The Beretta APX A1 Carry is a compact, robust, and highly reliable pistol designed for concealed carry. Equipping it with the best laser sight can significantly enhance accuracy and performance in low-light conditions. In this guide, I will review six top laser sights that complement the APX A1 Carry, providing a detailed analysis of their specifications, features, pros, cons, and user experiences.
Top 6 Best Laser Sights for Beretta APX A1 Carry 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!
SureFire X400U-A - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Laser Type: Red (635 nm) or Green (532 nm) Best Features:
High Lumens Output: The 500-lumen light provides a powerful beam that is effective in both indoor and outdoor environments. Durability: Aerospace aluminum body and hard anodized finish. Easy Activation: Ambidextrous switches for intuitive operation. Pros:
High brightness and visibility Rugged and durable construction Simple and intuitive operation Cons:
Slightly bulky for a compact carry pistol Experience:
Using the SureFire X400U-A on my Beretta APX A1 Carry, I found the illumination incredibly bright, which was excellent for identifying targets in low-light conditions. The robust build gave me confidence in its durability, and the intuitive controls were easy to operate even under stress.
Customer Comments:
Many users appreciate the X400U-A's powerful light and robust construction, although some mention it adds noticeable bulk to compact pistols.
Streamlight TLR-6 - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Laser Type: Red (640-660 nm) Battery: 2 CR1/3N lithium Best Features:
Compact Design: Specifically designed for subcompact handguns like the APX A1 Carry. Ease of Installation: Can be installed without requiring tools. Integrated Light and Laser: Combines a tactical light with a laser sight. Pros:
Easy to install and operate Cons:
Lower lumen output compared to larger models Experience:
The Streamlight TLR-6 is a great fit for the Beretta APX A1 Carry due to its compact and lightweight design. The installation was straightforward, and the combined light and laser feature provided excellent versatility. However, the 100-lumen output, while sufficient for most scenarios, might feel inadequate in extremely dark environments.
Customer Comments:
Users praise the TLR-6 for its perfect fit on subcompact pistols and its ease of installation, though some wish for a brighter light.
Crimson Trace LG-443
Specifications:
Battery: 1/3N lithium or 357 silver oxide Best Features:
Instinctive Activation: Front activation button for seamless use. Compact Size: Designed for compact and subcompact pistols. Adjustable Windage and Elevation: Ensures precision targeting. Pros:
Cons:
Red laser may be harder to see in bright daylight Limited to laser functionality without integrated light Experience:
The Crimson Trace LG-443's instinctive activation feature is a game-changer. Just gripping the pistol naturally activates the laser, making it incredibly user-friendly. Its compact size and minimal weight were perfect for concealed carry, although the visibility of the red laser in bright daylight was somewhat limited.
Customer Comments:
Users love the instinctive activation and compact design but recommend pairing it with a flashlight for comprehensive use.
Viridian X5L Gen 3 - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green (510-532 nm) Output: 178 lumens (light) Runtime: 4+ hours (laser), 1.5 hours (light) Best Features:
Green Laser Visibility: Superior visibility in various lighting conditions. Multiple Modes: Offers constant and strobe light modes. Enhanced Range: Effective range up to 100 yards in daylight. Pros:
High visibility green laser Cons:
Bulkier than some other options Experience:
Mounting the Viridian X5L Gen 3 on my APX A1 Carry, I immediately noticed the superior visibility of the green laser. The multiple light modes were beneficial for different scenarios, and the robust construction ensured it could withstand rough handling. However, its size made the pistol slightly bulkier for concealed carry.
Customer Comments:
Users are impressed by the green laser's visibility and the device's durability, though some find it a bit large for compact pistols.
