9 Best Laser For AR15 (Top Lasers)
There are many choices when adding laser sights to your rifle or AR-15, and this post will cover the best lasers for AR-15s or the best laser for any rifle.
With various price points, this article will help you decide what laser is right for you.
So if you want to dress up your rifle or AR-15 and increase its effectiveness, keep reading.
This post will review the best lasers for AR-15s.
Best Budget Laser
Viridian HS1 Hand Stop Laser
- Fits directly on MagPul MLOK rails or to Picatinny rails with an MLOK adapter
- Low bulk with no wires
- Easy windage and elevation adjustment
Price Check: Optics Planet, Sportsman Guide, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, Amazon
Best All-Around Laser
Holosun Visible Laser w/IR & IR Illuminator
- Coaxial visible laser
- IR laser
- IR illuminator
- Rear side focusing knob
- QD mount integrated
Price Check: Optics Planet, Sportsman Guide, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, Amazon
Best Premium Laser
Steiner DBAL-A3
- Dual remote cable ports – remote fire and visible override
- High and low power modes
- Single laser activation switch
- Top choice for military units worldwide
Price Check: Optics Planet, Primary Arms, Amazon
Why Use A Laser?
A laser will assist with aiming with either a visible beam or infrared along side night vision. If you are running and gunning, shooting from awkward positions and do not have time to aim down your sights or optic, and need to squeeze off rounds quickly, laser sights come in handy.
Having a beam of light that indicates where you are aiming gives you more options.
The gun community often scoffs with an elitist attitude when the topic arises. Most gun enthusiasts would say they are only needed for night vision aiming. I disagree. Any item that will help the shooter and give them a slight advantage is good.
Aiming assist devices such as a laser exist for a reason, and in a real-world scenario, it may help you. Ultimately it comes down to your personal preference and train of thought. If you want one, it can improve the effectiveness of your AR-15.
If you do not think laser sights are necessary for your rifle or AR-15, don’t buy one.
Red Laser VS Green Laser
There are two main colors of laser beam to choose from when deciding on different laser sights. Red laser beam sights are the traditional and standard colors. They are common and less expensive.
Green laser beam sights are slightly heavier and cost more. The green laser is easier to pick up with the naked eye, especially in direct daylight or bright environments.
The green laser sights also consume more power and have less battery life. So depending on your environment and your needs, you may prefer a green laser sight or a red laser sight.
Standard VS Infrared
Another option to consider is if you need an infrared laser beam. IR laser sighting systems are used alongside night vision optics.
If you are using night vision goggles, you will not be about to line up your sights mounted on your AR-15. In this situation, you will need an IR laser to aim. Now, if you have a rail-mounted night vision optic, you will not need an IR laser.
If you currently don’t own night vision but are thinking about possibly getting NVGs in the future, you can get a dual laser beam setup. This is a laser that is both standard and IR. This is the best of both worlds, but these laser systems will cost more.
Light & Laser Combo
Many options exist, and one setup people like is a light and laser combo. These will have a flashlight and a laser built in.
These are great for a compact, all-in-one system and prevent you from having too many bells and whistles on the rail of your AR-15. Too much stuff can add weight and make your rifle or AR-15 bulky.
I recommend having a good weapon light first before adding a laser, so getting a two-in-one combo is a good option.
The downside of a combo is that the light and laser are not as bright as a standalone system. Also the battery life is reduced.
This is a common choice for people setting up their rifles for general purpose use. If you need your rifles ready for any situation, a laser/light combo is good to have.
Top Features To Consider When Choosing A Good Laser
Brightness
Brightness is also a factor when choosing a laser. You want it bright enough to see in during daylight but not too bright where the battery drains too fast, and it can become dangerous bright.
Most weapon-mounted lasers will be bright enough and work as intended. Again this is where the red vs green comes into play.
Side note, which should be common sense, don’t look directly into the laser. You can be permanently blinded.
