The accessories we attach to our guns are as personal as the firearm we decide to carry. Talking with a co-worker, I expressed a curiosity in getting a laser for my gun. Digging in his cabinets, he gifted me with a LaserMax Centerfire Light and Laser that would fit my own firearm.
Using a laser occasionally creates heated discussion among firearm owners; some prefer them as a tool to help ensure better aim during a self-defense situation; others decry them as something that encourages people to rely on technology instead of skill to save themselves during an altercation. Whatever your choice, the Centerfire Light and Laser is a good system once assembled, though I encountered a few minor flaws in my installation.
I set to installing the system onto my Ruger LC9 one afternoon. The instructions seemed simple enough. The system is a trigger-mounted laser that comes in green or red. The red-laser version given to me is designed to fit an LC9S, LC9, LC380 and EC9s pistol.
As is often the case with an item tailored to fit more than one firearm, the fit wasn’t quite perfect and assembly was a little tricky. According to the instructions, the two halves of the laser were meant to snap snuggly together. But once each half was securely snapped onto either side of the firearm, there was a noticeable 1/8-inch gap at its widest point. Pinching the halves together, I struggled to get the long screw included in the kit to bite into the second half and hold the mechanism together. Overtightening was necessary to close the gap. Even though the instructions warn against this, there was no way around it. The housing still clicks slightly when pressed together.
Snapping the battery cover on the left side, I found that the button located underneath the batteries did not depress and did not trigger several of the functions listed in the instructions, rendering the programmable modes requiring both buttons useless outside of the dimming on and flashlight capabilities. The right-side button worked perfectly, however.
I did a dry-fire test at a distance of 10 yards to check the laser against my iron sights. I found the ability to adjust the windage and elevation adjustments simple and efficient. When lifting the firearm to eye-level, the pressure of my hand against the plastic flush against the trigger turns on the laser and flashlight. From a basic functions standpoint, the laser and flashlight capabilities work great and sighting in is easy. The flashing and strobe options, offered through the programming, are not my preferred functions and would remain off regardless. The red laser is easy to see and the sensor technology is a plus for reacting quickly in a fast-draw situation.
Installation is tough and the plastic parts might not mesh together as well as stated; this is not an uncommon occurrence however with items manufactured to fit multiple designs, so fair warning. Once completely installed, the housing has a solid feel. Be prepared, however, that you might have to change out your standard carry holster for one manufactured to fit the new size and shape of your gun with the laser installed.
MSRP is $189.00 at lasermax.com.
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