Designate IR-V (Quick View)
| Best For | NVG-Ready Rifles, Duty AR Platforms, CQB Precision, Home Defense |
| Laser Modes | 520 nm Green Vis. Laser (>5 mW, Class 3R), 830 nm IR Laser (>2.5 mW, Class 3R), VCSEL IR Illuminator (850 nm, >130 mW, Class 3R) |
| Range | >>50 m (green) • >>1000 m (IR laser) • >>300 m (IR illuminator) |
| Mounting | Integral low-profile Picatinny rail mount |
| Housing | Synthetic nylon with embedded steel insert, IP-68 rated |
| Key Feature | Triple-Beam Aiming & Illumination in a Compact, Rugged Package |
Unlike clone-tier lasers that fade out beyond 25 yards or drop to zero after one magazine dump, the Designate IR-V maintains its alignment and runs smoothly under recoil. It’s built with operational simplicity in mind, featuring a single rotary dial that toggles between VIS, IR, or combined modes, along with tool-free adjustments for fast zeroing.
At Voodoo Firearms, we’ve reviewed field reports, buyer feedback, and range test footage from serious shooters who have run night vision. The consensus is clear: for its size, weight, and capabilities, the Designate IR-V punches far above its class, making it one of the smartest IR investments under $ 2,000.
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US Night Vision Designate IR-V Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Laser Type | Class IIIA Green Visible Laser (<5 mW, 532 nm) + Class I IR Pointer (<0.7 mW, 835 nm) |
| White Light | ❌ None |
| IR Illuminator | Class III R Adjustable Flood Illuminator (<4 mW, 835 nm VCSEL) |
| Housing Material | 6061-T6 Aircraft Aluminum, Type III Hardcoat Anodized |
| Mounting | Quick-Detach HT Picatinny Rail Mount (self-adjusting) |
| Activation | Single Button (tap = momentary, double-tap = 5 min constant) + Dual Remote Cable Ports |
| Battery | 1 × CR123A Lithium (included) |
| Battery Life | ~3 hrs (IR laser + illuminator); ~100 hrs (IR laser only) |
| Laser Visibility | Green: ~750 m night / 15 m day; IR pointer: >250 m |
| Adjustments | ½ MOA per click (windage/elevation, low-profile turrets) |
| Weight | ≈ 8 oz / 218 g (with battery, mount, and remote pad) |
| Dimensions | 3.5″ × 2.8″ × 1.7″ (L × W × H) |
| Water Resistance | Submersible to 5 m (IPX-rated) |
| Operating Temp | –20 °C to +65 °C |
| MSRP | $1,999 |
| Best Use Case | NVG duty rifles, IR training, suppressed carbine builds |
🆚 Comparison Table: Holosun LE321G vs Steiner DBAL-A3 vs Designate IR-V vs EOTech OGL
| Feature | Holosun LE321G | Steiner DBAL-A3 Civilian | US Night Vision Designate IR-V | EOTech On Gun Laser (OGL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Type | Visible green + IR pointer, IR flood illuminator | Visible green + IR pointer + adjustable IR illuminator | Visible green + IR pointer | Visible green (≤30 mW) + IR pointer (≤35 mW) |
| Built-in White Light? | ✅ Yes – 300 lm LED | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Night Vision Compatible? | ✅ Yes – IR pointer & illuminator | ✅ Yes – IR pointer & illuminator | ✅ Yes – IR pointer | ✅ Yes – IR pointer & IR illuminator |
| IR Illuminator Power | ≈ 0.7 mW | <4 mW adjustable | VCSEL IR flood (~4 mW, adjustable) | VCSEL – variable beam divergence (5–115 mrad) |
| Mount Type | QD Picatinny | QD HT Picatinny | 1913 Rail (self-adjusting QD) | Picatinny |
| Activation | Rear selector + top button + remote switch | Single button + dual remote pads | Rear button + dual remote ports | Remote ModButton + lever |
| Battery Type | 1× CR123A | 1× CR123A | 1× CR123A | 1× CR123A |
| Battery Life | Up to 5,000 hrs (laser only) | ~3 hrs (IR/high); ~100 hrs laser-only | ~3 hrs (IR/illum); ~100 hrs (IR only) | 4–9 hrs continuous |
| Housing Material | Titanium (Grade 5) | 6061‑T6 Aircraft Aluminum | 6061‑T6 Aircraft Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Zeroing Adjustments | Tool-free (½ MOA) | Tool‑required windage/elevation | Tool-free (½ MOA, low-profile turrets) | 0.2 mrad per click |
| Daylight Visible? | ✅ Yes (~100 yd green) | ✅ Yes (~50 ft green) | ✅ Yes (green) | ✅ Yes (≤30 mW green) |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX8 (submersible) | Submersible to 5m | Submersible to 5m (IPX-rated) | Not specified |
| Weight | 9.52 oz (270 g) | 8 oz (227 g) | ≈8 oz (218 g with battery and mount) | 8 oz (227 g) |
