Let’s Dive into OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo
As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for affordable and reliable accessories to enhance my AR platform rifles. The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo caught my eye as a potentially budget-friendly option for adding both a visible laser and a weapon light. My primary interest stemmed from the need for a compact aiming solution for close-quarters scenarios and low-light conditions without breaking the bank.
The Firefield combo arrived in simple packaging, containing the unit itself, a pressure pad, a CR2 battery, and an adjustment tool. The initial impression was of a lightweight, compact design, which is a plus for minimizing added weight on the rifle. I immediately noted the aluminum construction, which suggested a reasonable level of durability for the price point.
I’ve used similar combo units from Streamlight and Sightmark in the past, both costing significantly more. I was curious to see if this Firefield offering could provide a comparable level of functionality at a fraction of the cost. My initial excitement was tempered by the price, which always raises questions about long-term reliability and performance. Time and testing would reveal if this combo was a diamond in the rough or just another budget accessory destined to disappoint.
Real-World Testing: Putting OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an indoor shooting range, focusing on close-quarters drills with my AR-15 pistol. I wanted to assess the Firefield combo’s ability to hold zero and the effectiveness of the laser and flashlight in a controlled environment. The range offered varying light conditions, allowing me to test the flashlight’s practical output.
During the first 50 rounds, the laser held zero reasonably well, but I noticed slight shifts requiring minor adjustments after each magazine. The 180-lumen flashlight, while adequate for indoor use, didn’t quite live up to its advertised brightness. The push-button operation felt intuitive, but the pressure pad connection seemed a bit loose, requiring careful handling to ensure consistent activation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continued use, the Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo’s limitations became more apparent. While the aluminum housing showed no significant signs of wear and tear, the laser’s zeroing consistently drifted after each range session. Cleaning was simple, involving just a quick wipe-down of the lens and housing.
Compared to my experiences with higher-end weapon lights and lasers, the Firefield combo’s performance was noticeably inferior. The budget-friendly price point reflected in its overall reliability and light output. It serves a purpose for basic, close-quarters applications, but it doesn’t match the durability or performance of more expensive alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo
Specifications
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo boasts several key specifications that define its intended use. It features a red laser with a 5mW output and a wavelength of 630-650 nm. The flashlight is rated at 180 lumens, utilizing an LED bulb.
The unit is powered by a single CR2 battery, offering a battery life of 1.5 to 40 hours, depending on usage. Its compact dimensions measure 2.2 inches in length, 2.25 inches in width, and 1.1 inches in height. Weighing in at just 3.4 ounces, it minimizes added weight to the rifle. The housing is constructed from aluminum, and the unit is rated IP55 for water resistance. It attaches to a standard Picatinny rail. These specifications suggest a lightweight, compact, and affordable aiming solution, but their real-world impact on performance is critical.
Performance & Functionality
The Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo delivers basic functionality, but it falls short of expectations in several key areas. The laser is easily visible indoors, but its effectiveness diminishes in bright daylight. The flashlight’s 180-lumen output is suitable for illuminating small rooms or close-quarters environments, but it lacks the power for effective target identification at longer ranges.
The primary weakness is the laser’s inability to consistently hold zero, requiring frequent adjustments and making it unreliable for precise aiming. The pressure pad connection also poses a problem, often disconnecting or failing to activate the laser or light. While the combo meets the basic requirement of providing a laser and a light source, its performance doesn’t inspire confidence in critical situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and mount on an AR-15 platform. The aluminum construction gives it a decent feel, but the overall build quality feels somewhat cheap. The push-button controls are intuitively placed, but the pressure pad connection feels flimsy.
The low-profile design minimizes obstruction of the user’s field of view, which is a plus. However, the laser adjustment screws lack detents, making precise zeroing a challenge. The unit’s ergonomics are adequate, but the overall design lacks the refinement and robustness found in higher-end alternatives.
Durability & Maintenance
The Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo’s durability is questionable, based on my experience. The aluminum housing provides some level of protection, but the internal components and pressure pad connection seem prone to failure. Maintenance is straightforward, involving only occasional cleaning, but the unit’s long-term reliability remains a concern.
Based on user feedback, the laser and light can break sooner rather than later, particularly with repeated rifle recoil. The overall durability is low to moderate, making it unsuitable for heavy use or harsh environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo includes a pressure pad, adjustment tool, and a CR2 battery. It offers limited customization options beyond basic windage and elevation adjustments for the laser. It’s designed to fit on standard Picatinny rails, making it compatible with most AR-15 platforms.
It is unlikely to be compatible with aftermarket accessories designed for higher-end laser/light combos due to its unique design and construction. The accessory options are limited to what comes in the box, restricting the user’s ability to tailor the unit to specific needs or preferences.
Pros and Cons of OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious users.
- Compact and lightweight design minimizes added weight on the rifle.
- Visible red laser is effective for close-quarters aiming in low-light conditions.
- Easy to mount on any standard Picatinny rail.
- Aluminum housing offers a decent level of durability for the price.
Cons
- Laser struggles to hold zero consistently under rifle recoil.
- Flashlight’s 180-lumen output is not bright enough for longer-range target identification.
- Pressure pad connection is flimsy and prone to failure.
- Overall build quality feels cheap and less durable than higher-end options.
- Battery life can be short with frequent use of both the laser and flashlight.
Who Should Buy OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo?
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious users.
- Compact and lightweight design minimizes added weight on the rifle.
- Visible red laser is effective for close-quarters aiming in low-light conditions.
- Easy to mount on any standard Picatinny rail.
- Aluminum housing offers a decent level of durability for the price.
Cons
- Laser struggles to hold zero consistently under rifle recoil.
- Flashlight’s 180-lumen output is not bright enough for longer-range target identification.
- Pressure pad connection is flimsy and prone to failure.
- Overall build quality feels cheap and less durable than higher-end options.
- Battery life can be short with frequent use of both the laser and flashlight.
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo is perfect for budget-minded shooters looking for a basic aiming solution for close-quarters scenarios. It may also be a good option for airsoft enthusiasts. It serves the needs of casual range shooters who prioritize affordability over top-tier performance.
This product should be avoided by anyone who requires a highly accurate, durable, and reliable aiming solution for professional or tactical applications. The inconsistent laser zeroing and limited flashlight output make it unsuitable for demanding situations. Anyone needing a durable unit for hunting or outdoor environments should also avoid this combo.
A must-have modification would be to secure the pressure pad connection with tape or a more robust connector to prevent accidental disconnections.
Conclusion on OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Firefield Charge AR Laser Sight/180 Lumen Flashlight Combo offers a basic level of functionality at an incredibly affordable price. It provides a visible laser and a flashlight in a compact package, making it suitable for close-quarters shooting and low-light conditions. However, its performance limitations, particularly the laser’s inability to hold zero, make it a less-than-ideal choice for serious shooters.
The value proposition is decent, considering the low price point, but buyers should be aware of the product’s limitations and potential reliability issues. I would recommend it with reservations to those on a very tight budget, emphasizing that it’s a basic accessory rather than a high-performance aiming solution. If you need something that will perform reliably under stress, spend more on a better product.