First Impressions of Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo promises to be a versatile addition to any pistol, offering both a laser aiming system and a bright flashlight in a compact package. Tacticon Armament aims to provide a reliable aiming and illumination solution for standard and sub-compact pistols with rails, and at a price point that’s hard to ignore. This combo piqued my interest because I’ve been searching for an affordable yet functional laser/light combo for my Glock 19, something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered decent performance for home defense and range practice.
My search for a reliable pistol light and laser combination stems from a near miss during a late-night property check. The shadows played tricks on me, and I realized the limitations of relying solely on ambient light. I considered Streamlight and SureFire, but the price points were significantly higher, prompting me to explore more budget-friendly options like the Tacticon Armament FireFly V5. Upon unboxing, the FireFly V5 felt surprisingly solid for its price. The polymer body seemed robust, and the ambidextrous on/off switch had a reassuring click.
The weight of 1.9 oz is negligible. Compared to the bulkier Olight Baldr Pro, the FireFly V5 seemed streamlined and less likely to affect the pistol’s balance. My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism. I was eager to see if its real-world performance matched its promising first impression, or if the low price reflected compromised quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo at an indoor shooting range, mounting it on my Glock 19. The environment was controlled, allowing me to focus solely on the device’s functionality. The 500-lumen light proved adequate for target identification at the range, while the green laser was clearly visible even under the bright indoor lights. I did find the on/off switch a little stiff at first, but it became easier to manipulate after a few repetitions.
During my first session, the unit stayed securely mounted to the rail despite the recoil. I experienced no immediate issues. I was initially concerned about the battery life, but the FireFly V5 lasted through my entire two-hour range session without dimming.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range trips and dry-fire practice sessions, the Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 has held up reasonably well. I’ve noticed some minor wear marks on the polymer body, but nothing that impacts its functionality. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each range session keeps it in good condition.
Compared to my previous experience with a similar, but even cheaper, laser/light combo that failed after only a few uses, the FireFly V5 is a definite step up. It doesn’t outperform higher-end models in terms of raw brightness or laser clarity, but for its price, it provides a solid and reliable performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo
Specifications
- The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo features a 500-lumen light output, providing sufficient illumination for close-range target identification. This brightness is suitable for indoor use and dimly lit outdoor environments.
- It operates on a Lithium-Ion battery, offering a balance between power and runtime. The runtime is stated as Red laser-12 hours, Green/Blue laser-6 hours, which is acceptable for most uses.
- The unit is designed to be Universal, fitting standard and sub-compact pistols with Picatinny rails. This compatibility makes it a versatile option for various firearms.
- It measures 2.625 inches in length and weighs only 1.9 ounces, keeping the firearm lightweight and easy to handle. This compact size ensures it doesn’t significantly impact the pistol’s balance.
- Constructed from Polymer, the FireFly V5 offers a lightweight yet durable build. This material helps keep the cost down without sacrificing too much in terms of robustness.
These specifications highlight the FireFly V5‘s focus on being lightweight, compact, and versatile. The light output is adequate for most close-quarters scenarios, and the battery life is reasonable.
Performance & Functionality
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo performs its job adequately, providing both illumination and laser aiming capabilities. At the range, the laser was easy to zero and held its zero throughout multiple magazines. The flashlight, while not blindingly bright, provided enough light to clearly identify targets at typical self-defense distances.
The ambidextrous on/off switch is functional. It could be slightly more tactile. The windage and elevation adjustments work as expected, allowing for precise laser alignment. A weakness is the polymer construction, which is less robust than aluminum.
For its price, it meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo features a functional design with a focus on simplicity. The polymer construction keeps the weight down. The ambidextrous switch is accessible for both right and left-handed shooters.
The unit mounts securely to the Picatinny rail. It doesn’t add excessive bulk to the pistol. The slight texture on the polymer provides a decent grip, even with wet hands. The learning curve is minimal. Mounting and zeroing are straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo is made of polymer, so it won’t last as long as a metal-bodied unit. Time will tell how it withstands long-term use and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is typically sufficient. The battery compartment is easily accessible for battery replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary tools for mounting and adjustment. There are no listed customization options. It’s designed as a self-contained unit.
While the FireFly V5 is intended as a complete package, its universal rail mount makes it theoretically compatible with other rail-mounted accessories. However, its design doesn’t lend itself to significant modification or customization.
Pros and Cons of Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most attractive aspects of the Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo is its budget-friendly price point, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Lightweight and Compact: The polymer construction and small size ensure that it doesn’t add excessive weight or bulk to the pistol, maintaining comfortable handling.
- Functional Laser and Light: It provides both a visible laser for aiming assistance and a 500-lumen light for target identification, offering versatility in various scenarios.
- Easy to Mount and Use: The quick-detach rail mount and simple controls make it easy to install and operate, even for novice users.
- Ambidextrous Operation: The ambidextrous on/off switch accommodates both right and left-handed shooters.
Cons
- Polymer Construction: While keeping the weight down, the polymer body is less durable than metal alternatives and may not withstand heavy use or harsh conditions.
- Limited Brightness: The 500-lumen light output may not be sufficient for brightly lit environments or long-distance target identification.
Who Should Buy Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo?
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking for a simple and functional laser/light combo for home defense, range practice, or recreational shooting. It’s also a good option for new gun owners who want to familiarize themselves with laser aiming systems without investing a significant amount of money.
This product is not ideal for law enforcement, military personnel, or anyone who requires a high-performance, ultra-durable laser/light combo for professional use. It may also not be suitable for those who frequently shoot in brightly lit outdoor environments or need extreme long-range target identification.
A must-have accessory would be a supply of replacement Lithium-Ion batteries to ensure continued operation.
Conclusion on Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo
The Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 Pistol Laser/Flashlight Combo is a solid, budget-friendly option for shooters seeking a basic laser/light combination. It provides decent performance at an affordable price point. While it doesn’t match the durability or brightness of higher-end models, it offers a functional and reliable aiming and illumination solution for everyday use.
The price is justified by the features and performance offered. It’s an excellent value for those on a tight budget.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and easy-to-use laser/light combo for their pistol. Consider the Tacticon Armament FireFly V5 if you need a simple and affordable solution.