Want your AR-15 totally ready for low-light situations?
We’ll cover some of the most popular AR rifle-mounted flashlights from $40 to $300+.
By the end, you’ll know which is the best for your end-use and budget…plus the best positions, mounting methods, and usage tips.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Bang-for-the-Buck Light
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Gold Standard Light
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Best High-End Light
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Most Ergonomic Light
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Most Affordable Light
Table of Contents
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AR-15 Flashlight Comparison Chart
| Model | Lumens | Candela | Battery | Battery Life | Weight | Warranty | Price |
| SureFire M640U Scout Light Pro | 1,000 | 11,300 | 2x CR123A | 1.25 hrs | 4.4 oz | Lifetime Guarantee | $315 |
| Modlite PLHv2 18650 | 1,350 | 54,000 | 1x 18650 or 2x CR123A | 1.25 hrs | 5.9 oz | Lifetime Guarantee | $279 |
| InForce WML Gen 3 | 450 (Gen 3) | 10,000 | 1x CR123A | 1.5 hrs | 3.1 oz | Lifetime Guarantee of Original Owner | $99 |
| Ozark Rifle Light | 600 | N/A | 2x CR123A | N/A | 4 oz | 1 Year Warranty | $44 |
How We Tested the Best AR-15 Flashlights
Lights are very important and the main piece of kit we recommend on a rifle for defensive purposes. Most situations arise in the dark and you want to positively ID your targets.
The top pick lights have been living on our go-to ARs for years and been through thousands of rounds and many battery changes.
Here’s the minimum criteria we used to choose our top lights:
- Minimum 1000 rounds and 1 year use on top of an AR-15
- Minimum one battery change
- Useful range and lighting up of targets
- Way to mount and activate light on an AR-15
We also want to make the distinction between Lumens and Candela for your end-use:
- Lumens: a measurement of the total output of visible light
- Candela: a measurement of the distance a light will project
Best AR-15 Flashlights
1. Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount 2
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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| Pros | Cons |
| Very usable 625 lumens and 22,000 candela | Could be brighter compared to newer lights |
| Comes with switch and mount | |
| Proven robustness |
Quick Stats
- Lumens: 625
- Candela: 22,000
- Battery: 2x CR123A
- Battery Life: 1.5 hrs
- Weight: 5.0 oz
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Guarantee
From my favorite best bang-for-the-buck light company (like in Best Pistol Lights)…the ProTac Rail Mount 2.
Build
Feels quality in hand and mine has survived many years of use even very close to my large muzzle brake.
First thing is that it comes with LOTS of goodies.
There’s a Picatinny mount, remote pressure pad, two ways to attach the pressure pad (double-sided tape or rail-mounted inserts), regular endcap, and zip ties for cable management.
The pressure pad is also very nice quality and has a higher button for constant on.
And, of course, a comparison vs the SureFire.
Very similar in dimensions.
Light
625 lumens used to be top dog a few years ago…but it’s still very useable outside under 100 yards. And it’s perfect for indoors to light up rooms.
Very powerful center beam that’s just a tad bit cool in temperature. But still enough spill on the sides to identity the surroundings.
It comes stock with High and Strobe (double-click) functions, but you can reprogram it to be other options (search for Ten Tap). I’ve set mine to High only because I have no use for Strobe.
It’s what I mostly run in night competitions (unless I’m testing other stuff)…
Mounting
One very cool thing…the ProTac 2 has the same footprint as the industry-standard Surefire. That means all the mounts you use with the SureFire work with the Streamlight.
The kit comes with something to clamp directly onto Picatinny. But now most rails are M-LOK.
This one is rocking the straight version of the Midwest Industries M-LOK Mount.
However, lately I’ve been leaning more towards the angled version from Arisaka which brings the light even closer.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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One complaint is that the rail-mounted attachment for the pressure pad is a little oversized so it lets the pad move about a quarter-inch.
Maybe I’m being nit-picky, but I’m probably going to swap it out for the bike tire method.
Overall Impression
This is the light for almost everybody.
Worth-it price, great beam, lots of accessories, and a history of stuff that works/lasts.
