Don't Buy The SMS Laser HFXC

[@FocusTripp]

campsite.bio/focustripp

[@michaelatkin9649]

Thank you for all your testing to inform us with unbias reviews on what to buy.

[@douglasschneider9127]

Very nice to see a review from someone who wasnt gifted one. I got one for Christmas from my wife and have been impressed so far. Im willing to overlook the relatively minor issues as long as it retains zero. Time will tell, but so far it seems to be the move for a laser under 300.

[@_Art.Vandelay]

Instructions unclear. I bought 8.

[@atypical-bass1966]

I wonder if I should buy this or not, I can’t tell

[@toothpasteelf4385]

He said to buy it

[@evildrizzt1]

I feel that a price drop is coming after this review gets around😅

[@Khaos4order]

I bought the HFXC and M6TR last week.

[@andreivaldez2929]

I feel like it'll drop because they're releasing a newer model soon and they'll want to ship these as obsolescent models.

[@trevorpeters6496]

i just bit the bullet

[@BarrettSBrown]

I like the button placement where it is, left of center. Keeps my thumb out of the line of sight of my red dot. And they've already showcased an 18650 battery cap replacement on IG. I'm fairly new to IR setups, so grain of salt, but I'm liking it a lot so far.

[@FocusTripp]

When that comes out, that will be the one to buy.

[@noah9513]

@@FocusTrippI think they’re just coming out with the 18650 battery cap by itself. They just updated the switch system so that the Illuminator and laser aren’t slaved together anymore.

[@BarnDoor-won5ve]

Sounds like they're right on the verge of having something great. Almost there.

[@ArmadilloArmament]

I was very interested in this unit as I was seeing it everywhere. Very hopeful for a future generation of this.

[@FocusTripp]

agreed

[@blancs3030]

Someone released a video showing if your a right handed shooter its more beneficial to have your light on the left side. It cast a more favorable shadow with suppressor use. Also with suppressor use it helps to keep from burning yourself after shooting and slinging your rifle for pistol.

[@4MRRanch]

You were correct, I was testing one and my vid is now live. Insane they already updated these units before I could even get a video out lol

[@FocusTripp]

I heard. I kind of feel bad for whoever bought off the original ads.

[@nlee2682]

I know you say don’t buy it, but if I have to buy it so sms doesn’t go away, and then buy the better one in the future… it’s fine. 500ish dollars for 1 good and 1 just usable laser is still vastly better than all the options I have outside of sms.

[@Dumpy_truck12]

Yeah this

[@jordanfrankfurt6978]

just ordered one for exactly this reason

[@2amichaelj]

For the price, idk what else comes close to it. They made a lot of improvements over the past 2 models so they're listening to their customers. The overbore laser(s) are pretty nice. Dbals, Ngals, Mawls and such are 10-20x the price of these. It's nice to see an actual budget option for us that seems to work well this time.

[@123asap6]

Laserspeed at least has a "legit factor" with regards to their build quality but are thusly a echelon above the tier that the HFXC lives in. Either way both are great budget options, one for the casual and the other for the more competitive. The M6TR is not to be scoffed at especially if Laserspeed or some aftermarket creates a flashlight head for the battery compartment.

[@arem86]

​@@123asap6 I agree, but the LS is still a 1k unit and not a $200 unit.

[@nickydickyvids]

Oh hey, you uploaded today too! Great minds think alike. Dont worry, SMS will keep the button placement for left handed shooters. They pinky promised me.

[@bghiggy]

Really wish these companies would figure out that a low power laser is still more than enough for the range you are actually able to see and identify targets under nods. As long as you can still see it under a full power illuminator that's really all you need especially as you push out to extended ranges. Also they need to ditch the white light function. I really don't know anyone who feels the need to have a white light on their laser unit when you can buy a standalone white light that's way better for relatively cheap, especially if you already have the cash for night vision.

[@FocusTripp]

I like the 4 in 1 for compact systems and for a lightweight option. They will probably make a standalone version without a white light in the future.

