Let’s Talk About Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen a lot of laser aiming devices come and go. The Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR promises a lot in a compact package, integrating a visible red laser, an IR laser, and an IR illuminator into a single unit. This multi-functionality caught my attention because streamlining gear is always a priority in the field.
I’ve always been a fan of Holosun’s commitment to innovation at reasonable prices. I was looking for a reliable aiming solution that could be used in both day and night scenarios, without having to swap out multiple devices. My initial impressions of the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR were cautiously optimistic.
The unit arrived neatly packaged, and the CNC machined housing looked and felt robust in my hands. It weighed slightly more than I expected, but I attributed that to the integrated QD mount and the multiple laser diodes contained within. Compared to similar devices from Steiner or Wilcox, the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR seemed to offer comparable functionality at a significantly lower price point.
I picked this over a comparable Crimson Trace unit due to the integrated IR illuminator; having all three functions in one device seemed much more efficient than managing separate units. Initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism – could Holosun really deliver on all these promises at this price? I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR was at my local outdoor shooting range, transitioning to a nighttime training exercise on private land. I tested it on my AR-15 platform, engaging targets at various distances, both during the day with the visible red laser and at night with the IR laser and illuminator paired with night vision goggles. The visible red laser was easily visible in daylight conditions out to about 50 yards.
The IR laser and illuminator provided excellent target acquisition in complete darkness, even out to 100 yards. The initial adjustment of the lasers was straightforward using the windage and elevation adjusters. The rear-side focusing knob for the IR illuminator allowed for quick adjustments to the beam width, proving invaluable for different distances and environments.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the remote cable switch felt a little stiff at first, requiring a firmer press than I expected to activate the lasers. Otherwise, the unit performed flawlessly right out of the box.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in various conditions, including a rainy weekend training session and a dusty range day, the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR has held up remarkably well. The housing shows no significant signs of wear and tear, and the laser diodes have maintained their brightness and accuracy. I have stored the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR in my range bag during transport and have not had any issues with the zero shifting on either the visible or IR laser.
Maintenance has been simple, primarily involving wiping down the housing with a clean cloth and occasionally cleaning the laser apertures with a cotton swab. It’s definitely outperformed my expectations considering the price point. Compared to a higher-end laser aiming device I used previously, this performs almost as well for a fraction of the cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR
Specifications
- Coaxial Visible RED Laser: The red laser is daylight-visible, aiding in rapid target acquisition during daytime operations. Its power output is within legal limits for civilian use.
- IR Laser: Provides a covert aiming solution for use with night vision devices. The IR laser is invisible to the naked eye and allows for precise targeting in low-light or no-light environments.
- IR Illuminator: An adjustable IR illuminator floods the target area with IR light, enhancing visibility through night vision. The focusing knob allows the user to adjust the beam width and intensity for optimal performance.
- Rear Side Focusing Knob: This knob allows for easy adjustment of the IR illuminator beam width. Having this adjustment on the rear allows for quick adjustments while maintaining the users’ sight picture.
- QD Mount Integrated: Allows for rapid attachment and detachment from Picatinny rails. The quick detach mount is solid and holds the unit securely in place without any noticeable wobble.
- CNC Machined Housing: Provides a durable and rugged enclosure for the internal components. The housing is made from aluminum and has a hard anodized finish for added protection against scratches and corrosion.
- Remote Cable Switch Included: Allows for convenient activation of the lasers and illuminator. The included switch is pressure activated, perfect for weapons manipulation.
Performance & Functionality
The Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR performs admirably, excelling in its primary function as a multi-laser aiming device. Accuracy is on par with more expensive units I’ve used, and the ability to quickly switch between visible and IR modes is invaluable in dynamic shooting scenarios. The unit’s strength lies in its versatility.
The remote switch, once broken in, provides reliable activation. A slight weakness is the initial stiffness of the switch. However, the long-term reliability and performance far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR is impressive. The CNC machined housing feels solid and well-constructed. The weight, while noticeable, is manageable and contributes to the overall feeling of durability.
The controls are intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. The QD mount makes it simple to attach and detach the unit from various weapon platforms. There is a slight learning curve to fully optimizing the IR illuminator’s focus, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the rugged construction, I expect the Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR to last for years with proper care. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring minimal effort to keep the unit in top working condition.
The only potential point of concern would be the remote switch cable, which could be vulnerable to damage if not properly secured. However, with careful handling, this shouldn’t be an issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR comes standard with a remote cable switch and a QD mount. There are no included lens covers, which would be a worthwhile addition to protect the laser apertures. The unit is compatible with standard Picatinny rail systems, allowing for easy integration with a wide range of weapon platforms.
Aftermarket accessories could include enhanced remote switches with different activation styles, or more robust lens covers for added protection. While the unit itself doesn’t offer much in the way of internal customization, its compatibility with standard rail systems opens up a world of mounting options.
Pros and Cons of Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR
Pros
- Multi-Functionality: Combines visible red laser, IR laser, and IR illuminator in one compact unit.
- Affordable Price: Offers similar performance to higher-end units at a significantly lower cost.
- Durable Construction: CNC machined housing provides excellent durability.
- QD Mount: Allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment.
- Easy to Use: Intuitive controls and straightforward adjustments.
Cons
- Remote Switch Stiffness: The remote cable switch can be slightly stiff initially.
- No Included Lens Covers: Lack of included lens covers leaves the laser apertures vulnerable to dust and debris.
Who Should Buy Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR?
The Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and hog hunters who need a versatile aiming solution for both day and night operations. This is also great for anyone who needs a budget friendly option, but does not want to sacrifice too much on the high end features. It’s a great option for responsible civilians looking for a reliable aiming device for home defense or recreational shooting.
This product might not be ideal for users who require extreme precision at very long distances (beyond 200 yards), as higher-end units may offer finer adjustments and brighter lasers. Those prioritizing ultra-lightweight setups might also find the weight slightly more than desired.
A must-have accessory would be some form of lens covers to protect the laser apertures. It would also be beneficial to have a more robust remote switch cable for added durability.
Conclusion on Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR
The Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR is an impressive multi-laser device that delivers exceptional value for its price. It offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and durability that rivals more expensive units on the market. The price is absolutely justified.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone looking for a versatile and reliable aiming solution without breaking the bank. The Holosun CA Visible Red Laser w/IR & IR is a game-changer for both day and night operations. Upgrade your aiming game today!