2. SureFire M640U Scout Light Pro
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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| Pros | Cons |
| 1,000 lumens and 11,300 candela | Needs additional accessories for mounting |
| Gold standard of duty use | |
| Very robust |
Quick Stats
- Lumens: 1000
- Candela: 11,300
- Battery: 2x CR123A
- Battery Life: 1.25 hrs
- Weight: 4.4 oz
- Warranty: Lifetime Guarantee
The older SureFire M600 Scout was the gold standard of AR-15 lights. And one we’ve used for years…
And the M640 Scout Light Pro picks up where the old version takes off.
Chances are if someone is depending on their rifle for their job/life, they’re going to be running a SureFire.
Build
The Scout is ruggedly built, and you can feel it in hand. There’s a reason why people choose SureFire when it matters.
Most regular packages come with only a rear push-button cap, which is fine if you know you’re going to be using a light and leave it on. I left it like that for a while for competitions.
However, if you’re only looking for momentary use…such as when clearing rooms…you’ll want to get a remote tape switch (UE07).
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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I’m testing out a couple of different ways of cable management. So far, my favorite is the old-school cut-up bike tire (12 x 1.5-2.25 above).
Now you’re ready to rock n’ roll like a pro.
It only comes in full power on or off, keeping it simple, so you don’t have to fumble through different modes.
Light
First, it sits at my sweet point of new rifle light brightness at 1000 lumens. Great for some distance outside albeit a little blinding if I’m using it indoors.
Second, it has a very bright center beam that makes it easy to identify your primary target.
Even though it’s very bright in the center, you’re still able to see stuff in your peripheral.
Color of the beam is also slightly warmer (yellow) when compared to the others.
And at 100 yards the center powerful beam still lights up your intended target!
Mounting
Out of the box, it comes with a Picatinny rail mount. But Picatinny on the sides is going out of style for weight issues (Best AR-15 Handguards), and putting the light on the top rail gets in the way.
My favorite mounting solution is the Arisaka again.
Super slim and light…plus it brings it in close…but not so close that you can’t put other stuff on top like my IR laser/illuminator.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Overall Impression
It never failed to go on when I did my part with fresh batteries before extended use sessions. I have several of the newer Pros on my course guns and they’ve been great.
Check out our full review of the Surefire 640U Scout Light Pro that survived a bunch of shotgun rounds.
Get it if you want the best that pros throughout the world use.
What do you think of the M640U Scout Light Pro?
3. Modlite PLHv2 18650
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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| Pros | Cons |
| High 1,350 lumen | Need additional mounting solutions |
| Huge 54,000 candela throw | |
| Dual fuel 18650 or 2x CR123 |
Quick Stats
- Lumens: 1350
- Candela: 54,000
- Battery: 1x 18650 or 2x CR123A
- Battery Life: 1.25 hrs
- Weight: 5.9 oz
- Warranty: Lifetime Guarantee
Looking for the top of the line eye-searing and extreme candela AR-15 light?
It’s the Modlite PLHv2…
Build
The build quality and machining is nice…and it better be for the price.
You can opt for the 18350 shorter body and battery…but I like the full-size 18650 which also gives you the ability to swap for 2x CR123 if needed.
Light
At 10 yards it’s super bright…and comparable to other lights out there.
But punch out to 50 yards and 100 yards while comparing against the old Surefire and you’ll see why you’re paying the big bucks…
See those 54,000 candela really come into play with that distance throw.
Mounting
Simply put…you need to purchase what you’d like for your specific use case.
The Surefire Switch would be the easiest.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Or get the tail cap only…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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And something from Unity Tactical like their Modbutton or Axon.
Overall Impression
For a high-end gun where you need that extra distance that comes from tons of candela…the Modlite is your go-to.
I have mine on my night-vision gun so I have the option of both extreme light or no-light.
Check out our full review of the Modlite PLHv2 and the OKW here.
4. InForce WML Gen 3
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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| Pros | Cons |
| Ergonomic attached switch | Brighter options available |
| Very lightweight | |
| Has a lockout mode |
Quick Stats
- Lumens: 450 (Gen 3)
- Candelas: 10,000
- Battery: 1x CR123A
- Battery Life: 1.5 hrs
- Weight: 3.1 oz
- Warranty: Lifetime Guarantee of Original Owner
The polymer Inforce WML is what I’ve been using the longest since their first generation.
Build
First thing you notice is that it’s different from other AR-15-specific flashlights that pretty much look like regular flashlights.
