Steiner DBAL-A3 (Quick View)
| Best For | Day/Night Aiming, NVG Rifle Platforms, Tactical Training, Law Enforcement |
| Laser Modes | Green Laser (<5 mW, 532 nm, Class 3R); IR Pointer (<0.7 mW, ~835 nm, Class 1); IR Illuminator (<4 mW, ~830 nm, Class 3R) |
| Range | ~750 m (green) • >250 m (IR pointer) • >175 m (IR illuminator) |
| Mounting | Self-Adjusting QD HT MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny Mount |
| Housing | 6061-T6 Aircraft Aluminum • MIL-SPEC Type III Hardcoat • Submersible to 5 m |
| Battery / Runtime | 1× CR123A • ~3 hrs (laser + IR) • ~100 hrs (IR pointer only) |
| Key Feature | Battle-Proven Dual-Beam Laser/Illuminator • Optimized for Civilian NVG Use |
Struggling to find a real IR laser system that isn’t overpriced, underpowered, or restricted? Most civilian options fall short — dim beams, sketchy controls, or housings that weren’t built to survive hard use or recoil abuse.
The Steiner DBAL-A3 isn’t one of them.
This is a battle-proven multi-laser unit trusted by LEOs, night vision instructors, and military users alike. With a visible green laser, IR aiming laser, and a focusable IR illuminator in one compact housing, it’s built to integrate directly into your NVG-ready carbine — no gimmicks, no shortcuts.
Unlike most clone-tier devices, the DBAL-A3 delivers true IR capability, zero shift resistance, and dual activation (top paddle + remote pad) in a layout that’s been refined for real-world conditions — from night CQB to patrol rifle deployment.
At Voodoo Firearms, we’ve analyzed field data, reviews, and user reports across military forums, LE agencies, and night vision range nights. And the consensus is clear: If you need a civilian-legal IR system that just works — every time — the DBAL-A3 is the one.
📜 Quick Navigation
Steiner DBAL-A3 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) |
| 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 alone) |
| 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, remote pad) |
| Dimensions | 3.5″ × 2.8″ × 1.7″ (L×W×H) |
| Water Resistance | IPX-Class Submersible to 5 m (10 m per official Steiner page) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} |
| Operating Temp | –20 °C to +65 °C :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} |
| MSRP | $1,864.49 (Black, visible green) :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} |
| 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 | None | VCSEL – variable beam divergence (5–115 mrad) |
| Mount Type | QD Picatinny | QD HT Picatinny | 1913 Rail | Picatinny |
| Activation | Rear selector + top button + remote switch | Single button + dual remote pads | Rear button only | 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 | ~5 hrs (laser only) | 4–9 hrs continuous |
| Housing Material | Titanium (Grade 5) | 6061‑T6 Aircraft Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Zeroing Adjustments | Tool-free (½ MOA) | Tool‑required windage/elevation | Tool-free | 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 | Weather resistant | Not specified |
| Weight | 9.52 oz (270 g) | 8 oz (227 g) | ~8 oz (est.) | 8 oz (227 g) |
| Size (L×W×H) | 3.7″ × 2.24″ × 1.46″ | 3.5″ × 2.75″ × 1.59″ | n/a | 4.1″ × 2.3″ × 1.5″ |
| MSRP | $1,235 USD | $1,864 | ~$1,999 (unverified) | $2,199 (MIL/LE) |
| Best Use Case | NVG-ready rifle builds | LE/MIL night ops | Civilian NVG entry builds | Professional tactical / light-defeat use |
| Buy Link | 🔗 Check Price |
🔗 Check Price |
🔗 Check Price |
🔗 Check Price |
Check out our full list of the Best Lasers for AR-15 (Ultimate 2025 Guide)
🛡️ Why We Like the Steiner DBAL-A3
- 💥 Integrated Triple-Beam System – Packs a visible laser, Class 1 IR pointer, and fully adjustable IR illuminator into a single compact housing
- 💥 Dual Activation Controls – Combines a top-mounted fire button with dual remote ports (visible override & IR) for seamless NVG manipulation
- 💥 Battle-Proven IR Output – Built to deliver functional illumination in zero-light conditions with <4mW IR flood and long-range IR pointer
- 💥 Duty-Grade Durability – Machined 6061-T6 aluminum housing, shock-rated, and submersible to 5 meters for real-world hard use
Bottom line: The Steiner DBAL-A3 is trusted by professionals for a reason; it delivers mil-spec performance in a civilian-legal package. With legit infrared capability and rugged reliability, it’s a top-tier tool for serious night vision operations, patrol rifles, or home defense.
