Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight Review

My first impression of Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight

In the realm of tactical accessories, achieving peak performance demands a fusion of accuracy, visibility, and reliability. The Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight aims to deliver just that, combining a powerful green laser with a blindingly bright tactical light. It’s a bold claim in a market saturated with similar products, but Viridian has a reputation for quality that precedes them.

I was seeking a compact, yet potent aiming and illumination solution for my home defense pistol, something that wouldn’t add excessive bulk but would offer a distinct advantage in low-light scenarios. My search narrowed down to laser/light combos, and the X5L Gen3 stood out with its advertised 500-lumen output and highly visible green laser.

Upon unboxing, the Viridian X5L Gen3 immediately felt solid and well-constructed. The flat dark earth (FDE) finish is aesthetically pleasing and seems durable, while the unit’s weight gives it a reassuring heft without feeling cumbersome. Compared to Streamlight’s TLR-2 G and Surefire’s X400 Ultra, the X5L Gen3 appeared more streamlined and offered a rechargeable battery, a feature that swayed my decision.

My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism – can a single unit truly deliver both a high-quality laser and a powerful light? However, the reputation of Viridian and the promise of a potent, all-in-one solution left me eager to put the X5L Gen3 through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Viridian X5L Gen3 was at an indoor shooting range, primarily focusing on low-light drills. The controlled environment allowed me to truly assess the laser’s visibility and the light’s effectiveness at varying distances. The green laser proved exceptionally easy to acquire, even under the range’s fluorescent lighting, offering a significant advantage over traditional iron sights.

The 500-lumen light also performed admirably, providing ample illumination for target identification and engagement. The controls were intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. However, I did notice a slight flickering of the light during rapid firing, which raised a minor concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including approximately 500 rounds fired with the X5L Gen3 mounted, the unit has largely held up well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the housing, and the laser remains consistently zeroed. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth.

However, the flickering issue persisted, and the rechargeable battery life proved to be somewhat shorter than advertised. While the X5L Gen3 undoubtedly enhances target acquisition and visibility in low-light, the battery life and flickering issue are areas where I believe Viridian could improve. Compared to my past experiences with Streamlight products, the X5L Gen3 offers a brighter laser but falls slightly short in terms of light reliability and battery longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight

Specifications

The Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight boasts a robust set of specifications tailored for tactical applications. Key specifications include a 500-lumen output, a 5mW green laser with a 515 nm wavelength, and a range of 100 yards during the day and 2 miles at night. It weighs a mere 3.00 oz and utilizes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

• 500 Lumen Output: The intense 500-lumen beam provides excellent illumination for target identification and situational awareness in low-light environments.
• 5mW Green Laser: The highly visible green laser is easily acquired, even in daylight, offering a significant advantage in rapid target acquisition.
• 515 nm Wavelength: The specific wavelength of the green laser is key to its high visibility to the human eye.
• Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery: The inclusion of a rechargeable battery reduces the need for constant battery replacements, making it more cost-effective in the long run.
• Universal with Accessory Rail: The unit’s universal compatibility with accessory rails ensures easy mounting on a wide range of firearms.

These specifications translate to enhanced performance in critical situations. The high-powered light ensures you can clearly identify threats, while the bright green laser provides a precise aiming point, even under duress.

Performance & Functionality

The Viridian X5L Gen3 performs admirably in its intended role, offering a potent combination of laser accuracy and tactical light illumination. Its strengths lie in its rapid target acquisition, thanks to the bright green laser, and the ample illumination provided by the 500-lumen light. However, the aforementioned flickering issue and somewhat limited battery life are weaknesses that detract from its overall performance.

The X5L Gen3 largely meets my expectations, providing a noticeable advantage in low-light scenarios. However, the reliability issues prevent it from fully exceeding them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Viridian X5L Gen3 features a compact and streamlined design, constructed from durable materials. The flat dark earth finish not only looks appealing but also provides a degree of scratch resistance. The unit’s weight is well-balanced, adding minimal bulk to the host firearm.

The controls are generally user-friendly, although they could benefit from a slightly more tactile feel. The X5L Gen3 is easy to mount and operate, requiring minimal training to become proficient with its features.

Durability & Maintenance

The X5L Gen3 appears to be built to last, with a rugged housing that can withstand the rigors of regular use. Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. However, the long-term durability of the rechargeable battery remains to be seen.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Viridian X5L Gen3 comes with a removable, rechargeable battery and a universal mounting system. Customization options are limited to adjusting the laser’s windage and elevation. While it is compatible with most firearms equipped with a standard accessory rail, there are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the X5L Gen3.

Pros and Cons of Viridian X5L Gen3 Laser Tactical Light Combo 5mW Green Laser Sight