It’s mostly polymer and only needs 1x CR123 battery, which makes it lightweight.
There are some stories that if you really bang it hard against something, the metal vs. polymer battle commences, and the light breaks. I’ve used it pretty hard, and it’s met some walls…so far, so good.
Plus, it has an ergonomic activation button and two methods of preventing accidental use — a lever that comes up to physically block the switch and a head rotation lockout feature.
No need to get a remote pressure pad!
Light
Keep in mind that mine is a Gen 1 with 200 lumens, while the new Gen 3 has 450 lumens.
It’s more spread out compared to the SureFire and a little cooler in color. The increased spread gives you better periphery knowledge.
Very usable, and at 450 lumens, still very bright and less blinding indoors.
Mounting
It comes with a built-in Picatinny mount with a thumbscrew. It’s never fallen off for me through thousands of rounds of 5.56.
Though you can mount it on the top rail and still have an ergonomic grip, I like my light offset.
I’m digging the Magpul Offset Light Mount — affordable and held on great even though it’s polymer.
Overall Impression
My WML has been through a lot and has kept on ticking.
I recommend it if you don’t like dealing with pressure pads and want to save a few ounces up front on your rifle.
5. Ozark Rifle Light
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
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| Pros | Cons |
| Most affordable | Mount and pad aren’t good |
| 600 lumens |
Quick Stats
- Lumens: 600
- Candela: not listed
- Battery: 2x CR123A
- Battery Life: not listed
- Weight: 4 oz
- Warranty: 1 Year Warranty
Our budget pick is the Ozark Rifle Light. I chose this one based on the best reviews of a rifle-mounted light under $50. And surprise, cat feet!
Build
A little chunkier and not as great feeling in the hand. But it’s multiples cheaper than the others we’ve tested so far, so I’ll let it slide.
I abused it a little against walls and the ground, now it has scratches, but it’s still chugging along!
It comes with a Velcro-mounted remote pressure pad that is a little tall and very spongy but works. Rear-most button makes it stay on while the front is for momentary.
There’s also an odd rear button on the light itself.
It activates the strobe function if pressed by itself. If the light is already on, it will cycle through low, medium, and high output.
I’ve definitely accidentally activated the strobe function when laying down the rifle. The other brightness options are nice to have, but in the end, I’d rather have high on or off.
Plus, the only one on the list that isn’t fully waterproof and only comes with a 1-year warranty.
Light
A little more spread out of a center beam, but it’s plenty bright at 600 lumens and the coolest color (most blue) of the bunch.
Mounting
So far, so good in terms of durability and light output. However, mounting is lacking.
I had a Magpul Picatinny Rail section on my MOE handguard. But if you take a look carefully at the mount, there’s no lock bar that fits into the rail.
It’s completely held on by tension/friction.
Good news is that it’s held on for a case of .223. But I probably would check each time I go to the range and also not go higher in caliber.
The pressure pad adhesion is also very meh.
Two trips to the range, and it’s already falling off. Plus, the cord is so long you can probably mount it on your buttstock.
Good thing it comes with a push-button end cap; I’m going to swap it out for that.
Overall Impressions
Decent value for the money.
The light itself is robust so far, but the mounting, pressure pad and weird strobe button stop my derpy cat and me from fully recommending it.
Final Thoughts
Don’t forget to keep those lights fed. Make sure to have a good supply of CR123 Batteries.
How did we do in our Best AR-15 Flashlights list? Anything we missed and should add for next time? Or any tips for beginners? Now that your AR is outfitted with a light, get yourself a Tactical Flashlight, Pistol Lights, or Shotgun Light.
Latest Updates
- October 2024: Added more info to how we tested and comparative analysis
- May 2024: Added Modlite
107 Leave a Reply
Update. Sorry after reading down the comments I realized there was already a post about olight. Again though they do have amazing customer service.
I’m curious why the olight Odin didn’t make it in your review? I’ve had mine for a few years and it’s been great. I’ve also dealt with olihgt warranty department and they are also amazing.
I’ll never understand that ,cloud is one of the top if not the top 100000 candela free switch if u mess it up, very durable also,u can’t even see my most powerful streamlight beside it
I’m very confused that u never mentioned cloud maybe u don’t like the guy,but they are at the top period and come with charger,a cable system and 100 k candela the first at that power rating and this is second year not mentioned,they are tanks and if u somehow break the wire they give u one free.
