digital editions, visit\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"How Laser Sights for Hunting Can Improve Your Odds in the Field","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-10-16 12:27:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-10-16 16:27:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/02\/13\/laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":94810,"post_author":"351","post_date":"2019-01-28 06:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2019-01-28 11:19:45","post_content":"Lasers<\/a> have come a long way since the days they were an interesting curiosity. In fact, shooters now know that lasers are an excellent tool that make acquiring targets much faster and easier. And the LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser has even made activation even easier with\u00a0GripSense\u00a0technology.\n\n[in_content post=\"96942\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\nGripSense represents the newest generation of laser activation technology by simplifying the activation process. The user simply grips the firearm, setting off a motion sensor in the detection zone. This activates the laser immediately and does not require the user to change their firing grip. The biggest complaint of most lasers is having to remember to activate them. As such, this technology eliminates this extra step, providing instant activation. However, the Lightning also allows users to activate this laser via a push button, providing a dual method for use.\n\nThe Lightning fits any rail with at least 1 inch of room. And while the company designed it for pistols, this means it also fits most rifles with rails. Additionally, users can program the Lightning for either a steady or high-vis pulsed beam. The Lightning runs up to 20 hours continuously, but features a ten-minute time out to save battery. It is also water resistant and the battery hatch allows tool-less entry.\n\nLaserMax produces the Lightning in with both red and green lasers, which allows users to choose between what the company calls\u00a0Vivid Red or Daytime Green. Green, of course, cost a bit more, but the human eye see green much better than red, especially during daylight hours. It also comes with a five year warranty.\n
LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser<\/h3>\n
\n \t
How It Works<\/h3>\nUnlike most other lasers on the market today, which require the shooter to manually turn the laser on and off through some form of a switch, the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense is considerably more innovative and advanced in its design. As the shooter picks up the weapon to fire, the laser and\/or built-in light instantly activates. There is no need to turn on a switch, and as the gun is returned to the holster or set back down, the system shuts down automatically.\n
\n \t
LaserMax GripSense Design<\/h3>\nThe LaserMax CenterFire Grip\u00adSense comes with multiple operating modes to select from, including a solid red laser beam, a blinking red laser, a powerful mint green LED with an output of up to 100 lumens, or you can have a combination of laser and light together (either blinking laser or solid beam). The button that controls the system is positioned ambidextrously on both sides of the unit.\n\nNot having a great deal of personal experience with lasers, I asked the LaserMax factory rep why a shooter might prefer a blinking red laser dot as opposed to a steady solid beam. Likely having been asked that same question many times before, she quickly readied her response. Asking me to close my eyes she picked up two LaserMax GripSense-equipped handguns, one she set to display a pulsing laser beam and the other one she set to a steady beam. She then asked me to open my eyes and tell her which laser dot my eyes naturally honed in on. I promptly replied that it was the blinking or pulsating dot. It is natural that a person automatically looks to a moving object over a stationary one, or in this case a pulsating image over that of a solid and constant beam. For that reason, some shooters believe the pulse setting could be a better choice when facing a defensive situation.\n\nEventually, I received one of the first GripSense units available for testing and installed it on my 9mm Shield. Each CenterFire GripSense unit is built for a specific handgun model, and as such, there are currently a number of variants available. As of this writing, you can get a GripSense-equipped CenterFire unit for 9mm and .45 ACP Shields, the Glock<\/a> 42 and 43, and the Ruger<\/a> LC9s, LC9 and LC380. In all likelihood, more versions will be developed in the future.\n
Easy Installation<\/h3>\nInstalling one of these LaserMax GripSense light\/laser systems is easy and straightforward. After making sure the handgun is completely unloaded, you must begin by first removing the two screws that hold the CenterFire housing together. Doing so allows you to separate the two halves of the unit. A 5\/64-inch hex-head wrench is included for this purpose as well as a wrench for adjusting the laser beam.\n\nAfter separating the two halves, you snap the right side of the housing in place by applying a light but firm amount of upward pressure. It may be necessary to tip the laser slightly in order for it to snap into place. The left half of the housing can now be installed by first inserting the rear portion into the right half of the housing at a 45-degree angle.\n\nOnce properly aligned, the two halves can be snapped together and you can replace the two housing screwed. The screws should be tightened down, but not over-tightened.\n
Modes & Adjustments<\/h3>\nIf you want to temporarily turn the unit\u2019s power off, you can do so by simply pressing and releasing the activation button that is located ahead of your firearm\u2019s trigger on both sides of the light\/laser unit. In order to change the laser\/light operation modes, you should first turn the unit on, then press and release both sides of the switch at the same time in order to cycle through the available modes.\n\nAfter you have sighted-in your iron sights to properly impact the target, the laser should now be adjusted to match that same point of impact. To do that, there are two adjustment screws located along the right side of the light\/laser unit near the muzzle. The top screw is used to adjust for windage or horizontal movement and the bottom one is for the elevation. To make those adjustments, you should insert the included hex-head tool in the appropriate alignment port and slowly rotate it while comparing the laser position on the target with that of the fixed sights. A quarter of a turn will result in a movement of about 3 inches at 10 yards. Make sure you do not turn either of the alignment screws more than one full turn from those settings made at the factory, or damage to the laser could occur. Turning the windage adjustment in a clockwise manner will shift the laser aiming point to the right, and turning the elevation adjustment in that same clockwise direction will result in lowering the laser beam.\n\nIf you should accidentally leave the unit on, the system will automatically power down after 10 minutes of inactivity in order to save on the life of the two 1\/3N batteries powering the unit. The batteries are easily replaceable by sliding the battery hatch open, and under normal use, those batteries will supply power to the unit for about three hours.\n
On The Range<\/h3>\nAny shooting system is only as good as its ability to perform under live fire, so I headed out back to my firing range to see how the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense would perform. I fired two types of ammunition from Federal<\/a>: 150-grain Personal Defense HSTs and 115-grain American Eagle Syntech rounds. Both types of cartridges shot exceptionally well and grouped essentially to the same point on paper. But, possibly best of all, my shooting accuracy dramatically improved with the laser over relying solely on the Shield\u2019s iron sights.\n
\n \t
Holster Needs<\/h3>\nThere frequently seems to be a gap between when new products like the LaserMax GripSense units are brought to market and when corresponding component manufacturers catch up. In this case, I\u2019m mostly talking about holsters that match the revised handgun dimensions resulting from the addition of the laser. If you install an aftermarket laser on one of your existing handguns like I did in this case, assuredly you will find that your holsters will no longer fit.\n\nIn this case, however, one manufacturer jumped out in the lead and is offering both IWB and OWB holsters to accommodate the GripSense unit. That maker is CrossBreed<\/a>, and I was able to snag the very first OWB holster to come off the assembly line for my 9mm Shield. This holster was backed by a very fine piece of heavy leather that made it comfortable to carry the CenterFire-equipped Shield. While the holster for the Shield was the first of those units to be made, CrossBreed assured me that a variety of IWB and OWB models will follow to fit the other LaserMax GripSense variants in the very near future.\n\nThis article was originally published in \u201cCombat Handguns\u201d November\/December 2017. To order a copy and subscribe, visit\u00a0outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Grab & Go Shooting: Testing the LaserMax GripSense System","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"lasermax-gripsense-test","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:42:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:42:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/11\/09\/lasermax-gripsense-test\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
First, in the 1911, the LaserMax simply replaces the guide rod and recoil spring. Because of this, it\u2019s aligned very closely with the barrel although the laser is user-adjustable for windage and elevation. Second, the controls are a positive ambidextrous switch mounted on a replacement slide stop. This is about the only downside to the LaserMax unit in our estimation. The right side switch must be removed to disassemble the pistol, although it could probably be left off if the shooter was right-handed. Third, the Laser Max pulses a 5-milliwatt red-orange beam that is the brightest available. The pulsing beam is far more visible than those lasers that just \u201csit there.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II was a real treat to shoot. Its accuracy was on par with 1911 pistols we have tested that cost far more. Reliability was 100 percent with all types of ammunition tested. What more can we say? The Kimber Gold Combat II is one of the finest such pistols we\u2019ve ever evaluated. For more information, visit kimberamerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber Gold Combat II .45ACP M1911 Review","post_excerpt":"Accurate and reliable it\u2019s M1911 perfection!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 11:53:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 16:53:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2007\/08\/01\/kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129212,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2019-02-13 06:02:35","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-13 11:02:35","post_content":"\r\n\r\nWhile the use of laser sights<\/a> for hunting is still relatively uncommon, there is ample reason to expect their use to expand. At present, most states don\u2019t permit the use of lasers or lights on firearms when hunting protected big game such as deer, but most states allow their use for hunting wild hogs (and other pest animals) and about half the states allow them for small game. Laser sight purchases have easily doubled in the last decade. Though most laser sights are ending up on personal defense handguns and tactical rifles, the same things that make the lasers useful on these firearms apply to hunting guns.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201515\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n Our first examination of the Gold Combat II gave us a very positive impression. As mentioned, the KimPro II finish appears to be a deep rust blue. The fit of slide to frame is impeccable. There is absolutely zero slop between slide and frame, and operation is so smooth that it could well be running on ball bearings. The trigger broke like the proverbial \u201cglass rod\u201d at exactly 4 pounds with no creep or backlash. The fit of barrel to slide was perfect, as was lockup and timing, everything we expected in a custom handgun. We have never been a great fan of lasers, but we obtained a LaserMax for our Gold Combat II and believe that the LaserMax is probably the best of the breed. This isn\u2019t a gratuitous statement, but based on how the LaserMax functions in the pistol. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n First, in the 1911, the LaserMax simply replaces the guide rod and recoil spring. Because of this, it\u2019s aligned very closely with the barrel although the laser is user-adjustable for windage and elevation. Second, the controls are a positive ambidextrous switch mounted on a replacement slide stop. This is about the only downside to the LaserMax unit in our estimation. The right side switch must be removed to disassemble the pistol, although it could probably be left off if the shooter was right-handed. Third, the Laser Max pulses a 5-milliwatt red-orange beam that is the brightest available. The pulsing beam is far more visible than those lasers that just \u201csit there.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II was a real treat to shoot. Its accuracy was on par with 1911 pistols we have tested that cost far more. Reliability was 100 percent with all types of ammunition tested. What more can we say? The Kimber Gold Combat II is one of the finest such pistols we\u2019ve ever evaluated. For more information, visit kimberamerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber Gold Combat II .45ACP M1911 Review","post_excerpt":"Accurate and reliable it\u2019s M1911 perfection!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 11:53:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 16:53:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2007\/08\/01\/kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129212,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2019-02-13 06:02:35","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-13 11:02:35","post_content":"\r\n\r\nWhile the use of laser sights<\/a> for hunting is still relatively uncommon, there is ample reason to expect their use to expand. At present, most states don\u2019t permit the use of lasers or lights on firearms when hunting protected big game such as deer, but most states allow their use for hunting wild hogs (and other pest animals) and about half the states allow them for small game. Laser sight purchases have easily doubled in the last decade. Though most laser sights are ending up on personal defense handguns and tactical rifles, the same things that make the lasers useful on these firearms apply to hunting guns.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201515\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n Components are hand fitted with 30 lines per inch (lpi) checkering on the front and back straps and under the triggerguard. The slide has wide non-slip grooves at both front and rear to facilitate reloads and press checks. The stainless barrel is machined to match grade specification, as is the barrel bushing. The grips are\u00a0rosewood in the classic \u201cdouble diamond\u201d pattern. The wide beavertail grip\u00a0safety has a \u201cmemory bump\u201d to ensure proper grip and positive engagement of the grip safety. The extended and flared magazine well facilitates reloading by providing a huge opening that guides the magazine up into the magazine well. Magazines themselves have bumper pads so they can effectively be tapped up into battery. The aluminum match trigger is factory-tuned to 3.5 to 4\u00a0pounds. The Gold Combat II is also fitted with a fully ambidextrous safety. The\u00a0snag-proof Meprolight combat sights are furnished with tritium inserts and are nicely blended into the slide. In short, Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II has all the bells and whistles considered necessary in a combat handgun. