How to Choose a Laser Sight for a Pistol

It’s a scenario well-documented in real life—and is also frequently seen on the big screen: that moment when the bad guy looks down and sees that glowing red laser dot on his chest and realizes where the intended victim’s bullet will land. In most cases when this happens, it’s game over and the criminal or threatening person moves away—quickly.

Equipping your pistol with a laser sight offers distinct advantages. These include being better prepared for self-defense situations, building confidence, improving accuracy in low-light conditions or in a hurried situation, better aiming when possibly disabled, and sending a clear message to anyone you must point your firearm at. Some disadvantages of laser sight use are possibly needing a new holster for your pistol, becoming familiar with operating the laser by feel, and maintaining those batteries. So, are you laser-sight ready?

Do Your Research

There are three basic models to choose from for handguns (revolvers and pistols). These are replacement grips with a built-in laser sight, laser sights that mount onto the pistol’s trigger guard, or a laser sight that attaches to a rail on the firearm. In most cases, laser sight manufacturers recommend that the accessory rail be at least 1-inch long to ensure a secure fit. Replacement-grip lasers for revolvers and pistols fit a wide range of guns, from smaller pocket pistols to the iconic full-size 1911. In most cases, the replacement grips require the use of a screwdriver or Torx driver to remove the old grips from the frame. You then install the new grips and reinsert the screws. This remove-and-install process generally takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

For the compact laser sight units—these are generally the size of a box of matches—determine if the pistol has an accessory rail and if the laser sight attached to the rail is easy to reach with a finger and activate. The standard rails found on most pistols are Weaver and Picatinny rails. There are also laser and light combination products that can be installed on nearly any firearm with an accessory rail. An advantage to the buyer is that these laser sight and light combo units can often be easily removed from one firearm with accessory rails and installed on another firearm with rails.

If your pistol can use a laser sight that attaches to the trigger guard, you may want to install one. These are often two-piece units that first require installation of the battery(s), then snapping the halves over the trigger guard. You then install several small screws to secure the laser sight in place. You may need a very small screwdriver to install the screws.

Another question: Should you buy a green or red laser sight? Red laser sights are normally more affordable and use less battery power than green laser sights. They are also generally available in a wider range of models to fit a larger number of pistols. Green laser sights are often more visible in brighter light, but they tend to be more expensive and use up battery power quicker.

Determine what battery a laser sight requires before you purchase. Many run on standard short lithium and wafer-style batteries that are easy to find. Some laser sights, however, require special from-the-manufacturer-only batteries, which can be expensive and difficult to obtain.

Several laser sight manufacturers—such as Streamlight, LaserMax, Viridian, and Crimson Trace—offer laser sight and light combination units. If you are often alone late at night in a dark parking garage or closing a business after hours, this could be your best defense. If you select these light and laser sight combos for a concealed-carry handgun, remember that the overall size of the firearm and its shape will change, and it may no longer easily fit into a pocket, vehicle glovebox, or your nightstand.

Hands-On Experience

After you discover the details and differences in laser sight models and the laser and light combinations, it’s time to see if you can expand your education with a hands-on experience. This is when you visit a gun shop or possibly shoot a laser-equipped gun to inspect how the laser sight activates, how bright the laser shines on a distant target or wall, and determine other important details. Seeing the laser sight installed on a firearm similar to the one you own can help you better ascertain which laser sight models and features fit your firearm, hands, and budget. Some firearms stores and gun ranges also rent handguns with laser sights installed so shoppers can experience laser sights in action. This try-before-you-buy option is great.

Prices of laser sights generally begin at around $100 and can quickly climb to $400. You will pay more for the green laser diode.

Final Steps

While you are considering the exact laser type you would like to purchase, pay special attention to the means of activation. For ease of operation, tabs and activation pads that naturally fall under a finger when the firearm is gripped normally are considered by most laser owners to be easier to use than some small push buttons that must be frantically searched for in the dark. That ease of operation and activation also becomes more important during times of stress.

Finally, ask the sales clerk about important follow-up service after the sell. Does the laser sight manufacturer have a customer call center? Is an installation manual included or is it available only online? Does the laser come with batteries? How about replacement batteries?

Conclusion

Laser sights can make aiming easier, quicker, and more accurate for most owners of pistols equipped with these sights. This could be very important if you are attacked and hit—and slightly disoriented. As with all things involving any firearm, practice often and safely to improve accuracy and familiarity with the many features. It is also a good idea to continue to practice with your pistol’s standard sights to be sure you are well-prepared.

FAQs

Q: Once I install a laser sight, do I need to sight it in?

A: Yes. For accurate shot placement, you need to zero the laser, just as you would with any new sight. Follow the instructions that came with the laser’s operating manual to do this.

Q: Do I need to practice with my new laser sight?

A: Absolutely. As with any tool, you need to practice with your new laser to gain command of its operation. You can do this at home with an unloaded firearm. Practice drawing the gun from your holster and activating the laser in one smooth move. Next, place a target on the wall and practice the same move, but focus the laser on the target. That done, turn off the lights and practice the drill in total darkness.

Q: Will I need to buy a new holster?

A: It depends on the model of gun you own and the model of laser you purchase. Check with the store owner for any fit issues. Many holster companies now have models that can accommodate guns with lasers.

Shop Lasers