First Impressions of Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870
The Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 promises to be a game-changer for shotgun enthusiasts, offering rapid target acquisition and enhanced accuracy in a sleek, user-friendly package. From Crimson Trace, a company known for its innovative laser sighting solutions, this product aims to bring the advantages of laser aiming to the iconic Remington 870 shotgun. The integration of a powerful red laser into a saddle mount, along with ambidextrous activation, immediately caught my attention, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions.
My journey to this product stemmed from a need for faster target acquisition in low-light scenarios during home defense drills. Traditional iron sights can be challenging to use quickly and effectively under stress, and I sought a solution that would improve my speed and precision. The Crimson Trace LS-870 seemed like the perfect answer, promising intuitive operation and a clear aiming point in any lighting condition.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the Crimson Trace LS-870’s robust design and solid feel. The polymer construction felt durable and well-made, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of regular use. The unit’s weight was noticeable but not excessive, indicating a balance between ruggedness and practicality. Compared to similar laser sighting systems that often involve complicated mounting procedures, the Lasersaddle’s promise of seamless integration with the Remington 870 receiver was a major selling point.
I considered other options like rail-mounted lasers or dedicated forend lasers, but the Lasersaddle’s low profile and ambidextrous activation were key factors in my decision. Rail-mounted systems can add unnecessary bulk, and forend lasers often require altering my grip. The Lasersaddle’s design allows for a natural, intuitive grip while providing instant access to the laser. My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism; I was eager to see if the Crimson Trace LS-870 lived up to its promises on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 at my local shooting range. The range offered both indoor and outdoor facilities, allowing me to evaluate the laser’s performance in varying lighting conditions. I used my trusty Remington 870 12-gauge, carefully ensuring the Lasersaddle was securely mounted according to the instructions.
The Crimson Trace LS-870 performed exceptionally well in both bright daylight and low-light indoor conditions. The bright red laser was easily visible against various targets, and the ambidextrous activation pads allowed for intuitive and rapid engagement. The only initial challenge was fine-tuning the windage and elevation adjustments, which required a bit of patience but ultimately resulted in precise alignment with the shotgun’s point of impact. After about an hour of shooting, I noticed a slight loosening of the mounting screws, which necessitated a quick re-tightening.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Crimson Trace LS-870 has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my Remington 870. I’ve taken it through multiple range sessions, as well as a weekend training course that simulated various tactical scenarios. The Lasersaddle has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The polymer construction has proven to be durable, resisting scratches and impacts. Regular cleaning and maintenance involve simply wiping down the unit with a damp cloth and occasionally checking the tightness of the mounting screws. Compared to my previous experiences with other laser sighting systems, the Crimson Trace LS-870 has consistently outperformed them in terms of ease of use, reliability, and overall performance. It remains securely mounted and the laser has maintained its zero even after extended use.
Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870
Specifications
The Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 is designed specifically for the Remington 870 and Tac-14 12-gauge shotguns. It features a 5mW red laser for rapid target acquisition. The unit is constructed from a durable polymer material.
The Lasersaddle mounts directly to the receiver of the shotgun, replacing the factory trigger pin, and offers multiple ambidextrous activation pad points. It also includes a master on/off switch for complete power control. These specifications are crucial for its intended purpose, ensuring seamless integration with the Remington 870 platform and providing intuitive operation in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 excels in enhancing the speed and accuracy of target engagement. The bright red laser is highly visible, allowing for quick and precise aiming, particularly in low-light conditions. The ambidextrous activation pads provide intuitive access to the laser, enabling shooters to maintain a natural grip while engaging targets.
One potential weakness is the limited range of the red laser in bright daylight, where it may be less visible at longer distances. Overall, the Crimson Trace LS-870 meets and exceeds expectations, providing a significant improvement in target acquisition and aiming speed.
Design & Ergonomics
The Crimson Trace LS-870 boasts a sleek and low-profile design that integrates seamlessly with the Remington 870. The polymer construction is lightweight yet durable, contributing to comfortable handling. The ambidextrous activation pads are strategically placed for easy access, and the overall design promotes a natural and intuitive grip.
There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the windage and elevation settings, but the included instructions are clear and easy to follow. The ergonomics are well-considered, ensuring comfortable and effective operation in a variety of shooting scenarios.
Durability & Maintenance
The Crimson Trace LS-870’s durable polymer construction is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The unit has shown no signs of significant wear and tear after several weeks of use, including exposure to various weather conditions. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of the mounting screws.
The Crimson Trace LS-870 is built to last, providing a reliable and long-lasting laser sighting solution for the Remington 870. Its robust design and simple maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for both recreational and professional shooters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 comes with all the necessary mounting hardware and adjustment tools. It is not designed for extensive customization, as its primary function is to provide a simple and effective laser sighting solution. However, it is compatible with various Remington 870 accessories, such as slings and shell carriers, without interference.
The lack of extensive customization options is a trade-off for the unit’s simplicity and ease of use. The Crimson Trace LS-870 focuses on delivering a core functionality and works well with the shotgun’s existing accessories.
Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870
Pros
- Rapid Target Acquisition: The bright red laser allows for incredibly fast target engagement, particularly in low-light environments.
- Ambidextrous Activation: The strategically placed activation pads provide intuitive access to the laser for both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Durable Construction: The polymer material is lightweight yet rugged, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: The Lasersaddle mounts easily to the Remington 870 receiver with minimal tools or modifications.
- Enhanced Accuracy: The laser provides a clear and precise aiming point, improving overall shooting accuracy.
Cons
- Visibility in Bright Daylight: The red laser may be less visible at longer distances in bright sunlight.
- Mounting Screw Tightness: The mounting screws may require occasional re-tightening to ensure a secure fit.
Who Should Buy Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870?
The Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 is perfect for home defense enthusiasts, tactical shooters, and law enforcement professionals who rely on the Remington 870 platform. It is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to enhance their target acquisition speed and accuracy in low-light conditions. This product is also beneficial for shooters who may have difficulty using traditional iron sights.
This product may not be ideal for competitive shooters who require extreme precision at longer ranges or those who primarily shoot in bright daylight conditions. Those seeking extensive customization options may also want to explore alternative laser sighting systems. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality gun cleaning kit to ensure the Remington 870 is always in optimal working condition.
Conclusion on Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870
The Crimson Trace LS-870 Lasersaddle Laser Sight for Remington 870 is a well-designed and effective laser sighting solution that significantly enhances the performance of the Remington 870 shotgun. Its rapid target acquisition, ambidextrous activation, and durable construction make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. At a price of $117.77, the Crimson Trace LS-870 offers a compelling value proposition, providing a significant improvement in performance and usability without breaking the bank.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Crimson Trace LS-870 to anyone seeking to improve their shooting speed and accuracy, particularly in low-light scenarios. It’s a reliable, easy-to-use, and well-designed product that lives up to its promises. Upgrade your Remington 870 today and experience the difference a laser sighting system can make!