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Our first examination of the Gold Combat II gave us a very positive impression. As mentioned, the KimPro II finish appears to be a deep rust blue. The fit of slide to frame is impeccable. There is absolutely zero slop between slide and frame, and operation is so smooth that it could well be running on ball bearings. The trigger broke like the proverbial \u201cglass rod\u201d at exactly 4 pounds with no creep or backlash. The fit of barrel to slide was perfect, as was lockup and timing, everything we expected in a custom handgun. We have never been a great fan of lasers, but we obtained a LaserMax for our Gold Combat II and believe that the LaserMax is probably the best of the breed. This isn\u2019t a gratuitous statement, but based on how the LaserMax functions in the pistol. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n First, in the 1911, the LaserMax simply replaces the guide rod and recoil spring. Because of this, it\u2019s aligned very closely with the barrel although the laser is user-adjustable for windage and elevation. Second, the controls are a positive ambidextrous switch mounted on a replacement slide stop. This is about the only downside to the LaserMax unit in our estimation. The right side switch must be removed to disassemble the pistol, although it could probably be left off if the shooter was right-handed. Third, the Laser Max pulses a 5-milliwatt red-orange beam that is the brightest available. The pulsing beam is far more visible than those lasers that just \u201csit there.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II was a real treat to shoot. Its accuracy was on par with 1911 pistols we have tested that cost far more. Reliability was 100 percent with all types of ammunition tested. What more can we say? The Kimber Gold Combat II is one of the finest such pistols we\u2019ve ever evaluated. For more information, visit kimberamerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber Gold Combat II .45ACP M1911 Review","post_excerpt":"Accurate and reliable it\u2019s M1911 perfection!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 11:53:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 16:53:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2007\/08\/01\/kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129212,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2019-02-13 06:02:35","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-13 11:02:35","post_content":"\r\n\r\nWhile the use of laser sights<\/a> for hunting is still relatively uncommon, there is ample reason to expect their use to expand. At present, most states don\u2019t permit the use of lasers or lights on firearms when hunting protected big game such as deer, but most states allow their use for hunting wild hogs (and other pest animals) and about half the states allow them for small game. Laser sight purchases have easily doubled in the last decade. Though most laser sights are ending up on personal defense handguns and tactical rifles, the same things that make the lasers useful on these firearms apply to hunting guns.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201515\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n Components are hand fitted with 30 lines per inch (lpi) checkering on the front and back straps and under the triggerguard. The slide has wide non-slip grooves at both front and rear to facilitate reloads and press checks. The stainless barrel is machined to match grade specification, as is the barrel bushing. The grips are\u00a0rosewood in the classic \u201cdouble diamond\u201d pattern. The wide beavertail grip\u00a0safety has a \u201cmemory bump\u201d to ensure proper grip and positive engagement of the grip safety. The extended and flared magazine well facilitates reloading by providing a huge opening that guides the magazine up into the magazine well. Magazines themselves have bumper pads so they can effectively be tapped up into battery. The aluminum match trigger is factory-tuned to 3.5 to 4\u00a0pounds. The Gold Combat II is also fitted with a fully ambidextrous safety. The\u00a0snag-proof Meprolight combat sights are furnished with tritium inserts and are nicely blended into the slide. In short, Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II has all the bells and whistles considered necessary in a combat handgun. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Our first examination of the Gold Combat II gave us a very positive impression. As mentioned, the KimPro II finish appears to be a deep rust blue. The fit of slide to frame is impeccable. There is absolutely zero slop between slide and frame, and operation is so smooth that it could well be running on ball bearings. The trigger broke like the proverbial \u201cglass rod\u201d at exactly 4 pounds with no creep or backlash. The fit of barrel to slide was perfect, as was lockup and timing, everything we expected in a custom handgun. We have never been a great fan of lasers, but we obtained a LaserMax for our Gold Combat II and believe that the LaserMax is probably the best of the breed. This isn\u2019t a gratuitous statement, but based on how the LaserMax functions in the pistol. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n First, in the 1911, the LaserMax simply replaces the guide rod and recoil spring. Because of this, it\u2019s aligned very closely with the barrel although the laser is user-adjustable for windage and elevation. Second, the controls are a positive ambidextrous switch mounted on a replacement slide stop. This is about the only downside to the LaserMax unit in our estimation. The right side switch must be removed to disassemble the pistol, although it could probably be left off if the shooter was right-handed. Third, the Laser Max pulses a 5-milliwatt red-orange beam that is the brightest available. The pulsing beam is far more visible than those lasers that just \u201csit there.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II was a real treat to shoot. Its accuracy was on par with 1911 pistols we have tested that cost far more. Reliability was 100 percent with all types of ammunition tested. What more can we say? The Kimber Gold Combat II is one of the finest such pistols we\u2019ve ever evaluated. For more information, visit kimberamerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber Gold Combat II .45ACP M1911 Review","post_excerpt":"Accurate and reliable it\u2019s M1911 perfection!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 11:53:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 16:53:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2007\/08\/01\/kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129212,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2019-02-13 06:02:35","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-13 11:02:35","post_content":"\r\n\r\nWhile the use of laser sights<\/a> for hunting is still relatively uncommon, there is ample reason to expect their use to expand. At present, most states don\u2019t permit the use of lasers or lights on firearms when hunting protected big game such as deer, but most states allow their use for hunting wild hogs (and other pest animals) and about half the states allow them for small game. Laser sight purchases have easily doubled in the last decade. Though most laser sights are ending up on personal defense handguns and tactical rifles, the same things that make the lasers useful on these firearms apply to hunting guns.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201515\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n Kimber Custom Shop 1911s for the most part share common characteristics. Non-stainless pistols<\/a><\/span> are finished in KimPro II, a tough thermally cured finish that is resistant to salt, sweat, ultraviolet radiation, and solvents. Because of its content, it is also self-lubricating to an extent. We were especially impressed with the quality of fit and finish of this pistol, which was as good as we\u2019ve ever seen, and we\u2019ve seen quite a few 1911s from\u00a0various manufacturers. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Components are hand fitted with 30 lines per inch (lpi) checkering on the front and back straps and under the triggerguard. The slide has wide non-slip grooves at both front and rear to facilitate reloads and press checks. The stainless barrel is machined to match grade specification, as is the barrel bushing. The grips are\u00a0rosewood in the classic \u201cdouble diamond\u201d pattern. The wide beavertail grip\u00a0safety has a \u201cmemory bump\u201d to ensure proper grip and positive engagement of the grip safety. The extended and flared magazine well facilitates reloading by providing a huge opening that guides the magazine up into the magazine well. Magazines themselves have bumper pads so they can effectively be tapped up into battery. The aluminum match trigger is factory-tuned to 3.5 to 4\u00a0pounds. The Gold Combat II is also fitted with a fully ambidextrous safety. The\u00a0snag-proof Meprolight combat sights are furnished with tritium inserts and are nicely blended into the slide. In short, Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II has all the bells and whistles considered necessary in a combat handgun. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Our first examination of the Gold Combat II gave us a very positive impression. As mentioned, the KimPro II finish appears to be a deep rust blue. The fit of slide to frame is impeccable. There is absolutely zero slop between slide and frame, and operation is so smooth that it could well be running on ball bearings. The trigger broke like the proverbial \u201cglass rod\u201d at exactly 4 pounds with no creep or backlash. The fit of barrel to slide was perfect, as was lockup and timing, everything we expected in a custom handgun. We have never been a great fan of lasers, but we obtained a LaserMax for our Gold Combat II and believe that the LaserMax is probably the best of the breed. This isn\u2019t a gratuitous statement, but based on how the LaserMax functions in the pistol. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n First, in the 1911, the LaserMax simply replaces the guide rod and recoil spring. Because of this, it\u2019s aligned very closely with the barrel although the laser is user-adjustable for windage and elevation. Second, the controls are a positive ambidextrous switch mounted on a replacement slide stop. This is about the only downside to the LaserMax unit in our estimation. The right side switch must be removed to disassemble the pistol, although it could probably be left off if the shooter was right-handed. Third, the Laser Max pulses a 5-milliwatt red-orange beam that is the brightest available. The pulsing beam is far more visible than those lasers that just \u201csit there.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Kimber\u2019s Gold Combat II was a real treat to shoot. Its accuracy was on par with 1911 pistols we have tested that cost far more. Reliability was 100 percent with all types of ammunition tested. What more can we say? The Kimber Gold Combat II is one of the finest such pistols we\u2019ve ever evaluated. For more information, visit kimberamerica.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kimber Gold Combat II .45ACP M1911 Review","post_excerpt":"Accurate and reliable it\u2019s M1911 perfection!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 11:53:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 16:53:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2007\/08\/01\/kimber-gold-combat-ii-45acp\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":129212,"post_author":"705","post_date":"2019-02-13 06:02:35","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-13 11:02:35","post_content":"\r\n\r\nWhile the use of laser sights<\/a> for hunting is still relatively uncommon, there is ample reason to expect their use to expand. At present, most states don\u2019t permit the use of lasers or lights on firearms when hunting protected big game such as deer, but most states allow their use for hunting wild hogs (and other pest animals) and about half the states allow them for small game. Laser sight purchases have easily doubled in the last decade. Though most laser sights are ending up on personal defense handguns and tactical rifles, the same things that make the lasers useful on these firearms apply to hunting guns.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201515\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\nLaser Sights for Hunting: Pros & Cons<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAmong the benefits are more confident target acquisition (particularly in low light); the ability to focus the eyes entirely on the target area, which is beneficial for following the movement of your target animal as well as a great help to aging eyes. The ability to aim the firearm accurately in a \u201cheads-up\u201d manner, rather than with the traditional marksmanship holds we use to shoot with iron sights and scopes. The laser can also be used to point out game to other hunters, and the visual indication of the bullet\u2019s impact point is a constant reminder of the need for safe gun handling and muzzle control.\r\n\r\nThe downside is that the laser\u2019s maximum range is limited by both its power and (more likely) your eyesight. Laser light is diffused somewhat by humidity in the air (rain or fog). The point of impact is less precise the farther you get from your target, and it can be difficult to spot the laser dot in bright light. Laser sights require batteries and most are not waterproof. Lasers aren\u2019t yet universally legal for hunting in all states, either. Hunters need to check their own state\u2019s specific laws before using them.\r\n\r\nLasers have a definite place on hunting rifles, handguns, shotguns and bows for use on terrestrial animals large and small, as well as fish. Duck hunting, or any other wingshooting, is out though. There\u2019s no way to see the laser dot against the sky to track a bird in flight, and aiming your laser skyward is a threat to civil aviation. In addition, if you are good enough to put a laser on a flying bird, you don\u2019t need a laser sight.\r\n
Where They Shine<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights can be a significant advantage in the woods, in dimmer light and heavy cover, but lasers also have night hunting applications (for example, for raccoons, foxes and wild pigs) where conventional scopes and sights would be difficult to use. The laser excels on the hunt for terrestrial animals at ranges you would normally shoot with open sights, 100 yards or less.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s no magnification or optical enhancement of any kind with a laser sight, only your natural visual acuity and the laser dot. If you can\u2019t see the game with your eyes, a laser isn\u2019t going to help you at all. However, most older hunters don\u2019t have trouble seeing the game. They have trouble seeing the iron sights, and this is where a laser sight shines. Because it puts target and aiming point in the same distant focal plane, it compensates for the loss of close focus that typically affects human eyes as they age.\r\n\r\nPeople under 40, have you ever wondered who\u2019s buying all those reading glasses on display in every pharmacy and big box store? You get farsighted as you get older, and this can make it very hard, if not impossible, to see your rear sight clearly enough to get a good sight picture with open sights. (Aperture sights can still be more or less usable, since the rear sight is supposed to be out of focus anyway.)\r\n