| Size (L×W×H) | 3.7″ × 2.24″ × 1.46″ | 3.5″ × 2.75″ × 1.59″ | 3.5″ × 2.8″ × 1.7″ | 4.1″ × 2.3″ × 1.5″ |
| MSRP | $1,235 | $1,864 | $1,999 | $2,199 (MIL/LE) |
| Best Use Case | NVG-ready rifle builds | LE/MIL night ops | Civilian NVG rifle setups, passive aiming | Professional tactical / light-defeat use |
| Buy Link | 🔗 Check Price |
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Check out our full list of the Best Lasers for AR-15 (Ultimate 2025 Guide)
🛡️ Why We Like the US Night Vision Designate IR-V
- 💥 Integrated Triple-Beam System – Features a green visible laser, Class 1 IR pointer, and a VCSEL-based IR illuminator in a compact, low-profile unit
- 💥 Dual Activation Controls – Uses a single top-mounted fire button with dual remote cable ports for custom control layouts on NVG-ready rifles
- 💥 Reliable IR Output – The adjustable VCSEL illuminator provides consistent infrared flood for passive aiming, even in total darkness
- 💥 Hard-Use Construction – CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, with a fully sealed IPX-rated body and tested durability under recoil and field stress
Bottom line: The Designate IR-V delivers serious performance in a compact footprint that fits modern suppressed rifles and night vision builds. With real IR capability, intuitive switching, and zero drift under stress, it’s one of the most versatile civilian-legal laser systems available today.
US Night Vision Designate IR-V Review
Key Features:
- Triple-Beam Laser Suite – Combines a green visible laser, Class 1 IR aiming laser, and a VCSEL-based IR illuminator for full-spectrum targeting under day and night conditions
- Dual-Switch Control – Uses a central fire button and two remote cable ports (IR and VIS override) for flexible activation options across rifle configurations
- VCSEL IR Illuminator – Emits a smooth, adjustable IR flood (835nm, <4mW) that works indoors and out for passive aiming under NVGs
- Rotary Mode Selector – Simple dial allows fast switching between VIS, IR pointer, IR illuminator, or combined modes, even while gloved
- Rugged 6061-T6 Housing – Shock-rated, Type III anodized aluminum body that’s sealed and submersible to 5 meters
- Quick-Detach Mount – Includes a self-adjusting QD Picatinny mount for secure zero retention and tool-free install
- Built for Night Work – Purpose-designed for suppressed ARs, NVG-equipped carbines, and real-world patrol or CQB applications
Most laser/illuminator combos claim to be “tactical,” but the Designate IR-V holds up under real-world pressure. No flickering IR. No sloppy zero. No bloated feature set that breaks when you need it most.
What you get is a streamlined, civilian-legal IR laser system that runs clean in the dark, survives recoil, and keeps your passive aiming locked in. Whether you’re pushing through an NVG shoot house or setting up a home defense rifle, the Designate IR-V delivers professional performance.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what we like and dislike about the Designate IR-V:
✅ Pros
- Triple-Laser Integration – Combines a green visible laser, a Class 1 IR pointer, and a focused VCSEL IR flood in one streamlined unit
- Dual Control Layout – Offers a top-mounted activation switch plus dual remote ports for flexible control schemes on NVG carbines
- NVG-Ready Performance – Explicitly engineered for passive aiming with clean, consistent IR flood and pointer alignment
- Hard-Use Construction – Made from rugged 6061-T6 aluminum, sealed against water and shock, and tested for recoil resistance
- Reliable QD Mount – Includes a self-adjusting QD rail mount that maintains zero after removal or heavy use
- Slim Profile – Compact footprint fits under optics and leaves space for white lights or forward accessories
- Professional Output – Matches or outperforms other civilian legal lasers in beam strength, clarity, and usability
❌ Cons
- No White Light – Lacks an integrated flashlight, so a separate weapon light is needed for complete target ID
- Premium Price Tag – MSRP lands around $1,800+, making it a serious investment for dedicated night vision users
- Not Entry-Level – Best suited for users who already run NODs and understand IR laser function and setup
Is the Steiner Designate IR-V Worth It?
