Laser Cartridges Damaging?

Firing Pin Breakage with Laser Training Cartridges

This is a request for a review of laser training cartridges. My very reputable renowned gunsmith says that laser training cartridges such as the LaserLyte and others break firing pins in 9mm pistols and should also not be used in 45 ACP pistols for the potential firing-pin damage. LaserLyte customer service says they have never heard of a firing pin breaking, ever. Wondering if you could shine the light of informed truth on the subject.

— Dave

Hey Dave: In the June 2023 issue, we tested the LaserHIT Dry Fire Training Kit Wireless-X Plus (B+), the Strikeman Laser Firearm Training System (B+), and the MantisX Mantis Laser Academy (A). In the October 2018 issue, we tested a LaserLyte Trainer Pistol 9mm (A-), a CheapShot Tactical Training Laser 9mm (A-), a Laser Ammo SureStrike Premium Kit 9mm (A), a Laser Ammo LaserPET (A), a iTarget, Target Sled and Laser Bullet Package (A), and a Mantis Tech Mantis X (A). In testing these units over the years, we’ve not seen the issue you describe. Contributing Editor Robert Sadowski has conducted these tests and others, and he said, “I have not heard of any laser training cartridges breaking firing pins in any pistols or rifles. I suppose it is possible that the softer brass case on the laser could wear with use, but, again, I have not heard of any issues. I have pals who have used laser training cartridges for years in all types of pistols and calibers with no firing pin breakage. Laser training cartridges use a spring loaded rubber switch that is hit by the gun’s firing pin to momentarily activate the laser. The concept is similar to snap caps.”

— Todd Woodard

A SIG Fan Weighs In

Hi Mr. Editor, SIG Sauer is a gun manufacturer that I am familiar with because I own three of them: a 9mm P365XL; an AR-15 Model M400 Tread in 223/5.56 NATO, and a P322 22 LR pistol. I must say I love them all, especially the AR because I love going up to my favorite gun club any given afternoon and expending 160 rounds or so. I just finished reading the February 2024 issue, in which in you reviewed the SIG Sauer P365X Macro 9mm. My P365XL shoots very well. As matter of fact, I like to tell people that my P365XL does not shoot outside the red on my targets. So, you can see why I like my SIGs. I enjoy reading the Gun Tests articles and reviews, especially when they are about SIG Sauer. My very best goes out to you and your team. — James

Thank you, James. May all your shots find the center. — tw

Ammo and Powder Shortage Coming?

Hey Todd, just got my April 2024 issue of Firearms News, and David Fortier’s column warns of a coming powder and ammo shortage. I stocked up over time, including muzzleloading supplies, and have been telling friends that there will be another politically motivated shortage as Labor Day approaches. You may have heard the presidential election is a hot potato. Fortier cites reasons for the shortages being more owners of guns, blockage of Com-Bloc ammo, and a looming gunpowder shortage for reloaders. I agree with all of his points. I recall the “Hillary” shortage when even 22 rimfire was unavailable. — Art

Hey Art: I remember ammunition shortages being aligned with presidential elections as well. I can only suggest to Gun Tests readers that they go on an ammo-subscription purchasing plan as soon as possible. Even $25 or $30 a month will make a difference. — tw

Canik Mentions?

Why don’t you mention Caniks in your magazine? — Skyler

Hey Skyler. We do mention Caniks. Here are some cites: Canik Mete SFT HG5636-N 9mm Luger, April 2023; Canik TP9 Elite SC HG5610T 9mm, June 2023; Canik 55 CZ-75 9mm, March 2018; Tristar Canik 55 C-100 9mm, May 2017; Century Arms Int’l/Canik55 Stingray-C 9mm, July 2013. — tw

Re “6.5mm-Caliber Bolt Rifles with Steel and Carbon-Fiber Barrels,” April 2024

The excellent trigger pulls, light weights, and fine dispersion displayed by all three rifles shows how the quality of factory rifles has improved over the years. If I needed a rifle in this caliber for hunting or target shooting, any of these tested would be a good choice. You made an error in your description of the barrel on the Browning rifle. You write, “The 26-inch barrel has a sporter contour with fluting, which reduces weight, adds rigidity, and exposes more surface area of the barrel so it can cool quicker.” You are correct that the fluting reduces weight, but it does not add rigidity; it reduces the rigidity as compared to the same barrel without fluting. The fluting also increases the exposed surface area of the barrel very slightly, but I doubt that it’s enough to have any effect on the rate of barrel cooling. I have read many claims that fluting increases accuracy and enhances barrel cooling, but I haven’t seen any instrumented comparison test results to back up those claims. I think the fluting is just cosmetic, it looks cool. I’m a long-time subscriber to Gun Tests and enjoy the magazine. You guys do excellent testing and evaluation work. — Paul