Growing Dot<\/h3>\r\nIf you wanted to have a magnified view of your target, there\u2019s no reason you couldn\u2019t use a telescopic sight in conjunction with a side- or bottom-mounted laser sight. This would partially negate the situational awareness the laser allows, in return for some greater precision. I say some, because the front of the laser beam fans out more the farther away it goes. The beam is typically 0.5-inch diameter spot at 50 feet. I measured it at 50 yards and found it grew into a fat ellipse over 2 inches at its widest point. The green laser will project over 100 yards in sunlight, but that dot is going to get even bigger.\r\n\r\nThe growing dot phenomenon begs the question: Do the animals notice the laser? I suspect they do, but not in the spectacular way we see it. They get shafts of light penetrating the forest canopy and shining on their bodies, so a laser dot doesn\u2019t seem like it should be so unique. I would not make a point to shine it in their eyes. That might get their attention, annoy them and cause them leave before you can shoot.\r\n
Pistol Hunting<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights seem particularly good for pistol hunting, where the ranges are closer. Further, I find that not having to get down on the iron sights or scope in a traditional marksmanship pose allows me to shoot from more comfortable and stable heads-up positions. When you elevate your head over the iron sights, the laser dot appears to rise over them too, and this is one of the advantages of the laser in the field.\r\n\r\nUnlike traditional marksmanship, which concentrates on maintaining perfect sight alignment while taking aim at the target, shooting with a laser sight is all about watching the dot. I\u2019ve hunted squirrels from a seated position resting the barrel on a little Polecat shooting stick with my arms steadied on my knees. Initially, I had a little trouble spotting my laser dot because the trees were bare and a lot of sky was showing. The solution was to aim at the ground in front of me and \u201cwalk\u201d the laser right up to the target. It actually takes more time to describe than it does to do it.\r\n
Red Or Green?<\/h3>\r\nThe color of your laser is important. Red lasers are the least expensive, have the longest battery life and are excellent for close-range defensive shooting. In daylight on the range, I find them hard to spot at 25 yards. The newer green lasers are the best choice for hunters. They really pop out to the eye downrange, even in sunlight. That\u2019s because our eyes see green light wavelengths much better than red ones. The green lasers are more complex to make and retail for about 25 percent more than red. Going green will also use up your battery power about twice as fast, but this is really a non-issue while hunting because there\u2019s no reason to turn the laser sight on until you are preparing to aim your gun. Whether you have two hours or four hours of battery is not going to matter during the course of a season.\r\n\r\nMost laser sights are designed to attach to Picatinny or Weaver rails, which is great if you have a tactical rifle, shotgun or pistol. Most traditional (bolt-action) hunting rifles and shotguns will need a rail attached before they can mount a laser. If it\u2019s a newer gun, it\u2019s possible the scope mounts are already attached to small sections of rail screwed onto the receiver. That makes mounting the laser a snap. Take off the scope and rings, mount the laser to the same base, tighten it up and sight in.\r\n
Crimson Trace<\/h3>\r\nBy far the largest laser sight manufacturer, and the market leader, is Oregon-based Crimson Trace Corporation (crimsontrace.com). They have the broadest range of green laser options for hunters. Their compact, lightweight plastic housing Rail Master green laser (CMR-206) was designed to fit in front of a pistol\u2019s triggerguard on a rail. It is turned on by tapping a small paddle on either side of the case. MSRP on this sight is $199, but I\u2019ve seen it at major retailers for as low as $159.99. This is an excellent sight at an entry-level price.\r\n\r\nMounting it on top of your gun requires it to be upside down. This doesn\u2019t affect its function, but it might make it more susceptible to rain since the battery cover will be facing up. As a precaution, just cover it with a piece of clear packing tape to keep it dry. Just don\u2019t obstruct the beam. They also make a J-frame green laser grip (LG-350G, MSRP $399) ideal for the .22 Kit Gun (the laser mounted in the right-side grip panel), but none yet for the popular larger-frame hunting revolvers.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201977\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n
Light & Laser<\/h3>\r\nIf you want to get a little more sophisticated, Crimson Trace makes the Rail Master Pro (CMR-204) which is boxy, slightly larger and heavier (its case is made of aluminum) because it includes a 100-lumen white LED light, which can be operated alone or in conjunction with the laser. The light and laser combo would be great for raccoon hunting at night with a pistol or rifle, but some might find this unit a little too big for mounting on the top rail of a traditional sporting long gun or pistol. It would be perfectly at home attached to the tactical rail near the muzzle of a modern sporting rifle. The CMR-204 has an MSRP of $379, but I have seen it advertised for $350.\r\n
Going Green<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace has three great rail-mounted combination green laser and light products specifically for railed-up modern sporting rifle platforms that are out-of-the-box perfect for hunters who prefer these rifles. The new CMR-300 is like the CMR-204, with a brighter 300-lumen light and an on-off button on the back. MSRP is $249. This would be commonly mounted on the bottom rail near the muzzle, which means you\u2019ll have to reach forward to activate it.\r\n\r\nTo address this minor inconvenience, Crimson Trace created a new wireless radio signal-operated unit called the LiNQ system. The LNQ-100G requires substitution of your normal pistol grip with the LiNQ grip, which houses all the light and laser controls so there\u2019s no need to move your hands from firing position. Otherwise it uses the same green laser and 300-lumen white LED light as the CMR-300. MSRP is $429, but I have found it as low as $384 on sale. There\u2019s also a LiNQ system for the AK platform.\r\n\r\nThe final laser\/light combo from Crimson Trace looks more at home on a tactical rifle than a hunting gun, but consider that your AR carbines, especially in 300 Blackout, are popular for tough wild hogs. The Crimson Trace MVT-515G is an extremely rugged aluminum and polymer vertical foregrip that houses the laser and a 200-lumen white light. Also, the controls are ambidextrous, and the light operates in momentary and constant-on mode, with or without the laser. MSRP is $649, but I have seen it as low as $575. By the way, all these lasers\/lights have a strobe setting if you needed to use them in conjunction with the laser in a defensive situation.\r\n
Other Green Lasers<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace is the biggest game in town, but they aren\u2019t the only one. Four other rail-mounted green laser sights worth a look are made by Viridian (viridianweapontech.com) and LaserMax (lasermax.com). Viridian\u2019s rugged C5 Universal Subcompact Green Laser has an MSRP of $279. Additionally, the C5L adds a white light in the same size unit (MSRP $349). Viridian has a seven-year warranty too, the longest in the industry. LaserMax\u2019s Green Uni-Max Laser (MSRP $309) has the lowest profile, operated by direct-wired remote trigger, and has a rail of its own so you can stack something else on top of it. Finally, LaserMax\u2019s Green Micro II is the shortest rail-mounted laser, with an MSRP of $169.\r\n\r\nTrigger control and a steady hand are still critical to successfully hitting the target, but the visual challenges of iron sights and low light, and even some physical limitations, can be partly overcome with the use of laser sights. Also, for younger hunters with first-person-shooter video game experience, lasers will seem perfectly natural, and new or occasional hunters will find a laser increases their confidence and success within the laser\u2019s effective range. Above all, hogs, little varmints and some deer, beware.\r\n\r\nThis article is from the 2019 Modern Guns issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a><\/em><\/strong>. For digital editions, visit\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"How Laser Sights for Hunting Can Improve Your Odds in the Field","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-10-16 12:27:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-10-16 16:27:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/02\/13\/laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":94810,"post_author":"351","post_date":"2019-01-28 06:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2019-01-28 11:19:45","post_content":"Lasers<\/a> have come a long way since the days they were an interesting curiosity. In fact, shooters now know that lasers are an excellent tool that make acquiring targets much faster and easier. And the LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser has even made activation even easier with\u00a0GripSense\u00a0technology.\n\n[in_content post=\"96942\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\nGripSense represents the newest generation of laser activation technology by simplifying the activation process. The user simply grips the firearm, setting off a motion sensor in the detection zone. This activates the laser immediately and does not require the user to change their firing grip. The biggest complaint of most lasers is having to remember to activate them. As such, this technology eliminates this extra step, providing instant activation. However, the Lightning also allows users to activate this laser via a push button, providing a dual method for use.\n\nThe Lightning fits any rail with at least 1 inch of room. And while the company designed it for pistols, this means it also fits most rifles with rails. Additionally, users can program the Lightning for either a steady or high-vis pulsed beam. The Lightning runs up to 20 hours continuously, but features a ten-minute time out to save battery. It is also water resistant and the battery hatch allows tool-less entry.\n\nLaserMax produces the Lightning in with both red and green lasers, which allows users to choose between what the company calls\u00a0Vivid Red or Daytime Green. Green, of course, cost a bit more, but the human eye see green much better than red, especially during daylight hours. It also comes with a five year warranty.\n
LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser<\/h3>\n
\n \t
How It Works<\/h3>\nUnlike most other lasers on the market today, which require the shooter to manually turn the laser on and off through some form of a switch, the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense is considerably more innovative and advanced in its design. As the shooter picks up the weapon to fire, the laser and\/or built-in light instantly activates. There is no need to turn on a switch, and as the gun is returned to the holster or set back down, the system shuts down automatically.\n
\n \t
LaserMax GripSense Design<\/h3>\nThe LaserMax CenterFire Grip\u00adSense comes with multiple operating modes to select from, including a solid red laser beam, a blinking red laser, a powerful mint green LED with an output of up to 100 lumens, or you can have a combination of laser and light together (either blinking laser or solid beam). The button that controls the system is positioned ambidextrously on both sides of the unit.\n\nNot having a great deal of personal experience with lasers, I asked the LaserMax factory rep why a shooter might prefer a blinking red laser dot as opposed to a steady solid beam. Likely having been asked that same question many times before, she quickly readied her response. Asking me to close my eyes she picked up two LaserMax GripSense-equipped handguns, one she set to display a pulsing laser beam and the other one she set to a steady beam. She then asked me to open my eyes and tell her which laser dot my eyes naturally honed in on. I promptly replied that it was the blinking or pulsating dot. It is natural that a person automatically looks to a moving object over a stationary one, or in this case a pulsating image over that of a solid and constant beam. For that reason, some shooters believe the pulse setting could be a better choice when facing a defensive situation.\n\nEventually, I received one of the first GripSense units available for testing and installed it on my 9mm Shield. Each CenterFire GripSense unit is built for a specific handgun model, and as such, there are currently a number of variants available. As of this writing, you can get a GripSense-equipped CenterFire unit for 9mm and .45 ACP Shields, the Glock<\/a> 42 and 43, and the Ruger<\/a> LC9s, LC9 and LC380. In all likelihood, more versions will be developed in the future.\n
Easy Installation<\/h3>\nInstalling one of these LaserMax GripSense light\/laser systems is easy and straightforward. After making sure the handgun is completely unloaded, you must begin by first removing the two screws that hold the CenterFire housing together. Doing so allows you to separate the two halves of the unit. A 5\/64-inch hex-head wrench is included for this purpose as well as a wrench for adjusting the laser beam.\n\nAfter separating the two halves, you snap the right side of the housing in place by applying a light but firm amount of upward pressure. It may be necessary to tip the laser slightly in order for it to snap into place. The left half of the housing can now be installed by first inserting the rear portion into the right half of the housing at a 45-degree angle.\n\nOnce properly aligned, the two halves can be snapped together and you can replace the two housing screwed. The screws should be tightened down, but not over-tightened.\n
Modes & Adjustments<\/h3>\nIf you want to temporarily turn the unit\u2019s power off, you can do so by simply pressing and releasing the activation button that is located ahead of your firearm\u2019s trigger on both sides of the light\/laser unit. In order to change the laser\/light operation modes, you should first turn the unit on, then press and release both sides of the switch at the same time in order to cycle through the available modes.\n\nAfter you have sighted-in your iron sights to properly impact the target, the laser should now be adjusted to match that same point of impact. To do that, there are two adjustment screws located along the right side of the light\/laser unit near the muzzle. The top screw is used to adjust for windage or horizontal movement and the bottom one is for the elevation. To make those adjustments, you should insert the included hex-head tool in the appropriate alignment port and slowly rotate it while comparing the laser position on the target with that of the fixed sights. A quarter of a turn will result in a movement of about 3 inches at 10 yards. Make sure you do not turn either of the alignment screws more than one full turn from those settings made at the factory, or damage to the laser could occur. Turning the windage adjustment in a clockwise manner will shift the laser aiming point to the right, and turning the elevation adjustment in that same clockwise direction will result in lowering the laser beam.\n\nIf you should accidentally leave the unit on, the system will automatically power down after 10 minutes of inactivity in order to save on the life of the two 1\/3N batteries powering the unit. The batteries are easily replaceable by sliding the battery hatch open, and under normal use, those batteries will supply power to the unit for about three hours.\n