[@JesusTheOnlyWayTruthandLife]

I like the white light myself, and they need to keep the high powered laser on the vis laser but lower the power on the ir laser. At a price point of -$250 it's worth buying even if you don't have nods yet as you can use the White light and vis laser for a price point comparable to just those 2 things separately, its like getting the ir laser and illuminator for free. They need to still make some changes and like you said multiple times...... I will wait for updates/upgrades before I buy it. But SMS is on the right path and I'm excited about the possibilities.

[@pulëeskuqurdheshalqi]

Its perfect for space saving issues. Can't mount both on my 300blko, not enough rail space.

[@That1Stormtrooper]

Love the Halo Reach music in the background.

[@Sandmanthesniper]

Thanks for making this review hopeful they make all the changes you have pointed out ! I have been testing mine seen to hold zero i found all the same issues you did the fire button is a bit touchy on mine as far as staying on every now and then

[@FocusTripp]

I am confident it will improve.

[@Ben-x9c]

I just got one for my micro scorpion build. I like the integrated light for this setup as it allowed me to remove my main weaponlight streamlining it for bag use. I understand why on a normal rifle setup why the integrated light isn’t needed. Testing tonight under nods.

[@Ben-x9c]

Update held zero for 250 rounds of blazer 124gr, awesome laser performance but was shooting indoors at 25.

[@2amichaelj]

The lasers have adjustable power levels just so you know.

[@UnfiItered]

For anyone who bought it before they changed the waterproof rating. Dont submerge it in water. They changed the rating from ipx67 to ipx3.

[@DeskPop]

I really like this; and it’s funny because i’m going to be essentially echoing what you’re saying. My unit is also not waterproof and so by the end of the test I was down a unit just from water damage

[@FocusTripp]

The are mostly on the right track, just need to iron everything out.

[@UnfiItered]

They changed their waterproof rating from ipx67 to ipx3.

[@DeskPop]

@ They’re an honest company; If I find something to be incorrect they actually fix it in their website immediately. It’s cool to see from a foreign company

[@VB6000.]

Very happy with mine. I’ll get each new upgraded version.

[@Zoraxon]

Definitely gonna keep an eye out for the updated version. If it runs at the same price point and takes better batteries that sounds like a winner for budget/entry lasers.

[@tomjahn6896]

Thanks for the review. Looks like I'll wait for the next version. Should be pretty much nearly perfect then.

[@FocusTripp]

At least better.

[@robjason9695]

Glad to see a company making budget options with so much performance 👌

[@FocusTripp]

I agree, just a few tweaks away from being great.

[@johnpush4585]

Im seeing this thing everywhere but you give a good points. Everyone is loving it! I'll wait and get one.

[@FocusTripp]

@@johnpush4585 they are already implementing changes, so a few months from now it will be pretty good

[@obsidianoffensive]

This is still a solid option even prior to 'fixes'. There are very few, and minor inconveniences. When leveraged against the price of other units, given its features, this unit is pretty much a no brainer

[@Asdfkjhl]

Focus Tripp is a negative nancy, 95% complaints on any item

[@tonygoodwin08]

​@@Asdfkjhlthat's what I like about him. Pointing out the negatives is hugely important. The positives of a product tend to be easy to find, just look at its marketing material.

[@FocusTripp]

@@Asdfkjhl When you settle for mediocrity you get what you deserve.

[@Asdfkjhl]

Just honest feedback, generally good content but you're a debbie downer my man lol. Impossible to please. Here's a straight run of recent videos in order: Not the prism we wanted.. in offense of the elcan... Why I hate carbon fiber... Amazon garbage.. the best LPVOs have problems... Another Amazon garbage.. Noveski shittalking... Another Amazon garbage...

[@blkrfldiv]

Knowing how terrible the battery life is matters for many of us.

[@alexanderm8880]

I think a weaponlight with a PEQ-style form factor would sell--you wouldn't be as hampered by space so you could have some serious candela and battery space. Plus I could LARP as someone who could afford a PEQ. 😅

[@colebabcock3902]

For the price this unit is awesome. IMO way better than the HOLOSUN LS321 for 1/3 the price. Agree the laser is too bright compared to illuminator. Controls aren't awesome but work. I think an amazing value at the price point.

