The AR-15’s iron sights are great for slinging lead at the range. But in a home defense situation, you need every split-second advantage you can manage. That’s where a laser sight comes in.
A laser is terrible for long-range accuracy, but it’s the fastest, easiest way to put a round on target at short ranges – for example, from one side of a room to the other. In light of that, we’ve put a lot of emphasis on reliability in our reviews of the best AR-15 laser sights.
We’ve also looked at ease of installation, battery life, brightness, and the granddaddy of them all: extra features. Some of these sights also have an integrated LED light, which is helpful in a nighttime home invasion. If you also use your AR for long-range shooting, you may prefer one of the options that are paired with a reflex sight.
9 Best AR-15 Lasers
1. Streamlight TLR-4
Streamlight TLR-4
$140.87 in stock
4 used from $115.28
Free shipping
Features
- 170 lumens, 3,300 candela peak beam intensity and 115 m beam distance
- Ultra lightweight and compact
- Ambidextrous momentary/steady on off switch
- One handed snap on and tighten interface for safe and quick mounting
- Securely fits a broad range of sub-compact, compact and most full size handguns; refer to the compatibility and fitment prior to purchase to ensure best fit
The Streamlight TLR-4 LED/Laser Combo is a high quality combo that stays zeroed once you have it set.
Key Features
- 125 lumen LED
- Red laser
- Takes 1 CR2 battery
- Mounts on most styles of rail
The Streamlight TLR-4 LED/Laser Combo sits just between most of the combos on our list and the high priced TLR-2 G. While the TLR-4 is still more expensive than most LED/laser combos, it’s less than half the price of the TLR-2 G. The difference here is threefold: it has a red laser instead of a green one, a 125 lumen LED instead of a 300 lumen, and the body isn’t quite as durable.
That’s not to say that it’s flimsy. It’s just a tad shy of being truly military-grade. That said, it’s still more than tough enough to stand up to home defense use. It mounts one-handed on virtually rail system, just like the TLR-2, and it stays zeroed even after running dozens of full .223 magazines through it. All in all, a solid sight.
Pros
- One-handed mounting and unmounting
- Easy to zero
- Stays zeroed under recoil
Cons
- LED is not very bright
- Expensive
This AR 15 LED/laser combo is a good compromise between the TLR-2 G and budget models.
2. DefendTek
DefendTek
Free shipping
Features
- Please note: No Standalone lithium batteries are sold with the product
- Bright & Powerful: The DT-M2 tactical flashlight uses Cree LED lighting for 300 lumens of gun light and a built-in 5mW, 650nm Class IIIa red laser with an adjustable aperture
- Versatile Modes: This pistol light has steady and strobe LED settings to easily switch between pinpointing or disorienting your focused target
- Optimal Fit: Featuring a quick-release mount mechanism and tactical bezel, our handgun lights can be attached to most compact and full-size models with accessory rails
- Durable: Stronger than standard rail-mounted lights, this aircraft-grade aluminum tactical light has a rail-mounted light-casing to help keep out dust and water
The DT-M2 is a solid entry-level combo unit for nighttime home defense.
Key Features
- 300 lumen LED light
- Red dot laser
- Strobe and steady light modes
- Picatinny rail mount
- Rechargeable light battery
- AG3 battery for laser
The DefendTek DT-M2 is a combination of a 300 lumen LED light and a red dot laser. The LED has two modes: steady and strobe, and is powered by a rechargeable battery. The laser is powered by a non-rechargeable AG3 battery.
The laser is stacked on top of the light, which puts it a bit further off center and makes it harder to zero. The challenge is compounded by finicky adjustment screws that take some serious effort to get just right. The Picatinny mount has a quick release/quick attach feature, which means you won’t need any special tools for mounting.
The light is extremely bright, more than enough to blind and disorient any intruder unlucky enough to be on the business end of your AR. All of this comes in an affordable package, making it attractive for a first-time purchase.
Pros
- Combo unit
- Easy to mount
- Affordable
Cons
- Difficult to zero
This AR 15 sight is accurate enough to put around on target, and the LED will blind anyone on the receiving end.
3. Feyachi
Feyachi
Free shipping
Features
- Compact, small size, low profile.(Laser Class: IIIA ; Max. Output Power : Under 5mW)
- Windage and elevation adjustable (wrench included)
- Easy operate On/off press-button switch in the back of the laser sight
- Detachable 20mm weaver rail, mounts securely onto standard pistol rail
- Package Included : 1 x Red Laser Sight; 2 x Allen Key; 3 x Batteries
The Feyachi Laser Sight is a budget AR laser that’s easy to use and reasonably accurate.