On The Range<\/h3>\nAny shooting system is only as good as its ability to perform under live fire, so I headed out back to my firing range to see how the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense would perform. I fired two types of ammunition from Federal<\/a>: 150-grain Personal Defense HSTs and 115-grain American Eagle Syntech rounds. Both types of cartridges shot exceptionally well and grouped essentially to the same point on paper. But, possibly best of all, my shooting accuracy dramatically improved with the laser over relying solely on the Shield\u2019s iron sights.\n
\n \t
Holster Needs<\/h3>\nThere frequently seems to be a gap between when new products like the LaserMax GripSense units are brought to market and when corresponding component manufacturers catch up. In this case, I\u2019m mostly talking about holsters that match the revised handgun dimensions resulting from the addition of the laser. If you install an aftermarket laser on one of your existing handguns like I did in this case, assuredly you will find that your holsters will no longer fit.\n\nIn this case, however, one manufacturer jumped out in the lead and is offering both IWB and OWB holsters to accommodate the GripSense unit. That maker is CrossBreed<\/a>, and I was able to snag the very first OWB holster to come off the assembly line for my 9mm Shield. This holster was backed by a very fine piece of heavy leather that made it comfortable to carry the CenterFire-equipped Shield. While the holster for the Shield was the first of those units to be made, CrossBreed assured me that a variety of IWB and OWB models will follow to fit the other LaserMax GripSense variants in the very near future.\n\nThis article was originally published in \u201cCombat Handguns\u201d November\/December 2017. To order a copy and subscribe, visit\u00a0outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Grab & Go Shooting: Testing the LaserMax GripSense System","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"lasermax-gripsense-test","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:42:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:42:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/11\/09\/lasermax-gripsense-test\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
Shooting Impressions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Laser Sights for Hunting: Pros & Cons<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAmong the benefits are more confident target acquisition (particularly in low light); the ability to focus the eyes entirely on the target area, which is beneficial for following the movement of your target animal as well as a great help to aging eyes. The ability to aim the firearm accurately in a \u201cheads-up\u201d manner, rather than with the traditional marksmanship holds we use to shoot with iron sights and scopes. The laser can also be used to point out game to other hunters, and the visual indication of the bullet\u2019s impact point is a constant reminder of the need for safe gun handling and muzzle control.\r\n\r\nThe downside is that the laser\u2019s maximum range is limited by both its power and (more likely) your eyesight. Laser light is diffused somewhat by humidity in the air (rain or fog). The point of impact is less precise the farther you get from your target, and it can be difficult to spot the laser dot in bright light. Laser sights require batteries and most are not waterproof. Lasers aren\u2019t yet universally legal for hunting in all states, either. Hunters need to check their own state\u2019s specific laws before using them.\r\n\r\nLasers have a definite place on hunting rifles, handguns, shotguns and bows for use on terrestrial animals large and small, as well as fish. Duck hunting, or any other wingshooting, is out though. There\u2019s no way to see the laser dot against the sky to track a bird in flight, and aiming your laser skyward is a threat to civil aviation. In addition, if you are good enough to put a laser on a flying bird, you don\u2019t need a laser sight.\r\n
Where They Shine<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights can be a significant advantage in the woods, in dimmer light and heavy cover, but lasers also have night hunting applications (for example, for raccoons, foxes and wild pigs) where conventional scopes and sights would be difficult to use. The laser excels on the hunt for terrestrial animals at ranges you would normally shoot with open sights, 100 yards or less.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s no magnification or optical enhancement of any kind with a laser sight, only your natural visual acuity and the laser dot. If you can\u2019t see the game with your eyes, a laser isn\u2019t going to help you at all. However, most older hunters don\u2019t have trouble seeing the game. They have trouble seeing the iron sights, and this is where a laser sight shines. Because it puts target and aiming point in the same distant focal plane, it compensates for the loss of close focus that typically affects human eyes as they age.\r\n\r\nPeople under 40, have you ever wondered who\u2019s buying all those reading glasses on display in every pharmacy and big box store? You get farsighted as you get older, and this can make it very hard, if not impossible, to see your rear sight clearly enough to get a good sight picture with open sights. (Aperture sights can still be more or less usable, since the rear sight is supposed to be out of focus anyway.)\r\n
Growing Dot<\/h3>\r\nIf you wanted to have a magnified view of your target, there\u2019s no reason you couldn\u2019t use a telescopic sight in conjunction with a side- or bottom-mounted laser sight. This would partially negate the situational awareness the laser allows, in return for some greater precision. I say some, because the front of the laser beam fans out more the farther away it goes. The beam is typically 0.5-inch diameter spot at 50 feet. I measured it at 50 yards and found it grew into a fat ellipse over 2 inches at its widest point. The green laser will project over 100 yards in sunlight, but that dot is going to get even bigger.\r\n\r\nThe growing dot phenomenon begs the question: Do the animals notice the laser? I suspect they do, but not in the spectacular way we see it. They get shafts of light penetrating the forest canopy and shining on their bodies, so a laser dot doesn\u2019t seem like it should be so unique. I would not make a point to shine it in their eyes. That might get their attention, annoy them and cause them leave before you can shoot.\r\n
Pistol Hunting<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights seem particularly good for pistol hunting, where the ranges are closer. Further, I find that not having to get down on the iron sights or scope in a traditional marksmanship pose allows me to shoot from more comfortable and stable heads-up positions. When you elevate your head over the iron sights, the laser dot appears to rise over them too, and this is one of the advantages of the laser in the field.\r\n\r\nUnlike traditional marksmanship, which concentrates on maintaining perfect sight alignment while taking aim at the target, shooting with a laser sight is all about watching the dot. I\u2019ve hunted squirrels from a seated position resting the barrel on a little Polecat shooting stick with my arms steadied on my knees. Initially, I had a little trouble spotting my laser dot because the trees were bare and a lot of sky was showing. The solution was to aim at the ground in front of me and \u201cwalk\u201d the laser right up to the target. It actually takes more time to describe than it does to do it.\r\n
Red Or Green?<\/h3>\r\nThe color of your laser is important. Red lasers are the least expensive, have the longest battery life and are excellent for close-range defensive shooting. In daylight on the range, I find them hard to spot at 25 yards. The newer green lasers are the best choice for hunters. They really pop out to the eye downrange, even in sunlight. That\u2019s because our eyes see green light wavelengths much better than red ones. The green lasers are more complex to make and retail for about 25 percent more than red. Going green will also use up your battery power about twice as fast, but this is really a non-issue while hunting because there\u2019s no reason to turn the laser sight on until you are preparing to aim your gun. Whether you have two hours or four hours of battery is not going to matter during the course of a season.\r\n\r\nMost laser sights are designed to attach to Picatinny or Weaver rails, which is great if you have a tactical rifle, shotgun or pistol. Most traditional (bolt-action) hunting rifles and shotguns will need a rail attached before they can mount a laser. If it\u2019s a newer gun, it\u2019s possible the scope mounts are already attached to small sections of rail screwed onto the receiver. That makes mounting the laser a snap. Take off the scope and rings, mount the laser to the same base, tighten it up and sight in.\r\n
Crimson Trace<\/h3>\r\nBy far the largest laser sight manufacturer, and the market leader, is Oregon-based Crimson Trace Corporation (crimsontrace.com). They have the broadest range of green laser options for hunters. Their compact, lightweight plastic housing Rail Master green laser (CMR-206) was designed to fit in front of a pistol\u2019s triggerguard on a rail. It is turned on by tapping a small paddle on either side of the case. MSRP on this sight is $199, but I\u2019ve seen it at major retailers for as low as $159.99. This is an excellent sight at an entry-level price.\r\n\r\nMounting it on top of your gun requires it to be upside down. This doesn\u2019t affect its function, but it might make it more susceptible to rain since the battery cover will be facing up. As a precaution, just cover it with a piece of clear packing tape to keep it dry. Just don\u2019t obstruct the beam. They also make a J-frame green laser grip (LG-350G, MSRP $399) ideal for the .22 Kit Gun (the laser mounted in the right-side grip panel), but none yet for the popular larger-frame hunting revolvers.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201977\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n
Light & Laser<\/h3>\r\nIf you want to get a little more sophisticated, Crimson Trace makes the Rail Master Pro (CMR-204) which is boxy, slightly larger and heavier (its case is made of aluminum) because it includes a 100-lumen white LED light, which can be operated alone or in conjunction with the laser. The light and laser combo would be great for raccoon hunting at night with a pistol or rifle, but some might find this unit a little too big for mounting on the top rail of a traditional sporting long gun or pistol. It would be perfectly at home attached to the tactical rail near the muzzle of a modern sporting rifle. The CMR-204 has an MSRP of $379, but I have seen it advertised for $350.\r\n
Going Green<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace has three great rail-mounted combination green laser and light products specifically for railed-up modern sporting rifle platforms that are out-of-the-box perfect for hunters who prefer these rifles. The new CMR-300 is like the CMR-204, with a brighter 300-lumen light and an on-off button on the back. MSRP is $249. This would be commonly mounted on the bottom rail near the muzzle, which means you\u2019ll have to reach forward to activate it.\r\n\r\nTo address this minor inconvenience, Crimson Trace created a new wireless radio signal-operated unit called the LiNQ system. The LNQ-100G requires substitution of your normal pistol grip with the LiNQ grip, which houses all the light and laser controls so there\u2019s no need to move your hands from firing position. Otherwise it uses the same green laser and 300-lumen white LED light as the CMR-300. MSRP is $429, but I have found it as low as $384 on sale. There\u2019s also a LiNQ system for the AK platform.\r\n\r\nThe final laser\/light combo from Crimson Trace looks more at home on a tactical rifle than a hunting gun, but consider that your AR carbines, especially in 300 Blackout, are popular for tough wild hogs. The Crimson Trace MVT-515G is an extremely rugged aluminum and polymer vertical foregrip that houses the laser and a 200-lumen white light. Also, the controls are ambidextrous, and the light operates in momentary and constant-on mode, with or without the laser. MSRP is $649, but I have seen it as low as $575. By the way, all these lasers\/lights have a strobe setting if you needed to use them in conjunction with the laser in a defensive situation.\r\n
Other Green Lasers<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace is the biggest game in town, but they aren\u2019t the only one. Four other rail-mounted green laser sights worth a look are made by Viridian (viridianweapontech.com) and LaserMax (lasermax.com). Viridian\u2019s rugged C5 Universal Subcompact Green Laser has an MSRP of $279. Additionally, the C5L adds a white light in the same size unit (MSRP $349). Viridian has a seven-year warranty too, the longest in the industry. LaserMax\u2019s Green Uni-Max Laser (MSRP $309) has the lowest profile, operated by direct-wired remote trigger, and has a rail of its own so you can stack something else on top of it. Finally, LaserMax\u2019s Green Micro II is the shortest rail-mounted laser, with an MSRP of $169.\r\n\r\nTrigger control and a steady hand are still critical to successfully hitting the target, but the visual challenges of iron sights and low light, and even some physical limitations, can be partly overcome with the use of laser sights. Also, for younger hunters with first-person-shooter video game experience, lasers will seem perfectly natural, and new or occasional hunters will find a laser increases their confidence and success within the laser\u2019s effective range. Above all, hogs, little varmints and some deer, beware.\r\n\r\nThis article is from the 2019 Modern Guns issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a><\/em><\/strong>. For digital editions, visit\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"How Laser Sights for Hunting Can Improve Your Odds in the Field","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-10-16 12:27:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-10-16 16:27:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/02\/13\/laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":94810,"post_author":"351","post_date":"2019-01-28 06:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2019-01-28 11:19:45","post_content":"Lasers<\/a> have come a long way since the days they were an interesting curiosity. In fact, shooters now know that lasers are an excellent tool that make acquiring targets much faster and easier. And the LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser has even made activation even easier with\u00a0GripSense\u00a0technology.\n\n[in_content post=\"96942\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\nGripSense represents the newest generation of laser activation technology by simplifying the activation process. The user simply grips the firearm, setting off a motion sensor in the detection zone. This activates the laser immediately and does not require the user to change their firing grip. The biggest complaint of most lasers is having to remember to activate them. As such, this technology eliminates this extra step, providing instant activation. However, the Lightning also allows users to activate this laser via a push button, providing a dual method for use.\n\nThe Lightning fits any rail with at least 1 inch of room. And while the company designed it for pistols, this means it also fits most rifles with rails. Additionally, users can program the Lightning for either a steady or high-vis pulsed beam. The Lightning runs up to 20 hours continuously, but features a ten-minute time out to save battery. It is also water resistant and the battery hatch allows tool-less entry.\n\nLaserMax produces the Lightning in with both red and green lasers, which allows users to choose between what the company calls\u00a0Vivid Red or Daytime Green. Green, of course, cost a bit more, but the human eye see green much better than red, especially during daylight hours. It also comes with a five year warranty.\n
LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser<\/h3>\n
\n \t
