Holosun LS117 Laser Sight Review

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight Made a Bold First Impression

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight isn’t just another aiming device; it’s a compact, rugged, and effective infrared laser aiming solution specifically designed for use with night vision devices. Holosun, known for its quality and innovation, offers a product that promises pinpoint accuracy in low-light conditions, empowering the user with enhanced target acquisition. This IR laser sight immediately piqued my interest due to my increased need for reliable nighttime hunting solutions.

My property borders a densely wooded area where nocturnal wildlife thrives, especially during hunting season. Coyotes, hogs, and other varmints were causing significant damage to my land, and a traditional white light setup was proving insufficient and spooking the animals. I needed a discreet and effective aiming solution that would work seamlessly with my night vision monocular, thus leading me to explore the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight.

Upon unboxing the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The 7075-aluminum housing felt incredibly durable, and the matte black anodized finish gave it a sleek, tactical appearance. The quick-release Picatinny rail mount felt solid and secure, promising a stable platform for the laser.

Compared to the Steiner eOptics DBAL-I2 and the ATN Mars IR Laser Illuminator (both significantly more expensive), the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight presented a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features. I chose the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight over the others primarily due to its combination of price, durability, and the manufacturer’s reputation for reliable optics. The single AA battery operation was also a major draw, as it simplified logistics.

My first impression of the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight was one of cautious optimism that quickly morphed into genuine excitement. The unit felt incredibly well-built and its simple design hinted at ease of use, a crucial factor when operating in the dark. I was genuinely eager to put it through its paces and discover if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Holosun LS117 Laser Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight was my personal shooting range, set up on my property to simulate nighttime hunting conditions. I paired the laser sight with my PVS-14 night vision monocular mounted on my AR-15 platform. The dark, moonless night provided the perfect setting to evaluate the LS117IR‘s performance.

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight excelled, even in the slightly foggy conditions. The IR laser was clearly visible through my night vision, providing a crisp and defined aiming point. The intuitive tactile windage and elevation adjustments made zeroing the laser a breeze, and the quick-release mount held securely throughout my testing.

I experienced no initial issues with the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight. Its simple controls and clear instruction manual eliminated any learning curve. The remote pressure switch was responsive and allowed for seamless activation of the laser without disrupting my shooting grip.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight has proven to be a remarkably reliable piece of equipment. I’ve taken it on numerous nighttime hunts, through brush, rain, and even light snow, and it has consistently performed without a hitch. The aluminum housing has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear despite the rough handling.

The matte black anodized finish has proven to be quite durable, resisting scratches and abrasions. The battery life, as advertised, has been outstanding; I’m still on the original AA battery after numerous hours of use.

Compared to some of the cheaper IR lasers I’ve used in the past, the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight offers a vastly superior user experience. The beam is brighter, the adjustments are more precise, and the overall build quality is significantly better. It has definitely exceeded my expectations, providing a reliable and effective aiming solution for my nighttime hunting needs.

Breaking Down the Features of Holosun LS117 Laser Sight

Specifications

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight boasts impressive specifications for its price point. It features a Class IIIa IR laser, ensuring it is powerful enough for effective target designation without posing excessive risk.

  • Material: The 7075-aluminum housing provides exceptional durability while keeping the weight manageable. This is crucial for maintaining weapon balance.
  • Battery: It is powered by a single AA battery, offering up to 5000 hours of operation. This eliminates the need for proprietary or expensive battery types.
  • Mount: The Quick Release Picatinny rail mount allows for easy attachment and removal, maintaining zero when reattached. This is essential for quickly switching between different weapons.
  • Adjustments: Tactile windage and elevation adjustments enable precise zeroing. The tactile clicks are easily felt even with gloves.
  • Switch: The rear-facing selector switch offers Constant ON, OFF, and remote pressure switch activation. This provides versatile control options for different scenarios.

These specifications translate to a reliable and user-friendly experience. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of field use, while the long battery life minimizes downtime.

Performance & Functionality

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate infrared aiming point for use with night vision devices. The laser is bright and easily visible through my PVS-14, even at longer ranges.

The windage and elevation adjustments are precise and repeatable, allowing for easy zeroing and fine-tuning. The quick-release mount holds zero exceptionally well. I’ve experienced no noticeable shift in point of impact after removing and reattaching the unit.

One minor area for improvement would be the brightness of the IR laser. While perfectly adequate for most scenarios, it could be slightly brighter for use in extremely challenging conditions. Overall, however, the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight meets and even exceeds my expectations in terms of performance and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight prioritizes functionality and durability. The aluminum housing feels incredibly solid and well-made, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand abuse.

The unit is compact and lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the weapon. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive, even when wearing gloves.

The ergonomic design makes it a pleasure to use, even during extended shooting sessions. The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight has a user-friendly design that allows for effortless installation and operation, with no complex steps or difficult learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight is built to last. The robust aluminum housing and durable finish ensure it can withstand the rigors of field use.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. The sealed design helps to prevent dust and moisture from entering the unit.

I expect the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight to provide years of reliable service with proper care. It’s a testament to Holosun‘s commitment to quality and durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight comes with a remote pressure switch for convenient activation. This allows for hands-free operation, enhancing control.

While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Holosun, the Picatinny rail mount allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. The unit is compatible with most standard Picatinny rail systems, making it easy to integrate into existing weapon setups.

You can easily add rail-mounted light sources or other tactical accessories to your firearm with the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight still mounted. The unit also offers compatibility with third-party pressure switch mounting solutions for customized placement.

Pros and Cons of Holosun LS117 Laser Sight

Pros

  • Excellent Value: Provides high-end performance at a mid-range price.
  • Durable Build: Constructed from rugged 7075-aluminum.
  • Long Battery Life: Up to 5000 hours on a single AA battery.
  • Precise Adjustments: Tactile windage and elevation adjustments for accurate zeroing.
  • Easy to Use: Simple controls and intuitive design for seamless operation.

Cons

  • IR Laser Brightness: Could be slightly brighter for optimal performance in extremely challenging conditions.
  • No Included Lens Cover: A protective lens cover would be a welcome addition.


Who Should Buy Holosun LS117 Laser Sight?

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight is perfect for hunters, law enforcement professionals, and tactical shooters who require a reliable and accurate infrared aiming solution for use with night vision devices. It is an ideal choice for those operating in low-light environments where target identification and acquisition are critical.

Hobbyist users with dedicated night vision setups may also find its versatility an advantage. The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight is not the best choice for individuals who do not own night vision devices. It is an infrared laser and thus invisible to the naked eye.

A quality night vision monocular or goggle system is a must-have accessory to fully utilize its capabilities. Extra AA batteries and a Picatinny rail-mounted weapon are also crucial for field use.

Conclusion on Holosun LS117 Laser Sight

The Holosun LS117 Laser Sight is a standout product in the IR laser aiming device market. It delivers exceptional performance, durability, and ease of use at a price point that is hard to beat.

The value proposition is undeniable; you get a high-quality, reliable IR laser sight without breaking the bank. Yes, the price is justified by the performance and reliability I have experienced firsthand.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight to anyone seeking a dependable infrared aiming solution for their night vision setup. Don’t hesitate, enhance your low-light capabilities and invest in the Holosun LS117 Laser Sight today!


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