Adding a laser to your AR-15 can significantly enhance its capabilities in close-quarters combat or tactical situations. However, proper mounting is crucial for both effectiveness and safety. This guide will explore the various mounting options, factors to consider, and best practices for mounting a laser on your AR-15.
Understanding Laser Types and Their Applications
Before diving into mounting locations, it's vital to understand the different types of lasers available:
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Visible Lasers (Red or Green): These are easily visible in most lighting conditions and are ideal for target acquisition and aiming. Green lasers are generally preferred for their superior visibility, especially in daylight.
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Infrared (IR) Lasers: Invisible to the naked eye, IR lasers are primarily used for covert operations and are often paired with night vision devices.
The type of laser you choose will influence your mounting decision, as visibility requirements differ significantly.
Popular AR-15 Laser Mounting Locations
Several locations allow for effective laser mounting on an AR-15, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
1. Picatinny Rail (Most Common):
This is the most versatile and popular mounting option. The Picatinny rail system allows for easy attachment of various accessories, including lasers. You can mount your laser on:
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Top Rail: This provides a clear sight picture, particularly when using iron sights or a low-mounted optic. However, it can interfere with the use of some scopes or other accessories mounted on the top rail.
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Side Rail (Left or Right): Mounting on the side rail keeps the laser out of the way of other accessories and offers a more streamlined profile. The choice between left and right depends on your shooting hand and personal preference.
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Bottom Rail (Less Common): While possible, mounting on the bottom rail is generally less preferred, as it can interfere with accessories such as bipods or vertical grips.
2. Handguard Integration:
Some handguards are designed to incorporate a laser directly into their construction, offering a cleaner and more integrated look. This is a factory-installed option and may limit future customization.
3. M-LOK System:
Similar to Picatinny, M-LOK offers various mounting points for accessories. It's becoming increasingly common on modern AR-15s.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mounting Location
Several factors impact the ideal mounting location for your AR-15 laser:
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Type of Laser: As mentioned, visible lasers require different placement considerations compared to IR lasers.
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Other Accessories: The presence of optics, lights, or other accessories on your AR-15 will influence where you can mount your laser without interference.
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Shooting Style: Your shooting stance and grip will affect how effectively you can utilize the laser from a particular mounting location.
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Zeroing and Adjustment: Choose a location that allows for easy zeroing and adjustment of the laser.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when handling firearms and lasers:
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Never point a laser at yourself or others. Laser pointers can cause serious eye damage.
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Always use appropriate eye protection.
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Familiarize yourself with your laser's operation and safety guidelines.
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Ensure the laser is securely mounted to prevent accidental detachment.
Conclusion
Selecting the optimal mounting location for your AR-15 laser depends on a variety of factors, including the type of laser, existing accessories, shooting style, and safety considerations. Carefully evaluate your needs and preferences to ensure you achieve optimal performance and maintain safety. Remember to consult your firearm's instruction manual and seek professional guidance if you're unsure about any aspect of the process.