Steiner DBAL-A3 Review
Key Features:
- Triple-Beam Laser Suite – Includes a visible green aiming laser, Class 1 IR pointer, and fully adjustable IR illuminator with high and low settings
- Dual-Switch Control – Top-mounted fire button plus dual remote ports (visible override + IR) for modular activation across weapon setups
- Adjustable IR Illuminator – Outputs a focused or flood-style 850nm IR beam (<4mW), perfect for CQB under NODs or outdoor scanning
- Rotary Mode Selector – Intuitive dial lets you toggle between VIS, IR pointer, IR illuminator, or combined modes — even with gloves
- Rugged 6061-T6 Housing – Submersible to 5m and shock-rated for real-world abuse; built to thrive on suppressed ARs
- Quick-Detach Mount – Comes with a factory QD throw-lever mount for fast setup and dependable zero retention
- Mission-Built – Designed for night patrol rifles, home defense with NODs, or LE duty use — without shortcuts
Most laser/illuminator combos claim to be “tactical,” but the DBAL-A3 actually delivers. No weak illuminators. No finicky buttons. No toy-grade housing.
Instead, you get a military-proven IR system that offers practical range, solid switching, and high-tier performance in a compact civilian-legal footprint. It’s about as close as you can get to a full-power DBAL.
Real-world users report consistent zero retention, reliable laser output, and field-friendly ergonomics, even under recoil, suppressor gas, and heavy stress. If you’re running NVGs or building a defensive rifle that works when the lights go out, the DBAL-A3 earns its place on your rail.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what we like and dislike about the Steiner DBAL-A3:
✅ Pros
- Triple-Laser Integration – Combines a visible green laser, Class 1 IR pointer, and a high-performance adjustable IR illuminator in one compact unit
- Dual Control Layout – Features both a top-mounted fire button and dual remote cable ports (IR + visible override) for fast activation under pressure
- NVG-Optimized Output – Built for passive aiming with reliable IR flood and pointer performance in low/no-light conditions
- Duty-Grade Durability – Precision-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, submersible to 5m, and shock-resistant for real-world abuse
- Quick-Detach Mounting – Comes with a factory QD Picatinny mount for rock-solid retention and fast installation
- Low-Profile Design – Leaves space for weapon lights, DBAL-style optics, or vertical grips — ideal for modern setups
- True Tactical Performance – Delivers better IR range and clarity than most civilian-class alternatives — trusted by professionals
❌ Cons
- No White Light – You’ll need a dedicated weapon light for full target ID and illumination
- Steep MSRP – Pricing hovers around $1,800+ unless on sale — an investment-grade accessory
- Advanced Tool – Best used by NVG-equipped shooters or serious nighttime practitioners, not casual range setups
Is the Steiner DBAL-A3 Worth It?
If you’re looking for a battle-proven, civilian-legal multi-laser that delivers legit infrared capability, the Steiner DBAL-A3 absolutely earns its spot.
You’re getting a true triple-function laser system: visible green laser, IR pointer, and adjustable IR illuminator all inside a rugged, waterproof housing built for suppressed rifles, night patrol setups, and passive aiming under nods.
Unlike budget units with weak IR or janky controls, the DBAL-A3 is purpose-engineered for professional-grade night vision work. It’s field-tested, duty-ready, and holds zero like a rock
What Sets It Apart?
