Streamlight VIR 2 Review: The Cheapest, Weakest IR Combo

Published on September 11, 2021
Duration: 6:53

This review of the Streamlight TLR-VIR2 highlights its function as a combined IR illuminator and laser designator, primarily intended for pistol use. While it offers a budget-friendly entry into IR capabilities, its performance, particularly the illuminator's weakness and potential mounting/zeroing issues, makes it less suitable for long guns. The IR laser designator is deemed effective at close range, comparable to civilian-legal options from Holosun and DBAL.

Quick Summary

The Streamlight TLR-VIR2 is an affordable IR laser and illuminator combo, primarily designed for pistols. While its IR laser is effective at close range, the IR illuminator is notably weak, and the unit may suffer from mounting stability and zero retention issues, making it less ideal for rifles.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: IR Gear Costs
  2. 00:16DBAL i2 9007 Benchmark
  3. 00:46Streamlight TLR-VIR2 Introduction
  4. 00:58Design and Size Comparison
  5. 01:22Activation and Switches
  6. 01:31Long Gun Mounting (AR9 Pistol)
  7. 01:59Rail Keys and Mounting Issues
  8. 02:14Zero Retention Problems
  9. 02:26IR Mode Operation
  10. 02:42Visible Illuminator Weakness
  11. 02:49Battery and Lumens Comparison
  12. 03:04Laser Designator Performance
  13. 03:10IR Illuminator Weakness Explained
  14. 03:35LED vs. Laser Illuminators
  15. 03:48Illuminator LED Placement
  16. 04:01Reflector Design Comparison
  17. 04:12Flood Effect Comparison
  18. 04:44Laser-Based Illuminator Focus
  19. 04:50IR Illuminator Dimness and Spill
  20. 04:59Best Use Case: Pistols
  21. 05:12Illumination Range Limitations
  22. 05:31IR Laser Designator Effectiveness
  23. 05:40PCC/Sub Gun Suitability
  24. 05:46Price and Size Advantage
  25. 05:53Handgun Night Vision Shooting
  26. 06:04White Light vs. IR on Handguns
  27. 06:09Not for Rifles
  28. 06:16PCC Borderline Case
  29. 06:22Support the Channel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary intended use for the Streamlight TLR-VIR2?

The Streamlight TLR-VIR2 is primarily intended for use on pistols. Its compact size allows it to fit in many pistol holsters, and its IR laser designator is effective at close range, suitable for handgun engagements.

How does the IR illuminator on the Streamlight TLR-VIR2 perform?

The IR illuminator on the TLR-VIR2 is considered very weak. It's described as less effective than laser-based illuminators found on competitor products like the DBAL i2 or Holosun units, and its wide flood effect lacks focus.

Is the Streamlight TLR-VIR2 suitable for long guns like rifles or carbines?

No, the Streamlight TLR-VIR2 is generally not recommended for rifles or intermediate/full-power carbines due to its weak IR illuminator and potential zeroing issues. It's best suited for pistols or potentially pistol caliber carbines where its limitations are less critical.

What are the main drawbacks of the Streamlight TLR-VIR2?

Key drawbacks include a very weak IR illuminator, potential issues with mounting stability leading to zero shift, and the IR mode always activating both illuminator and designator simultaneously. The visible light output is also significantly lower than comparable lights.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Hop

View all →