Holosun PID: A New Player in the Weapon Light Game?

The weapon light market is crowded. Olight, Streamlight, Cloud Defensive – they've all carved out niches. But every now and then, a new contender steps up. That’s what Holosun is doing with their new PID series of weapon lights. TNP’s Nutnfancy recently got his hands on them, and the verdict is in: it’s...complicated. Let's dive into the review.

Holosun isn’t exactly new to the optics world – their red dots and reflex sights are solid performers. But entering the weapon light arena is a different ballgame. The review focuses on the PID and PID Plus models, mounted on a Smith & Wesson Echelon pistol (a rifle, too). The immediate impression? It’s lightweight – a key selling point. But that initial promise doesn’t tell the whole story.

The Good: Solid Performance

Nutnfancy isn't shy about praising companies he likes, and Holosun clearly earns some respect. He ran these lights extensively, using them for sighting duties beyond just a review. The shooting tests were complete, and the overall performance is deemed “recommended.” The praise for Smith & Wesson’s current product line is a welcome bonus, too.

The Not-So-Good: Size and Battery

Here’s where things get real. The PID Plus, the version with the integrated green laser, weighs in at 5.2 ounces. That's not inherently bad – plenty of shooters run heavier setups. However, the size is a genuine concern. It’s longer than a TLR-1, and that length creates potential interference issues with suppressors, especially those with unconventional shapes like the SilencerCo cans tested. A more compact design would be a significant improvement.

The battery choice, an 18350 instead of the more common 18650, is another point of consideration. Proprietary batteries aren’t unusual, but it's another thing to keep track of. It's a small detail, but details matter when you’re building a reliable defensive platform.

AR vs. Pistol Application

Nutnfancy notes that while the size might be a drawback on a pistol, it's more acceptable on an AR-15 platform. This highlights a key consideration: the intended use case. A light designed primarily for rifles might feel bulky on a compact handgun.

The Bigger Picture: Innovation and Competition

Holosun's entry into the weapon light market is a testament to the enduring demand for quality gear. It also reinforces a vital principle: competition drives innovation. The more players in the game, the better the products become for the end user. While the PID has room for improvement, it's a promising first effort from a company with a proven track record. And that’s something worth watching.

If you’re looking for a new weapon light, it’s always good to evaluate all options. The Holosun PID is one to consider, but be mindful of the size and battery situation. And remember, supporting companies that value the Second Amendment is more important than ever, especially in an environment where Big Tech actively works to silence dissenting voices.

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