The Ultimak rail system is a popular choice among firearm enthusiasts for its lightweight design and versatile mounting options. When it comes to enhancing your firearm with a laser sight, choosing the right laser can significantly impact your shooting experience, especially under low-light conditions or for quick target acquisition.
In this article, I'll review some of the best lasers suited for the Ultimak rail system, highlighting their specifications, features, pros and cons, and user experiences. Let's dive in!
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
The SureFire X400U-A is a premium laser sight and weapon light combo that offers exceptional performance and durability, making it an excellent choice for the Ultimak rail system.
Specifications:
Laser Type: Red (635 nm)
Laser Output: 5 mW
Light Output: 1,000 lumens
Battery: CR123A (2)
Run Time: 1.25 hours (light), 4 hours (laser)
Best Features:
Integrated Laser and Light: The X400U-A combines a powerful white light with a visible laser, providing versatile tactical options.
High-Quality Build: Made from aerospace aluminum with a Mil-Spec hard-anodized finish, it's robust and durable.
Ambidextrous Activation: The ambidextrous switch makes it easy to operate the laser and light with either hand.
Pros:
Excellent build quality and durability
High-intensity light for superior illumination
Easy to mount and zero
Reliable performance
Cons:
Higher price point
Slightly bulky
User Experience: Customers praise the SureFire X400U-A for its rugged construction and reliability. The laser and light combo is particularly appreciated for tactical applications, providing clear visibility and precise aiming.
Why It Fits the Ultimak: The SureFire X400U-A is a perfect match for the Ultimak rail due to its robust construction and tactical versatility. The combination of a bright light and a precise laser enhances the capabilities of the Ultimak-equipped firearm, especially in low-light conditions.
The Streamlight TLR-2 HL G is another top contender, offering a powerful green laser and a high-lumen flashlight in a compact package.
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green (510-535 nm)
Laser Output: 5 mW
Light Output: 1,000 lumens
Battery: CR123A (2)
Run Time: 1.5 hours (light), 17 hours (laser)
Best Features:
Green Laser Visibility: The green laser is highly visible, even in daylight, making it easier to acquire targets quickly.
C4 LED Technology: The C4 LED provides a bright and consistent beam, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Durable Construction: The anodized aluminum construction ensures durability in various conditions.
Pros:
Bright green laser for better visibility
High-lumen output for excellent illumination
Robust and weather-resistant
Easy to mount and operate
Cons:
May be bulky for some setups
Shorter battery life with combined use
User Experience: Users appreciate the TLR-2 HL G for its bright laser and light output, noting that it significantly improves target acquisition speed. The device's robust build quality is also a recurring positive comment.
Why It Fits the Ultimak: The TLR-2 HL G's green laser is perfect for the Ultimak, providing superior visibility in various lighting conditions. Its robust construction and high-lumen flashlight enhance the firearm's capabilities, making it ideal for tactical applications.
Crimson Trace is known for producing high-quality laser sights, and the CMR-204 is no exception. This compact laser sight is designed to deliver reliable performance in a small package.
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green
Laser Output: 5 mW
Battery: CR2 Lithium (1)
Run Time: 2 hours
Best Features:
Compact Design: The CMR-204 is lightweight and compact, making it a perfect fit for smaller firearms and easy to mount on the Ultimak rail.
Adjustable Settings: It offers windage and elevation adjustments, allowing precise laser sighting.
Instant Activation: The CMR-204 features Crimson Trace’s patented Instinctive Activation, enabling quick and easy operation.
Pros:
Lightweight and compact
Easy to mount and adjust
Durable construction
Excellent laser visibility
Cons:
Limited battery life
No integrated flashlight
User Experience: Users find the CMR-204 to be a reliable and easy-to-use laser sight. Its compact size makes it a popular choice for those looking to add a laser without adding significant weight or bulk.
Why It Fits the Ultimak: The CMR-204 is an excellent choice for the Ultimak rail system due to its compact size and ease of use. It provides a bright, easily visible laser that enhances targeting without compromising the firearm's balance or handling.
The OLIGHT Baldr Pro R is a versatile and powerful laser and light combo that offers excellent performance for various shooting scenarios.
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green
Laser Output: <5 mW
Light Output: 1,350 lumens
Battery: Built-in rechargeable
Run Time: 1.5 hours (light), 8 hours (laser)
Best Features:
High Lumens and Visibility: The 1,350 lumens flashlight and green laser provide excellent visibility and targeting.
Rechargeable Battery: The built-in rechargeable battery is convenient and eco-friendly.
Robust Build: Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Baldr Pro R is durable and resistant to recoil.
Pros:
Bright flashlight and laser
Rechargeable battery
Durable construction
Easy to operate
Cons:
Slightly heavier than other options
Pricey
User Experience: The OLIGHT Baldr Pro R is praised for its brightness and battery life. Users appreciate the convenience of the rechargeable battery and the robust build quality.
Why It Fits the Ultimak: The Baldr Pro R's bright laser and light combination, along with its rechargeable battery, make it a great addition to an Ultimak-equipped firearm. It provides excellent visibility and targeting, ideal for various shooting situations.