The Steiner DBAL-A3 stands out because it doesn’t force compromises. Most multi-laser systems suffer from weak IR output, awkward controls, or questionable durability, often leaving you with a tool that looks tactical but fails when it counts. The DBAL-A3 avoids all of that by delivering real-world performance in a compact, rugged body trusted by professionals.
Its IR illuminator isn’t just functional — it’s adjustable, powerful, and useful across everything from room clearing to open-field engagement. The dual-control layout gives you seamless integration with your remote switch setup, and its factory QD mount ensures rock-solid zero retention under recoil and suppressor gas. Built to be abused, trusted under nods, and consistent when things go sideways, the DBAL-A3 doesn’t just check boxes; it raises the bar for civilian-legal laser systems.
It’s ideal for:
- Night Vision Rifle Setups – Built to pair a powerful IR pointer with an adjustable illuminator for seamless passive aiming under nods
- Suppressed AR Builds – Optimized for low-light, low-signature use where white light isn’t an option
- Tactical Duty Carbines – When you need a bombproof laser system that replaces multiple devices with one reliable unit
Why We Like It:
The Steiner DBAL-A3 isn’t some range toy or airsoft knockoff — it’s a battle-tested laser and IR system trusted by law enforcement, military users, and serious nighttime shooters alike.
You’re getting:
- Triple Laser Output – Civilian-legal visible laser, Class 1 IR pointer, and a true IR illuminator with adjustable beam focus
- Dual Activation – Top-mounted fire button plus dual remote ports (IR & override) for complete control over function and ergonomics
- 6061-T6 Construction – Submersible to 5 meters, shockproof, and engineered to hold zero under recoil, heat, and hard use
- True NVG Performance – Interfaces perfectly with modern night vision setups, giving you passive aiming capability in any environment
If you’re running nods, building a night-ready rifle, or upgrading to professional-grade gear that actually performs in the dark, the DBAL-A3 is one of the most capable and trusted IR laser units you can own.
Steiner DBAL-A3 Setup & Zeroing
Installing the Steiner DBAL-A3 is simple, but the correct setup is critical to ensure your lasers are zeroed, your IR illuminator lines up with your optic, and your system performs flawlessly in live conditions. This isn’t range fluff — it’s a field-ready aiming and illumination tool designed for high-stakes use.
Here’s how to dial it in the right way:
-
Mounting: Use the included quick-detach HT mount to secure the DBAL-A3 to your 1913 Picatinny rail — ideally near the front of your handguard. This position gives the IR illuminator maximum room to project its flood pattern while keeping the laser system stable and repeatable under recoil. Always ensure a firm lockup with no wiggle or rail shift before moving to zero.
-
Laser Adjustment: Zero your visible laser in daylight using your optic as a reference, or align the IR laser under night vision. The DBAL-A3 uses recessed turrets that require a small flathead or Allen tool for windage and elevation — not tool-free, but very precise. Dial in your laser to match your optic’s point of aim at your chosen distance, then verify with live fire.
-
Zero Distance: For visible laser zeroing, 25 yards is effective for general use. For IR laser alignment under night vision, aim for a 36- to 50-yard zero, depending on your optic height and NVG type. Longer zero distances provide better convergence with your optic at practical engagement ranges
💡 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 | Day/Night Aiming, NVG Rifle Platforms, Tactical Training, Law Enforcement |
| Laser Modes | Green Laser (<5 mW, 532 nm, Class 3R); IR Pointer (<0.7 mW, ~835 nm, Class 1); IR Illuminator (<4 mW, ~830 nm, Class 3R) |
| Range | ~750 m (green) • >250 m (IR pointer) • >175 m (IR illuminator) |
| Mounting | Self-Adjusting QD HT MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny Mount |
| Housing | 6061-T6 Aircraft Aluminum • MIL-SPEC Type III Hardcoat • Submersible to 5 m |
| Battery / Runtime | 1× CR123A • ~3 hrs (laser + IR) • ~100 hrs (IR pointer only) |
| Key Feature | Battle-Proven Dual-Beam Laser/Illuminator • Optimized for Civilian NVG Use |
| Product | Rating | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steiner DBAL-A3🎖️ Trusted Performance | 4.7 ⭐ | 💰💰💰 | NVG Setups / Duty AR Platforms / CQB Rifles |
If you want a battle-tested laser system that delivers both visible and IR capability in one rugged, compact package, the Steiner DBAL-A3 is a professional-grade solution trusted by real-world users. It’s built for night vision riflemen, suppressed AR setups, and tactical environments where performance, reliability, and zero retention aren’t optional.