Durability
The final factor is durability. I suggest staying away from cheap plastic models that are made for airsoft. If you baby your rifles or don’t intend a laser beam for combat use, then you can get something cheaper.
Heat and recoil from rifles will add stress to the laser, and you will want one that is built tough and can handle these types of abuses.
Aircraft-grade aluminum housing and a good solid mount are what you want.
Battery Life
The brighter the laser, whether it’s in the visible spectrum or infrared red, will drain the batteries quicker.
Finding a good balance of power and battery life is important.
Some of the lasers I review claim to be “all-day battery life,” but this isn’t true. Most of them do not last as long as advertised.
A good tip is to keep extra batteries on your rifles or your gear somewhere.
Range
Another factor when reviewing these laser beams is how far the laser can be seen. You should have a laser strong enough to reach 50 yards.
Depending on your situation, you may need a laser that can reach further, but a laser isn’t intended to be used at long distances.
Be realistic when determining what range you will use the laser beam at.
Target Accuracy
Will it hold zero after putting some rounds down range? This is extremely important. You want a solid mounting setup that will not shift the zero.
Most of the high-end lasers will do this without a problem. Also, the windage and elevation adjustments need to be true and accurate.
Keep in mind what range you intend to use your laser at.
Best Lasers For AR-15
1. Viridian HS1 Laser Hand Stop
The first laser sight on this list is the Viridian HS1 Hand Stop Laser. This green laser sight is built into a hand stop to help save rail space and keep your AR-15 slim and maneuverable.
It is MLOK compatible and will mount to the underside of any MLOK rail. This is a secure and useful laser that serves two purposes.
This green laser sight is great. Doesn’t add any bulk weight like some foregrips. Small and lightweight but big enough to stop at my hand. The green laser is activated when you add pressure to the inside groove until you remove your hand. Unbelievably bright in the daytime
The bright laser will last 1.5 hours on a CR1/3N battery. You can adjust the sights with an included wrench by turning the X and Y axis.
This is a very simple setup and very practical. It is also very affordable, and using it as a hand stop is nice when you do not need to use the laser.
Viridian HS1 Hand Stop Laser
- Fits directly on MagPul MLOK rails or to Picatinny rails with an MLOK adapter
- Low bulk with no wires
- Easy windage and elevation adjustment
Price Check: Optics Planet, Sportsman Guide, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, Amazon
2. Crimson Trace Rail Master Laser Sight & Tactical Light System
One of the best light and laser combos that is affordable is the Crimson Trace Rail Master. This budget-friendly option has a bright white flashlight and a bright green laser.
This is a combo package with everything you need. This includes a pressure switch to activate the light or laser and can be mounted to a 1913-style Picatinny rail. The unit itself also has a mount included.
The Rail Master has a 5mW green laser and a 1000-lumen light, making this in black or FDE. It has three different modes of brightness.
If you are looking for something simple and on a budget, this is the unit I recommend. It’s easy to install on your AR-15 and has everything you need.
Crimson Trace Rail Master
- Instant activation modes-laser, light, laser, and light
- Push Button and Remote Switch Activation
- Beam Intensity: 5MW PEAK, 532NM, Class 3R Green Laser
Price Check: Optics Planet, Sportsman Guide, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, Amazon
3. Holosun Compact Laser Sight
Another good AR-15 rail-mounted laser is the Holosun Compact Laser Sight. This unit is unique in that they make it in both red and green lasers, and they also make an IR version.
Its laser emitter aligns directly with the bore’s vertical axis (or at least close enough), so there’s no need to accommodate an “X” shift when zeroing. That alone makes it a great buy. It also comes with its tape switch and switch mount, which is always a plus.
A quick detach mount is integrated with the laser unit and takes normal AA batteries, which is good because they are cheap and plentiful.
It can be operated with either the switch on the rear or the pressure pad. The pressure pad does not have to be used. The laser will turn on and off manually.
It’s a bright green laser that holds zero. For the price, it’s a great deal.
