Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight Review

My first impression of Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight

The Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight arrived in a surprisingly compact package. I’ve used my fair share of laser sights over the years, from high-end military-grade units to budget-friendly options, and I was curious to see how this one, positioned at the lower end of the price spectrum, would perform. The Firefield name, while not synonymous with premium optics, has always represented a decent value proposition.

I was initially looking for a simple, lightweight laser for a dedicated AR pistol build. I wanted something that wouldn’t add significant weight or bulk, and more importantly, something easily visible for quick target acquisition in close-quarters scenarios. I had considered a few other brands, including some similarly priced lasers from NcSTAR and TruGlo. Ultimately, the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight’s published specs, particularly its compatibility with both Weaver and Picatinny rails, swayed me.

Unboxing the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight, I was immediately impressed by its relatively compact size and matte black finish. The aluminum construction felt reasonably solid, though not exceptionally robust. It certainly didn’t scream high-end, but for the price, the build quality seemed adequate.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t love at first sight, but the size, weight, and ease of mounting gave me hope that it could be a useful tool. I was eager to get it to the range and see how it performed in real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight was at an indoor shooting range. I mounted it on my AR pistol with a standard Picatinny rail. The mounting process was incredibly straightforward; the included hardware was sufficient, and the laser secured tightly to the rail without any wobble.

I tested the laser in a variety of lighting conditions, from brightly lit lanes to dimly lit areas simulating low-light scenarios. The red laser dot was easily visible in the brighter conditions out to around 15 yards. In the dimmer conditions, it was effective out to the claimed 20 yards. The push-button activation was responsive, and the pressure pad was easy to manipulate with my support hand. However, I found the pressure pad cable to be somewhat stiff and unwieldy, making precise placement a bit challenging.

After the first 50 rounds, the laser held its zero surprisingly well. I was pleasantly surprised by the initial stability. However, after about 100 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in the laser’s point of impact. I attributed this to the recoil of the AR pistol, which can be significant.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight has proven to be… adequate. It certainly hasn’t failed catastrophically, but its limitations have become more apparent.

Durability-wise, the matte black finish has held up well to minor bumps and scrapes. However, the windage and elevation adjustment screws feel somewhat fragile. The adjustment range is limited. I worry about stripping them if I were to make overly aggressive adjustments.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s really needed. However, battery life is a bit shorter than advertised. I’m getting closer to 30 hours on a CR2 battery, far short of the advertised 40, especially with intermittent use. This requires frequent battery replacements, increasing the overall running cost.

Compared to other lasers I’ve used, the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight falls squarely into the budget category. It offers basic functionality at a very affordable price point, but it lacks the robustness and precision of higher-end options. It’s a decent entry-level laser sight for casual use, but serious shooters or those requiring absolute reliability might want to look elsewhere.

Breaking Down the Features of Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight

Specifications

• Beam Intensity: 630-650nM. This determines the color and visibility of the laser dot.
• Dot Size: 1.50″ at 50 Yds. This specification is important for understanding the precision of the laser at different distances.
• Power: 5mW. This indicates the laser’s power output, which affects its visibility and safety.
• Range: 20 yds Day/300 yds Night. This specifies the effective range of the laser under different lighting conditions.
• Weight: 2.40 oz. This is a crucial factor for maintaining the balance and maneuverability of the firearm.
• Battery: CR2. This determines the type and availability of the battery required to power the laser.
• Color: Red. This indicates the color of the laser beam.
• Gun Model: AR-Platform. This specifies the intended firearm platform for the laser sight.

These specifications are fairly standard for a budget-friendly red laser sight. The 5mW power output is sufficient for indoor and low-light use. However, the 20-yard daytime range is a limitation for outdoor shooting in bright sunlight. The low weight is a definite plus, contributing to the overall handling of the AR platform.

Performance & Functionality

The Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight performs its basic function adequately. It projects a visible red dot that allows for quicker target acquisition in close-quarters scenarios.

The main strength of this laser is its simplicity and ease of use. The push-button and pressure pad activation are intuitive, and the mounting system is compatible with a wide range of firearms. The key weakness is its limited daytime visibility and tendency to lose zero after extended use.

Overall, the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight meets the basic expectations for a budget-friendly laser sight. It’s a functional tool for certain applications, but it’s not without its limitations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight is simple and functional. The aluminum construction feels reasonably solid, and the matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing.

The weight is minimal, which is a significant advantage. The laser doesn’t add noticeable bulk or weight to the AR platform. The push-button and pressure pad are well-placed and easy to operate. The only ergonomic drawback is the stiff pressure pad cable, which can be difficult to manage.

The Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight is user-friendly. There’s no significant learning curve. It’s easy to mount, adjust, and operate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight is acceptable for its price point. It’s not designed for extreme conditions, but it should withstand moderate use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. However, the fragile windage and elevation adjustment screws are a potential point of failure.

The longevity of the laser will likely depend on the intensity of use and the conditions in which it’s used. With proper care, it should provide reasonable service life, but it’s not likely to withstand heavy abuse.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight comes with a pressure pad, mounting hardware, and an Allen wrench for adjustments. There are no other significant accessories or customization options.

The laser is compatible with any firearm equipped with a Weaver or Picatinny rail. This allows for a wide range of mounting possibilities. The laser does not natively support other accessories like IR illuminators or alternative mounts.

Pros and Cons of Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight

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Who Should Buy Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight?

The Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight is perfect for recreational shooters, airsoft enthusiasts, and those looking for an affordable entry-level laser for home defense. It’s suitable for those who primarily shoot indoors or in low-light conditions and are not overly concerned with pinpoint accuracy at longer distances.

Those who should skip this product include serious competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, or anyone requiring absolute reliability and accuracy in demanding environments. Individuals who frequently shoot outdoors in bright sunlight or require a rugged, durable laser sight should also consider higher-end options.

A must-have accessory for this laser is a supply of CR2 batteries, given its shorter-than-advertised battery life. A thread-locking compound, such as Loctite, might be helpful for securing the mounting screws and preventing them from loosening due to recoil.

Conclusion on Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight

The Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight offers a basic level of functionality at a very attractive price point. It’s a decent option for those seeking an affordable and lightweight laser for close-quarters shooting in low-light environments.

The value proposition is reasonable, considering its low cost and ease of use. It’s not a high-performance optic, but it delivers acceptable performance for its intended purpose.

I would recommend the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight with reservations. It’s a good starting point for those new to laser sights or those on a tight budget. However, be aware of its limitations and be prepared to make frequent adjustments to maintain zero. If you’re looking for a robust, reliable, and highly accurate laser sight, you’ll need to invest in a more expensive option.

Ultimately, the Firefield Charge AR 5mW Red Laser Sight is what it is: a budget-friendly laser that provides basic functionality. If you go in with realistic expectations, you might find it to be a useful addition to your AR platform. Give it a try, but don’t expect miracles.

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