My first impression of Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight
The Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight promises enhanced accuracy and faster target acquisition for two of Glock’s most popular concealed carry pistols. I’ve spent years training law enforcement and civilians alike, and the need for a reliable, compact laser sight on a CCW weapon is something I’ve encountered countless times. The Viridian name is generally associated with quality, so I was eager to see if this budget-friendly E Series lived up to that reputation.
I was looking for a laser sight that wouldn’t significantly increase the size or weight of my Glock 43, while providing a clear and easily visible aiming point. Many options are bulky or offer poor visibility in daylight conditions. This led me to the Viridian E Series, hoping to find a practical and effective solution for close-quarters defensive situations.
The packaging was straightforward and functional. The sight itself felt surprisingly lightweight, which was a definite plus. The polymer construction seemed robust enough for everyday carry, though I wondered about its long-term durability compared to metal-housed alternatives. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed well-designed for its intended purpose.
Compared to a Crimson Trace laser grip I’ve used on a 1911, the Viridian E Series is far less bulky and integrates much more seamlessly with the Glock’s profile. I also considered a Streamlight TLR-6, which includes a light, but ultimately chose the Viridian for its smaller size and focus on laser functionality. I was hoping for a simple, streamlined addition to my Glock 43.
I was excited to try it out; the promise of improved accuracy and quicker target acquisition on a compact pistol was appealing. The weight was pleasing, but I was cautious that the polymer construction was durable enough. The real test, of course, would be how it performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight at my local indoor shooting range. The lighting was controlled, providing a good baseline for assessing the laser’s visibility. Mounting the unit was simple and straightforward, requiring no specialized tools.
The laser was easy to activate with either hand, thanks to the ambidextrous on/off button. In the range’s controlled environment, the red dot was clearly visible on the targets, even at 25 yards. My initial groups were noticeably tighter than with the iron sights alone, suggesting the laser was indeed aiding in accuracy.
The auto shut-off feature, while intended to save battery life, proved to be a minor annoyance during longer shooting sessions. I found myself having to reactivate the laser every five minutes, which broke my concentration. Otherwise, the first range trip was a success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying my Glock 43 with the Viridian E Series attached, I have a better understanding of its real-world durability. The polymer housing has held up surprisingly well to everyday wear and tear. There are no significant scratches or signs of damage, despite being subjected to rubbing against clothing and other gear.
The laser’s zero has remained consistent, even after multiple range trips and several hundred rounds fired. I did notice that the battery life is shorter than I initially expected. The 1/3N battery seems to last only a few hours of continuous use, requiring frequent replacements.
Compared to a laser sight I used on an older Sig Sauer P238, the Viridian E Series is significantly more reliable and holds its zero much better. While the battery life is a drawback, the improved accuracy and consistent performance outweigh that issue. The ease of use and consistent performance outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight
Specifications
The Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight is designed to seamlessly integrate with the Glock 42 and 43 pistols. It emits a 650 nM red laser beam, providing a visible aiming point for improved accuracy. The unit weighs a mere 0.78 ounces, adding minimal bulk to the firearm.
The laser has a range of 25 yards in daylight and up to 1 mile at night. It operates on a single 1/3N battery, which powers the laser for several hours of continuous use. The sight is activated by ambidextrous on/off buttons and features a 5-minute auto shut-off function.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the laser’s usability and effectiveness in a self-defense scenario. The low weight ensures that the pistol remains comfortable to carry, and the bright red laser is easily visible in low-light conditions. The auto shut-off is designed to conserve battery life, but as mentioned earlier, can be a minor inconvenience.
Performance & Functionality
The Viridian E Series performs admirably, providing a noticeable improvement in accuracy, especially in rapid-fire scenarios. The red laser allows for quicker target acquisition, allowing me to stay focused on the threat. It is also effective for those with aging eyes who might have trouble focusing on iron sights.
The main strength of this laser sight is its ease of use and straightforward functionality. The ambidextrous buttons are easy to reach and activate, and the laser is bright and clear. The primary weakness is the relatively short battery life.
Overall, the Viridian E Series meets expectations as a simple, effective laser sight for concealed carry. The improvement in accuracy and speed is noticeable, making it a valuable addition to a defensive pistol. It does, however, require a proactive approach to battery maintenance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Viridian E Series boasts a compact and streamlined design that integrates well with the Glock 42/43 frame. The polymer construction contributes to its lightweight profile. It has a snag-free design, ensuring smooth draws from a holster.
The sight is intuitive to use, requiring no special training or expertise. The ambidextrous buttons are easily accessible and provide positive feedback when activated. There is virtually no learning curve associated with its operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Viridian E Series seems reasonably durable for its intended use. The polymer construction is robust enough to withstand everyday carry and range sessions. While it might not be as indestructible as a metal-housed laser, it should last for several years with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. Battery replacement is simple, requiring only a small screwdriver. Overall, the Viridian E Series is easy to maintain and should provide reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight comes with the necessary hardware for mounting it securely to the Glock 42 or 43. There are no additional accessories included in the box. The Glock 42/43 ecosystem supports a wide variety of aftermarket holsters that are designed to accommodate laser sights.
There are no direct customization options for the laser sight itself. But you can adjust windage and elevation to fine-tune the laser’s point of impact to match your pistol’s ballistics. You could also consider upgrading to a higher-capacity magazine for the Glock 42/43 to provide increased firepower in a defensive situation.
Pros and Cons of Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design adds minimal bulk to the Glock 42/43, making it ideal for concealed carry.
- Ambidextrous on/off button allows for easy activation with either hand, providing versatility in a defensive situation.
- Noticeable improvement in accuracy and speed in target acquisition, particularly in low-light conditions and rapid-fire scenarios.
- Simple and straightforward installation requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing experience.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for Glock 42/43 owners looking to enhance their pistol’s capabilities.
Cons
- Relatively short battery life requires frequent battery replacements, which can be inconvenient and costly over time.
- Polymer construction, while lightweight, may not be as durable as metal-housed alternatives in extreme conditions.
Who Should Buy Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight?
The Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight is perfect for Glock 42/43 owners who prioritize concealed carry and want to enhance their accuracy and speed in close-quarters defensive situations. It is also a great option for those with aging eyes who find it difficult to focus on iron sights. It’s great for everyday carriers and home defense.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who frequently operate in extremely harsh environments or prioritize maximum durability above all else. Those who anticipate needing extended battery life without the ability to change the battery. Those individuals might want to explore options with metal housings and longer-lasting power sources.
A must-have accessory is a supply of 1/3N batteries. A quality holster designed to accommodate the laser sight is also crucial for safe and comfortable concealed carry.
Conclusion on Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight
The Viridian E Series for Glock 42/43 Red Laser Sight offers a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and ease of use. While the short battery life and polymer construction are minor drawbacks, the overall benefits outweigh these concerns for most concealed carry users. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend this laser sight to anyone looking to enhance the accuracy and speed of their Glock 42/43 without adding significant bulk or weight. It is a valuable tool for self-defense and provides an added layer of confidence in a potentially life-threatening situation. Consider picking up the Viridian E Series today to improve your Glock 42/43’s capabilities.