Holosun Compact Laser Sight
- QD Release Mount
- Remote Cable Switch
- CR2 Battery (LS117G) or AA battery (LS117R/LS117IR)
Price Check: Optics Planet, Primary Arms, Amazon
4. Holosun LE117 Elite Laser Light
The Holosun LE117 Elite Laser Light is the upgraded version of the previous laser mentioned.
This model is available in all three configurations, red, green, & IR. This is a titanium-bodied class IIIA visible red laser aiming device that comes with a pressure switch.
The mount is a quick detach that will mount up with any 1913 style Picatinny rail and is a very powerful beam output.
I was looking for a strong green laser for my AR-15… this was it. There is high power and lower power setting. The beam is strong, and the light cannon is not offset from the barrel. This is also a very low-profile laser unit.
It uses a CR123 battery with good battery life.
Holosun LE117 Elite Laser Light
- Instant activation modes-laser, light, laser, and light
- Push Button and Remote Switch Activation
- Beam Intensity: 5MW PEAK, 532NM, Class 3R Green Laser
Price Check: Optics Planet, Primary Arms
5. Streamlight TLR-2 HL G
One of the most versatile light and laser combos is the Streamlight TLR-2 HL G. I like this one because it can be used on AR-15s, pistols, or anything with a rail.
This is a very compact and reliable setup with easy controls for activation. It has a bright green laser and a very bright 1000-lumen white light that uses CR123 batteries.
The Streamlight is a good choice if you are running an AR pistol or a very compact weapon with limited rail space. This laser also stands out because it can be mounted on an AR-15 or a pistol.
Streamlight is known for being very reliable, and this is one of the best all-around options for the money.
Streamlight TLR-2 HL G
- Securely fits a broad range of weapons
- Engineered optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination
- Green laser provides high visibility long-range targeting
Price Check: Optics Planet, Sportsman Guide, Palmetto State Armory, Amazon
6. Holosun Dual Laser Sight
Now to get into some of the premium laser sight options. The Holosun Dual Laser Sight is a visible laser and IR laser combo.
Holosun Dual Laser Sight with IR comes with one IR laser and one visible laser (red or green), which can be paired perfectly well with Night Vision devices. Featuring fully adjustable windage and elevation, the Holosun Dual Laser Sight with IR has two user-adjustable coaxial lasers.
It’s very similar to a civilian ATPIAL regarding laser and illuminator power. This illuminator has a focusable beam which is incredibly useful.
The laser is 5mW, and this unit does not come with a battery. But if you want to dip your toes into IR and don’t want to spend too much money out the gate, this is a good option.
Holosun Dual Laser Sight
- Remote cable switch
- Quick release mount
- Green or Red Laser Class: IIIa
- IR Laser/Illuminator Class: 2M
Price Check: Optics Planet, Primary Arms, Amazon
7. Holosun Visible Laser w/IR & IR Illuminator
If you want to future-proof your rifle or AR-15 and have a complete laser package, then the Holosun Laser Combo is for you.
This is a red visible laser, an IR laser, and an IR illuminator, all built into one. They also make a green laser version.
I was pleased to see the quality of the visible and IR laser. If top mounting, the adjustments are reverse of what is shown on the adjustment knobs.
The unit does sit a little tall with the mount, so if you have small hands, it might be hard activating with the button. The pressure switch is decent and works. Go with this unit if you’re looking for a more budget option in stock.
Also, the IR Illuminator is good out to about 50 yards and is partially blocked if you have a front-site post. Overall a good product that is near-peer to the higher grade models. I would recommend it to others looking for a cost-saving alternative.
This is a nice laser for the money and its features.
Holosun Visible Laser w/IR & IR Illuminator
- Coaxial visible laser
- IR laser
- IR illuminator
- Rear side focusing knob
- QD mount integrated
Price Check: Optics Planet, Sportsman Guide, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, Amazon
8. Steiner DBAL-D2
The Steiner DBAL-D2 is excellent if you want the best laser and plan on running night vision.