With an adjustable IR illuminator, dual remote ports, and rock-solid QD mounting, it’s purpose-built for serious shooters operating under NODs, not weekend warriors. 👉 Check Price Here.
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 – Steiner DBAL-A3 Questions
Q: How does the Steiner DBAL-A3 activate?
A: The DBAL-A3 features a top-mounted fire button for direct activation, plus dual remote switch ports — one for IR-only control and another for visible override. This allows full flexibility for both manual and pressure pad use in night vision setups.
🧠 Tactical Insight: Dual remote inputs let you separate VIS and IR activation, perfect for suppressed rifles or low-light transitions.
Q: Is it hard to mount on an AR?
A: Not at all. The included quick-detach HT mount locks to any MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail. No tools needed, and it holds zero under recoil.
🛠️ Pro Tip: Set the QD tension correctly — especially if your rail has Cerakote — and verify no play before heading to the range or field.
Q: Is the visible laser daylight usable?
A: Yes. The DBAL-A3’s visible green laser is bright enough to be seen at ~50–75 yards in normal daylight, depending on lighting and background.
🎯 Bonus Tip: Always zero the visible and IR lasers separately, as each has slightly different beam divergence and point-of-impact under nods.
Q: What battery does it use, and how long does it last?
A: It runs on a single CR123A battery. Runtime is about 3 hours on high IR output, and up to 90–100 hours in low-power or laser-only modes.
🔋 Real-World Insight: IR flood mode burns power fast — keep spares ready during extended night ops or training drills.
Q: Is the DBAL-A3 duty-rated?
A: Absolutely. It’s built from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum, sealed to be submersible up to 5 meters, and designed for hard use on real-world patrol rifles and combat-ready builds.
💪 Hard Use Insight: This unit is trusted by MIL and LE professionals. You’re getting battle-grade hardware in a civilian-legal package that doesn’t cut corners.
Written by the Voodoo Firearms Team
Certified instructors. Veteran-owned. Trusted by shooters of all levels. Our team combines certified instruction credentials with extensive real-world experience in firearms. While some team members maintain operational privacy due to their service backgrounds, our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through our perfect 5-star customer rating and comprehensive firearms training programs. We pride ourselves on delivering respectful, judgment-free guidance and education to shooters of all experience levels, ensuring every customer receives the personalized attention they deserve.
➡️ Learn more about our team Here.
➡️ Check out more training tips, gear reviews, and expert insights on the Voodoo Firearms Blog.
Why You Can Trust Voodoo Firearms
Real Expertise, Not Paid Hype
- Certified instructors lead Illinois CCL training & tactical firearms courses
- Veteran-owned and operated—we walk the walk
- No paid reviews. No fluff.
What Sets Us Apart:
- 5-Star Local Reputation
- Rigorous Gear Testing
- Pro & Beginner-Friendly Content
- In-Person Help in Minooka, IL
Need expert advice:
📍 Visit us at 408 W Mondamin St, Minooka, IL 60447
📞 Call or Text our knowledgeable team at (815) 218-6620
Not sure what to get? Hit us for a quick vibe check. No pressure—just straight-up advice.
📧 Shoot our instructors an email at voodoo@voodoofirearms.com
Swing by to upgrade your setup or test gear in person—and mention this article for a free Voodoo Firearms logo sticker (while supplies last).
🛒 Visit VoodooFirearms.com to shop lasers, optics, lights, and gear trusted by real shooters.
Each laser was reviewed by a certified instructor and tested under real-world conditions.
Note: Always ensure compatibility with your firearm and adhere to local laws and regulations when installing tactical accessories.