Thanks for the great article Eric
Pay $6 more and get the Streamlight 88066 with 1000 lumen.
My SBR has my old service-issued SureFire M952V on it right now. I've slapped a rubberized flip-up rifle scope lens cap in the right diameter over the KM3 bezel (31-36mm) and it's been aces for keeping carbon buildup off the light's lens, and the spring-loaded flip cap is easy to pop open with a finger while shouldering it in the dark.
Any suggestions for a light mount without Picatinny rails?
Be wary of buying lights of of Amazon. Bought a streamlight and it look for real. After about a year it stopped working. I contacted stream light and they looked up the serial number and said it wasn’t their light. Be careful when buying off amazon.
duct tape
Any reason why the "Best High-End" pick is a pistol light in the AR flashlight review?
I agree pistol lights don’t go on rifles. Why is this on the review.
Thoughts on the LEP lights from Z-Bolt?
Why are there no Olight lights here? They are an excellent value and quality base on my experience. Is there not affilate payment, or what? Seems disingenuous.
Well, it did find Olight after reading all the way down, instead of just the Top Picks. This is one of the most comprehensive and excellent articles I've seen in a long time. Very nice and my apologies for not being more thorough. If it weren't for these darn allergies....
Olights are Chinese Junk. That’s why
Eric, I'm happy to see the light I chose to put on my 6940 made your list; the Olight Mini-Odin.
As you know,my Colt has Picatinny rails. The light came with a MOD mount. I had to spend more to get their Picatinny mount.
I've had this light on my gun for the past 6 months. Thus far it works as good now as it did when I bought it. Absolutely no complaints.
Personally, I like and use the Streamlight PolyTac X, and it doesn't make the list even. Why do I like it?
Sturdy, 600 Lumen, 3 Tap settings High, Low and Strobe, Ut works withe CR123s and AA batteries, last but not least, it's Affordablev(around $50). Streamlight makes a rechargeable version too, but it costs more than the base model.
600 Lumens is bright enough for me, and when mounted, I can tap the rear switch with my support hand easily.
Surefire & Cloud are priced out of the market for me. For the vast majority of shooters, the Streamlights & Nightsticks are all that’s necessary. Both SL’s & NS’s are well built with good warranties. I think Olight & Sig should get together with a Baldr mounted on a P320 and market it as the “Living Dangerously” kit.
Anyone try the Feyachi Tactical Flashlight? At 1200 Lumens, with included picatinny or mlok mount and pressure switch, It seems like a deal for $35. Gets good reviews on Amazon, but I'd rather hear what you say.
I've go a few Olights.
Recently added the Olight Odin Mini. I like the MLOK mount. I wish two things about the light were different though. First, I wish the pressure switch was a little shorter...not by much, just a little, maybe a 3/4 inch shorter..... just a personal preference thing dealing with my hand placement. Second, I wish the pressure switch also had an MLOK mount option available 'cause I don't mount it on the top rail where there is picatinny but instead on the side of the handguard where its MLOK so I had to add a picitatinny rail section to mount the switch holder which makes it more bulky there.
I bought an Olight Odin Mini for my Colt 6940. I have other Olights that have given me great service.
The light does come with an MLoc mount but a Picatinny mount must be ordered separately.
The Picatinny mount offers 2 different mounting positions.
The locking tail cap and remote switch work fine. After 4 months, it is holding up very well. It's worth a look.
Honestly, a flashlight taped to the side of any firearm is very archaic. Its old, unstylish, and clumsy. Handguard and weapon manufacturers are missing a big opportunity to integrate lights within the guard accompanied by tactile buttons inset into the guard.
I really like the Streamlight Polytacs. Under $70, with HI, Low and Strobe functions. The fact that it can work with either CR 123's or an AA is was a selling point for me.
Would love to se a compare of Hunting lights red or green LEDs or lens covers. Would but the PROTAC Rail mount today if I could get it set up for hog hunting. (red or green)
A little surprised that Olight Odin (and the Mini) were left out of this review as I like them just as much as my Streamlight.
At this point so many other weapon lights have surpassed Surefire, such as the Cloud Rein. Now Cooud Defensive has the Cloud Rein 2. I’d love to see these reviews catch up with the industry.
