My first impression of Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight
The Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight promises to enhance the capabilities of two already popular concealed carry pistols. Crimson Trace is a respected name, known for integrating laser sights and lights seamlessly with firearms. This particular model combines a bright 150-lumen LED weapon light with a 5mW red laser, all in a compact, user-installable package.
I’ve always been a proponent of layered defense, and that includes equipping my carry pistols with aiming solutions beyond iron sights. My aging eyes aren’t getting any younger. I was looking for a way to increase my speed and accuracy in low-light scenarios.
Out of the box, the Laserguard Pro feels solid and well-made. The polymer housing blends nicely with the Glock frame. It adds minimal bulk.
Compared to a standalone weapon light or a trigger guard-mounted laser, the Laserguard Pro offers a streamlined all-in-one solution. I considered the Streamlight TLR-6. I also considered a separate laser and light setup, but the integrated design of the Crimson Trace appealed to me more. I was excited to see how the Instinctive Activation would work in practice.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an indoor shooting range. The lighting was varied from bright to dim. This allowed me to test the Laserguard Pro in multiple conditions. I tested it mounted on my Glock 43.
The Instinctive Activation was immediately impressive. Gripping the pistol naturally activated the laser and light. I found the laser dot to be easily visible even under the brighter range lights.
After about 100 rounds, I did notice a slight shift in the point of impact. This was likely due to the unit settling on the frame. I tightened the mounting screws and it seemed to resolve the issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying the Glock 43 with the Laserguard Pro, I became very comfortable with it. The unit adds very little noticeable bulk to the pistol. Drawing and firing became second nature.
The polymer housing has held up well to daily wear and tear. There are no noticeable scratches or signs of loosening. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session.
Compared to previous laser sights I’ve used, the Crimson Trace offers a superior level of integration and reliability. The Instinctive Activation is a game-changer. It has noticeably improved my speed and accuracy in target acquisition.
Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight
Specifications
- The Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight features a 633nM red laser. This provides a clear aiming point. The laser has a dot size of 0.50″ at 50 feet.
- It also has a 150 Lumen LED white light. This allows for target identification in low-light conditions. The unit is powered by a CR2 battery.
- The laser’s power output is 5mW. It is designed to be visible up to 50 feet. It is specifically designed for Glock 42/43/43X/48 models.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the effectiveness of the laser and light. A brighter light allows for better target identification. A visible laser enhances aiming speed and accuracy, especially in stressful situations. The Glock 42/43’s small size means a compact solution like the Laserguard Pro is ideal.
Performance & Functionality
The Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro performs its job exceptionally well. The laser is bright and easily visible in most lighting conditions. The 150-lumen light is sufficient for illuminating close-range targets.
The Instinctive Activation is the standout feature. It allows for instant activation of the laser and light when the pistol is gripped. There are also four modes of operation. They include laser only, light only, laser and light, and laser and light strobe.
The only weakness is the battery life. The CR2 battery does need to be replaced more frequently than some other weapon lights. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Laserguard Pro’s design is well thought out. The polymer housing seamlessly integrates with the Glock 42/43 frame. It adds minimal bulk and weight.
The Instinctive Activation button is perfectly positioned for natural grip activation. It’s very user-friendly with virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Laserguard Pro appears to be very durable. The polymer housing is robust. It is capable of withstanding daily wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Laserguard Pro itself does not offer many customization options. It’s a complete unit designed for specific Glock models. It replaces the factory trigger guard.
It is compatible with most holsters designed for the Glock 42/43. It is important to verify holster compatibility before purchasing. Aftermarket support is decent due to the Crimson Trace name.
Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight
Pros
- Instinctive Activation provides rapid deployment of laser and light.
- The integrated design minimizes bulk and weight on a concealed carry pistol.
- The bright 5mW red laser is highly visible in most lighting conditions.
- The 150-lumen LED light is adequate for close-range target identification.
- It is easy to install with no gunsmithing required.
Cons
- The CR2 battery life could be better.
- The $299.95 price point is a bit high compared to some competing options.
Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight?
The Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro is perfect for concealed carriers who want to enhance their Glock 42/43’s low-light capabilities. It’s great for those who prioritize speed and accuracy in target acquisition. This includes law enforcement, security professionals, and responsible citizens.
This product is not ideal for those who prefer to keep their pistols as minimalistic as possible. It’s also less appealing to those who prioritize maximum battery life.
A must-have accessory is a compatible holster designed to accommodate the Laserguard Pro. Consider purchasing extra CR2 batteries.
Conclusion on Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight
The Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro for Glock 42/43 5mW Red Laser Sight is an excellent addition to a concealed carry setup. It adds a significant boost in low-light aiming capabilities. The Instinctive Activation is a game-changer.
The price is justified by the quality and performance of the unit. The integrated design is well-executed. It offers a streamlined solution compared to separate laser and light options.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to improve the versatility of their Glock 42/43. Equip your pistol with the Crimson Trace Laserguard Pro and gain a decisive advantage in critical situations.