Choosing the best laser for your Beretta 1301 Tactical can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and overall performance. The Beretta 1301 Tactical is known for its reliability and is a favorite among tactical shooters, law enforcement, and home defense enthusiasts. Adding a high-quality laser to this shotgun can provide you with an edge, especially in low-light conditions.
I’ve spent a considerable amount of time testing various laser sights on my Beretta 1301 Tactical. Here, I will review six top products, detailing their specifications, best features, pros, cons, and my personal experiences with each. Additionally, I’ll include online customer comments and discussions to provide a comprehensive perspective.
Top 6 Best Laser Sights for Beretta 1301 Tactical on the Market
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
1. SureFire X400U-A - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Light Output: 1,000 lumens Battery: Two CR123A lithium batteries Best Features:
Integrated laser and tactical light Ambidextrous activation switches Durable aerospace aluminum construction Pros:
Cons:
Experience: The SureFire X400U-A is a powerhouse. Its 1,000 lumens light up any environment, making it perfect for tactical situations. The laser is highly visible and easy to zero. It’s slightly on the heavier side, but its robust build ensures it can withstand harsh conditions.
Why it fits the Beretta 1301 Tactical: The X400U-A's durability and high performance make it an excellent match for the ruggedness of the Beretta 1301 Tactical. Its ambidextrous activation ensures quick response times, crucial in high-stakes scenarios.
Customer Comments: Users rave about its brightness and reliability, often mentioning its effectiveness in real-world tactical situations.
2. Streamlight TLR-8A Flex - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Battery: One CR123A lithium battery Best Features:
Compact and lightweight design Safe off feature to prevent accidental activation High output light with laser Pros:
Cons:
Laser can be difficult to see in bright daylight Limited to one battery type Experience: The Streamlight TLR-8A Flex offers a great balance of light output and laser visibility. It's compact, making it a great fit for the Beretta 1301 Tactical without adding unnecessary bulk. The ambidextrous switch is intuitive and user-friendly.
Why it fits the Beretta 1301 Tactical: The TLR-8A Flex’s lightweight and compact design complements the maneuverability of the Beretta 1301 Tactical. It’s perfect for those who want effective performance without adding much weight.
Customer Comments: Many users appreciate its compact size and powerful light, though some note the laser can be hard to see in daylight.
3. Crimson Trace CMR-301
Specifications:
Light Output: 1,000 lumens Battery: Rechargeable battery pack Best Features:
Green laser for better visibility Robust and weather-resistant Pros:
High visibility green laser Wireless remote activation Cons:
Heavier than other options Experience: The Crimson Trace CMR-301 stands out with its green laser, which is much easier to see in various lighting conditions compared to red lasers. The wireless remote switch is a great feature, allowing for flexible mounting options. However, it is on the heavier side.
Why it fits the Beretta 1301 Tactical: The green laser provides superior visibility, and the robust construction ensures it can handle the recoil and rough use associated with tactical shotguns.
Customer Comments: Users highlight the green laser’s visibility and the convenience of the wireless remote switch, although the weight is a noted drawback.
4. OLIGHT Baldr Pro R - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Light Output: 1,350 lumens Battery: Rechargeable battery pack Best Features:
Pros:
Secure and quick mounting Cons:
Experience: The OLIGHT Baldr Pro R is incredibly bright and its magnetic charging system is very convenient. The quick detach mount is secure and allows for fast installation or removal. The green laser is highly visible, even in daylight.
Why it fits the Beretta 1301 Tactical: Its high light output and durable construction make it perfect for tactical applications. The easy charging and quick detach mount enhance its practicality for dynamic environments.
Customer Comments: Customers love the brightness and the magnetic charging, though some find it a bit bulky.
5. Viridian X5L Gen 3 - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Battery: Rechargeable battery Runtime: 3 hours (laser), 1.5 hours (light and laser) Best Features:
Automatic activation with Instant-On technology High visibility green laser Pros:
Multiple operational modes Cons:
Light output not as high as others Experience: The Viridian X5L Gen 3’s Instant-On technology is a game-changer. The green laser is bright and the multiple light modes offer flexibility in various scenarios. However, the initial setup can be a bit challenging.
