The King of Budget LAMs? | SMS HFXC

Published on January 5, 2025
Duration: 27:24

This review of the SMS HFXC laser device highlights its budget-friendly nature at $250, positioning it as a competitor to more expensive options. The presenter, Kyle from 4MR Ranch, provides detailed testing data on laser alignment, zero retention after live fire, and illuminator performance at various distances. While acknowledging some minor drawbacks like turret adjustment size and potential thermal drift, the overall assessment suggests it offers significant value for its price point, especially for those new to night vision or building budget-friendly setups.

Quick Summary

The SMS HFXC is a budget-friendly 4-in-1 tactical device featuring visible and IR lasers, an IR illuminator, and white light for $250. While it shows some zero shift after live fire and has small adjustment turrets, its adjustable illuminator and competitive performance against higher-priced units make it a strong contender for budget-conscious night vision setups.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Patreon Perks
  2. 00:48Channel Sponsors: Warhammer Armaments & Optics Planet
  3. 01:17SMS HFXC: The Budget 4-in-1 Laser
  4. 02:25Laser Alignment & Zero Retention Testing
  5. 03:59Zero Shift Data After Live Fire
  6. 05:57Turret Tracking Test
  7. 06:33Turret Adjustment Issues & Ergonomics
  8. 09:05Illuminator Performance Comparison
  9. 10:16HFXC Illuminator at Distance (500 Yards)
  10. 11:51HFXC Laser vs. Illuminator Power
  11. 14:15HFXC vs. Steiner DBAL-D2 Illuminator
  12. 14:46HFXC vs. L3Harris M6 TR Illuminator
  13. 15:29HFXC vs. Holosun LS321G Illuminator
  14. 16:00HFXC vs. Vixen AMMJ Penumbra Illuminator
  15. 16:50HFXC vs. DIRV Illuminator
  16. 17:55HFXC vs. Surefire M600V Illuminator
  17. 18:38HFXC White Light vs. Other Lights
  18. 21:24Personal Thoughts & Opinions
  19. 23:08Downsides of Current Configuration
  20. 24:21Battery Life & Crane Port
  21. 26:02Conclusion: Is it Worth $250?
  22. 26:41Follow-Up & Giveaway Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SMS HFXC and why is it considered a budget option?

The SMS HFXC is a 4-in-1 tactical device featuring a visible laser, IR laser, IR illuminator, and white light. It's considered a budget option because it costs only $250, making it significantly more affordable than comparable high-end devices like the Surefire XL2, which can exceed $1300.

How does the SMS HFXC perform in terms of zero retention after live fire?

Testing showed some shift after live fire: an 8 MOA vertical shift on a 5.56 rifle after 250 rounds and a 1.9 MOA horizontal shift on a 9mm PCC after 150 rounds. While not perfect zero retention, the presenter suggests it might still be usable for many applications.

What are the key advantages of the SMS HFXC's IR illuminator?

The SMS HFXC's IR illuminator is adjustable in both width and power. It can effectively illuminate targets out to 500 yards and offers a wider flood than some competitors, making it versatile for various night vision scenarios.

What are the main drawbacks of the SMS HFXC?

Drawbacks include small turret adjustment screws that are difficult to use in the dark, potential zero shift after heavy recoil, and the IR laser power increasing simultaneously with the illuminator, which can cause excessive bloom and damage night vision devices.

How does the SMS HFXC compare to other budget night vision lasers like the Revon GL4 Pro?

The SMS HFXC is considered more modular and $100 cheaper than the Revon GL4 Pro. It also avoids the mounting issues sometimes associated with the GL4 Pro, utilizing a simpler crossbolt mounting system.

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