[@Sammitch]

Ordered the FDE model today

[@TheParchedPaladin]

Just got sent an ad of this today, thanks for the info

[@BuffRANGE]

I noted the super fine dial wheel. I was like is this broken is there a hard stop, it just keeps going! Ohh there it is.

[@FocusTripp]

It's quite silly.

[@blancs3030]

Updated version is shipping out soon now

[@andreivaldez2929]

I wish more of these manufacturers would stop trying to add a white light to these things. It's always underwhelming and makes you run a second light anyway.

[@FocusTripp]

I like it, but most people have the lights they want already.

[@paxdrago1]

i expect the idea is that if you have one of these your most likely running nods. Light is until you get to your nods....

[@andreivaldez2929]

I want an IR unit because I have nods lol. But if the light isn't cutting it then you're gonna end up with a second light on it anyway, unless it's something small like a PDW or bad gun. I hope they can find a design that works though. It really is the ideal setup to get all 4 on one unit.

[@andreivaldez2929]

I like the idea but I'll wait for the next one. I guess this is ok as a stop-gap or if you're ok with the white light (I'm mixed but I like how close this is).

[@shawnvega8232]

The white light isn't that bad. Yes surefire and cloud defence is stronger but honestly it's not bad at all i took my surefire off and put on my other rifle still happynwith this product can't beat the price at all!

[@triviszla1536]

I'm watching this now even though I don't have NV yet. Saves me the hassle of doing tons of research when I finally have NV and no laser.

[@FocusTripp]

I did the same.

[@MrLevicrz]

Just got it last night, looks solid. Hoping it stays zeroed

[@BlueFalcata]

Nice video, and nice Mass Effect and Halo Reach soundtrack ;)

[@thejohnhend]

The 18650 capability will come as an additional battery cap so no need to wait. Got mine and very impressed for the price

[@andreivaldez2929]

Did they say that?

[@gunsncars1157]

So like what’s the most affordable good to go laser then ? Laser speed ? Holosun iris ?

[@andreivaldez2929]

Both are good for different reasons but yeah.

[@rickkienzlen]

Lovely use of Halo Reach Theme

[@Kycirion]

Any 4-in-1 unit needs a visible over-ride port.

[@FocusTripp]

I use a secondary white light most of the time. but that would be a good feature.

[@TheMsdos25]

SMS says they're working on an 18650 extender cap for the batter bay. I'd be tempted to get one if I hadn't already bought a Somogear NGAL as my "hold me over till the Holosun IRIS arrives" laser.

[@FocusTripp]

That's probably still a decent option.

[@camokid1595]

A decent box for the money this is the best new years news I coulda got

[@KR3WN30N]

Got my unit on 12/30/24. I’m having issues with the flashlight where it creeps up in brightness every few seconds if set at the lowest setting (haven’t tested at other light intensities). It does this without me touching the HFXC itself. Contacted them for a replacement, let’s see if they can deliver.

[@FocusTripp]

Let me know how it goes.

[@KR3WN30N]

So far, I sent them video proof yesterday (1/2/25) and I haven’t received a response yet. Hoping to get a reply today.

[@markbrown4597]

If only holo sun had one of these that didn't cost a thousand dollars :)

[@Mark-et8vh]

Thanks man. The fact you’re out there looking out for we poors, is appreciated. I went the poors route a few years ago and got a TLR VR II (yeah I know). It’s all there was really back then and in spite of all its downsides, (remove from rail to change battery, no slave daylight laser, etc) it’s worked well (ish) for me, though it’s better suited for a pistol. I added the Darq Industries EFL and it’s made it a lot better (ish). Still, I’m looking to replace it with something more rifle worthy and relegate this to a loaner rifle, so yeah - I’ll wait. I almost jumped on a RovyVon, but am trying to limit $300 wasteful expenditures to every 3-5 years. Happy New Year and thanks again!

[@andreivaldez2929]

RovyVon isn't bad (I've 2) but the white light is pretty weak; really only serviceable close up or if you're cramped on space (I just run redundant lights on mine). There's also issues with the old models fitting on rails (haven't had that issue but I'll accept it), though their new model supposedly resolved this. I think this thing's next model will probably be the best setup for that pricepoint but we'll see.

