Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail Review

Let’s Dive into Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail

The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail from Barska is a weapon-mounted aiming solution designed for rapid target acquisition in various lighting conditions. Featuring a high-visibility green laser, a built-in Picatinny rail for accessory mounting, and a rugged aluminum construction, this laser sight aims to bridge the gap between tactical functionality and affordability. But does it live up to the hype, or is it just another gadget destined to collect dust in the gear closet?

My need for a reliable aiming solution stems from years spent participating in tactical training scenarios and low-light shooting competitions. I needed a laser sight that could withstand the rigors of regular use, offer quick and accurate target acquisition, and integrate seamlessly with my existing firearms. I’ve always appreciated the ability to quickly acquire and engage targets, especially when time is of the essence.

Upon unboxing, the Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail felt surprisingly solid. The aluminum body exudes a sense of robustness, and the matte black finish gives it a tactical aesthetic. The weight is noticeable but not excessive, and the built-in Picatinny rail feels securely attached.

I considered other options, such as the Streamlight TLR-6 (integrated light/laser combo) and the Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro (another laser/light combo). I ultimately chose the Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail because I wanted a dedicated laser sight with a visible green beam and the added versatility of the integrated rail. The Barska seemed to offer the best balance of features and value.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed decent for the price point, and the green laser was indeed bright and highly visible. It was exciting to think about the possibilities in training scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail at an outdoor shooting range during a bright, sunny day. Mounting was straightforward on my AR-15 pistol; the integrated Weaver-style mount clamped securely to the Picatinny rail. Adjusting the windage and elevation was also simple, thanks to the clearly marked adjustment screws.

Performance was decent, although the green laser was harder to see in direct sunlight at longer distances (beyond 50 yards). Under overcast skies and in shaded areas, however, the laser was highly visible and allowed for rapid target acquisition. The included pressure switch worked reliably, though I personally preferred using the on/off slide switch for simplicity.

The only initial issue I encountered was that the crossbar screw worked itself loose after about 50 rounds, but tightening it resolved the problem quickly. Also the laser needed more adjustments than expected to get sighted-in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail has held up reasonably well. There are a few minor scratches on the finish, but the laser itself continues to function flawlessly. I did use Loctite to secure the mount to prevent any further loosening.

The aluminum construction has proven to be durable, withstanding the recoil of my AR-15 pistol without any issues. Maintenance is simple – just wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use.

Compared to a higher-end laser sight I’ve used in the past (a much more expensive Steiner DBAL-A3), the Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail obviously doesn’t offer the same level of performance or features. However, for its price point, it provides a surprisingly effective aiming solution. It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, visible laser sight.

Breaking Down the Features of Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail

Specifications

• The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail features a 5mW green laser output, providing excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. This is crucial for quick target acquisition, especially in low-light scenarios.
• It utilizes a 532nm wavelength, which is the standard for green lasers and ensures optimal brightness and clarity. This ensures the laser is easily visible.
• The manufacturer states a maximum range of 1000 yards, though practical visibility is significantly reduced in bright daylight. This is a theoretical maximum range, and practical use will depend on ambient lighting.
• The attachment type is Weaver/Picatinny, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms. This universal mounting system adds to its versatility.
• It’s powered by a CR123A battery, offering a good balance of runtime and availability. Barska also sells this battery.
• The laser sight is constructed from aluminum, providing a durable and lightweight platform. This Aluminum construction is key to its ruggedness.
• It measures 2.83 inches in length, 3.15 inches in width, and 1.72 inches in height, making it relatively compact and suitable for various firearm platforms. It’s not as small as some pistol lasers, but it is good for carbines and rifles.
• The weight is 0.35 lbs, which is acceptable for a laser sight with a built-in rail. This weight does not add much to the overall firearm.
• Included accessories are a Momentary On/Off Long Cable Switch for remote activation. This provides flexibility in how the laser is activated.

Performance & Functionality

The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail performs its primary function – providing a visible aiming point – reasonably well. In low-light conditions, the green laser is bright and easy to see, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition. It may be difficult to use for precise aiming in bright, sunny conditions, though.

One notable strength is the integrated Picatinny rail, which allows for the attachment of accessories such as weapon lights or foregrips. This adds versatility to the laser sight and allows for customization of the firearm. The built-in rail is a nice feature.

A weakness is the visibility of the laser in bright daylight. While it’s still visible, it’s significantly less effective than in low-light conditions. Another weakness is the need to use Loctite to keep the crossbar screw secured.

Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly laser sight. It provides a visible aiming point, but it’s not without its limitations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail features a solid aluminum build that feels durable and well-made. The matte black finish gives it a tactical look, and the overall design is relatively compact. The aluminum is key to durability.

The laser sight is reasonably user-friendly, with clearly marked windage and elevation adjustments. The on/off switch is easy to access, and the included pressure switch provides additional flexibility. There is a slight learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum construction suggests a decent lifespan, but I’ve only had it for several months. So far, it has held up well to regular use and recoil. Time will tell how long it lasts.

Maintenance is straightforward – just wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required. The simple design aids in maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail comes with a momentary on/off long cable switch. This allows for remote activation of the laser.

The integrated Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as weapon lights, foregrips, or other tactical equipment. It is compatible with most standard Picatinny-compatible accessories. The built-in rail provides customization options.

Pros and Cons of Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail

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Who Should Buy Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail?

The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail is perfect for:

• Home defense enthusiasts seeking a quick and effective aiming solution.
• Tactical shooters who need a visible laser for low-light scenarios.
• Hobbyists looking to add a laser sight to their AR-15 or other compatible firearm.

Those who should skip this product:

• Competitive shooters who require extreme precision and long-range visibility.
• Users who primarily shoot in bright daylight.
• Those seeking a very compact laser sight for subcompact pistols.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A quality weapon light for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
• Loctite threadlocker to secure the mount.

Conclusion on Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail

The Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail is a decent budget-friendly option for those seeking a visible green laser sight. While it has its limitations, such as reduced visibility in bright daylight and a somewhat bulky design, it offers good value for the money. It is constructed by Barska.

The price is justified for the features and performance it provides. It offers a decent laser visibility and provides a Picatinny rail for extra accessories.

I would personally recommend it to those who are looking for an affordable and functional laser sight for home defense or tactical applications in low-light environments. If you’re on a budget and need a visible laser, this is a solid option. So, if you’re ready to enhance your aiming capabilities, consider giving the Barska GLX 5mW Green Laser Sight w/ Built-in Picatinny Rail a try.