My first impression of Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight
The Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight promises enhanced accuracy and faster target acquisition for a popular concealed carry revolver. I was excited to get my hands on this upgrade, hoping it would provide a significant advantage in low-light self-defense scenarios. This particular model from Crimson Trace stood out due to its streamlined design and promise of rugged durability, crucial for a carry gun.
I had been looking for a way to improve my accuracy with my Taurus 85, particularly under stress. Standard iron sights can be challenging to use in a dynamic situation, and the promise of a laser-guided aiming point was appealing. Upon unboxing, the grips felt solid and well-made, fitting snugly in my hand. The polymer material seemed durable, and the activation button was intuitively placed.
Compared to a competing laser system that replaces the entire trigger guard, I found the Crimson Trace grips to be a much cleaner and more integrated solution. I had also considered a Viridian laser, but ultimately, I preferred the grip activation of the Crimson Trace. My initial impression was positive, although I was slightly concerned about the grip size, which seemed a bit smaller than the original Taurus grips.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight at an indoor shooting range. This allowed me to evaluate the laser’s effectiveness in a controlled environment. The laser was easy to activate with a natural grip, and the red dot was clearly visible on the target, even under the range’s fluorescent lighting.
The laser proved invaluable when practicing rapid target acquisition drills. My shot groupings were noticeably tighter with the laser than with the iron sights alone. However, I found the smaller grip size took some getting used to, initially impacting my recoil control slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Crimson Trace Lasergrip has proven to be quite reliable. It has been subjected to various conditions, including humid summer days and cold winter range sessions. The polymer grips have held up well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. The battery life seems adequate, lasting through numerous range sessions. This certainly outperforms other laser aiming solutions I have used on other platforms.
Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight
Specifications
The Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight is specifically designed for Taurus small-frame revolvers. It emits a 633nM red laser with a beam intensity of 5mW. The dot size is approximately 0.50 inches at 50 feet.
The grips weigh less than 1 ounce and are powered by a single CR2032 battery. The listed range is 50 feet. This impacts the performance because the user is able to aim at close distances, especially when a quick draw may be needed.
Performance & Functionality
The Crimson Trace Lasergrip excels at providing rapid and intuitive aiming. The laser is bright enough for indoor use and can be seen outdoors in shaded conditions. Accuracy is significantly improved in low-light scenarios.
However, the smaller grip size may not be ideal for all users, especially those with larger hands. The grip size may also negatively affect recoil control for those with larger hands. Despite this, the laser’s core functionality is excellent, meeting my expectations for a defensive firearm enhancement.
Design & Ergonomics
The polymer construction feels solid and durable. The grip activation is intuitive, requiring only a normal firing grip to activate the laser. The smaller grip size, while potentially a drawback for some, contributes to better concealability.
The design is well-integrated with the revolver, maintaining a low profile. The ease of use is excellent, with no learning curve for activation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Crimson Trace Lasergrip is built to withstand everyday carry and range use. The hard polymer material is resistant to scratches and impacts. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery replacement.
The laser module appears well-sealed and protected within the grip. Overall, it seems built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight does not have extensive customization options, focusing primarily on its core function. The grips are designed specifically for Taurus small-frame revolvers and are not universally compatible. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.
Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight
Pros
- Improved accuracy and faster target acquisition, particularly in low-light situations.
- Intuitive grip activation allows for natural and rapid engagement.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-term reliability.
- Streamlined design for enhanced concealability.
- Easy to install and maintain
Cons
- Smaller grip size may not be ideal for all hand sizes and can impact recoil control.
- Limited outdoor visibility in bright sunlight.
Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight?
Perfect for concealed carry permit holders who want to enhance their Taurus small-frame revolver’s low-light performance. This is also ideal for home defense enthusiasts who value quick target acquisition. The Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight would also be good for anyone with impaired vision looking for an aiming aid.
Those with very large hands or those who prioritize optimal recoil control might find the smaller grip size unsuitable. Individuals who frequently shoot in bright outdoor conditions may want to consider other aiming solutions with higher visibility. A must-have accessory would be a quality concealed carry holster designed for use with laser grips.
Conclusion on Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight
The Crimson Trace Lasergrip for Taurus Small Frame 5mW Red Laser Sight provides a significant enhancement to the Taurus small-frame revolver, improving accuracy and target acquisition in low-light scenarios. While the smaller grip size may not be ideal for everyone, the benefits of the laser outweigh this drawback for many users. At $239.95, the price is justified by the improved performance and added confidence it provides.
I would recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their Taurus small-frame revolver for defensive purposes. Consider this a vital upgrade for faster and more accurate target acquisition when fractions of seconds count.