Someone asked the same question on rec.guns a few days ago. Here is my reply:
amadeus7808@my-deja.com wrote:
# I don't care if I have to spend more money and get the LaserMax as # long as I am getting the better sight, but so far I haven't heard # much good about it from actual users.
Unfortunately, I can't provide a comparison between the LaserMax and the Crimson Trace. I can tell you, however, that the LaserMax will receive a heck of a lot more abuse because it's installed in an
extremely high-stress area. I also don't like the idea of my guide rod being replaced with a chunk of electronics. On the other hand, some shooters might not like the plastic grips that the Crimson Trace is integrated into. I do.
Either way, I got a Crimson Trace LaserGrip for my Springfield 1911-A1 to aid in training and rapid target acquisition. I've had the gun for about two months now, and I'll be the first to say that I do not rely on the laser for target practice. I used the laser to train and reduce flinch, and that is all. Someone mentioned the dot being "all over the place." That's what I wanted. I wanted the laser to see where I was so I could feel out the gun and reduce my flinch and shake. It has worked extremely well.
I always use the iron sights when firing and the only reason I turn the laser on is to adjust my sights or demonstrate the laser to
shooters who ask. That being said, I'm 100% positive that I will rely on the laser in a high-stress situation. The Crimson Trace has both a master on/off switch and a grip switch. I carry with the master on/off switch in the off position and have practiced to flip that switch before grabbing the pistol.
So, if I had to choose again, I'd keep the Crimson Trace grips. I killed two birds with one stone by replacing the harsh wooden grips with smooth plastic ones and got the added benefit of having a laser that fits my holster with no modifications. The Crimson Trace can be zero adjusted with the included hex keys while still on the gun, and changing the batteries is as simple as changing the grips.
Hope this helps...
/Sean/