Are laser sights a gimmick?

[sh00ter]

Is there any good reason if buying a light to get the combo instead and pay more? What is a realistic benefit of a laser? I don't imagine you would have time to put it on target if you were in an emergency self-defense situation. So I feel like it is more "tacticool" and/or as a target shooting novelty? Educate me.

 

[rockchalk06]

The only time I could they would be helpful is if you are off balance on the ground and have no opportunity to bring the weapon to your line of sight. Even then, how can you trust its held it's zero if it's attached to a device attached to a rail. Put that light/laser on a polymer frame and see how much movement you get out of it when a simple flex.

 

[Gunbuffer]

Unless you operate in the dark w nv I see no real benefit

 

[RickN]

I think they would be OK against zombies for that quick head shot, other than that I see no real use. Might be good if hunting bobcats at night. Run all over the place chasing the red dot before you finish them off.