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Optics and Sighting Systems

LaserMax Uni-Max Green Laser for Combat Firearms

LaserMax introduced a new laser aiming device using green light. The unit is capable of being used on both pistols and rifles. Due to its compact profile, it should work very well with even smaller handguns.

Based on scientific research, green is easier than red for the human eye to see – especially under high stress. Additionally, green is much brighter and easier to see during daylight conditions. So, this laser has the potential of being a much better targeting device for self-defense and law enforcement.

This laser unit mounts to the accessory rail of handguns, as opposed to an internal laser that LaserMax has produced in the past. The laser unit is supposed to be very light (about one ounce). The Uni-Max will also mount to the Picatinny rail on a rifle. Remote switches are available for this purpose.

I’m not sold on the use of lasers in combat, but I am very open to the idea. I am especially interested in seeing how green lasers will work. In the past, my experimentation with red lasers has been largely disappointing, though I know they do offer some advantages to traditional sighting methods. I am eager to test one of these units out and will bring you a full report when I do.

LaserMax green laser
The LaserMax Uni-Max shown on a SIG P250.

The unit is very lightweight. With the batteries installed, the unit still only weighs one ounce. The laser uses two of the 1/3 N lithium batteries. Even though LaserMax doesn’t specify how long the batteries will power the unit, I would expect several hours of constant use. Keep in mind that green lasers take more energy to power than red lasers. So, they will definitely have a shorter run time.

The laser is user-adjustable for both windage and elevation. This specific model of laser has been around since 2007, so it has proven itself to be durable in actual use.

The MSRP on the LaserMax Uni-Max green laser is $349.

LaserMax UniMax green laser

One of the advantages of the Uni-Max, as compared to other laser aiming devices, is that it has a built in accessory rail on the bottom of the unit. This means that a shooter can attache it to a gun, and still have a mounting space for an additional device such as a white light for target identification and navigation.

I’d be concerned about stacking too many things on top of each other, but in a pinch, this could be a big advantage. Something like the Mission First Tactical backup weapon light is very low profile and could mount to the bottom of the Uni-Max without adding much bulk.

A lot of companies are now offering green laser aiming units. I’ve tested a few Streamlight green laser weapon lights. I’ve found the aiming lasers to be a huge improvement over red lasers. I am still not convinced that a laser is the best choice for aiming a gun, but I think they do have their advantages. Going green makes a lot of sense, and the LaserMax Uni-Max seems like it could be a great choice for many people. I expect to see a lot of new green laser options at the upcoming SHOT Show in January.

By Richard Johnson

Richard Johnson is a gun writer, amateur historian and - most importantly - a dad. He's done a lot of silly things in his life, but quitting police work to follow his passion of writing about guns was one of the smartest things he ever did. He founded this site and continues to manage its operation.