Key Features
- Red dot laser
- Mounts on both Weaver and Picatinny rails
- Top Weaver rail for more accessories
- Includes batteries and Allen keys
- Takes 3 AG9 batteries
The Feyachi Laser Sight is a red dot that mounts on Weaver or Picatinny rail systems. The top of the sight has a small weaver rail, so you can mount a flashlight on top of it if you so desire. It takes 3 AG9 batteries, which are included with your purchase.
The windage/elevation knob is easy to operate with the Allen key, which is also included. Unfortunately, it’s a bit too easy to adjust. After several shots, you’ll notice that the laser has drifted off center. For this reason, you’ll end up having to re-zero it after each trip to the range.
All of this is acceptable due to both the low price and the ease of operation. There’s a single, large button on the back of the laser for turning it on and off.
Pros
- Easy to zero
- Easy to use on/off button
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Drifts after several shots
This is an entry-level AR 15 sight, but it’s reliable enough to get the job done.
4. Streamlight TLR-2 G
Streamlight TLR-2
1 used from $305.90
Free shipping
Features
- C4 LED delivers 6,300 candela peak beam intensity; 300 lumens
- Securely fits a broad range of weapons
- One handed snap-on and tighten interface keeps hands away from muzzle when attaching/detaching
- 6000 series machined aircraft aluminum with anodized finish with Borofloat high temperature glass lens
- The green laser used in the TLR-2G will operate within a temperature range of 32 to 104 Degree Fahrenheit
The Streamlight TLR-2 G is a top-tier AR 15 laser/LED combo that’s as reliable as they come.
Key Features
- 300 lumen light
- Green laser
- Anodized aluminum body
- Fits Picatinny, Beretta, 99/TSW, and Glock rails
- Takes 2 CR123A batteries
The Streamlight TLR-2 G is by far the most expensive AR laser on our list, but the high quality justifies the cost. To begin with, it has an anodized aluminum body that’s engineered to military specifications for durability. It’s also a combo kit, with a 300 lumen light.
Unlike most combos, the laser is actually located inside the light, which means that when you zero it in, the light and laser are centered on the same spot.
This laser mounts on a Picatinny rail right out of the box. If you want to switch it between multiple firearms, it comes with spacers for mounting on Beretta, 99/TSW, and Glock polymer rail systems. No matter where you mount it, the one-handed, tool-free mounting system makes it easy to use.
This laser is easy to zero, requiring only a standard screwdriver for horizontal and vertical adjustments. It takes 2 CR123A batteries, which last for 9 hours if you’re just using the laser, or for 1.25 hours if you’re using both the laser and the light.
Pros
- One-handed mounting and unmounting
- Durable
- Easy to zero
- Stays zeroed under recoil
Cons
- Very expensive
This is the best laser light combo for AR-15 users, provided you’re willing to pay for it.
5. Tacticon
Tacticon
Free shipping
Features
- ✔ EXTRA SET OF RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES + BATTERY CHARGER + LIFETIME WARRANTY - We provide you with 2 sets (4 total) batteries. Also, if you don't like the product or if something happens to it please return it for a full refund or a new one! No questions asked!
- ✔ COMBAT VETERAN OWNED COMPANY! I stand by and produce only the products that I use myself as a soldier.
- ✔ RIFLE, SHOTGUN, OR HANDGUN (EXCEPT GLOCK) - This versatile laser flashlight can be mounted on any firearm with a picatinny or weaver rail. Does not properly attach to the stock polymer Glock rail.
- ✔ INCREDIBLE ACCURACY! You can adjust and zero-in this laser just like any other sight or optic. Simply use the elevation and windage wrenches included.
- ✔ HIGHLY VISIBLE - This green laser and flashlight is very powerful and can be seen with the naked eye at distances of up to 100 meters! 200 lumens on the flashlight!
The Tacticon Armament Laser/LED Combo is easy to use and takes rechargeable batteries.
Key Features
- 300 lumen LED
- Green laser
- Rechargeable batteries
- Includes Allen key
- Mounts on Weaver and Picatinny rails
It features a green dot laser stacked on top of a 300 lumen LED. 300 lumens isn’t excessively bright, but it’s more than enough to blind a home intruder while you determine whether they’re a threat or whether they’re just your drunk brother in law.
This laser mounts on both Weaver and Picatinny rails, and features a tool-free mounting system that operates with a simple dial. Zeroing it in is simple with the included Allen key. The on/off switch is a wired pressure switch that adheres to your foregrip. Simply press down with your thumb, and it lights up.
The only thing we didn’t like about this combo was the battery compartment. While the rechargeable batteries themselves are a nice feature, the compartment is held shut with a tiny screw that’s easy to cross thread if you’re not careful.
