Benefits Accuracy Airman using an
M4 carbine with an
AN/PEQ-15 laser sight
82nd Airborne Division using
IR laser sights seen through a night vision device on a
training exercise in
Iraq The use of laser sights is associated with increased accuracy in general, increasing the probability of hitting the target especially in low light conditions. The projected dot speeds up target acquisition, decreasing the time required for the shooter to aim and fire, as well as decreasing the time necessary for follow-up shots. Laser sights also aid in
point shooting, where the shooter relies on hand eye coordination rather than aiming with a traditional
sight, this most often occurs and is taught when conducting CQM (close quarters marksmanship) or urban operations where engagement distances are less than , and the shooter is operating in confined spaces. This is of particular use when the user does not have time or is unable to obtain a proper sight picture before firing; for example, the use of
ballistic shields or
gas masks may obstruct access to the sights. Lasers also increase accuracy when shooting from an unconventional stance.
Training Laser sights are also a useful training aid. They allow users to practice
dry-fire drills while being able to see the point of impact: this has significant
safety benefits. Training with laser sights has been shown to improve shooting skills faster, although both instructors and manufacturers recommended that users continue training without lasers to avoid becoming dependent on them.
Drawbacks Long range accuracy Where a laser beam travels in a straight line, the path of a bullet gradually deviates after it leaves the barrel due to external forces such as gravity, wind, and even the
rotation of the earth. This is a significant issue for long distance shooting; shorter range weapons such as handguns are less affected. Another related issue is that the beam widens over distance, meaning that instead of projecting a small dot, a much larger circle may be produced.
Visibility in bright light Visibility of laser sights deteriorates in bright light. Green lasers are more effective in bright conditions, however they are more complex to produce so are often larger and more expensive than red lasers.
Aerial targets Laser sights cannot be used for hunting flying game in the daylight, as neither the beam nor dot are visible.
Added mass As with all firearms attachments, laser sights add mass to the firearm. This is particularly significant for handguns, as many holsters aren't designed to accommodate them.
Risk of eye damage Lasers can easily cause damage to the eyes. Visible lasers are unlikely to cause permanent damage due to the blink reflex, however IR lasers do not trigger this and thus pose a significant risk.
Revealing position The use of laser sights poses a risk in tactical scenarios as they may reveal the user's location, although this can be mitigated by only turning on the laser when needed. An additional consideration for military and law enforcement is whether the enemy has night vision capabilities; if so, IR lasers will be visible to them.
Difficulty zeroing Laser sights are somewhat more difficult to zero than conventional sighting systems. IR lasers in particular can take in excess of an hour to properly zero, depending on the methods used. == Boresights ==