My first impression of VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO promises to be a game-changer for Springfield Hellcat Pro owners seeking enhanced target acquisition. Viridian is a well-respected name in laser sights, and the “E Series” usually indicates a balance between affordability and reliable performance. I needed a compact laser solution for my EDC Hellcat Pro, something that wouldn’t add excessive bulk but would offer a significant advantage in low-light situations.
The proliferation of pistol-mounted lights and lasers has been impossible to ignore, but I’ve been hesitant to add considerable bulk to my carry gun. The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO piqued my interest because of its advertised seamless integration with the Hellcat Pro frame. I’ve tried universal rail-mounted lasers before, and they’ve always felt clunky and ill-fitting. This felt like a potentially better solution.
The unboxing was straightforward. The laser felt surprisingly lightweight yet solid. The polymer housing seemed durable enough for everyday carry. It’s definitely compact, hugging the trigger guard tightly and adding minimal profile to the pistol. I’ve used Streamlight TLR-6 and Crimson Trace Rail Master lasers in the past. This appeared to be a cleaner integration than the TLR-6, and smaller than the Rail Master.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. I was eager to test its real-world performance and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an indoor shooting range. The controlled environment allowed me to focus on the laser’s accuracy and ease of use. I fired approximately 200 rounds through my Hellcat Pro with the VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO attached. The laser was surprisingly visible, even under the range’s bright lights.
I also tested it during an outdoor nighttime training session. It was raining lightly, and the air was damp. The laser maintained its brightness and visibility without issue. Adjusting the windage and elevation was simple, requiring only a small Allen wrench (not included). After a few adjustments, the laser was perfectly zeroed at 15 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry and multiple range sessions, the VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO has proven to be quite reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the housing despite constant rubbing against my holster. I make sure to wipe it down with a clean cloth after each range session to remove any powder residue. So far, cleaning and maintenance have been incredibly easy.
It noticeably outperforms my previous experience with a Crimson Trace laser on a different platform. The Viridian laser is brighter and more consistent. It holds its zero much better. This is a welcome improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO
Specifications
- Beam Intensity: 515-532 nM. This indicates the wavelength of the green laser, affecting its visibility. Green lasers are generally much easier to see than red lasers, especially in daylight.
- Range: 100 Yards Day/2 Miles Night. This describes the effective range of the laser. 100 yards during the day is impressive. The 2-mile nighttime range is likely under ideal conditions.
- Weight: 0.78 oz. This is incredibly lightweight. It adds negligible weight to the Hellcat Pro.
- Battery: 1/3N. This uses a less common battery type. Purchasing spare batteries is essential.
- Color: Green. The laser emits a green beam.
- Gun Model: Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro. This laser is specifically designed to fit the Hellcat Pro.
These specifications are critical because they define the laser’s core functionality. The green laser is the key selling point. Its visibility is superior to red lasers. The lightweight design ensures that the Hellcat Pro remains comfortable for everyday carry.
Performance & Functionality
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO performs its job admirably. Target acquisition is significantly faster and easier, particularly in low-light conditions. The laser is bright and easily visible. Its compact design doesn’t interfere with my grip or draw stroke.
Its main strength is its ease of use and the significant improvement in target acquisition speed. A slight weakness is the battery type. 1/3N batteries are not as readily available as CR2032s. It meets my expectations, providing a reliable and effective laser aiming solution for my Hellcat Pro.
Design & Ergonomics
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO is designed with a focus on seamless integration. The polymer housing is lightweight and durable. It contours perfectly to the Hellcat Pro’s trigger guard. The laser is activated by a small button located on either side of the unit, easily accessible with the trigger finger.
It’s incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. The activation button is intuitive to use. The windage and elevation adjustments are straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO appears to be durable. The polymer housing has held up well to daily carry and range use. I anticipate it lasting for several years with proper care.
Maintaining the laser is simple. Wiping it down with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Replacing the battery is a straightforward process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO does not come with many accessories. The package includes the laser unit itself. It requires a small Allen wrench (not included) for windage and elevation adjustments.
There are no customization options beyond adjusting the laser’s aiming point. It is designed specifically for the Hellcat Pro. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited to holsters designed to accommodate a laser-equipped Hellcat Pro.
Pros and Cons of VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO
Pros
- Highly Visible Green Laser: Offers superior visibility compared to red lasers, especially in daylight conditions.
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Adds minimal bulk to the Springfield Hellcat Pro, ensuring comfortable everyday carry.
- Seamless Integration: Specifically designed to fit the Hellcat Pro frame, providing a clean and professional appearance.
- Easy to Use: Intuitive activation button and straightforward windage and elevation adjustments.
- Improved Target Acquisition: Significantly enhances target acquisition speed, particularly in low-light situations.
Cons
- Less Common Battery Type: Uses 1/3N batteries, which are not as readily available as other common battery types.
- Limited Customization Options: Offers minimal customization beyond basic windage and elevation adjustments.
Who Should Buy VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO?
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO is perfect for Springfield Hellcat Pro owners seeking a compact and effective laser aiming solution. It’s ideal for concealed carriers, home defense enthusiasts, and anyone who prioritizes rapid target acquisition in low-light conditions.
Those who should skip this product are individuals looking for a highly customizable laser system or those who prefer red lasers due to personal preference or battery availability concerns. A must-have accessory is a supply of spare 1/3N batteries. A quality holster designed for a laser-equipped Hellcat Pro is also essential for safe and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO
The VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO is a well-designed and effective laser aiming solution for the Springfield Hellcat Pro. Its bright green laser, lightweight design, and seamless integration make it a valuable addition to any Hellcat Pro owner’s setup.
The price of $129.00 is justified given the performance and quality of the product. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their Hellcat Pro’s target acquisition capabilities, especially in low-light scenarios. For a significant upgrade in aiming capability without adding considerable bulk, the VIRIDIAN E SERIES Green LSR HELCAT PRO is an excellent choice.