How It Works<\/h3>\nUnlike most other lasers on the market today, which require the shooter to manually turn the laser on and off through some form of a switch, the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense is considerably more innovative and advanced in its design. As the shooter picks up the weapon to fire, the laser and\/or built-in light instantly activates. There is no need to turn on a switch, and as the gun is returned to the holster or set back down, the system shuts down automatically.\n
\n \t
LaserMax GripSense Design<\/h3>\nThe LaserMax CenterFire Grip\u00adSense comes with multiple operating modes to select from, including a solid red laser beam, a blinking red laser, a powerful mint green LED with an output of up to 100 lumens, or you can have a combination of laser and light together (either blinking laser or solid beam). The button that controls the system is positioned ambidextrously on both sides of the unit.\n\nNot having a great deal of personal experience with lasers, I asked the LaserMax factory rep why a shooter might prefer a blinking red laser dot as opposed to a steady solid beam. Likely having been asked that same question many times before, she quickly readied her response. Asking me to close my eyes she picked up two LaserMax GripSense-equipped handguns, one she set to display a pulsing laser beam and the other one she set to a steady beam. She then asked me to open my eyes and tell her which laser dot my eyes naturally honed in on. I promptly replied that it was the blinking or pulsating dot. It is natural that a person automatically looks to a moving object over a stationary one, or in this case a pulsating image over that of a solid and constant beam. For that reason, some shooters believe the pulse setting could be a better choice when facing a defensive situation.\n\nEventually, I received one of the first GripSense units available for testing and installed it on my 9mm Shield. Each CenterFire GripSense unit is built for a specific handgun model, and as such, there are currently a number of variants available. As of this writing, you can get a GripSense-equipped CenterFire unit for 9mm and .45 ACP Shields, the Glock<\/a> 42 and 43, and the Ruger<\/a> LC9s, LC9 and LC380. In all likelihood, more versions will be developed in the future.\n
Easy Installation<\/h3>\nInstalling one of these LaserMax GripSense light\/laser systems is easy and straightforward. After making sure the handgun is completely unloaded, you must begin by first removing the two screws that hold the CenterFire housing together. Doing so allows you to separate the two halves of the unit. A 5\/64-inch hex-head wrench is included for this purpose as well as a wrench for adjusting the laser beam.\n\nAfter separating the two halves, you snap the right side of the housing in place by applying a light but firm amount of upward pressure. It may be necessary to tip the laser slightly in order for it to snap into place. The left half of the housing can now be installed by first inserting the rear portion into the right half of the housing at a 45-degree angle.\n\nOnce properly aligned, the two halves can be snapped together and you can replace the two housing screwed. The screws should be tightened down, but not over-tightened.\n
Modes & Adjustments<\/h3>\nIf you want to temporarily turn the unit\u2019s power off, you can do so by simply pressing and releasing the activation button that is located ahead of your firearm\u2019s trigger on both sides of the light\/laser unit. In order to change the laser\/light operation modes, you should first turn the unit on, then press and release both sides of the switch at the same time in order to cycle through the available modes.\n\nAfter you have sighted-in your iron sights to properly impact the target, the laser should now be adjusted to match that same point of impact. To do that, there are two adjustment screws located along the right side of the light\/laser unit near the muzzle. The top screw is used to adjust for windage or horizontal movement and the bottom one is for the elevation. To make those adjustments, you should insert the included hex-head tool in the appropriate alignment port and slowly rotate it while comparing the laser position on the target with that of the fixed sights. A quarter of a turn will result in a movement of about 3 inches at 10 yards. Make sure you do not turn either of the alignment screws more than one full turn from those settings made at the factory, or damage to the laser could occur. Turning the windage adjustment in a clockwise manner will shift the laser aiming point to the right, and turning the elevation adjustment in that same clockwise direction will result in lowering the laser beam.\n\nIf you should accidentally leave the unit on, the system will automatically power down after 10 minutes of inactivity in order to save on the life of the two 1\/3N batteries powering the unit. The batteries are easily replaceable by sliding the battery hatch open, and under normal use, those batteries will supply power to the unit for about three hours.\n
On The Range<\/h3>\nAny shooting system is only as good as its ability to perform under live fire, so I headed out back to my firing range to see how the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense would perform. I fired two types of ammunition from Federal<\/a>: 150-grain Personal Defense HSTs and 115-grain American Eagle Syntech rounds. Both types of cartridges shot exceptionally well and grouped essentially to the same point on paper. But, possibly best of all, my shooting accuracy dramatically improved with the laser over relying solely on the Shield\u2019s iron sights.\n
\n \t
Holster Needs<\/h3>\nThere frequently seems to be a gap between when new products like the LaserMax GripSense units are brought to market and when corresponding component manufacturers catch up. In this case, I\u2019m mostly talking about holsters that match the revised handgun dimensions resulting from the addition of the laser. If you install an aftermarket laser on one of your existing handguns like I did in this case, assuredly you will find that your holsters will no longer fit.\n\nIn this case, however, one manufacturer jumped out in the lead and is offering both IWB and OWB holsters to accommodate the GripSense unit. That maker is CrossBreed<\/a>, and I was able to snag the very first OWB holster to come off the assembly line for my 9mm Shield. This holster was backed by a very fine piece of heavy leather that made it comfortable to carry the CenterFire-equipped Shield. While the holster for the Shield was the first of those units to be made, CrossBreed assured me that a variety of IWB and OWB models will follow to fit the other LaserMax GripSense variants in the very near future.\n\nThis article was originally published in \u201cCombat Handguns\u201d November\/December 2017. To order a copy and subscribe, visit\u00a0outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Grab & Go Shooting: Testing the LaserMax GripSense System","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"lasermax-gripsense-test","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:42:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:42:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/11\/09\/lasermax-gripsense-test\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
Shooting Impressions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Laser Sights for Hunting: Pros & Cons<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAmong the benefits are more confident target acquisition (particularly in low light); the ability to focus the eyes entirely on the target area, which is beneficial for following the movement of your target animal as well as a great help to aging eyes. The ability to aim the firearm accurately in a \u201cheads-up\u201d manner, rather than with the traditional marksmanship holds we use to shoot with iron sights and scopes. The laser can also be used to point out game to other hunters, and the visual indication of the bullet\u2019s impact point is a constant reminder of the need for safe gun handling and muzzle control.\r\n\r\nThe downside is that the laser\u2019s maximum range is limited by both its power and (more likely) your eyesight. Laser light is diffused somewhat by humidity in the air (rain or fog). The point of impact is less precise the farther you get from your target, and it can be difficult to spot the laser dot in bright light. Laser sights require batteries and most are not waterproof. Lasers aren\u2019t yet universally legal for hunting in all states, either. Hunters need to check their own state\u2019s specific laws before using them.\r\n\r\nLasers have a definite place on hunting rifles, handguns, shotguns and bows for use on terrestrial animals large and small, as well as fish. Duck hunting, or any other wingshooting, is out though. There\u2019s no way to see the laser dot against the sky to track a bird in flight, and aiming your laser skyward is a threat to civil aviation. In addition, if you are good enough to put a laser on a flying bird, you don\u2019t need a laser sight.\r\n
Where They Shine<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights can be a significant advantage in the woods, in dimmer light and heavy cover, but lasers also have night hunting applications (for example, for raccoons, foxes and wild pigs) where conventional scopes and sights would be difficult to use. The laser excels on the hunt for terrestrial animals at ranges you would normally shoot with open sights, 100 yards or less.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s no magnification or optical enhancement of any kind with a laser sight, only your natural visual acuity and the laser dot. If you can\u2019t see the game with your eyes, a laser isn\u2019t going to help you at all. However, most older hunters don\u2019t have trouble seeing the game. They have trouble seeing the iron sights, and this is where a laser sight shines. Because it puts target and aiming point in the same distant focal plane, it compensates for the loss of close focus that typically affects human eyes as they age.\r\n\r\nPeople under 40, have you ever wondered who\u2019s buying all those reading glasses on display in every pharmacy and big box store? You get farsighted as you get older, and this can make it very hard, if not impossible, to see your rear sight clearly enough to get a good sight picture with open sights. (Aperture sights can still be more or less usable, since the rear sight is supposed to be out of focus anyway.)\r\n
Growing Dot<\/h3>\r\nIf you wanted to have a magnified view of your target, there\u2019s no reason you couldn\u2019t use a telescopic sight in conjunction with a side- or bottom-mounted laser sight. This would partially negate the situational awareness the laser allows, in return for some greater precision. I say some, because the front of the laser beam fans out more the farther away it goes. The beam is typically 0.5-inch diameter spot at 50 feet. I measured it at 50 yards and found it grew into a fat ellipse over 2 inches at its widest point. The green laser will project over 100 yards in sunlight, but that dot is going to get even bigger.\r\n\r\nThe growing dot phenomenon begs the question: Do the animals notice the laser? I suspect they do, but not in the spectacular way we see it. They get shafts of light penetrating the forest canopy and shining on their bodies, so a laser dot doesn\u2019t seem like it should be so unique. I would not make a point to shine it in their eyes. That might get their attention, annoy them and cause them leave before you can shoot.\r\n
Pistol Hunting<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights seem particularly good for pistol hunting, where the ranges are closer. Further, I find that not having to get down on the iron sights or scope in a traditional marksmanship pose allows me to shoot from more comfortable and stable heads-up positions. When you elevate your head over the iron sights, the laser dot appears to rise over them too, and this is one of the advantages of the laser in the field.\r\n\r\nUnlike traditional marksmanship, which concentrates on maintaining perfect sight alignment while taking aim at the target, shooting with a laser sight is all about watching the dot. I\u2019ve hunted squirrels from a seated position resting the barrel on a little Polecat shooting stick with my arms steadied on my knees. Initially, I had a little trouble spotting my laser dot because the trees were bare and a lot of sky was showing. The solution was to aim at the ground in front of me and \u201cwalk\u201d the laser right up to the target. It actually takes more time to describe than it does to do it.\r\n
Red Or Green?<\/h3>\r\nThe color of your laser is important. Red lasers are the least expensive, have the longest battery life and are excellent for close-range defensive shooting. In daylight on the range, I find them hard to spot at 25 yards. The newer green lasers are the best choice for hunters. They really pop out to the eye downrange, even in sunlight. That\u2019s because our eyes see green light wavelengths much better than red ones. The green lasers are more complex to make and retail for about 25 percent more than red. Going green will also use up your battery power about twice as fast, but this is really a non-issue while hunting because there\u2019s no reason to turn the laser sight on until you are preparing to aim your gun. Whether you have two hours or four hours of battery is not going to matter during the course of a season.\r\n\r\nMost laser sights are designed to attach to Picatinny or Weaver rails, which is great if you have a tactical rifle, shotgun or pistol. Most traditional (bolt-action) hunting rifles and shotguns will need a rail attached before they can mount a laser. If it\u2019s a newer gun, it\u2019s possible the scope mounts are already attached to small sections of rail screwed onto the receiver. That makes mounting the laser a snap. Take off the scope and rings, mount the laser to the same base, tighten it up and sight in.\r\n
Crimson Trace<\/h3>\r\nBy far the largest laser sight manufacturer, and the market leader, is Oregon-based Crimson Trace Corporation (crimsontrace.com). They have the broadest range of green laser options for hunters. Their compact, lightweight plastic housing Rail Master green laser (CMR-206) was designed to fit in front of a pistol\u2019s triggerguard on a rail. It is turned on by tapping a small paddle on either side of the case. MSRP on this sight is $199, but I\u2019ve seen it at major retailers for as low as $159.99. This is an excellent sight at an entry-level price.\r\n\r\nMounting it on top of your gun requires it to be upside down. This doesn\u2019t affect its function, but it might make it more susceptible to rain since the battery cover will be facing up. As a precaution, just cover it with a piece of clear packing tape to keep it dry. Just don\u2019t obstruct the beam. They also make a J-frame green laser grip (LG-350G, MSRP $399) ideal for the .22 Kit Gun (the laser mounted in the right-side grip panel), but none yet for the popular larger-frame hunting revolvers.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201977\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n
Light & Laser<\/h3>\r\nIf you want to get a little more sophisticated, Crimson Trace makes the Rail Master Pro (CMR-204) which is boxy, slightly larger and heavier (its case is made of aluminum) because it includes a 100-lumen white LED light, which can be operated alone or in conjunction with the laser. The light and laser combo would be great for raccoon hunting at night with a pistol or rifle, but some might find this unit a little too big for mounting on the top rail of a traditional sporting long gun or pistol. It would be perfectly at home attached to the tactical rail near the muzzle of a modern sporting rifle. The CMR-204 has an MSRP of $379, but I have seen it advertised for $350.\r\n