[@Mark-et8vh]

@ - Thanks for the insight and the info. It’s difficult to gauge a lot of the reviews and reviewers on this stuff. It’s why I wind up funneling down to channels like this. I’m too old to be tacticool - I just want something that works. I live in a pretty heavily wooded area in New England and the Streamlight, for what it is and what it does, has served me okay. It certainly has held up to a lot of abuse - I’ll give it that. I just want something in the same price point that will do the same, but have more conveniences. Thanks again.

[@stevenwilkinson8373]

I bought two on the Christas sale and waiting to arrive. I’ll be replacing my GL4 Pros and waiting for the 18650 cap to release

[@FocusTripp]

They are better than those.

[@Saboteur_91]

🤔So what’s you’re saying is…I should buy this. Got it

[@mattgrones4103]

Nice background music! remember reach!

[@86gwrhino]

The AoM music was unexpected

[@joneifer8987]

Buy now and buy when they upgrade. You will still have money left from what you would have spent on any civ laser unit.

[@dangerlos]

I like the way you think. I bought 2 and have then on smaller guns with less rail space.

[@probablyhiding]

got mine during the preorder for $200, looking forward to seeing what improvements they make. love this stupid thing.

[@shawnvega8232]

Also they are making a new battery cap for this unit that will be abke to hold 18650 battery

[@BoltActionMETA]

2:41 ive had my share of awkward reach arounds.

[@MistahGael]

Age of Mythology always goes hard.

[@krazylarry]

Excited for the videos on simulatied full auto

[@antonionunez5495]

Paraphrasing but another youtuber said "at that price, if it functions as a white light its already kinda worth it" i agree, if its gonna get better then i want to buy one now to see what its like and put it on a range toy maybe abuse it then get the real deal for the rifle i know is never coming apart and always works

[@fauxtool952]

so what you are sayin is that i should buy it now and not wait?

[@FocusTripp]

Yes?

[@declineofthewest.]

I’m buying three

[@shanek6582]

Where can I get one, I go to the sms site and they say pre order, idk why it says that because everyone seems to have one, I know they’re out now. If it said out of stock I’d understand. Is there anywhere else I can get one? Thanks

[@chevrofreak]

I'm surprised you didn't adjust the IR illuminator to center the IR laser in the beam.

[@theodoros1126]

After watching most of your videos on both cheap and expensive aiming devices I believe that my setup has the best of both worlds ...not too expensive , very durable and there is no messing about ...I use a Holosun LS117 IR aiming IR laser and an old by today's standard but very strong and lightweight surefire M622V vampire IR/White light ...both running on a double tape switch ...paid 250 for the holosun and 200 for the light . What's your opinion on this setup ?

[@nabby119]

1. If he hasnt used the combo, how would he know? 2. It is your shit, if you like it and use it, who cares what someone else thinks of it

[@25centsapop]

I'm down with your reviews and have gotten some stuff from your opinions. I see this as a decent unit for the price if you're not a super cereal night operator

[@FocusTripp]

I agree, but it's also going to be better in short order so I would just wait.

[@MichaelJohnson-iv2hy]

Question: what kind of bear is best? Also question: if they iron out these issues would you choose this over the Rovyvon for a little 7.5 suppressed 300 bo?

[@FocusTripp]

Black bear

[@warrenjoseph2605]

Any opinions on the laserspeed m6-tr which is being praised as the best Chinesium laser out lately

[@FocusTripp]

Pretty good.

[@PoopDynamyx]

“Oh thank God” I say in my head as I finally see a review for this thing that isn’t blatant shilling

[@sorryociffer]

I JUST saw an add for this! 😂

[@JoJoSandman]

This thing is getting more promising with more criticism. I hope to put this on my Flux Raider

[@FocusTripp]

It would be good for a compact setup.

[@46Shikamaru46]

Nice Mass Effect soundtrack music! The nerd in me noticed it at the 8 min mark.