The Steiner eOptics DBAL-D2 Dual Beam Aiming Laser with IR LED Illuminator is the commercial version of its predecessor, the DBAL-A2 laser sight.
This compact, rugged sighting laser is equipped with a Green Visible Laser Pointer, a Class 1 Eye-Safe IR Pointer, and an IR LED Illuminator, which provides an eye-safe means of illuminating distances up to 1000 meters.
The Steiner eOptics DBALD2 Green Laser Sight can be handheld or weapon-mounted to any MIL-STD-1913/Picatinny rail using the self-adjusting quick-release HT mount.
The green beam is visible in daylight, and the IR illuminator is at the top of the field. The battery life is as also expected, with a solid run time and batteries small enough to carry
This laser sight gives you a powerful aiming and sighting package in one compact and durable package.
Steiner DBAL-D2
- Class 1 IR Pointer (
- Eye-Safe IR LED Illuminator (
- Class IIIa Green Visible Pointer
Price Check: Optics Planet, Palmetto State Armory, Primary Arms, Amazon
9. Steiner DBAL-A3
The Steiner DBAL-A3 is the first ever eye-safe IR laser pointer that includes an IR illuminator and green laser in a single unit. This is the best laser available currently.
With dual activation switches and high/low power modes, these offer reliable illumination at close quarters, midrange, and long distances.
The Steiner DBAL-A3 is a versatile way to boost your accuracy in low and no-light missions.
This unit has a simple interface of controls to use as a standalone unit or in conjunction with the included tap switch.
Sighting in is easy with the slaved IR laser to the visible green laser, and the IR pointer is very crisp for use as an aiming point. It does everything it wants to be able to do, serving as a sight for use with NV, with or without the illuminator.
The visible green laser is helpful for sight purposes. The included lever mount at the base is good.
The DBAL-A3 is top of the food chain equipment, and you get what you pay for, especially regarding firearms and equipment.
Steiner DBAL-A3
- Dual remote cable ports – remote fire and visible override
- High and low power modes
- Single laser activation switch
- Top choice for military units worldwide
Price Check: Optics Planet, Primary Arms, Amazon
Best Laser Final Considerations
Finding the best laser for AR-15 can be quick and simple if you are willing to pay for it. Like anything made good and reliable, you will spend extra, which is the case for a laser sight.
Don’t expect to get the best laser for AR-15 without spending the money. If you want just a laser sight and not an IR laser, then don’t worry about IR.
Often people will get night vision eventually, so buying an IR laser and a visible laser combo can save you money in the future.
Green and red lasers are the most common, but I have seen a blue laser sight at a gun store in the future. I have no experience with these and think it was more of a gimmick than anything, so I haven’t included any blue laser sights in this list.
Best Lasers For AR-15 FAQ
Should I get a laser for my AR-15?
Lasers can help shooting by making accurate shots from an awkward stance or behind the cover. Also, if you are hip-firing or don’t have proper sight alignment. They also help to aim if using night vision.
Is a green or red laser better for an AR-15?
There are a few trade-offs when picking a color for a laser. Green lasers have different wavelengths and are easier for the eye to pick up, but they are often more expensive and bulkier.
Can you see a red laser in daylight?
Red lasers can still be seen in direct daylight but not as easily as green lasers. A good quality red laser that is bright will still work in daylight.
Can you see a laser through night vision?
If you plan to run night vision optics, you will need an infrared laser (IR) or an IR-compatible optic. IR lasers can not be seen with the naked eye but through night vision.
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)
- Viridian HS1 Hand Stop Laser
- Crimson Trace Rail Master
- Holosun Compact Laser Sight
- LE117 Elite Laser Light
- Streamlight TLR-2 HL G
- Holosun Dual Laser Sight
- Holosun Laser Combo
- Steiner DBAL-D2
- Steiner DBAL-A3
Have you ever used a laser on your rifle or AR-15? Which one did you choose, and have you made any other upgrades to your AR-15? What is your top laser choice?
Let me know in the comments below.