A budget light that is plenty bright for my purposes and lacks the mounting problem described for Ozark light is the Monstrum F50, $35 and comes with the option of running a pressure pad. The included M-Lok mount is solid.
I have a mini O'light on one of my 300 blackout pistols and on one of my other 300 pistols I have a Fenix PD35 V3.0. I've thousands of round through them no problems and they both come with m-loc proprietary Mounts with them so there is no need to mount a rail to your m-loc handguard. I always thought that was stupid to mount a different mount on top of another mount. But there both brighter then all's the others you listed, the Fenix is 1700 lumens, both are longer battery life and both are rechargeable ( also both come with proprietary charging systems) and they do all this better , smaller less weight,and come with a cheaper price. You can really tell by reading your reviews as to which companies sponsor you. I hard is it to go buy the most popular lights and do an HONEST comparison, guarantee top three wood be different.
I've owned a number of weapon mounted lights, some mentioned in this article, but one mentioned I have come to possess is heads and tails over any other brand, the Cloud Defense OWL weapon mounted light. One huge attribute of the system is the lack of any exposed wires and touch pad. The truly ambidextrous system is outstanding and mine included a recharger for the batteries used in the owl. It truly looks integrated into the weapon and works exceptionally well.
I'm surprised that Surefire, normally a pretty innovative company, has not come up with something better than the janky wire-and-pressure-pad setup. The OWL has got them beat. Having to worry about keeping your wires off the gas block and wrapping them with a bicycle inner tube smacks of a cheap field-expedient solution. When you're paying US$350 for a light (not to mention an extra US$100-$200 for the wire, pressure pad, and switch) you are entitled to a better setup. I'd go for the OWL every time.
Well the last time this was updated was over a year ago. Since then the clear choice is the SureFire Dual Fuel Scout Light Pro, runs on either a rechargeable 18650 or two 123A batteries. SureFire’s new Low-Profile Mount (LPM) delivers unprecedented versatility, allowing the user to optimize the light’s position relative to the rail. Rugged and reliable, the LPM easily and securely attaches to any Picatinny or M-Lok rail. I am using the M-Lok version on a CODA Evolution Lightning handguard.
HIGH OUTPUT
1,500 lumens (SF18650B) / 1,200 lumens (123A)
HIGH RUNTIME
1.5 hours (SF18650B) / 1.25 hours (123A)
PEAK BEAM INTENSITY
16,000 candela (SF18650B) / 12,800 candela (123A)
Paired mine with Unity Tactical angled M-Lok hot button (they also have a Picatinny rail version), great combo. I wish Surefire would have offered a choice between their standard push button Z68 tailcap, which it comes with and the Scout Light Rear Cap that is need to use plug for the unity button.
Granted this becomes a pretty price setup but convenient. The button is a perfect spot for my hand to use with just minimal thumb movement. Setup lights up tree line behind my house.
Personally, I like the Streamlight PolyTac X lights. 600 Lumens. 3 levels the user can program and it fits snug in a 30mm scope ring (I use one with a QR lever). 3 different case colors (black or FDE are preferred (the yellow is not a good case color IMO). Simple rear push button switch. Depending on the model, they rub from $40 to $60. The $60 model is a USB rechargable model.
Tough polymer case. Mine have been knocked about and dropped for 8+ years and still going strong.
Nothing fancy. Just a good, dependable light.
I get olight has a mixed rep, but I like that they are rechargeable.
What is the bike tire method about? I saw in a pic a tire strip wrapped around. Is it glued? How wide? How much stretch when mounted?
I've always had mixed feelings about lights on guns. I don't see spending a grip on one and if I'm searching for an adversary in the dark I don't think I want to show him where to shoot at.
I guarantee you'd be able to see him better than he can see you. It's about target identification and edge.
It's really a matter of discipline to turn off your light when you're not using it. From my (admittedly low) experience in the military, and what instructors have said about low-light and indoor, defensive shootings, you really want to have positive identification of your targets, especially if you know loved ones or innocent bystanders will be in the area.
How about for coyote hunting
don't hunt, but I do own a light for particular situations....whatever that might be but it's there
Olight has a smaller light that is QD and accessible for left or right handers. Also, it has a momentary on or a stay on depending on how long you press lever.
Preach
Infarce and Obomb
Are you high?
Meme tier junk.