[@dmitrykarkov4747]

Cable management? You mean tape and zip ties?

[@RocksNRuts4]

r u an ffl? wer u shooting full auto? is it possible to find a home on a WOODED lot with TREES in SD?

[@Persuasian338]

The thing that bugs me is that streamlight has the technology. And could make a 400 dollar unit and dominate the market.

[@shotsbyjoshh]

I bought 2 they’re amazing

[@PnP-td1mt]

Any idea when the 18650 unit will be available?

[@m26_lemon_grenade55]

But what if Admin results says i need to have to larp properly

[@sp3v0nhotrocks93]

Ignore him and have an affair like GT wants you to

[@Ripper13F1V]

Well, I didn't buy it, and the new upgraded version with an off instead of strobe and the new logic with abilty to change the brigtness of the ir laser in conjunction of the illuminator, etc, etc, well it won't be here in the next week or two. So not complaining since i didn't buy it. And no one else is going to buy one either. Right?

[@Hugh-Janus_1776]

I prefer a separate white light. Don't know why. Just my opinion.

[@FocusTripp]

Most people probably do, but there are other versions coming I would imagine.

[@thirstysailor579]

Hey, random question: I recently got a Savage Precision .22 for general practice. My intention is to plink with it for a while for while, the goal being to improve my accuracy as much as I can. Any advice when it comes to what platform to acquire next?

[@FocusTripp]

A decent AR, that's the most important rifle to get good with.

[@thirstysailor579]

@ Makes sense. Most of what we have in the Navy is older M4 models, getting an AR platform to practice with should have been the obvious conclusion, but I thought I’d ask someone who clearly has far more experience than I do before I committed, thanks! Now I just need to find a range to store my stuff in because I don’t feel like getting my career canned because I thought it a great idea to bring guns into the barracks.

[@0v417]

bro in south dakota🫵🏼🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@davidvergel860]

Have one on the way… 🫠 bought last week. Two buddies also have one on the way🫠🫠🫠 I have no idea who talked them into jumping on the holiday sale… 💀💀💀💀 Hope we got three that aren’t lemons 🤞🏽😬👍🏽

[@lylegoodluck]

When will the updaed one drop?

[@FocusTripp]

I think they are already implementing a couple updates.

[@EricBrownWins]

if it was simplified , took normal batteries, and didnt have a white light, I'd probably already own two of them.

[@thejohnhend]

If you don’t like the white light, just….don’t…use…it…?

[@EricBrownWins]

@thejohnhend or it could just go away and weigh less and be smaller since everyone already has a real light.

[@Emogeta]

​@@EricBrownWinsIf you can afford a white light as well, why not buy a better unit? This 4-in-1 unit is meant for people that can't afford expensive set ups. A surefire 600 already costs more than this unit.

[@EricBrownWins]

@@Emogeta your thought process is that there are people who can't afford a $200 flashlight but can afford night vision...?

[@Emogeta]

@@EricBrownWins Yes. Whether cheap digital or going cry once on a single cheap tube. That is a market. Those people invest all in on a tube and cheap out elsewhere.

[@A_Friendly_Robot]

Would love to compare with the IS-EG NGAL clone!

[@icuppc]

ay south dakota man 🤙

[@goawaybaizuo]

My sms failed, and the Illuminator was dirty.

[@11BRelo]

Is the plug for tail switch proprietary? And can you use a few cr123 instead of 18500s?

[@FocusTripp]

Crane spec plug. It's not dual fuel yet.

[@11BRelo]

@ thanks for the info!! damn that sucks though no dual fuel. But at least other tape switches like the unitys will work. I wonder if I or someone can figure out a way to disassemble it and change something to make it dual fuel…🤔🧐

[@stevenwilkinson8373]

My Streamlight tape switch crane plugs are too large to fit the port on the SMS. Hopes dashed. The included switch is fine but I don’t care for the design. I discovered the crane port is momentary only. Interesting and useful.