The Viridian X5L Gen 3 is a feature-rich laser sight and flashlight combo designed for tactical use, offering a green laser for superior visibility.
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green
Laser Output: 5 mW
Light Output: 500 lumens
Battery: CR123A (1)
Run Time: 1 hour (light), 6 hours (laser)
Best Features:
Instant-On Technology: The X5L Gen 3 activates instantly when drawn from the holster, ensuring you're always ready.
Green Laser Visibility: The green laser is visible in a wide range of lighting conditions, enhancing target acquisition.
Light and Laser Strobe Modes: Offers various modes, including strobe, to disorient targets or signal others.
Pros:
Instant-on feature
Multiple modes and settings
Highly visible green laser
Compact and lightweight
Cons:
Shorter battery life with light usage
Higher price point
User Experience: Users love the Instant-On feature and the bright green laser. The multiple settings and modes are also a highlight, providing versatility in different scenarios.
Why It Fits the Ultimak: The Viridian X5L Gen 3's bright green laser and versatile features make it a great fit for the Ultimak rail system. Its compact size and multiple modes offer flexibility and precision in targeting.
The HOLOSUN LS321G is a premium multi-laser sight offering a green laser, IR laser, and IR illuminator, making it suitable for both day and night operations.
Specifications:
Laser Type: Green and IR
Laser Output: <5 mW (green), <0.7 mW (IR)
Battery: CR123A (1)
Run Time: Up to 8 hours
Best Features:
Multiple Laser Options: Includes a visible green laser and an IR laser, providing versatility for various operations.
Durable Construction: Built to withstand tough conditions, with a housing made from 7075 aluminum.
Easy Adjustments: Windage and elevation adjustments are straightforward, allowing for precise calibration.
Pros:
Multi-laser functionality
Durable and rugged
Long battery life
Easy to operate and adjust
Cons:
Higher price range
Requires night vision equipment to use IR laser
User Experience: The HOLOSUN LS321G receives high marks for its durability and versatile laser options. Users particularly appreciate the addition of an IR laser for night operations.
Why It Fits the Ultimak: The HOLOSUN LS321G's multi-laser functionality, including an IR laser, makes it an excellent choice for the Ultimak rail system, especially for users who require night vision compatibility.
For those looking for a combination of a laser sight and a flashlight, the SureFire X400U-A and Streamlight TLR-2 HL G are top choices. These units combine powerful lights with visible lasers, offering excellent visibility and targeting capabilities in a single package. The OLIGHT Baldr Pro R also stands out with its rechargeable battery and bright light output, making it both eco-friendly and practical.
How to Choose the Best Laser Sight for the Ultimak
When selecting the best laser for your Ultimak-equipped firearm, consider the following factors:
Laser Color and Visibility: Green lasers are generally more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight conditions. However, they can also drain the battery faster.
Laser and Light Combo: If you need both a laser and a flashlight, consider a combo unit. This setup can save rail space and provide versatile functionality.
Durability and Build Quality: Choose a laser sight made from durable materials like aluminum or steel. This ensures it can withstand recoil and harsh conditions.
Ease of Installation and Use: Look for lasers that are easy to mount and adjust. Features like ambidextrous controls and instant activation can also enhance usability.
Battery Life: Consider the battery life, especially if the laser or light will be used frequently. Rechargeable options can be convenient and cost-effective in the long run.
FAQs
Q1: What is the benefit of a green laser over a red laser?
A1: Green lasers are generally more visible than red lasers, especially in daylight conditions. This makes them ideal for quick target acquisition. However, they may consume more power, resulting in shorter battery life.
Q2: Can I use a laser sight for both daytime and nighttime shooting?
A2: Yes, laser sights can be used in both daytime and nighttime conditions. Green lasers are particularly effective during the day due to their higher visibility. For nighttime use, consider a laser sight with a built-in flashlight or an IR laser if you have night vision equipment.
Q3: How do I maintain my laser sight?
A3: Regularly check the mounting and zero settings to ensure the laser is properly aligned. Clean the lens with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris. Also, check the battery regularly and replace it as needed.
Q4: Is it legal to use a laser sight on a firearm?
A4: Laser sights are legal in many jurisdictions, but regulations can vary. It's important to check local laws and regulations before installing a laser sight on your firearm.
Q5: How do I know if a laser sight is compatible with my Ultimak rail?
A5: Ensure that the laser sight is designed to fit standard Picatinny or Weaver rails, as these are compatible with the Ultimak rail system. Most manufacturers will list compatibility information on their product specifications.
Conclusion
Choosing the best laser for your Ultimak-equipped firearm involves considering various factors such as laser color, build quality, and additional features like a built-in flashlight. The SureFire X400U-A, Streamlight TLR-2 HL G, and OLIGHT Baldr Pro R are excellent options that offer reliable performance and versatility. Whether you're looking for a laser for tactical use, home defense, or range shooting, the right choice can enhance your shooting experience and provide a tactical advantage. Always ensure that the laser sight you choose is compatible with your firearm and meets your specific needs.