Check out our list of the Top 10 best tactical flashlights that we are using out in the field and to get the job done.
First – decide what you will need the light for?
Is it for truly tactical stuff (mount on your AR-15 or pistol) or you just need a heavy duty small light for around the house or work?
We like it both ways so check out these lights and try them out.
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#10 5.11 EDC
The 5.11 Tactical EDC flashlight in black is a handy tool that runs on 2 AAA batteries, delivering a strong beam of 127 lumens of light, reaching up to 27 meters. With a runtime of 3 hours and 21 minutes, this flashlight is energy efficient and includes the required batteries. Its improved anodized grip and wider on/off button switch make it ergonomic and easier to handle, while the enhanced pocket clip retention ensures secure carrying.
Designed for convenience, this compact flashlight is small and versatile, fitting easily into pockets. Its IPX-4 rating ensures splash resistance for at least 5 minutes, and it’s drop tested for up to 2 meters.
I like that it features a Cree XP-G3 LED, this flashlight is available in two color options. 5.11 emphasizes producing tactical gear suitable for various environments, creating reliable products for both professionals and consumers. This flashlight embodies their mission, offering trustworthy gear suited for demanding missions, making it a practical and reliable choice for everyday use.
Check price at Amazon.com
#9 Fenix PD35
Constructed from high-strength aerospace-grade aluminum with a premium Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish, the PD35 is built to withstand harsh conditions and tough use. Its durable design features an IPX8 rating, ensuring it is both water and dust-resistant. The tactical tail switch and side switch provide convenient access to various lighting modes and a strobe function for emergency situations. With a compact and lightweight design, this flashlight is a popular choice for law enforcement, security personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts who require a reliable and high-performance lighting tool.
Check price at Amazon.com
#8 SOG DARK ENERGY LIGHT
The SOG DE-01 Dark Energy Flashlight is a rugged and powerful lighting solution that excels in both durability and performance. With its sleek and compact design, this flashlight is built to withstand the toughest environments. The DE-01 boasts an impressive 687-lumen output, providing a bright and focused beam that illuminates even the darkest areas. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures durability, and the hard-anodized finish adds resistance to scratches and corrosion.
The flashlight features multiple lighting modes, including high, low, strobe, and momentary on, offering versatility for various situations. Its textured grip and ergonomic shape make it comfortable to hold and operate, even with gloves on. Additionally, the DE-01 is equipped with a convenient belt clip for easy carrying. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or in need of a reliable EDC flashlight, the SOG DE-01 Dark Energy Flashlight delivers exceptional performance and durability in a compact package.
Check out the SGPT review for the SOG Dark Energy Tactical Light
#7 UTG 400 Lumen Compact LED Weapon Light
This is an impressive addition to any firearm, offering a powerful and focused beam that enhances target visibility and overall shooting accuracy. With its 400-lumen output, this weapon light illuminates your surroundings effectively, making it an excellent choice for low-light and tactical situations. Its compact design and lightweight construction ensure that it won’t add unnecessary bulk or weight to your firearm, allowing for easy maneuverability.
Will mount easy to picatinny or Weaver rails.
One standout feature of this weapon light is its dual-switch operation, enabling quick and easy access to momentary-on and constant-on lighting modes. This versatility ensures that you can adapt to various shooting scenarios swiftly. The UTG 400 Lumen Compact LED Weapon Light is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand recoil and harsh environmental conditions. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a competitive shooter, or a responsible firearm owner, this weapon light enhances your ability to acquire targets and maintain precision in low-light situations. It’s a reliable and cost-effective addition to your firearm that can greatly improve your overall shooting experience.
Check price at Amazon.com
#6 Streamlight Protac
The Streamlight Protac tactical flashlight is a rugged and versatile illumination tool that caters to the needs of law enforcement, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone in need of a reliable light source. With multiple brightness settings and a powerful 1000-lumen output, this flashlight ensures you have the right amount of illumination for any situation. It features a durable construction with high-impact materials, making it suitable for challenging environments and conditions.
The Protac offers convenient dual fuel versatility, allowing you to power it with either a rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion battery or two CR123A lithium batteries, providing flexibility for users. One notable feature is the programmable switch, which allows you to customize the operation to your preferences, ensuring the flashlight suits your specific needs. Whether you’re navigating through the wilderness, responding to emergencies, or simply in need of a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) flashlight, the Streamlight Protac is a trusted companion that provides exceptional performance and durability.
Check price at Amazon.com
#5 NiteCore MH12 v2
The NiteCore MH12 v2 is a high-performance tactical flashlight designed for a wide range of applications, from law enforcement and security to outdoor adventures and everyday carry. With an impressive 1200-lumen output and a beam that can reach up to 238 meters, this flashlight ensures excellent visibility even in challenging conditions. It offers five different brightness levels, including a strobe mode for emergency situations, allowing users to tailor the lighting to their specific needs.