Why it fits the Beretta 1301 Tactical: The Instant-On feature ensures the laser is ready when you need it, which is critical in tactical situations. Its compact size and versatility make it a great fit for the Beretta 1301 Tactical.
Customer Comments: Users praise the Instant-On feature and the laser’s visibility, though some have noted difficulties with setup.
6. HOLOSUN LS321G
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green and IR laser Light Output: N/A (Laser only) Battery: CR123A lithium battery Best Features:
Dual laser (green and IR) Multiple mounting options Pros:
Cons:
Experience: The HOLOSUN LS321G is a bit of a different beast with its dual laser capabilities. It’s highly durable and the green laser is very visible. The IR laser adds a layer of versatility for those using night vision equipment. However, it is quite heavy and lacks a white light.
Why it fits the Beretta 1301 Tactical: The dual laser system enhances versatility, making it suitable for various tactical operations. Its durability ensures it can handle the rigorous use associated with the Beretta 1301 Tactical.
Customer Comments: Customers appreciate the dual laser system and durability, but the weight and lack of a white light are noted drawbacks.
Laser Light Combo for the Beretta 1301 Tactical
For those seeking both a laser and a tactical light in one unit, several options stand out. The SureFire X400U-A and OLIGHT Baldr Pro R are excellent choices due to their high light output and durable construction. These combinations provide the best of both worlds, ensuring you’re prepared for any scenario.
How to Choose the Best Laser Sight for the Beretta 1301 Tactical
When selecting a laser for your Beretta 1301 Tactical, consider the following factors:
Laser Visibility: Green lasers are generally more visible in a variety of lighting conditions compared to red lasers. Durability: Ensure the laser is robust enough to handle the recoil and rugged use. Light Output: If you need a light and laser combo, look for high lumens to illuminate your target. Mounting Options: Choose a laser that easily mounts and detaches from your shotgun. Battery Life: Longer battery life ensures your laser is ready when you need it. Ease of Use: Features like ambidextrous switches and remote activation can enhance usability. FAQs
Q: What is the best laser color for visibility? A: Green lasers are typically more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight.
Q: Can I mount any of these lasers on my Beretta 1301 Tactical? A: Most of the lasers listed can be mounted on the Beretta 1301 Tactical, but it’s essential to check compatibility with your specific model and ensure the mounting system fits your shotgun’s rail.
Q: How do I zero my laser sight? A: Zeroing a laser sight involves aligning the laser’s point of impact with your point of aim. This can be done by adjusting the windage and elevation settings on the laser until the laser dot matches the center of your target at your desired range. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the most accurate results.
Q: Are rechargeable battery lasers better than those using disposable batteries? A: Rechargeable battery lasers offer convenience and potentially longer-term cost savings, but they can be bulkier and may require more maintenance. Disposable battery lasers can be lighter and easier to swap out in the field but require you to keep extra batteries on hand.
Q: What should I look for in terms of battery life? A: Battery life varies widely among laser sights. If you use your shotgun frequently or rely on it for self-defense, opt for a laser with a longer battery life to ensure it remains operational when needed.
Q: Can I use these lasers with night vision equipment? A: Some lasers, like the HOLOSUN LS321G, offer both visible and infrared (IR) lasers, making them compatible with night vision gear. If you require night vision compatibility, ensure the laser has an IR option.
Q: How do I maintain my laser sight? A: Regularly clean the lens to ensure clear visibility, check the battery levels, and ensure the mounting hardware remains secure. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines to keep your laser in optimal condition.
Conclusion
Selecting the best laser for your Beretta 1301 Tactical involves understanding your specific needs and preferences. The six products reviewed offer a range of features and capabilities to suit different scenarios and user preferences. From the powerful SureFire X400U-A to the versatile HOLOSUN LS321G, each laser sight has its strengths and potential drawbacks.
When choosing, consider factors such as laser visibility, durability, light output, and ease of use. The right laser will not only enhance your shooting accuracy but also provide you with a reliable tool in both tactical and self-defense situations.
Whether you prioritize a high-output tactical light, long battery life, or advanced features like dual lasers, there’s a laser sight that’s perfect for your Beretta 1301 Tactical. Equip your shotgun with the best tool for your needs and take your shooting performance to the next level.