Going Green<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace has three great rail-mounted combination green laser and light products specifically for railed-up modern sporting rifle platforms that are out-of-the-box perfect for hunters who prefer these rifles. The new CMR-300 is like the CMR-204, with a brighter 300-lumen light and an on-off button on the back. MSRP is $249. This would be commonly mounted on the bottom rail near the muzzle, which means you\u2019ll have to reach forward to activate it.\r\n\r\nTo address this minor inconvenience, Crimson Trace created a new wireless radio signal-operated unit called the LiNQ system. The LNQ-100G requires substitution of your normal pistol grip with the LiNQ grip, which houses all the light and laser controls so there\u2019s no need to move your hands from firing position. Otherwise it uses the same green laser and 300-lumen white LED light as the CMR-300. MSRP is $429, but I have found it as low as $384 on sale. There\u2019s also a LiNQ system for the AK platform.\r\n\r\nThe final laser\/light combo from Crimson Trace looks more at home on a tactical rifle than a hunting gun, but consider that your AR carbines, especially in 300 Blackout, are popular for tough wild hogs. The Crimson Trace MVT-515G is an extremely rugged aluminum and polymer vertical foregrip that houses the laser and a 200-lumen white light. Also, the controls are ambidextrous, and the light operates in momentary and constant-on mode, with or without the laser. MSRP is $649, but I have seen it as low as $575. By the way, all these lasers\/lights have a strobe setting if you needed to use them in conjunction with the laser in a defensive situation.\r\n
Other Green Lasers<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace is the biggest game in town, but they aren\u2019t the only one. Four other rail-mounted green laser sights worth a look are made by Viridian (viridianweapontech.com) and LaserMax (lasermax.com). Viridian\u2019s rugged C5 Universal Subcompact Green Laser has an MSRP of $279. Additionally, the C5L adds a white light in the same size unit (MSRP $349). Viridian has a seven-year warranty too, the longest in the industry. LaserMax\u2019s Green Uni-Max Laser (MSRP $309) has the lowest profile, operated by direct-wired remote trigger, and has a rail of its own so you can stack something else on top of it. Finally, LaserMax\u2019s Green Micro II is the shortest rail-mounted laser, with an MSRP of $169.\r\n\r\nTrigger control and a steady hand are still critical to successfully hitting the target, but the visual challenges of iron sights and low light, and even some physical limitations, can be partly overcome with the use of laser sights. Also, for younger hunters with first-person-shooter video game experience, lasers will seem perfectly natural, and new or occasional hunters will find a laser increases their confidence and success within the laser\u2019s effective range. Above all, hogs, little varmints and some deer, beware.\r\n\r\nThis article is from the 2019 Modern Guns issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a><\/em><\/strong>. For digital editions, visit\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"How Laser Sights for Hunting Can Improve Your Odds in the Field","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-10-16 12:27:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-10-16 16:27:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/02\/13\/laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":94810,"post_author":"351","post_date":"2019-01-28 06:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2019-01-28 11:19:45","post_content":"Lasers<\/a> have come a long way since the days they were an interesting curiosity. In fact, shooters now know that lasers are an excellent tool that make acquiring targets much faster and easier. And the LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser has even made activation even easier with\u00a0GripSense\u00a0technology.\n\n[in_content post=\"96942\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\nGripSense represents the newest generation of laser activation technology by simplifying the activation process. The user simply grips the firearm, setting off a motion sensor in the detection zone. This activates the laser immediately and does not require the user to change their firing grip. The biggest complaint of most lasers is having to remember to activate them. As such, this technology eliminates this extra step, providing instant activation. However, the Lightning also allows users to activate this laser via a push button, providing a dual method for use.\n\nThe Lightning fits any rail with at least 1 inch of room. And while the company designed it for pistols, this means it also fits most rifles with rails. Additionally, users can program the Lightning for either a steady or high-vis pulsed beam. The Lightning runs up to 20 hours continuously, but features a ten-minute time out to save battery. It is also water resistant and the battery hatch allows tool-less entry.\n\nLaserMax produces the Lightning in with both red and green lasers, which allows users to choose between what the company calls\u00a0Vivid Red or Daytime Green. Green, of course, cost a bit more, but the human eye see green much better than red, especially during daylight hours. It also comes with a five year warranty.\n
LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser<\/h3>\n
\n \t
How It Works<\/h3>\nUnlike most other lasers on the market today, which require the shooter to manually turn the laser on and off through some form of a switch, the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense is considerably more innovative and advanced in its design. As the shooter picks up the weapon to fire, the laser and\/or built-in light instantly activates. There is no need to turn on a switch, and as the gun is returned to the holster or set back down, the system shuts down automatically.\n
\n \t
LaserMax GripSense Design<\/h3>\nThe LaserMax CenterFire Grip\u00adSense comes with multiple operating modes to select from, including a solid red laser beam, a blinking red laser, a powerful mint green LED with an output of up to 100 lumens, or you can have a combination of laser and light together (either blinking laser or solid beam). The button that controls the system is positioned ambidextrously on both sides of the unit.\n\nNot having a great deal of personal experience with lasers, I asked the LaserMax factory rep why a shooter might prefer a blinking red laser dot as opposed to a steady solid beam. Likely having been asked that same question many times before, she quickly readied her response. Asking me to close my eyes she picked up two LaserMax GripSense-equipped handguns, one she set to display a pulsing laser beam and the other one she set to a steady beam. She then asked me to open my eyes and tell her which laser dot my eyes naturally honed in on. I promptly replied that it was the blinking or pulsating dot. It is natural that a person automatically looks to a moving object over a stationary one, or in this case a pulsating image over that of a solid and constant beam. For that reason, some shooters believe the pulse setting could be a better choice when facing a defensive situation.\n\nEventually, I received one of the first GripSense units available for testing and installed it on my 9mm Shield. Each CenterFire GripSense unit is built for a specific handgun model, and as such, there are currently a number of variants available. As of this writing, you can get a GripSense-equipped CenterFire unit for 9mm and .45 ACP Shields, the Glock<\/a> 42 and 43, and the Ruger<\/a> LC9s, LC9 and LC380. In all likelihood, more versions will be developed in the future.\n
Easy Installation<\/h3>\nInstalling one of these LaserMax GripSense light\/laser systems is easy and straightforward. After making sure the handgun is completely unloaded, you must begin by first removing the two screws that hold the CenterFire housing together. Doing so allows you to separate the two halves of the unit. A 5\/64-inch hex-head wrench is included for this purpose as well as a wrench for adjusting the laser beam.\n\nAfter separating the two halves, you snap the right side of the housing in place by applying a light but firm amount of upward pressure. It may be necessary to tip the laser slightly in order for it to snap into place. The left half of the housing can now be installed by first inserting the rear portion into the right half of the housing at a 45-degree angle.\n\nOnce properly aligned, the two halves can be snapped together and you can replace the two housing screwed. The screws should be tightened down, but not over-tightened.\n
Modes & Adjustments<\/h3>\nIf you want to temporarily turn the unit\u2019s power off, you can do so by simply pressing and releasing the activation button that is located ahead of your firearm\u2019s trigger on both sides of the light\/laser unit. In order to change the laser\/light operation modes, you should first turn the unit on, then press and release both sides of the switch at the same time in order to cycle through the available modes.\n\nAfter you have sighted-in your iron sights to properly impact the target, the laser should now be adjusted to match that same point of impact. To do that, there are two adjustment screws located along the right side of the light\/laser unit near the muzzle. The top screw is used to adjust for windage or horizontal movement and the bottom one is for the elevation. To make those adjustments, you should insert the included hex-head tool in the appropriate alignment port and slowly rotate it while comparing the laser position on the target with that of the fixed sights. A quarter of a turn will result in a movement of about 3 inches at 10 yards. Make sure you do not turn either of the alignment screws more than one full turn from those settings made at the factory, or damage to the laser could occur. Turning the windage adjustment in a clockwise manner will shift the laser aiming point to the right, and turning the elevation adjustment in that same clockwise direction will result in lowering the laser beam.\n\nIf you should accidentally leave the unit on, the system will automatically power down after 10 minutes of inactivity in order to save on the life of the two 1\/3N batteries powering the unit. The batteries are easily replaceable by sliding the battery hatch open, and under normal use, those batteries will supply power to the unit for about three hours.\n
On The Range<\/h3>\nAny shooting system is only as good as its ability to perform under live fire, so I headed out back to my firing range to see how the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense would perform. I fired two types of ammunition from Federal<\/a>: 150-grain Personal Defense HSTs and 115-grain American Eagle Syntech rounds. Both types of cartridges shot exceptionally well and grouped essentially to the same point on paper. But, possibly best of all, my shooting accuracy dramatically improved with the laser over relying solely on the Shield\u2019s iron sights.\n
\n \t
Holster Needs<\/h3>\nThere frequently seems to be a gap between when new products like the LaserMax GripSense units are brought to market and when corresponding component manufacturers catch up. In this case, I\u2019m mostly talking about holsters that match the revised handgun dimensions resulting from the addition of the laser. If you install an aftermarket laser on one of your existing handguns like I did in this case, assuredly you will find that your holsters will no longer fit.\n\nIn this case, however, one manufacturer jumped out in the lead and is offering both IWB and OWB holsters to accommodate the GripSense unit. That maker is CrossBreed<\/a>, and I was able to snag the very first OWB holster to come off the assembly line for my 9mm Shield. This holster was backed by a very fine piece of heavy leather that made it comfortable to carry the CenterFire-equipped Shield. While the holster for the Shield was the first of those units to be made, CrossBreed assured me that a variety of IWB and OWB models will follow to fit the other LaserMax GripSense variants in the very near future.\n\nThis article was originally published in \u201cCombat Handguns\u201d November\/December 2017. To order a copy and subscribe, visit\u00a0outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Grab & Go Shooting: Testing the LaserMax GripSense System","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"lasermax-gripsense-test","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:42:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:42:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/11\/09\/lasermax-gripsense-test\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
Design<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Shooting Impressions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Laser Sights for Hunting: Pros & Cons<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAmong the benefits are more confident target acquisition (particularly in low light); the ability to focus the eyes entirely on the target area, which is beneficial for following the movement of your target animal as well as a great help to aging eyes. The ability to aim the firearm accurately in a \u201cheads-up\u201d manner, rather than with the traditional marksmanship holds we use to shoot with iron sights and scopes. The laser can also be used to point out game to other hunters, and the visual indication of the bullet\u2019s impact point is a constant reminder of the need for safe gun handling and muzzle control.\r\n\r\nThe downside is that the laser\u2019s maximum range is limited by both its power and (more likely) your eyesight. Laser light is diffused somewhat by humidity in the air (rain or fog). The point of impact is less precise the farther you get from your target, and it can be difficult to spot the laser dot in bright light. Laser sights require batteries and most are not waterproof. Lasers aren\u2019t yet universally legal for hunting in all states, either. Hunters need to check their own state\u2019s specific laws before using them.\r\n\r\nLasers have a definite place on hunting rifles, handguns, shotguns and bows for use on terrestrial animals large and small, as well as fish. Duck hunting, or any other wingshooting, is out though. There\u2019s no way to see the laser dot against the sky to track a bird in flight, and aiming your laser skyward is a threat to civil aviation. In addition, if you are good enough to put a laser on a flying bird, you don\u2019t need a laser sight.\r\n
Where They Shine<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights can be a significant advantage in the woods, in dimmer light and heavy cover, but lasers also have night hunting applications (for example, for raccoons, foxes and wild pigs) where conventional scopes and sights would be difficult to use. The laser excels on the hunt for terrestrial animals at ranges you would normally shoot with open sights, 100 yards or less.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s no magnification or optical enhancement of any kind with a laser sight, only your natural visual acuity and the laser dot. If you can\u2019t see the game with your eyes, a laser isn\u2019t going to help you at all. However, most older hunters don\u2019t have trouble seeing the game. They have trouble seeing the iron sights, and this is where a laser sight shines. Because it puts target and aiming point in the same distant focal plane, it compensates for the loss of close focus that typically affects human eyes as they age.\r\n\r\nPeople under 40, have you ever wondered who\u2019s buying all those reading glasses on display in every pharmacy and big box store? You get farsighted as you get older, and this can make it very hard, if not impossible, to see your rear sight clearly enough to get a good sight picture with open sights. (Aperture sights can still be more or less usable, since the rear sight is supposed to be out of focus anyway.)\r\n