Pros
- Easy to mount/unmount
- Pressure on/off switch
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Batteries are hard to change
This AR 15 laser/LED combo is a solid balance of price and quality.
6. CVLIFE Reflex
CVLIFE Reflex
$49.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- 【Rugged Red Dot Sight】CVLIFE red dot sight is crafted from high-strength aluminum, making it sturdy and long-lasting. With an objective aperture of 33mm and a magnification of 1x, it offers a clear and wide field of view that improves your accuracy when shooting.
- 【Special 2 in 1 Design】What sets our red dot sight apart is its special 2-in-1 design. It's built with a red sight laser, dual illuminated reflex sight with four reticle types, stepless brightness adjustment, this reflex sight provides various choices to meet different occasions. Whether you're out hunting, practicing at the range, or responding to a tactical situation, this red dot sight provides the options you need.
- 【Tubeless Design & Dual Switches】The tubeless design with 33mm reflex lens aperture further enhances your accuracy by providing a wider field of view than traditional tube-style reflex sights. And with both a switch button and a pressure pad switch included, you can choose which one to use based on the situation, making it easier to operate the laser dot reflex sight.
- 【Easy Installation】Installation is a breeze too! This laser dot reflex sight scope fits standard 20mm weaver and Picatinny rails, making it easy to attach to your firearm. And with its sleek and compact design, it won't add unnecessary bulk or weight to your weapon.
- 【Worry-free Purchase】CVLIFE been engaged in the outdoor hunting industry for 9 years and adheres to customer needs as the core, providing customers with high-quality products and satisfactory services. We offer 1-years free warranty, please feel free to contact us at any time if you have any problem with the product in the process of using it.
The CVLIFE Reflex Sight With Green Laser is easy to use and effective at all ranges.
Key Features
- Four reticle reflex sight
- Red laser
- Button and pressure switch controls
- Mounts on Weaver or Picatinny rails
- Takes 2 CR2032 batteries
The CVLIFE Reflex Sight With Green Laser features a reflex sight with four different reticle settings, and a green laser. Both of them are operated by a single on/off button, or by a pressure switch that mounts on your foregrip. The sight mounts on either Weaver or Picatinny rails, and stays solidly in place even under recoil.
Both the reflex sight and the laser can be zeroed separately. However, the quality of the two is vastly different. You can run magazine after magazine through your AR and the reflex sight will still be dead center. By comparison, the laser starts to drift after unloading a single 30-round magazine.
The sight and laser each take a single CR2032 battery, but the instructions do a poor job of explaining how to insert them, or even how to zero the unit. Still, it’s a good value at a low price.
Pros
- Laser and reflex sight zero separately
- Easy to zero
- Affordable
Cons
- Poor instructions
- Laser doesn’t stay zeroed
This AR 15 sight marries the short range performance of a laser with the long range performance of a reflex sight.
7. TACTICON
TACTICON Laser
Free shipping
Features
- ✔ EXTRA SET OF BATTERIES & LIFETIME WARRANTY - We provide you with 2 sets (6 total) batteries. Also, if you don't like the product or if something happens to it please return it for a full refund or a new one! No questions asked!
- ✔ COMBAT VETERAN OWNED COMPANY! I stand by and produce only the products that I use myself as a soldier.
- ✔ RIFLE, SHOTGUN, OR HANDGUN - This versatile laser sight can be mounted on any firearm with a picatinny or weaver rail.
- ✔ INCREDIBLE ACCURACY! You can adjust and zero-in this laser just like any other sight or optic. Simply use the elevation and windage wrenches included.
- ✔ HIGHLY VISIBLE - This laser is very powerful and can be seen with the naked eye at distances of up to 100 meters!!
The Tacticon Armament is a basic budget laser that’s good enough for home defense.
Key Features
- Red laser
- Mounts on Weaver or Picatinny rails
- Takes 3 AG3 batteries
- Top Weaver rail for extra accessories
The Tacticon Armament Laser Sight is a basic red laser sight that mounts on Weaver or Picatinny rails with equal ease. It has a removable Weaver rail on top, so you can mount a flashlight on it if desired. It operates with a simple push-button, and accepts three AG3 batteries.
This is an inexpensive laser, and you get what you pay for. While it’s easy to zero, the laser will drift after you’ve put several rounds through it, making it ill-suited for range use. The battery contacts are also a bit loose, so it can flicker when you fire your AR. That said, it’s reliable enough if your gun is for home defense.
Pros
- Comes with extra batteries
- Easy to zero
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Doesn’t stay zeroed under recoil
- Can flicker when fired
This isn’t the best laser on the market, but it’s good quality for the price.