If you’re looking for a compact, high-performance IR laser system that fits civilian-legal builds without compromising on capability, the Designate IR-V is worth considering.
You’re getting a true triple-laser platform: a green visible laser, a Class 1 IR pointer, and a VCSEL-based IR flood illuminator, all packed into a lightweight, hard-anodized aluminum body. It’s designed for night vision rifle setups, suppressed builds, and passive aiming scenarios where reliability and output clarity are critical.
Unlike entry-level units that fail in beam strength or housing quality, the Designate IR-V is engineered for users who run NODs seriously. It holds zero, handles recoil effectively, and integrates seamlessly into any modern carbine setup.
What Sets It Apart?
The Designate IR-V stands out because it delivers real-world IR performance without excess size, unnecessary complexity, or gimmicks.
Most civilian lasers are compromised by underpowered illuminators, poor ergonomics, or mounts that cannot withstand recoil. The Designate IR-V avoids those traps with a clean control layout, an adjustable VCSEL IR flood, and a self-adjusting QD mount that keeps your zero rock-solid.
Its three-position mode dial makes switching between VIS, IR, or combo modes intuitive, even under stress or with gloves. And at under 8 ounces fully equipped, it keeps your rifle balanced and responsive.
For shooters building a night vision-ready defensive rifle or professionals needing a mission-capable IR system that won’t fail in the dark, the Designate IR-V is one of the smartest upgrades available for under $ 2,000.
It’s ideal for:
- Night Vision Rifle Setups – Designed to combine a reliable IR pointer and focused VCSEL flood for clean passive aiming through night vision optics
- Suppressed AR Builds – Compact and low-profile, perfect for minimizing signature and avoiding white light dependence in low-light conditions
- Tactical Duty Carbines – When one unit needs to replace multiple IR tools with reliable output and intuitive controls under real-world stress
Why We Like It:
The US Night Vision Designate IR-V isn’t just a scaled-down gimmick or clone-tier device. It’s a field-worthy multi-laser system engineered for users who take their NVG setups seriously, including night vision instructors, armed professionals, and responsible civilian shooters.
You’re getting:
- Triple Laser Output – Green visible laser, Class 1 IR pointer, and a clean VCSEL IR illuminator all in one tightly built housing
- Dual Activation – A single top-mounted button plus two remote cable ports allow complete control across visible and IR functions
- 6061-T6 Construction – Shock-resistant, fully sealed, and submersible to 5 meters — it’s built to survive suppressed recoil, rain, and rough handling
- NVG-Optimized Performance – Explicitly designed for use with night vision gear, with clean IR alignment and adjustable flood coverage
Suppose you’re running NODs, upgrading your rifle for nighttime defense, or building a patrol-ready suppressed carbine. In that case, the Designate IR-V delivers performance that punches above its size — and doesn’t compromise where it counts.
US Night Vision Designate IR-V Setup & Zeroing
Installing the Designate IR-V is straightforward, but setting it up correctly is essential to ensure laser alignment, IR flood positioning, and zero retention during actual use. This isn’t just a range toy — it’s a mission-ready aiming and illumination system built for passive aiming and real-world night vision performance.
Here’s how to dial it in the right way:
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Mounting: Use the included self-adjusting QD mount to attach the Designate IR-V to your 1913 Picatinny rail, ideally mounted near the front third of your handguard. This placement maximizes your IR flood coverage and helps maintain laser alignment under recoil. Before zeroing, confirm the mount is fully seated with no lateral shift or movement.
