When it comes to enhancing your shooting experience with the Benelli M2, one of the most effective upgrades you can make is adding a high-quality laser sight. A good laser sight can improve accuracy, increase confidence, and provide a tactical advantage in various shooting scenarios.
Whether you're using your M2 for home defense, hunting, or competitive shooting, selecting the right laser sight is crucial. In this article, I'll be reviewing some of the best laser options available, discussing their specifications, features, pros and cons, and sharing user experiences.
Top 6 Best Laser Sights for Benelli M2 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:
Laser Type: Visible red (635 nm)
Laser Output: 5 mW (Class IIIa)
Light Output: 1000 lumens
Battery Life: 1.5 hours
Material: Aerospace aluminum
Weight: 4.0 oz (113.4 g)
Best Features:
The SureFire X400U-A combines a high-intensity white light and an integrated red laser, making it a versatile option for the Benelli M2. The laser provides a powerful aiming point, while the 1000-lumen light illuminates targets even in complete darkness. The rugged construction ensures durability, and the ambidextrous switches make it easy to operate under stress.
Pros:
High-intensity light
Durable construction
Ambidextrous operation
Versatile mounting options
Cons:
Higher price point
Bulky for some users
User Experience:
Users praise the SureFire X400U-A for its bright light and reliable laser performance. The combination of light and laser helps in quick target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions. It's a favorite among law enforcement and military personnel for its durability and dependability.
The Streamlight TLR-2 HL G is known for its powerful green laser, which is more visible in daylight than red lasers. The 800-lumen light provides ample illumination, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The robust design ensures it can withstand heavy recoil, making it an excellent choice for the Benelli M2.
Pros:
Highly visible green laser
Sturdy construction
Quick-detach system
Good battery life
Cons:
Slightly heavier than other models
Higher price range
User Experience:
Customers appreciate the bright and clear green laser, which helps with faster target acquisition. The TLR-2 HL G's quick-detach system is another popular feature, allowing users to quickly mount or dismount the laser. Users also note the laser's reliability even after extended use.
The Crimson Trace CMR-204 features a green laser and a powerful 100-lumen LED light. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a great addition to the Benelli M2, providing enhanced aiming and visibility without adding significant weight. The laser can be adjusted for windage and elevation, ensuring precision.
Pros:
Lightweight and compact
Adjustable laser
Dual activation capability
Long battery life
Cons:
Lower light output compared to other models
May require frequent adjustments
User Experience:
Users highlight the CMR-204's ease of installation and the benefit of having both a laser and a light in one compact unit. The adjustable laser is particularly appreciated for its precision. However, some users mention that the light could be brighter for outdoor use.
Battery Life: Up to 6 hours (laser), 1 hour (light)
Material: 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum
Weight: 3.3 oz (93.5 g)
Best Features:
The Viridian X5L Gen 3 stands out with its "Instant-On" technology, which activates the laser and light when the weapon is drawn. This feature, combined with the powerful green laser and a robust 500-lumen tactical light, makes it an excellent choice for self-defense scenarios.
Pros:
Instant-On technology
Bright green laser
Durable construction
Compact design
Cons:
Battery life could be longer for light
Higher cost
User Experience:
Users find the Instant-On feature particularly useful in high-stress situations, as it eliminates the need for manual activation. The green laser is noted for its brightness and visibility, even in daylight. However, some users wish for longer battery life when using the light feature.
Battery Life: Up to 4 hours (laser), 1.5 hours (light)
Material: Aluminum alloy
Weight: 4.55 oz (129 g)
Best Features:
The OLIGHT Baldr Pro R offers an impressive 1350-lumen output, making it one of the brightest options on this list. The integrated green laser enhances aiming accuracy, while the magnetic charging feature simplifies battery maintenance. The rugged design ensures it can withstand heavy use.
Pros:
Extremely bright light
Magnetic charging
Durable build
Green laser for better visibility
Cons:
Heavier than some alternatives
Higher price tag
User Experience:
Users love the Baldr Pro R for its exceptional brightness and the convenience of magnetic charging. The green laser is effective for quick target acquisition, and the overall build quality is highly praised. However, some users note that the unit's size and weight might be a consideration for those seeking a more compact solution.
The Tacticon Firefly V2 is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality. It offers a powerful green laser in a compact and lightweight design, perfect for the Benelli M2. The easy-to-use controls and sturdy construction make it a reliable choice for various applications.
Pros:
Affordable
Compact and lightweight
Easy to install and use
Good battery life
Cons:
No integrated light
Limited range in bright sunlight
User Experience:
Users appreciate the Firefly V2's affordability and performance. It's seen as a great value for those looking to add a laser sight to their Benelli M2 without spending too much. The compact design and ease of use are also highlighted, although some users mention that it lacks the versatility of models with integrated lights.
For those looking to maximize their tactical advantage, a laser-light combo can be an ideal choice. These devices combine the benefits of a laser sight and a powerful flashlight, providing both accurate aiming and enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. Some top picks for laser-light combos include the SureFire X400U-A, Streamlight TLR-2 HL G, and OLIGHT Baldr Pro R. These models offer excellent performance, durability, and ease of use, making them well-suited for the Benelli M2.
How to Choose the Best Laser Sight for Benelli M2
Choosing the right laser for your Benelli M2 involves considering several factors:
Laser Type: Green lasers are generally more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight. However, red lasers are often more affordable and consume less power.
Light Output: If you need a combination of laser and light, consider the lumen output. Higher lumens provide better illumination but may drain batteries faster.
Durability: Your laser sight should withstand the recoil of the Benelli M2. Look for models made from robust materials like aircraft-grade aluminum.
Ease of Use: Features like ambidextrous controls, quick-detach systems, and adjustable settings can make the laser sight more user-friendly.
Battery Life: Consider how often you'll use the laser and light. Longer battery life is beneficial, especially for extended use.
Mounting Options: Ensure the laser sight can be securely mounted to your Benelli M2 and is compatible with other accessories you may have.
FAQs
Q1: Are laser sights legal for hunting with the Benelli M2? A1: The legality of using laser sights for hunting varies by jurisdiction. Always check your local laws and regulations before using a laser sight for hunting.
Q2: Can I use a laser sight for home defense? A2: Yes, a laser sight can be a valuable tool for home defense, providing quick target acquisition and helping to identify potential threats in low-light situations.
Q3: How do I align the laser sight on my Benelli M2? A3: Aligning the laser sight typically involves adjusting the windage and elevation settings. It's best to do this at a shooting range to ensure accuracy.
Q4: What is the difference between red and green lasers? A4: Green lasers are more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight. However, red lasers are more energy-efficient and typically less expensive.
Q5: How long do the batteries last in laser sights? A5: Battery life varies depending on the model and usage. It's important to consider both laser and light usage when evaluating battery life. Some models offer up to several hours of continuous use.
Conclusion
Choosing the best laser for your Benelli M2 can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether for home defense, hunting, or competitive shooting. The SureFire X400U-A, Streamlight TLR-2 HL G, Crimson Trace CMR-204, Viridian X5L Gen 3, OLIGHT Baldr Pro R, and Tacticon Firefly V2 all offer unique features and benefits. Consider your specific needs and preferences, such as laser visibility, light output, durability, and ease of use, to find the perfect laser sight for your Benelli M2. With the right choice, you'll enjoy improved accuracy and confidence in any shooting scenario.