Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight Review

My first impression of Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight

The Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight promises to enhance the accuracy and target acquisition speed of one of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market. Crimson Trace is a well-known name in laser sighting systems, and this particular model boasts seamless integration with the M&P Shield, along with their signature Instinctive Activation. I was eager to see if this laser sight could truly live up to the hype and improve my shooting performance with my trusty Shield.

I’ve always been a proponent of iron sights, but I also understand the limitations, especially in low-light situations or for shooters with impaired vision. My wife, who also carries an M&P Shield, has occasionally expressed difficulty acquiring targets quickly. Therefore, I started looking at laser options to potentially improve her confidence and accuracy.

The Crimson Trace Laserguard arrived in a sleek, no-nonsense package. My first impression was that the build quality seemed robust and the polymer material felt durable. It fit seamlessly against the frame of the Shield. Picking it up, the weight addition was negligible, which is important for a concealed carry firearm.

I considered a few other laser sights before settling on the Crimson Trace. Specifically, I looked at Streamlight’s TLR-6, which combines a laser and light, and a couple of universal rail-mounted lasers. Ultimately, I chose the Laserguard due to its form-fitting design, the instinctive activation, and the reputation of Crimson Trace for reliability. The others seemed too bulky or less intuitive to operate.

Overall, my initial excitement was high. This seemed like a well-engineered product that could significantly improve the functionality of my M&P Shield. It looked professional, felt solid, and promised to be easy to use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Crimson Trace Laserguard installed on my S&W M&P Shield was illuminating, to say the least. I primarily tested it at an indoor shooting range, focusing on distances of 7, 15, and 25 yards. The controlled environment allowed me to focus on the laser’s performance without external distractions.

The green laser dot was easily visible, even under the bright indoor lighting of the range. Acquiring the target was noticeably faster compared to using iron sights alone. The Instinctive Activation worked flawlessly; the laser activated immediately upon gripping the pistol in a natural firing position. This feature is a game-changer for quick target acquisition in a defensive situation.

One initial issue was the laser’s alignment. It was slightly off out of the box, requiring adjustments for both windage and elevation. However, the included tool made the adjustments straightforward, and after a few minutes, I had the laser zeroed in at 15 yards. The initial adjustment was the only snag I encountered.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Crimson Trace Laserguard has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my M&P Shield. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through the pistol with the laser attached, and it has held zero remarkably well. Only minor adjustments were needed after the first few range sessions.

The Laserguard shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The polymer material has held up well against the friction of holstering and drawing. The battery life is also commendable; I’m still on the original battery after several months of regular use. The unit is easy to wipe down and keep clean.

Compared to my previous experiences with other laser aiming devices, the Crimson Trace stands out for its intuitive design, ease of use, and reliability. It doesn’t add significant bulk to the pistol, and the Instinctive Activation makes it incredibly fast to deploy in a self-defense scenario. It outperforms other laser systems I’ve tested, particularly those with less intuitive activation methods.

Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight

Specifications

The Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm and .40 S&W pistols. The laser emits a 5mW green beam at a wavelength of 532nM. The dot size is approximately 0.50 inches at 50 feet.

The laser has an effective range of up to 50 feet, although visibility can extend further in low-light conditions. It is powered by a single 1/3N battery. The green laser is significantly more visible to the human eye compared to red lasers, especially in daylight.

These specifications translate to a highly visible and accurate aiming solution for concealed carry. The 5mW green laser is powerful enough to be seen in various lighting conditions, providing a distinct advantage in target acquisition. The compact design ensures it doesn’t interfere with the concealability of the M&P Shield.

Performance & Functionality

The Crimson Trace Laserguard excels in its primary function: providing a fast and accurate aiming point. The laser dot is crisp and clear, making it easy to place shots on target quickly. The Instinctive Activation is a standout feature, allowing for immediate laser activation upon gripping the pistol.

The strengths of the Laserguard lie in its ease of use, rapid deployment, and enhanced visibility. Its main weakness is the relatively short battery life compared to some other electronic devices, requiring periodic battery replacements. Despite that, it meets and exceeds expectations for a compact laser sighting system.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Crimson Trace Laserguard is excellent. The polymer housing feels durable and well-made. Its lightweight design doesn’t significantly alter the balance or feel of the M&P Shield.

The Laserguard is incredibly user-friendly. The Instinctive Activation eliminates the need for fumbling with buttons or switches. Adjusting the windage and elevation is simple using the included tool.

Durability & Maintenance

The Crimson Trace Laserguard is built to last. The polymer material is resistant to scratches and impacts. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Wiping down the unit with a clean cloth is usually sufficient. Battery replacement is straightforward, requiring only a small screwdriver.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crimson Trace Laserguard comes with the necessary tools for installation and adjustment. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its primary function is to provide a laser aiming point, which it does exceptionally well. Aftermarket holsters specifically designed to accommodate the Laserguard are readily available.

The Laserguard seamlessly integrates with the M&P Shield without interfering with the pistol’s other features. While there are no interchangeable grips or modules for the Laserguard itself, its compatibility with a wide range of holsters makes it a versatile addition to the M&P Shield platform. The seamless integration is a great asset.

Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Laserguard for S&W M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W 5mW Green Laser Sight