OLIGHT Baldr Mini - Laser Light Combo
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green (520-532 nm) Battery: Built-in rechargeable Best Features:
High Lumens Output: 600 lumens provide exceptional brightness. Compact Design: Small and lightweight, perfect for compact pistols. Magnetic Charging: Convenient and easy to recharge. Pros:
Convenient charging system Cons:
Integrated battery cannot be replaced Experience:
The OLIGHT Baldr Mini is an excellent addition to the Beretta APX A1 Carry. Its 600-lumen output was impressively bright, and the green laser was highly visible. The magnetic charging system was a significant convenience, although the non-replaceable battery and shorter runtime were minor drawbacks.
Customer Comments:
Users highlight the exceptional brightness and compact design, but some wish for a longer battery life and replaceable battery option.
ArmaLaser TR9
Specifications:
Best Features:
Touch Activation: Touch-sensitive activation for ease of use. Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for concealed carry pistols. Affordable: Offers great value for the price. Pros:
Cons:
Red laser visibility is limited in bright conditions Experience:
The ArmaLaser TR9's touch activation was smooth and reliable, making it easy to use in high-stress situations. Its compact size was perfect for the APX A1 Carry, ensuring no added bulk. The red laser was visible in most conditions, although not as effective in bright daylight.
Customer Comments:
Users appreciate the easy activation and compact size, though some suggest improvements in laser visibility under strong sunlight.
Laser Light Combo for the Beretta APX A1 Carry
When considering a laser light combo for the Beretta APX A1 Carry, the SureFire X400U-A and Viridian X5L Gen 3 stand out as top choices. Both offer powerful light outputs combined with visible lasers, enhancing accuracy and visibility in various conditions. The SureFire X400U-A's robust construction and high lumens make it ideal for those needing a durable and powerful device, while the Viridian X5L Gen 3's green laser and multiple light modes provide versatility and excellent visibility.
How to Choose the Best Laser Sight for the Beretta APX A1 Carry
Selecting the best laser for your Beretta APX A1 Carry involves considering several key factors:
Laser Type and Visibility: Green lasers are generally more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight conditions. However, red lasers tend to be more affordable and sufficient for most indoor or low-light scenarios. Size and Weight: Given the compact nature of the APX A1 Carry, choosing a laser that maintains the pistol's ease of concealment is crucial. Opt for lightweight and compact models to ensure comfort during carry. Activation Mechanism: Look for intuitive and easy-to-use activation mechanisms such as instinctive activation or touch-sensitive switches. These features ensure quick and reliable engagement of the laser when needed. Battery Life and Type: Consider the runtime and battery type of the laser sight. Rechargeable batteries offer convenience but may have shorter runtimes, whereas replaceable batteries can provide longer usage periods. Durability and Build Quality: Ensure the laser sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. Look for models with robust construction and water-resistant features. FAQs
Q1: Are green lasers better than red lasers? A1: Green lasers are generally more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight. However, red lasers are typically more affordable and consume less power.
Q2: Can I install a laser sight on my Beretta APX A1 Carry myself? A2: Yes, most laser sights are designed for easy installation and do not require professional assistance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper mounting.
Q3: Will a laser sight affect the balance of my pistol? A3: A lightweight and compact laser sight should have minimal impact on the balance and handling of your Beretta APX A1 Carry.
Q4: Do I need a light in addition to a laser on my pistol? A4: Combining a light with a laser can enhance your ability to identify targets and improve accuracy in low-light conditions. However, it depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Q5: How often should I check the alignment of my laser sight? A5: Regularly check the alignment of your laser sight, especially after extensive use or if the pistol has been dropped or subjected to significant impact. Frequent checks ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
Conclusion
Choosing the best laser sight for your Beretta APX A1 Carry can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and confidence. The SureFire X400U-A, Streamlight TLR-6, Crimson Trace LG-443, Viridian X5L Gen 3, OLIGHT Baldr Mini, and ArmaLaser TR9 are all excellent choices, each offering unique features and benefits. Whether you prioritize compact size, high visibility, ease of use, or affordability, there is a laser sight on this list that will meet your needs and complement your Beretta APX A1 Carry perfectly.