[@coffee_5.56x45]

I’m glad bigger channels are reviewing this laser. Gets the word out way more than just targeted Facebook ads and smaller channels. I always enjoy watching Focustripp and Hop reviews but they always seem to have a super pessimistic or condescending tone. Almost like nothing pleases them 😂 is this laser perfect no, is this laser the best option for most people due to price and performance absolutely. I wouldn’t even call the laser being too bright or not being able to independently adjust the power from the illuminator a con, will it be cool if they can do that in the future? Absolutely but for right now it functions the same as 90% of full power lasers on the market for 1/8 the cost.

[@shotsbyjoshh]

I can’t find one review on this dudes channel where he’s not being hateful about a product

[@coffee_5.56x45]

@ my review is basically the polar opposite of this one 😂 basically mine: I’m super happy with this laser, it’s not perfect but wow I’m impressed. The power, it’s holding zero, and I didn’t have to pay 2k to a stranger on the internet to have a laser the FDA doesn’t want me to have makes me a happy camper!

[@shotsbyjoshh]

@@coffee_5.56x45 yea I have 2 of them they’re absolutely amazing I feel the same I’m super impressed aswell

[@FocusTripp]

I just point out all the issues. I can pretend they don't exist if it makes you feel better.

[@coffee_5.56x45]

@ I think your use of the word “issues” is a stretch. Issues would be like, it doesn’t work, it flickers, doesn’t hold zero, has parasitic drain, lasers aren’t slaved, and so on. Personal ergonomics gripes are the only thing I really heard you mention besides the standard “full power laser too bright”. I’ll give you the battery not being a standard 18650 or cr123, but I would imagine the 18500 in comes with probably has a longer run time than a single cr123 which is the most common battery source for LAMs.

[@patent5421]

If you could own only 1 complete AR15 which one would you choose? DD, Geissele, BCM, somethng else?

[@PeasantKing-od5lg]

I have all three. Geissele, DD, BCM in that order

[@patent5421]

@@PeasantKing-od5lg would you take Super Duty over any DD rifle?

[@pineychristian]

I think this review is brutally honest but I think it's also overly critical on items that are just to picky. Like ergonomics on unit with placement of buttons. The fire button on left I think most with use the pressure pad / tape switch. Plus they made it with a crane switch. Also the huge benefit here is comparing to a Holosun which is in the $1200 to $1400 range depending on where you buy it. To be honest for the money it's pretty good.

[@FocusTripp]

I stated it's good for the money, but it will be better so I don't see the point in buying one now. Also, it's my job to point out any issues I see, it's your job to know whether or not they matter to you.

[@dandetande288]

Too bad , a missed chance to make a good product

[@Fightosaurus]

They are releasing a new cap for 18650s soon supposedly…

[@FocusTripp]

That's the one to get.

[@AstrumOmega]

Haven’t shot w/mine yet, but the IR spectrum is brighter than my DBAL I2. I don’t hate the ergonomics tbh, the main knob doesn’t have very good positive feedback. Kind of mushy in between settings.

[@vigildom7]

Now I feel like playing Reach instead of going to go train 😅

[@Annoyingdog37]

Damn that’s actually kinda nuts

[@moondog573]

we have... all been there

[@alexanderc9861]

In the beginning he said HKFC 😂 0:45

[@damagephotos4805]

Thank you!

[@TerminalM193]

1k lumens and 80k candella is INSANE. I think my HRT AWLS has 90k candella and it's only job is white light....

[@FocusTripp]

I think their numbers are a bit hit, but it is good.

[@JheregCG60]

Defentac still best tac!

[@CMar11B]

I just want a decent 2-1 for a 9mm PCC. Who makes a decent White Light / Vis laser?

[@jaredmatthews9403]

Check out Hop's review of the 301 from crimson trace. Interesting at least.

[@andreivaldez2929]

Just get a white light at that point. There's no good reason to use a vis laser only.

[@jaredmatthews9403]

​@@andreivaldez2929 it is handy for passive shooting and target ID I will admit. Not a real warfare use.

[@HeathLCK]

Layzer

[@evanf7334]

Now do this video with holosun and mention how they’re a shell company for the Chinese pla and garbage

[@ALovelyBunchOfDragonballz]

Every comoany operating in China is a defacto resource for the PLA, thats just how China operates.