One of the standout features of the MH12 v2 is its USB-C rechargeable design, making it incredibly convenient to power up the flashlight. The integrated battery level indicator keeps you informed about the remaining power, ensuring you’re never left in the dark unexpectedly. The durable aerospace-grade aluminum construction is built to withstand tough conditions, and the IP68 rating ensures that the flashlight is water and dust-resistant. With its compact size and versatile features, the NiteCore MH12 v2 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and high-performance tactical flashlight for various scenarios.
Check price at Amazon.com
#4 Surefire P2X Fury Defender LED
The Surefire P2X Fury Defender is a powerful and reliable tactical flashlight that caters to the needs of law enforcement, security professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a high output of 1000 lumens and a precision-focused beam, this flashlight offers exceptional brightness and a far-reaching throw, making it an ideal choice for low-light and high-stress situations. Its dual-output capability allows you to toggle between high and low brightness settings to match the requirements of the task at hand.
Constructed from durable aerospace-grade aluminum with a Mil-Spec anodized finish, the P2X Fury Defender is built to withstand harsh conditions and the rigors of daily use. It features a crenellated Strike Bezel that can be used for self-defense or breaking glass in emergency situations. The tactical tailcap switch provides quick and easy access to momentary-on and constant-on modes, making it a practical and versatile tool for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re navigating in the dark, searching for suspects, or simply in need of a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) flashlight, the Surefire P2X Fury Defender offers top-tier performance and durability. It will run at 15 lumens for 46 hours. 5.7-ounce weight with batteries.
Check price at Amazon.com
#3 Streamlight 14032 Sidewinder
I really like the Streamlight Sidewinder military tactical flashlight. I talked to a buddy that has one of these and it has been abused for several years and still going strong. It has stood up to rain and water in his kayak and out on the range in 90 degree heat.
He showed me how you can mount it on your helmet or attach it to your molle for hands-free lighting, The Streamlight Sidewinder tactical light has a 185-degree tilting body so you can aim the light where you need it. I checked it out after he let me borrow it for a week.
The unit has a 55 lumen white light with 69 meter beam distance. You can switch it to low mode for almost 100 hours of runtime. It has white, red, blue and IR LEDs. I like the red light for reading maps and not blinding my teammates when we are out at night and on a hike. Each LED has 4 brightness levels. The unit includes two “AA” alkaline batteries to get you started. I like to use the upgraded lithium double A’s as they last way longer.
#2 SMITH & WESSON
Smith & Wesson Military & MP12 Tactical light
Up to 875 lumens on the high setting and 43 lumens on low.
It has two CR123 batteries that are included and can give up to two hours of light on high and a whopping 43 hours on low setting. It has a super long beam distance of 242 meters on high and 32 meters on low.
If you are in a regular bedroom or truck this is enough. It is made of high quality aluminum and is impact resistance and waterproof to one meter.
#1Helotex 1000 Lumens Tactical Light
The Helotex 1000 Lumens Tactical Light is a powerful and versatile illumination tool that delivers exceptional performance in various situations. With its impressive 1000 lumens output, this tactical light offers a bright and focused beam that illuminates your surroundings with ease.
The durable and rugged construction ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for demanding outdoor activities and tactical use. The light features multiple lighting modes, including high, medium, low, and strobe, allowing you to adjust the intensity according to your needs. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, while the textured grip provides a secure hold even in wet conditions. The Helotex 1000 Lumens Tactical Light is a reliable and high-performing tool that offers excellent brightness, durability, and versatility for a wide range of applications.
RUNNER UPS:
SureFire P2X Fury Defender
Fenix PD35 TAC
Olight Warrior X Pro
ThruNite TC15
Anker Bolder LC90 Rechargeable
Klarus XT11X
Pelican 7600 Tactical Flashlight
Coast HP17TAC Focusing 615-Lumen LED Flashlight
Question: What about the Streamlight vs Fenix? Or p2x vs rail mount 2? Both are good lights and you cannot go wrong with either one.
Question: I just need a great light for my car and at home. What can you recommend?
Answer: I personally use the 511 tactical and have had no problems with it. It is a good value at about $50 and you will get many years of use out of it. I bring along a few extra zip ties in my backpack in case i need to put it on my bike or in my tent if I am working on something.
Question: What light did you use during training and missions on the SEAL Teams?
Answer: I just used a small Navy issued flashlight from BUDS that I carried for year and it worked just fine. Not a ton of candlepower but it always worked so I just kept it in my kit.
Question: Where can I find out more info to join the US Army Special Forces? Check out the website here?
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