Robar/10-8/MSW Glock with Streamlight TLR-1HL WML, Lasermax Guiderod Laser and MDFA Kydex Carry Gear
In a previous article I revisited my Robar/10-8/MSW Glock. At that time I had installed a LaserMax LM1141P Guide Rod Laser and a Streamlight TLR-1 WML. Since that time I have fired approximately 1500 rounds with them installed. The Laser came from the factory shooting POA/POI and has had absolutely no issues. I find that I sometimes activate the Laser when my trigger finger is in register on the frame of the pistol, before I intend too however. My fault not the Laser’s.
I really like the fact that the LaserMax is internal. This means your holsters will all fit, you won’t block the Laser with your hand or finger when gripping the pistol, and the sight/barrel offset is minimized with the system.
As a training tool the Laser is useful in dry fire practice as well as ball and dummy live fire. If the shooter jerks the trigger they see their sights move on the target and they also see the Laser dot move as well. I’ve found it very useful in training my students.
The Laser can wash out depending on the color of the target and how bright the sun is. However indoors or in lowlight the system really shines. (No Pun Intended). For those with vision problems that make a clear front sight focus problematic, the Laser is very helpful.
The Streamlight TLR-1 gives a useable amount of light, while not as bright as some, it gives enough light to verify your target and blind them without dazzling yourself with splashback. While the TLR-1 may not provide the light you need on a carbine or shotgun, it will do the job at typical handgun engagement distances. An added benefit is a useable run time and it’s more compact than some other designs. I have upgraded to the newer TLR-1HL which gives a more intense light and longer reaching and brighter beam. Either version can be locked on by using the Right hand index finger, or used intermittently by moving the switch up or down with the Left thumb. ( Assuming the shooter is Right handed for both of the above).
While a Laser may or may not be something you need or desire on you defensive handgun. I would weigh the pros and cons on how they pertain to you and your defensive training, situations you may find yourself in, your eyesight etc. If you do decide that a Laser is for you, I would strongly suggest you check out the LaserMax product line.
For a home defense weapon or duty weapon, a WML is required equipment in my experience. I’ve found the Streamlight TLR-1 series meets and exceeds my needs as well as the needs of the officers I train.
Evaluate your needs and research your options, then you decide.
Stay Safe.
Sorry to say, my observations of internal guide rod lasers was less than optimal. Three of our employees used them, in a G21, a G17, and a Beretta 96. Loss of zero, locking up the gun, and fouling on the laser lens were the problems experienced. After attempts to remedy the problems, all three discarded the internal lasers. This was 10 yrs ago now, so I cannot say with certainty what caused the problems. Perhaps they are improved now.
Bob,
Has SL improved upon their build quality? Just about ten years ago, we had several of their WMLs fail. Whether it was a bulb/LED issue, or a switch issue, it still resulted in a unit failing. SL customer service was outstanding, with replacements sent before we shipped the failed unit(s) back. We would have preferred the units not failing, but it resulted in the procurement folks going with another manufacturer.
As a “home state” business, I’d like to consider them again.
Joe Z
My agency has 35 TLR-1’s mounted on Glock 22’s and AR’s. The majority have been in use for approximately 5 years. We’ve had no issues with them. My TLR-1 and TLR-1HL have worked flawlessly. While not a extensive database, I know that surrounding agencies have had similar results.
Hope this helps.
Be Safe
Bob
One problem that bothers me is the interface: It is “on” or “off” switch.
I need the laser to be active only when I need it to be. With the on/off type switch, it requires additional steps to turn it on or off. With a momentary pressure pad “on only when pressed” type switch, I don’t have to worry about that. Let’s say I activated the “constant on/off” type laser or light and encouter a malfunction or have to reload. The laser or light would be still advertising my position while I am taking immediate action to reload or clear a malfunction unless I took an additional step to switch it back off before reloading or malfunction clearing.
Also, when shooting one handed, my trigger finger would have to delay going to the trigger to activate the laser.
Continuing from my earlier reply,
If you must have a laer without something hanging from the rail, guide rod option does provide a solution(being able to use the same holsters and such), but crimson trace also provides a solution witout being obtrusive and have a better interface.
The guide rod laser may be an option if you want a pistol light without a laser incorporated, but wouldn’t the combied cost of a quality weapon light and guide rod laser almost cost as much as Surefire X400? Cost issue aside, there is an interface problem to deal with.
As far as I am concerned, I would not want a combination of a weapon light and a laser with each of them requiring me to take an additional step to turn it on/off.
I am not going to say it won’t work for someone else. If it works for you, great. But, I like it simple.