8. Crimson Trace CMR
Crimson Trace CMR-206
$184.76 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- Brightness: Features A 5Mw Peak, 515-532Nm, Class 3R Visible Green Laser - The Brightest Beam Allowed By Law
- Ease Of Use: Instant Activation Ambidextrous Tap-On / Tap-Off Controls For Immediate Laser Activation From Either Side Of The Unit
- Runtime: Over 2 Hours Of Battery Life Powered By (1) 1/3N Battery (Included)
- Reliable: User Installed- No Gunsmithing Required - Factory Sighted At 50 Feet, But Is Fully User Adjustable For Windage And Elevation With Provided Tool
- VERSATILITY: Can be used on most pistols, rifles, and shotguns with M1913 Picatinny or similar accessory rail & 1-1/16" between the recoil lug and the trigger guard
The Crimson Trace CMR-206 Rail Master is well-designed for use on its own or with a standard sight.
Key Features
- Green laser
- Mounts on Weaver or Picatinny rails
- Includes a universal rail adapter kit
- Takes a single 1/3N battery
- Low profile
The Crimson Trace CMR-206 Rail Master is a low profile green laser that mounts on Weaver or Picatinny rails out of the box. If you want to use it with other firearms, you can use the universal rail adapter kit to mount it on virtually any rail system.
The 1/3N battery is difficult to find, but you don’t need to go hunting for one; Crimson Trace provides free batteries for the life of the product.
Because of the low profile, the Crimson Trace is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to use their AR for hunting or sport shooting as well as home defense. Most traditional sights will see over the top of it just fine. It’s also easy to zero, and stays zeroed even after running several magazines through your gun.
While the price for this laser is fairly steep, you get a reliable, durable product that will work perfectly when you need it most.
Pros
- Can be used with a traditional sight
- Easy to zero
- Stays zeroed under recoil
- Free batteries for life
Cons
- Expensive
This is a high quality laser that can easily be used in conjunction with traditional optics.
9. OTW
Features
- Fit into most Gun: The Weaver Rail of Inlook Red Dot Laser Sight is Picatinny 20mm Standard size.
- Higher Accuracy: OTW Red Dot Laser Sight adjust to windage and elevation for day & night shooting. It is anti-vibration, fog-proof and shock-resistant.
- Long Endurance Life: with its covering is made from high-strength Aluminium Alloy and undergoes anti- corrosive treatment. So it has a good endurance life.
- Portable to take: Size is 2.4" x 1.15" x 0.85" or 60mm x 29mm x 23mm. Weight with Battery is 1.65 oz. Voltage: 3 x 1.5v LR44 batteries.
- Further to see: Laser Range : > 100m at night.
The OTW is easy to operate and inexpensive.
Key Features
- Red laser
- Mounts on Picatinny rails
- Takes 3 LR44 batteries
- Includes Allen keys
The OTW Red Dot Gun Sight is a basic red laser that doesn’t have a lot of frills. It’s powered by three LR44 batteries, and mounts on Picatinny rails only. The on/off switch consists of two large tabs on either side of the laser, so it’s easy to operate either left or right-handed.
This laser is very easy to zero in, and comes with the Allen keys that are needed for the job. Unfortunately, like many other budget lasers, it just doesn’t stay zeroed after you’ve run a full magazine through your AR. It performs well enough for a home defense situation, but can get frustrating if you try to use it at the shooting range all afternoon.
Pros
- Easy to zero
- Large on/off switch
- Very inexpensive
Cons
- Doesn’t stay zeroed under recoil
This is a budget red dot sight that works as advertised, but isn’t suited for long sessions on the shooting range.
Bottom Line
As you might have noticed, a lot of these sights are marketed for use on a pistol. That should come as no surprise. Pistols are by far the most popular type of firearm for close-range home defense, which is where laser sights really come into their own.
Rest assured, all of these lasers will mount on your AR, provided it’s equipped with a Picatinny rail. Most of them will also mount to a Weaver rail.
The most important thing to do when you buy your AR laser sight is to zero it in at the range. Do this at short range – no longer than 10 yards – and you’ll have it well-tuned for any home defense situation. If your laser is paired with a reflex sight, feel free to zero the reflex at whatever range you like. It won’t affect your laser.
Check out the OutdoorWorld Reviews homepage for our detailed reviews of AR15 accessories including, the best slings, scopes, cases and bipods.
The Review
9 Best AR-15 Lasers
Here are the ratings of the 9 best AR-15 Lasers on the market.
Review Breakdown
- Streamlight TLR-4
- DefendTek
- Feyachi
- Streamlight TLR-2
- Tacticon
- CVLIFE Reflex
- TACTICON
- Crimson Trace CMR-206
- OTW
9 Best AR-15 Lasers DEALS
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