Cloud, Surefire, and Streamlight. All tested and proven for years. I bet you think that Bear Creek Arsenal makes great uppers too.
Where's the warrior pro and warrior series lights from olight. I have the warrior pro and it's mind blowing. 2100 lumens, magnetic tail switch and a vibration function to tell you when the light is low on power.
In the article you mentioned your cable management is a cut up bike tire...it's an inner tube that's cut up to make ranger-bands for cable management and other uses, not the tire! I had to bust your balls on that one...
I used to use bike inner tube but swapping configs was a hassle. I now use tennis grip overwrap. Good feel, neat, and easy to put on and take off
How can you possibly talk about streamlight over OLight or Fenix? Yes that olight you tested didnt stand up to what you wanted for a long period but streamlight doest come close to the lumens or the distance olight or fenix sends out. As for reliability, olight and fenix are in a league of their own. For those of us that own all 3, I can say fenix is the best, olight is good but its no fenix. Streamlight might as well be second rate trash, similar to buying a $10 maglight from waliworld, its sure no better than.....
OWL for the win. Battery life and throw and brightness is amazing. Warm light. Unbreakable. Ergonomic. Best thing I’ve ever purchased gun related!
Not to mention after you get the 90-120 minutes of full output , depending on battery being used, you get an additional 8 hours at 10% light output, which is still a good amount of light. Best. Light. Ever. Only hurt my wallet for a minute.
I'm surprised you didn't say anything about all the battery draining issues with the Inforce WML lights. There's a lot of really P.O'd people out there who would never buy another Inforce light because of this. It doesn't take much web investigating to discover this issue is real.
Feyachi lights at $30 are crazy vfm including 2 x 18650 batteries, charger and mlok or pic rail mounts! At that price who needs a warranty?
Bought both the offset piece from midwest and the surefire light. It would nice if there were instructions somewhere even simple stuff like remove the surefire mount and how, just the MI mount, and/or mount the offset to light first, etc.
AR nube
I am confused about the mounting. I have a S&W M&P15 Tactical with m-lok. It comes with a 2 inch piece of M-Lok Picatinny-style rail panel for mounting your accessories. I have seen people mount a handle on the bottom using this so I am guessing I need another 2 inch piece to mount a flashlight?
Yes or m lock mount that does not use pic rail mounta direct to guard.
You should have your products link to Opticsplanet not lame ass Amazon. I just bought the Inforce white/IR light from Opticsplanet. Maybe you can get credit.
When we can we link to multiple sites, the Inforce links go to Amazon, Brownells, and Opticsplanet if you click the dropdown.
Consider looking at the Odin
Having used, or been issued, every conceivable light from normal LE supply channels. The Olight is now my go to light. Both the odin, and Baldr Pro-https://www.olightstore.com/baldr-pro.html. I have beat them severely, both on the range, on duty, and in my trunk, and they never failed.
We have an Odin review coming very soon!
It's up! https://www.pewpewtactical.com/olight-odin-review/
I have the full-size Odin myself.. pretty nice light for the price point. But, Olight needs to beef up that mounting bar that is on the light itself. The tiny-wittle screws they use to secure the mounting bar to the light housing itself are not very good quality. And will back out pretty quickly unless you use Locktite or something similar. My mounting bar is slightly bent, like mentioned in this article.
In the eighties I used a streamlight and it saved my life more than once. Often overlooked are the electronics of a flashlight; streamlight's electronics do not drain your batteries when not in use. This is very important because those that do drain batteries when not being used cause leaks in the batteries creating a mess in your flashlight. Streamlight is cheaper than most high to medium quality flashlights but are always working when you need it, even if it was sitting six months without use. There are many good flashlights to choose from but Streamlight is always a sure bet. The only real competitor to Streamlight is the overly priced surefire. If you need a light in a fight or any emergency, Streamlight will not let you down. L.A.S.D. retired.
Why isnt Modlite on this list, better by far than Surefire in terms of lumens and candela.
What's the box mounted next to the first light?
Love the Inforce WML. Switched all my lights over to it and it really cleans up the handguard/rail by removing the wires and pressure plates. I've seen some comments that some of their lights flickers at times, but I believe WML fixed their QA issues with their Gen 2 models as I've never encountered any problems during some night outings where I've run the light for at least an hour straight.
