The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight Made a Bold First Impression
The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight promises to be a versatile addition to any AR platform, combining a green laser and an LED flashlight into a single, compact unit. As someone who’s spent over a decade rigging out ARs for various scenarios – from tactical training to nighttime hog hunts – I was intrigued by the potential for streamlining my setup with this combo. The allure of rapid target acquisition in low-light conditions, coupled with the convenience of an integrated flashlight, definitely piqued my interest.
I was searching for a compact, all-in-one aiming solution for my patrol rifle. I wanted something that could quickly transition from day to night use without requiring multiple attachments. When I first got my hands on the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight, the lightweight aluminum construction felt reasonably solid. However, the pressure switch cable seemed a bit thin.
I considered the Sightmark LoPro Combo and the Streamlight TLR-VIR II. I opted for the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight hoping to save some money and consolidate my accessories. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, but the overall feel didn’t exactly inspire confidence.
Real-World Testing: Putting Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight to my local range for some initial testing. I primarily used it on my AR-15 chambered in 5.56, setting up targets at varying distances. While the green laser was easily visible during the overcast morning, the flashlight’s 180 lumens felt somewhat underwhelming.
The pressure switch, unfortunately, became problematic almost immediately. After only a few uses, the connection became loose, causing intermittent activation of both the laser and flashlight. This occurred during a moderately paced drill, and frankly, it was frustrating.
Extended Use & Reliability
After just a few range sessions, the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight started showing signs of premature wear. The finish began to chip around the mounting points, and the aforementioned pressure switch issue became even more prevalent.
Cleaning was relatively straightforward, but the fragility of the pressure switch connection made me hesitant to apply any significant pressure. Comparing it to my experiences with more robust lights and lasers, the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight was a disappointment in terms of long-term reliability. It definitely didn’t perform as well as some other similar options on the market.
Breaking Down the Features of Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight
Specifications
- The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight features a 5mW green laser. This provides decent visibility in daylight up to 50 yards and nighttime visibility out to 600 yards.
- It also features a 180 Lumen LED Flashlight. This is intended for close-range target acquisition in complete darkness.
- The unit is powered by a single CR2 battery. This is convenient, but CR2 batteries are less common than AA or AAA.
- It’s constructed from aluminum with a matte black finish. This makes it lightweight, but the overall durability is questionable.
- It is compatible with Weaver and Picatinny mounts. This ensures easy attachment to most AR platforms.
These specifications suggest a decent, budget-friendly option for AR owners. However, the low lumen output of the flashlight and the questionable durability of the pressure switch detract from its overall appeal.
Performance & Functionality
When the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight is functioning correctly, the green laser provides adequate accuracy for quick target acquisition. The flashlight, however, is noticeably underpowered compared to dedicated weapon lights.
The main weakness is the aforementioned pressure switch connection. It renders the entire unit unreliable. It simply doesn’t meet my expectations for a product designed for tactical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight is relatively compact and lightweight, which is a definite plus. The push-button and pressure pad operation is straightforward, but the flimsy connection point of the pressure pad is a major design flaw.
The learning curve is minimal, but the product’s overall design feels cheap and prone to failure. The location of the battery compartment also requires some fiddling during battery replacement.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight‘s lifespan is questionable, especially with regular use. The aluminum construction seems adequate, but the weak point of the pressure switch cable is a critical failure point.
Maintenance involves basic cleaning, but the overall build quality doesn’t inspire confidence in its ability to withstand harsh conditions. Regular field use will likely lead to premature failure, based on my experience.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight comes with a pressure pad and mounting hardware. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options specifically designed for this unit.
While the Weaver and Picatinny compatibility allows for mounting on various platforms, its proprietary design limits further customization. Replacing the pressure switch with a more robust alternative would be a significant improvement.
Pros and Cons of Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight
Pros
- Adequate green laser visibility for daytime and nighttime use.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Compatible with Weaver and Picatinny mounts for easy installation.
- Simple push-button and pressure pad operation.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to high-end laser/light combos.
Cons
- Flimsy pressure switch connection is prone to failure.
- Underpowered 180 Lumen LED flashlight.
- Questionable overall durability.
Who Should Buy Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight?
The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight might be suitable for recreational shooters seeking an affordable laser/light combo for occasional range use. It could also work for those who prioritize lightweight and compact design over rugged durability.
However, I cannot recommend this product for serious tactical applications, home defense, or anyone who relies on their equipment in demanding environments. Skip this product if you need a robust and reliable aiming solution. Must-have modifications would include replacing the pressure switch with a higher quality alternative, if possible.
Conclusion on Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight
The Firefield Charge AR with LED Flashlight 5mW Green Laser Sight promises versatility but ultimately falls short due to its critical design flaws. The flimsy pressure switch connection and underpowered flashlight detract significantly from its overall value.
The low price point might be tempting, but the lack of durability makes it a questionable investment in the long run. As much as I wanted to like this product, I cannot recommend it based on my testing and experiences. Save your money and invest in a more robust and reliable laser/light combo from a reputable manufacturer.