Growing Dot<\/h3>\r\nIf you wanted to have a magnified view of your target, there\u2019s no reason you couldn\u2019t use a telescopic sight in conjunction with a side- or bottom-mounted laser sight. This would partially negate the situational awareness the laser allows, in return for some greater precision. I say some, because the front of the laser beam fans out more the farther away it goes. The beam is typically 0.5-inch diameter spot at 50 feet. I measured it at 50 yards and found it grew into a fat ellipse over 2 inches at its widest point. The green laser will project over 100 yards in sunlight, but that dot is going to get even bigger.\r\n\r\nThe growing dot phenomenon begs the question: Do the animals notice the laser? I suspect they do, but not in the spectacular way we see it. They get shafts of light penetrating the forest canopy and shining on their bodies, so a laser dot doesn\u2019t seem like it should be so unique. I would not make a point to shine it in their eyes. That might get their attention, annoy them and cause them leave before you can shoot.\r\n
Pistol Hunting<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights seem particularly good for pistol hunting, where the ranges are closer. Further, I find that not having to get down on the iron sights or scope in a traditional marksmanship pose allows me to shoot from more comfortable and stable heads-up positions. When you elevate your head over the iron sights, the laser dot appears to rise over them too, and this is one of the advantages of the laser in the field.\r\n\r\nUnlike traditional marksmanship, which concentrates on maintaining perfect sight alignment while taking aim at the target, shooting with a laser sight is all about watching the dot. I\u2019ve hunted squirrels from a seated position resting the barrel on a little Polecat shooting stick with my arms steadied on my knees. Initially, I had a little trouble spotting my laser dot because the trees were bare and a lot of sky was showing. The solution was to aim at the ground in front of me and \u201cwalk\u201d the laser right up to the target. It actually takes more time to describe than it does to do it.\r\n
Red Or Green?<\/h3>\r\nThe color of your laser is important. Red lasers are the least expensive, have the longest battery life and are excellent for close-range defensive shooting. In daylight on the range, I find them hard to spot at 25 yards. The newer green lasers are the best choice for hunters. They really pop out to the eye downrange, even in sunlight. That\u2019s because our eyes see green light wavelengths much better than red ones. The green lasers are more complex to make and retail for about 25 percent more than red. Going green will also use up your battery power about twice as fast, but this is really a non-issue while hunting because there\u2019s no reason to turn the laser sight on until you are preparing to aim your gun. Whether you have two hours or four hours of battery is not going to matter during the course of a season.\r\n\r\nMost laser sights are designed to attach to Picatinny or Weaver rails, which is great if you have a tactical rifle, shotgun or pistol. Most traditional (bolt-action) hunting rifles and shotguns will need a rail attached before they can mount a laser. If it\u2019s a newer gun, it\u2019s possible the scope mounts are already attached to small sections of rail screwed onto the receiver. That makes mounting the laser a snap. Take off the scope and rings, mount the laser to the same base, tighten it up and sight in.\r\n
Crimson Trace<\/h3>\r\nBy far the largest laser sight manufacturer, and the market leader, is Oregon-based Crimson Trace Corporation (crimsontrace.com). They have the broadest range of green laser options for hunters. Their compact, lightweight plastic housing Rail Master green laser (CMR-206) was designed to fit in front of a pistol\u2019s triggerguard on a rail. It is turned on by tapping a small paddle on either side of the case. MSRP on this sight is $199, but I\u2019ve seen it at major retailers for as low as $159.99. This is an excellent sight at an entry-level price.\r\n\r\nMounting it on top of your gun requires it to be upside down. This doesn\u2019t affect its function, but it might make it more susceptible to rain since the battery cover will be facing up. As a precaution, just cover it with a piece of clear packing tape to keep it dry. Just don\u2019t obstruct the beam. They also make a J-frame green laser grip (LG-350G, MSRP $399) ideal for the .22 Kit Gun (the laser mounted in the right-side grip panel), but none yet for the popular larger-frame hunting revolvers.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201977\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n
Light & Laser<\/h3>\r\nIf you want to get a little more sophisticated, Crimson Trace makes the Rail Master Pro (CMR-204) which is boxy, slightly larger and heavier (its case is made of aluminum) because it includes a 100-lumen white LED light, which can be operated alone or in conjunction with the laser. The light and laser combo would be great for raccoon hunting at night with a pistol or rifle, but some might find this unit a little too big for mounting on the top rail of a traditional sporting long gun or pistol. It would be perfectly at home attached to the tactical rail near the muzzle of a modern sporting rifle. The CMR-204 has an MSRP of $379, but I have seen it advertised for $350.\r\n
Going Green<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace has three great rail-mounted combination green laser and light products specifically for railed-up modern sporting rifle platforms that are out-of-the-box perfect for hunters who prefer these rifles. The new CMR-300 is like the CMR-204, with a brighter 300-lumen light and an on-off button on the back. MSRP is $249. This would be commonly mounted on the bottom rail near the muzzle, which means you\u2019ll have to reach forward to activate it.\r\n\r\nTo address this minor inconvenience, Crimson Trace created a new wireless radio signal-operated unit called the LiNQ system. The LNQ-100G requires substitution of your normal pistol grip with the LiNQ grip, which houses all the light and laser controls so there\u2019s no need to move your hands from firing position. Otherwise it uses the same green laser and 300-lumen white LED light as the CMR-300. MSRP is $429, but I have found it as low as $384 on sale. There\u2019s also a LiNQ system for the AK platform.\r\n\r\nThe final laser\/light combo from Crimson Trace looks more at home on a tactical rifle than a hunting gun, but consider that your AR carbines, especially in 300 Blackout, are popular for tough wild hogs. The Crimson Trace MVT-515G is an extremely rugged aluminum and polymer vertical foregrip that houses the laser and a 200-lumen white light. Also, the controls are ambidextrous, and the light operates in momentary and constant-on mode, with or without the laser. MSRP is $649, but I have seen it as low as $575. By the way, all these lasers\/lights have a strobe setting if you needed to use them in conjunction with the laser in a defensive situation.\r\n
Other Green Lasers<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace is the biggest game in town, but they aren\u2019t the only one. Four other rail-mounted green laser sights worth a look are made by Viridian (viridianweapontech.com) and LaserMax (lasermax.com). Viridian\u2019s rugged C5 Universal Subcompact Green Laser has an MSRP of $279. Additionally, the C5L adds a white light in the same size unit (MSRP $349). Viridian has a seven-year warranty too, the longest in the industry. LaserMax\u2019s Green Uni-Max Laser (MSRP $309) has the lowest profile, operated by direct-wired remote trigger, and has a rail of its own so you can stack something else on top of it. Finally, LaserMax\u2019s Green Micro II is the shortest rail-mounted laser, with an MSRP of $169.\r\n\r\nTrigger control and a steady hand are still critical to successfully hitting the target, but the visual challenges of iron sights and low light, and even some physical limitations, can be partly overcome with the use of laser sights. Also, for younger hunters with first-person-shooter video game experience, lasers will seem perfectly natural, and new or occasional hunters will find a laser increases their confidence and success within the laser\u2019s effective range. Above all, hogs, little varmints and some deer, beware.\r\n\r\nThis article is from the 2019 Modern Guns issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a><\/em><\/strong>. For digital editions, visit\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"How Laser Sights for Hunting Can Improve Your Odds in the Field","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-10-16 12:27:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-10-16 16:27:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/02\/13\/laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":94810,"post_author":"351","post_date":"2019-01-28 06:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2019-01-28 11:19:45","post_content":"Lasers<\/a> have come a long way since the days they were an interesting curiosity. In fact, shooters now know that lasers are an excellent tool that make acquiring targets much faster and easier. And the LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser has even made activation even easier with\u00a0GripSense\u00a0technology.\n\n[in_content post=\"96942\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\nGripSense represents the newest generation of laser activation technology by simplifying the activation process. The user simply grips the firearm, setting off a motion sensor in the detection zone. This activates the laser immediately and does not require the user to change their firing grip. The biggest complaint of most lasers is having to remember to activate them. As such, this technology eliminates this extra step, providing instant activation. However, the Lightning also allows users to activate this laser via a push button, providing a dual method for use.\n\nThe Lightning fits any rail with at least 1 inch of room. And while the company designed it for pistols, this means it also fits most rifles with rails. Additionally, users can program the Lightning for either a steady or high-vis pulsed beam. The Lightning runs up to 20 hours continuously, but features a ten-minute time out to save battery. It is also water resistant and the battery hatch allows tool-less entry.\n\nLaserMax produces the Lightning in with both red and green lasers, which allows users to choose between what the company calls\u00a0Vivid Red or Daytime Green. Green, of course, cost a bit more, but the human eye see green much better than red, especially during daylight hours. It also comes with a five year warranty.\n
LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser<\/h3>\n
\n \t
How It Works<\/h3>\nUnlike most other lasers on the market today, which require the shooter to manually turn the laser on and off through some form of a switch, the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense is considerably more innovative and advanced in its design. As the shooter picks up the weapon to fire, the laser and\/or built-in light instantly activates. There is no need to turn on a switch, and as the gun is returned to the holster or set back down, the system shuts down automatically.\n
\n \t
LaserMax GripSense Design<\/h3>\nThe LaserMax CenterFire Grip\u00adSense comes with multiple operating modes to select from, including a solid red laser beam, a blinking red laser, a powerful mint green LED with an output of up to 100 lumens, or you can have a combination of laser and light together (either blinking laser or solid beam). The button that controls the system is positioned ambidextrously on both sides of the unit.\n\nNot having a great deal of personal experience with lasers, I asked the LaserMax factory rep why a shooter might prefer a blinking red laser dot as opposed to a steady solid beam. Likely having been asked that same question many times before, she quickly readied her response. Asking me to close my eyes she picked up two LaserMax GripSense-equipped handguns, one she set to display a pulsing laser beam and the other one she set to a steady beam. She then asked me to open my eyes and tell her which laser dot my eyes naturally honed in on. I promptly replied that it was the blinking or pulsating dot. It is natural that a person automatically looks to a moving object over a stationary one, or in this case a pulsating image over that of a solid and constant beam. For that reason, some shooters believe the pulse setting could be a better choice when facing a defensive situation.\n\nEventually, I received one of the first GripSense units available for testing and installed it on my 9mm Shield. Each CenterFire GripSense unit is built for a specific handgun model, and as such, there are currently a number of variants available. As of this writing, you can get a GripSense-equipped CenterFire unit for 9mm and .45 ACP Shields, the Glock<\/a> 42 and 43, and the Ruger<\/a> LC9s, LC9 and LC380. In all likelihood, more versions will be developed in the future.\n
Easy Installation<\/h3>\nInstalling one of these LaserMax GripSense light\/laser systems is easy and straightforward. After making sure the handgun is completely unloaded, you must begin by first removing the two screws that hold the CenterFire housing together. Doing so allows you to separate the two halves of the unit. A 5\/64-inch hex-head wrench is included for this purpose as well as a wrench for adjusting the laser beam.\n\nAfter separating the two halves, you snap the right side of the housing in place by applying a light but firm amount of upward pressure. It may be necessary to tip the laser slightly in order for it to snap into place. The left half of the housing can now be installed by first inserting the rear portion into the right half of the housing at a 45-degree angle.\n\nOnce properly aligned, the two halves can be snapped together and you can replace the two housing screwed. The screws should be tightened down, but not over-tightened.\n
Modes & Adjustments<\/h3>\nIf you want to temporarily turn the unit\u2019s power off, you can do so by simply pressing and releasing the activation button that is located ahead of your firearm\u2019s trigger on both sides of the light\/laser unit. In order to change the laser\/light operation modes, you should first turn the unit on, then press and release both sides of the switch at the same time in order to cycle through the available modes.\n\nAfter you have sighted-in your iron sights to properly impact the target, the laser should now be adjusted to match that same point of impact. To do that, there are two adjustment screws located along the right side of the light\/laser unit near the muzzle. The top screw is used to adjust for windage or horizontal movement and the bottom one is for the elevation. To make those adjustments, you should insert the included hex-head tool in the appropriate alignment port and slowly rotate it while comparing the laser position on the target with that of the fixed sights. A quarter of a turn will result in a movement of about 3 inches at 10 yards. Make sure you do not turn either of the alignment screws more than one full turn from those settings made at the factory, or damage to the laser could occur. Turning the windage adjustment in a clockwise manner will shift the laser aiming point to the right, and turning the elevation adjustment in that same clockwise direction will result in lowering the laser beam.\n\nIf you should accidentally leave the unit on, the system will automatically power down after 10 minutes of inactivity in order to save on the life of the two 1\/3N batteries powering the unit. The batteries are easily replaceable by sliding the battery hatch open, and under normal use, those batteries will supply power to the unit for about three hours.\n
On The Range<\/h3>\nAny shooting system is only as good as its ability to perform under live fire, so I headed out back to my firing range to see how the LaserMax CenterFire GripSense would perform. I fired two types of ammunition from Federal<\/a>: 150-grain Personal Defense HSTs and 115-grain American Eagle Syntech rounds. Both types of cartridges shot exceptionally well and grouped essentially to the same point on paper. But, possibly best of all, my shooting accuracy dramatically improved with the laser over relying solely on the Shield\u2019s iron sights.\n
