Where to Mount a Laser on Your AR-15: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right laser and mounting location for your AR-15 is crucial for effective and safe operation. This guide will delve into the various options, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and intended use. We'll cover different types of lasers, mounting methods, and the pros and cons of each position.
Types of AR-15 Lasers
Before deciding where to mount your laser, understanding what type of laser you need is essential. The main types are:
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Visible Lasers (Red or Green): These are easily visible in most lighting conditions, making target acquisition quicker and easier. Red lasers are generally more affordable, while green lasers offer superior visibility, especially in daylight.
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Infrared (IR) Lasers: Invisible to the naked eye, IR lasers are ideal for covert operations or situations where you need to avoid giving away your position. They require an IR viewer or night vision device to be seen.
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Visible and IR Combo Lasers: These offer the best of both worlds, allowing you to switch between visible and invisible modes as needed.
Mounting Locations: Pros and Cons
The optimal mounting location depends heavily on your intended use. Here's a breakdown of common locations and their advantages and disadvantages:
1. Rail-Mounted Lasers:
This is the most common method, utilizing the Picatinny rail system integral to most AR-15s.
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Pros: Easy installation, wide range of mounting options (e.g., direct mount, offset mount), compatible with other accessories.
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Cons: Can be bulky, potentially interfering with other accessories depending on placement.
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At the 3 O'Clock Position (Right Side): This is popular for right-handed shooters, offering a natural aiming point and minimal interference with the weapon's operation. However, it may be visible to others.
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At the 6 O'Clock Position (Underneath): This position minimizes visibility and prevents interference with other accessories but can be awkward to activate and requires careful aiming.
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At the 9 O'Clock Position (Left Side): Preferred by left-handed shooters, but may be visible.
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2. Handguard-Mounted Lasers:
Some handguards offer integrated mounting points for lasers.
- Pros: Keeps the laser closer to the barrel, potentially improving accuracy at longer ranges, can be less noticeable.
- Cons: Limited compatibility, may require a specific handguard, and less versatile mounting options.
3. Vertical Foregrip-Mounted Lasers:
Some vertical foregrips incorporate laser mounting capabilities.
- Pros: Streamlined design, comfortable grip, integrates laser into the foregrip.
- Cons: Limited availability, not as common as rail-mounted options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mounting Location:
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Shooting Style: Consider your shooting stance and how easily you can access and activate the laser from your chosen location.
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Intended Use: Covert operations require different considerations than target practice.
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Other Accessories: Ensure the laser's mounting location doesn't interfere with other accessories such as lights, optics, or grips.
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Visibility: Weigh the importance of visibility versus concealment based on your needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal location for your AR-15 laser requires careful consideration of several factors. Understanding the different laser types and mounting options, along with the pros and cons of each position, will ensure you choose the setup that best suits your needs and enhances your shooting experience. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow all relevant laws and regulations regarding the use of laser devices.
