In the world of night vision technology, having the right equipment can make all the difference between success and failure. Whether you’re a dedicated hunter, a tactical operator, or simply an enthusiast looking to explore the nocturnal world, an IR laser sight is an indispensable tool in your arsenal. Today, we’re diving deep into one of the most impressive offerings on the market: the Holosun LS117IR Compact IR Laser Sight. After extensive research and hands-on testing, I’m excited to share my findings on this game-changing piece of equipment.
Why an IR Laser Sight is Essential
Before we delve into the specifics of the Holosun LS117IR, let’s take a moment to understand why an IR laser sight is crucial for any serious night vision setup. Picture yourself in the pitch-black wilderness, your eyes glued to your night vision device (NVD). Suddenly, you detect movement in the distance. This is where an IR laser sight becomes your secret weapon. It allows you to quickly and precisely aim at your target without alerting it to your presence. The laser beam, invisible to the naked eye but crystal clear through your NVD, acts as a silent, pinpoint-accurate guide for your aim. It’s like having a stealthy, high-tech pointing stick that only you can see.
Introducing the Holosun LS117IR
Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show: the Holosun LS117IR Compact IR Laser Sight. After spending countless hours researching and testing this device, I can confidently say it’s a top contender in the IR laser sight market, suitable for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.
Compact and Lightweight Design
One of the first things you’ll notice about the LS117IR is its impressively compact size. Measuring just 1.6 x 0.98 x 0.95 inches and tipping the scales at a mere 4.9 ounces, this little powerhouse won’t weigh you down or monopolize your precious rail space. In the field, where every ounce matters, the LS117IR’s lightweight design is a significant advantage. It allows you to maintain maneuverability and reduces fatigue during long operations or hunts.
- Power Output: <5mW
Built to Last: Durability and Weather Resistance
Holosun has clearly prioritized durability in the design of the LS117IR. The housing is crafted from 6061 T6 aluminum, a material known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The sleek black anodized finish not only looks professional but also adds an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.
But the LS117IR’s ruggedness goes beyond its solid construction. This laser sight boasts an impressive IP56 rating, which means it can withstand powerful water jets from any direction. In practical terms, it can handle submersion in up to 5 meters of water for 30 minutes. While I wouldn’t recommend taking it for a swim, this level of water resistance provides peace of mind when operating in wet conditions. Whether you’re caught in a downpour or accidentally drop it in a stream, the LS117IR is built to keep performing.
The device is also designed to operate in extreme temperatures, with a working range of -20°C to 51°C (-4°F to 123.8°F). This wide temperature tolerance ensures reliable performance whether you’re in a scorching desert or a frigid mountain range.
Powerful Performance: Laser and Illuminator
When it comes to performance, the LS117IR doesn’t disappoint. It features a Class IIIB IR pointer with an output ranging from 0.1mw on low to 0.7mw on high. In layman’s terms, this translates to a powerful, tightly focused beam that’s clearly visible through your NVD while remaining invisible to the naked eye.
Complementing the IR pointer is a Class IIIB IR illuminator, also outputting 0.7mw of power. This illuminator provides additional light when needed, enhancing your ability to identify targets and navigate in low-light conditions. The combination of pointer and illuminator in one compact package gives you versatility in various night vision scenarios.
The laser beam emitted by the LS117IR has a wavelength of 830 nm. This longer wavelength results in lower frequency, which means the beam experiences less absorption by particles in the air. The practical benefit? Improved performance and visibility over longer distances.
User-Friendly Features
Holosun has packed the LS117IR with a range of features that enhance its usability and versatility:
Multiple Brightness Settings: With 10 daylight and 2 night vision settings, you can fine-tune the laser intensity to match your environment and NVD capabilities. This flexibility allows for optimal performance in varying light conditions.
Exceptional Battery Life: Powered by a single AA battery, the LS117IR boasts an incredible battery life of up to 50,000 hours. That’s over 5 years of continuous use! This long-lasting power source means you can focus on your mission without constantly worrying about changing batteries.
Quick-Release Mount: The LS117IR comes with a quick-release mount that allows you to easily attach or detach the sight from your Picatinny rail without the need for tools. This feature is particularly useful when you need to quickly switch between different optics or configurations.
Remote Pressure Switch: For tactical operations or situations where stealth is paramount, the included pressure switch allows for momentary or constant-on activation. A single tap provides temporary activation, while a double-tap turns the device on for five minutes of operation.
Adjustability: The sight can be adjusted at 0.5 MOA per click, allowing for precise zeroing and alignment with your weapon.
Real-World Performance
Theory and specifications are important, but how does the LS117IR perform in the field? After taking it out on several night hunts and training sessions, I can confidently say it lives up to its promises.
The laser is crisp and clear through night vision devices, making target acquisition lightning-fast. I’ve successfully used it for hog hunting and even some long-range target practice out to 300 yards. The clarity and precision of the laser point, combined with the additional illumination when needed, significantly enhanced my ability to identify and engage targets in complete darkness.
One particularly memorable experience was during a recent coyote hunt. We spotted a pair of eyes reflecting in the distance, and with the LS117IR, I was able to quickly and quietly line up my shot. The coyote never knew what hit it – a clean, ethical harvest thanks to the precision of this little laser sight.
The compact size and lightweight design of the LS117IR really shine during extended operations. It doesn’t noticeably affect the balance of the weapon, and the controls are intuitive enough to operate even with gloves on.
Comparing the LS117IR to Other Models
While the LS117IR is an excellent all-around choice, it’s worth noting that Holosun offers other models that might better suit specific needs. For instance, the Holosun LS221G IR Laser Sight offers a coaxial red and IR laser pointer, which some users might prefer for certain applications.
- USE – The LS221 is a Class IIIa laser device for civil use that features a visible laser pointer for daylight or low light operations, and and IR laser pointer for use with night visin devices
For those who prioritize visible laser illumination, the Holosun LS117G Green Collimated Laser Sight provides a unique green laser option. Green lasers are often more visible to the human eye in daylight conditions, making this model a versatile choice for both day and night use.
The Verdict
After extensive use and testing, I can confidently say that the Holosun LS117IR Compact IR Laser Sight is a top-tier piece of equipment for any serious night vision enthusiast. Its combination of compact size, durability, powerful performance, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for hunters, tactical operators, or anyone looking to enhance their night vision capabilities.
Is it perfect? Well, nothing ever is. Some users might find the adjustment turrets a bit stiff at first, and while the AA battery type is common, some might prefer the even more ubiquitous AAA batteries. However, these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of things, especially considering the device’s overall performance and reliability.
If you’re in the market for an IR laser sight that delivers professional-grade performance without breaking the bank, the Holosun LS117IR should be at the top of your list. It’s certainly earned a permanent spot in my night hunting kit, and I suspect it will do the same for many other night vision enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Holosun LS117IR Compact IR Laser Sight is a game-changer for night vision operations. Whether you’re a hunter tracking nocturnal game, a tactical operator conducting nighttime missions, or an enthusiast exploring the world after dark, this device will significantly enhance your capabilities. Its combination of power, precision, durability, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any night vision setup. So, what are you waiting for? Take your night vision game to the next level with the Holosun LS117IR. Once you experience the difference it makes, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.