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Holster Needs<\/h3>\nThere frequently seems to be a gap between when new products like the LaserMax GripSense units are brought to market and when corresponding component manufacturers catch up. In this case, I\u2019m mostly talking about holsters that match the revised handgun dimensions resulting from the addition of the laser. If you install an aftermarket laser on one of your existing handguns like I did in this case, assuredly you will find that your holsters will no longer fit.\n\nIn this case, however, one manufacturer jumped out in the lead and is offering both IWB and OWB holsters to accommodate the GripSense unit. That maker is CrossBreed<\/a>, and I was able to snag the very first OWB holster to come off the assembly line for my 9mm Shield. This holster was backed by a very fine piece of heavy leather that made it comfortable to carry the CenterFire-equipped Shield. While the holster for the Shield was the first of those units to be made, CrossBreed assured me that a variety of IWB and OWB models will follow to fit the other LaserMax GripSense variants in the very near future.\n\nThis article was originally published in \u201cCombat Handguns\u201d November\/December 2017. To order a copy and subscribe, visit\u00a0outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"Grab & Go Shooting: Testing the LaserMax GripSense System","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"lasermax-gripsense-test","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-31 22:42:56","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-01 02:42:56","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/11\/09\/lasermax-gripsense-test\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
Design<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Shooting Impressions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Laser Sights for Hunting: Pros & Cons<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAmong the benefits are more confident target acquisition (particularly in low light); the ability to focus the eyes entirely on the target area, which is beneficial for following the movement of your target animal as well as a great help to aging eyes. The ability to aim the firearm accurately in a \u201cheads-up\u201d manner, rather than with the traditional marksmanship holds we use to shoot with iron sights and scopes. The laser can also be used to point out game to other hunters, and the visual indication of the bullet\u2019s impact point is a constant reminder of the need for safe gun handling and muzzle control.\r\n\r\nThe downside is that the laser\u2019s maximum range is limited by both its power and (more likely) your eyesight. Laser light is diffused somewhat by humidity in the air (rain or fog). The point of impact is less precise the farther you get from your target, and it can be difficult to spot the laser dot in bright light. Laser sights require batteries and most are not waterproof. Lasers aren\u2019t yet universally legal for hunting in all states, either. Hunters need to check their own state\u2019s specific laws before using them.\r\n\r\nLasers have a definite place on hunting rifles, handguns, shotguns and bows for use on terrestrial animals large and small, as well as fish. Duck hunting, or any other wingshooting, is out though. There\u2019s no way to see the laser dot against the sky to track a bird in flight, and aiming your laser skyward is a threat to civil aviation. In addition, if you are good enough to put a laser on a flying bird, you don\u2019t need a laser sight.\r\n
Where They Shine<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights can be a significant advantage in the woods, in dimmer light and heavy cover, but lasers also have night hunting applications (for example, for raccoons, foxes and wild pigs) where conventional scopes and sights would be difficult to use. The laser excels on the hunt for terrestrial animals at ranges you would normally shoot with open sights, 100 yards or less.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s no magnification or optical enhancement of any kind with a laser sight, only your natural visual acuity and the laser dot. If you can\u2019t see the game with your eyes, a laser isn\u2019t going to help you at all. However, most older hunters don\u2019t have trouble seeing the game. They have trouble seeing the iron sights, and this is where a laser sight shines. Because it puts target and aiming point in the same distant focal plane, it compensates for the loss of close focus that typically affects human eyes as they age.\r\n\r\nPeople under 40, have you ever wondered who\u2019s buying all those reading glasses on display in every pharmacy and big box store? You get farsighted as you get older, and this can make it very hard, if not impossible, to see your rear sight clearly enough to get a good sight picture with open sights. (Aperture sights can still be more or less usable, since the rear sight is supposed to be out of focus anyway.)\r\n
Growing Dot<\/h3>\r\nIf you wanted to have a magnified view of your target, there\u2019s no reason you couldn\u2019t use a telescopic sight in conjunction with a side- or bottom-mounted laser sight. This would partially negate the situational awareness the laser allows, in return for some greater precision. I say some, because the front of the laser beam fans out more the farther away it goes. The beam is typically 0.5-inch diameter spot at 50 feet. I measured it at 50 yards and found it grew into a fat ellipse over 2 inches at its widest point. The green laser will project over 100 yards in sunlight, but that dot is going to get even bigger.\r\n\r\nThe growing dot phenomenon begs the question: Do the animals notice the laser? I suspect they do, but not in the spectacular way we see it. They get shafts of light penetrating the forest canopy and shining on their bodies, so a laser dot doesn\u2019t seem like it should be so unique. I would not make a point to shine it in their eyes. That might get their attention, annoy them and cause them leave before you can shoot.\r\n
Pistol Hunting<\/h3>\r\nLaser sights seem particularly good for pistol hunting, where the ranges are closer. Further, I find that not having to get down on the iron sights or scope in a traditional marksmanship pose allows me to shoot from more comfortable and stable heads-up positions. When you elevate your head over the iron sights, the laser dot appears to rise over them too, and this is one of the advantages of the laser in the field.\r\n\r\nUnlike traditional marksmanship, which concentrates on maintaining perfect sight alignment while taking aim at the target, shooting with a laser sight is all about watching the dot. I\u2019ve hunted squirrels from a seated position resting the barrel on a little Polecat shooting stick with my arms steadied on my knees. Initially, I had a little trouble spotting my laser dot because the trees were bare and a lot of sky was showing. The solution was to aim at the ground in front of me and \u201cwalk\u201d the laser right up to the target. It actually takes more time to describe than it does to do it.\r\n
Red Or Green?<\/h3>\r\nThe color of your laser is important. Red lasers are the least expensive, have the longest battery life and are excellent for close-range defensive shooting. In daylight on the range, I find them hard to spot at 25 yards. The newer green lasers are the best choice for hunters. They really pop out to the eye downrange, even in sunlight. That\u2019s because our eyes see green light wavelengths much better than red ones. The green lasers are more complex to make and retail for about 25 percent more than red. Going green will also use up your battery power about twice as fast, but this is really a non-issue while hunting because there\u2019s no reason to turn the laser sight on until you are preparing to aim your gun. Whether you have two hours or four hours of battery is not going to matter during the course of a season.\r\n\r\nMost laser sights are designed to attach to Picatinny or Weaver rails, which is great if you have a tactical rifle, shotgun or pistol. Most traditional (bolt-action) hunting rifles and shotguns will need a rail attached before they can mount a laser. If it\u2019s a newer gun, it\u2019s possible the scope mounts are already attached to small sections of rail screwed onto the receiver. That makes mounting the laser a snap. Take off the scope and rings, mount the laser to the same base, tighten it up and sight in.\r\n
Crimson Trace<\/h3>\r\nBy far the largest laser sight manufacturer, and the market leader, is Oregon-based Crimson Trace Corporation (crimsontrace.com). They have the broadest range of green laser options for hunters. Their compact, lightweight plastic housing Rail Master green laser (CMR-206) was designed to fit in front of a pistol\u2019s triggerguard on a rail. It is turned on by tapping a small paddle on either side of the case. MSRP on this sight is $199, but I\u2019ve seen it at major retailers for as low as $159.99. This is an excellent sight at an entry-level price.\r\n\r\nMounting it on top of your gun requires it to be upside down. This doesn\u2019t affect its function, but it might make it more susceptible to rain since the battery cover will be facing up. As a precaution, just cover it with a piece of clear packing tape to keep it dry. Just don\u2019t obstruct the beam. They also make a J-frame green laser grip (LG-350G, MSRP $399) ideal for the .22 Kit Gun (the laser mounted in the right-side grip panel), but none yet for the popular larger-frame hunting revolvers.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"201977\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n
Light & Laser<\/h3>\r\nIf you want to get a little more sophisticated, Crimson Trace makes the Rail Master Pro (CMR-204) which is boxy, slightly larger and heavier (its case is made of aluminum) because it includes a 100-lumen white LED light, which can be operated alone or in conjunction with the laser. The light and laser combo would be great for raccoon hunting at night with a pistol or rifle, but some might find this unit a little too big for mounting on the top rail of a traditional sporting long gun or pistol. It would be perfectly at home attached to the tactical rail near the muzzle of a modern sporting rifle. The CMR-204 has an MSRP of $379, but I have seen it advertised for $350.\r\n
Going Green<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace has three great rail-mounted combination green laser and light products specifically for railed-up modern sporting rifle platforms that are out-of-the-box perfect for hunters who prefer these rifles. The new CMR-300 is like the CMR-204, with a brighter 300-lumen light and an on-off button on the back. MSRP is $249. This would be commonly mounted on the bottom rail near the muzzle, which means you\u2019ll have to reach forward to activate it.\r\n\r\nTo address this minor inconvenience, Crimson Trace created a new wireless radio signal-operated unit called the LiNQ system. The LNQ-100G requires substitution of your normal pistol grip with the LiNQ grip, which houses all the light and laser controls so there\u2019s no need to move your hands from firing position. Otherwise it uses the same green laser and 300-lumen white LED light as the CMR-300. MSRP is $429, but I have found it as low as $384 on sale. There\u2019s also a LiNQ system for the AK platform.\r\n\r\nThe final laser\/light combo from Crimson Trace looks more at home on a tactical rifle than a hunting gun, but consider that your AR carbines, especially in 300 Blackout, are popular for tough wild hogs. The Crimson Trace MVT-515G is an extremely rugged aluminum and polymer vertical foregrip that houses the laser and a 200-lumen white light. Also, the controls are ambidextrous, and the light operates in momentary and constant-on mode, with or without the laser. MSRP is $649, but I have seen it as low as $575. By the way, all these lasers\/lights have a strobe setting if you needed to use them in conjunction with the laser in a defensive situation.\r\n
Other Green Lasers<\/h3>\r\nCrimson Trace is the biggest game in town, but they aren\u2019t the only one. Four other rail-mounted green laser sights worth a look are made by Viridian (viridianweapontech.com) and LaserMax (lasermax.com). Viridian\u2019s rugged C5 Universal Subcompact Green Laser has an MSRP of $279. Additionally, the C5L adds a white light in the same size unit (MSRP $349). Viridian has a seven-year warranty too, the longest in the industry. LaserMax\u2019s Green Uni-Max Laser (MSRP $309) has the lowest profile, operated by direct-wired remote trigger, and has a rail of its own so you can stack something else on top of it. Finally, LaserMax\u2019s Green Micro II is the shortest rail-mounted laser, with an MSRP of $169.\r\n\r\nTrigger control and a steady hand are still critical to successfully hitting the target, but the visual challenges of iron sights and low light, and even some physical limitations, can be partly overcome with the use of laser sights. Also, for younger hunters with first-person-shooter video game experience, lasers will seem perfectly natural, and new or occasional hunters will find a laser increases their confidence and success within the laser\u2019s effective range. Above all, hogs, little varmints and some deer, beware.\r\n\r\nThis article is from the 2019 Modern Guns issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>OutdoorGroupStore.com<\/a><\/em><\/strong>. For digital editions, visit\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"How Laser Sights for Hunting Can Improve Your Odds in the Field","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-10-16 12:27:12","post_modified_gmt":"2024-10-16 16:27:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2019\/02\/13\/laser-sights-hunting-improve-odds\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":94810,"post_author":"351","post_date":"2019-01-28 06:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2019-01-28 11:19:45","post_content":"Lasers<\/a> have come a long way since the days they were an interesting curiosity. In fact, shooters now know that lasers are an excellent tool that make acquiring targets much faster and easier. And the LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser has even made activation even easier with\u00a0GripSense\u00a0technology.\n\n[in_content post=\"96942\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\nGripSense represents the newest generation of laser activation technology by simplifying the activation process. The user simply grips the firearm, setting off a motion sensor in the detection zone. This activates the laser immediately and does not require the user to change their firing grip. The biggest complaint of most lasers is having to remember to activate them. As such, this technology eliminates this extra step, providing instant activation. However, the Lightning also allows users to activate this laser via a push button, providing a dual method for use.\n\nThe Lightning fits any rail with at least 1 inch of room. And while the company designed it for pistols, this means it also fits most rifles with rails. Additionally, users can program the Lightning for either a steady or high-vis pulsed beam. The Lightning runs up to 20 hours continuously, but features a ten-minute time out to save battery. It is also water resistant and the battery hatch allows tool-less entry.\n\nLaserMax produces the Lightning in with both red and green lasers, which allows users to choose between what the company calls\u00a0Vivid Red or Daytime Green. Green, of course, cost a bit more, but the human eye see green much better than red, especially during daylight hours. It also comes with a five year warranty.\n
LaserMax Lightning Rail Mounted Laser<\/h3>\n