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Laser Adjustment: Zero the visible laser during daylight using your optic’s point of aim, or align the IR pointer under nods during nighttime conditions. The Designate IR-V features tool-free windage and elevation turrets, allowing for quick and intuitive micro-adjustments without the need for a screwdriver or wrench. Always confirm your zero with live-fire confirmation, not just visual alignment.
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Zero Distance: For general-use visible laser zeroing, 25 yards is a suitable distance. For IR laser zeroing, use a range of 36 to 50 yards, depending on your optic height and the type of night vision you’re using. Longer zero distances ensure better convergence at practical engagement ranges and improve target acquisition during passive aiming.
💡 Pro Tip: Always confirm zero after removing and remounting the unit, extended shooting sessions, or any impact to the rifle. Even bombproof lasers like the DBAL-A3 can shift slightly from sling torque or rail flex — don’t assume it’s still on just because it was last week.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy?
| Best For | NVG-Ready Rifles, Duty AR Platforms, CQB Precision, Home Defense |
| Laser Modes | 520 nm Green Vis. Laser (>5 mW, Class 3R), 830 nm IR Laser (>2.5 mW, Class 3R), VCSEL IR Illuminator (850 nm, >130 mW, Class 3R) |
| Range | >>50 m (green) • >>1000 m (IR laser) • >>300 m (IR illuminator) |
| Mounting | Integral low-profile Picatinny rail mount |
| Housing | Synthetic nylon with embedded steel insert, IP-68 rated |
| Key Feature | Triple-Beam Aiming & Illumination in a Compact, Rugged Package |
| Product | Rating | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desingate IR-V🎖️ Best Compact IR Laser | 4.8 ⭐ | 💰💰💰 | NVG Setups / Duty AR Platforms / CQB Rifles |
Suppose you want a compact, field-proven laser system that delivers both visible and IR performance in one streamlined unit. In that case, the Designate IR-V is a top-tier option trusted by experienced night vision users. It’s built for NVG-equipped riflemen, suppressed AR setups, and any tactical environment where size, reliability, and IR clarity truly matter.
Related AR-15 Laser Guides
Don’t forget to check out these posts to learn more about Lasers & AR-15s:
- Best Lasers for AR-15 (Ultimate 2025 Guide)
- Red vs Green Laser (Which is Best?)
- How To Choose A Laser
- Zeroing Your Laser On AR-15
❓ FAQ – US Night Vision Designate IR-V Questions
Q: How does the Designate IR-V activate?
A: The Designate IR-V uses a top-mounted fire button for manual control, plus dual remote cable ports that allow separate activation of the IR and visible lasers. This setup supports both momentary and constant-on modes, depending on its configuration.
🧠 Tactical Insight: Assign one port to a visible override and the other to an IR-only pressure pad. This provides precise control in dynamic low-light or nighttime scenarios.
Q: Is it hard to mount on an AR?
A: Not at all. It ships with a self-adjusting, quick-detach Picatinny mount that locks to any 1913 rail. It’s fast, tool-free, and designed to hold zero through recoil and repeated removal.
🛠️ Pro Tip: Make sure your rail is clean and properly torqued, especially if you’re running suppressors. Test for wiggle before zeroing.
Q: Is the visible laser daylight usable?
A: Yes. The green laser is highly visible and effective out to approximately 15–25 yards in full daylight and up to 750 meters at night, depending on the conditions.
🎯 Bonus Tip: Zero your visible and IR lasers independently. Beam divergence and POI can shift slightly when viewed under NODs versus optics.
Q: What battery does it use, and how long does it last?
A: The unit runs on 1× CR123A lithium battery. Expect approximately 3 hours of runtime with the IR and illuminator active, and up to 100 hours of runtime on the IR laser only.
🔋 Real-World Insight: VCSEL illuminators draw more power than pointers. Always carry a spare battery for long sessions or multi-night use.
Q: Is the Designate IR-V duty-rated?
A: Yes. It’s built from 6061-T6 aluminum, sealed to IPX standards, and tested for use on suppressed rifles, patrol carbines, and field-ready night vision platforms.
💪 Hard Use Insight: While compact, this unit is no lightweight in capability. It’s designed for users who run gear hard and expect it to survive.
Written by the Voodoo Firearms Team
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