Eric always enjoy your email but I have to say to leave off the list of lights the Cloud Defensive OWL is not a complete comparison. The OWL penetrates photonic barriers like smoke, fog and humid air. What that mess is the light travels much further than any of the lights on your list. Also once you add a switch and wire to the Surefire you price almost meets the OWL. But having wires can be a real problem hanging up on things. The OWL is one piece mounting system is quick and easy.
Weapons mounted IR illuminators like Laser Rangefinders.. Lead a sophisticated opponent back to where you are at.. Bad Idea. The East German Zeiss people simply put a special red lens over the front of one lens of their Binos and they could see US LRFs used by Tanks and other Systems.. Run Passive or actuate any IR illuminators remotely.. But be aware the moment you turn it on .. Depending upon their level of sophistication they will know you know they are there..
Excellent review, thank you for your time!
Hey Eric,
Could you provide any further insight or guidance about the bike tire pressure pad trick? I understand the principle, although not the direct mechanics.
Thanks,
Nate
Cut a section of bike inner tube out, say 1-2 inches. Slide it over the muzzle end of your barrel/rail. Then the tight tube section will form a wire containing bubble around the spot you want
I recently snagged a Feyachi FL14 from Amazon for $40. Includes an 18650 battery, push button endcap, pressure switch endcap, a charger for the battery, and the best feature, it includes a sturdy MLOK mount. The mount offsets the light about 45 degrees; if mounted on 3 o clock mlok slots, the light ends up at 1:30 or 4:30.
I've been very pleasantly surprised with the sturdiness of the mount, brightness of light, and responsiveness of the pressure switch. I mean hell, you can spend well over $40 just for an MLOK mount, so the light is basically free.
As a law enforcement officer and trainer, I can say, stream light and sure fire are he most durable. Sometimes that isn’t the biggest issue. On some missions I have taken the inforce wml because accidental light activation is unacceptable. I used a lot of all three of those brands.
Since I got my 1000 lumen Protac I haven't been interested in getting another surefire. Capability I more then comparable but the price point makes it a winner in my book
I love the streamlight pro tac. I have it mounted with a generic chinese mount on magpul handguard at 11oclock. One set of batteries can go past a good long night. Two hunts easy but its good to have spare batteries.
Not shabby since I keep it at full. I just dont use it if I dont need to.
This washes my front sight (bright paint). With A2 carry handle and front post, this is a great night time set up. Fast on target...deadly to piggies.
Eric, great site and articles, thanks as always. I'm using a Fenix FD35 which I already had before deciding to use it on my AR, and so far it's working pretty well.
I was in Army in 60s so my shooting has drop some you no where i was over seas
Your comment does not make any sense.
Crimson Trace's new lights are a great option for the budget/value end of the list. The fact that they come with a preasure switch and mounts for pic rail, keymod, and M-lok is a great value. Haven't seen much on the durability, but i bought one to use for a rifle class, and like it a lot.
Thanks, Will. We have one in hand as well for the future update! So far so good too.
Love your articles. Personally I’m a fan of Olight. On my ar-15 pistol I run an Olight Pro without the switch. It’s sleek and slim and sits on top of my handguard. Very easy to activate and I don’t notice it any more through my scope because it sits so low.
PS - Great article.
CR123A's are great - but having lots of devices that use AA - and having provision to recharge AA batteries even during a prolonged blackout - made me decide to go with the "dual fuel" Pro-Tack Rail Mount 1 - takes one CR123A or one AA - everything same as the 2 except shorter - comes with the same accessories. Brighter with the CR123A (350 lumens w/CR123A - 150 lumens w/AA) but can keep it working indefinitely during the time it will most likely be needed, which has been during extended blackouts after hurricanes.
I see lots of opinion about how many lumens is enough. A video or series of pictures comparing various levels inside and outside would be helpful. Seeing is believing.
Are there differences in the ability to flood an area to see the periphery?
Not into tactical or competition use myself, just hunting. Recently purchased a Nitecore P30 Hunting Kit. Serious throw light for its size, uses single 18650. Kit comes with red/green filters, scope barrel and offset picatinny mounts, tail cap remote switch, 2-bay charger, and a single 2300mAh battery. Used a Kinetic Development MLOK QD mount to pop it on/off the hand guard. Too bulky for the uses you're talking about but man it will light up a pig at night +50yds downrange.
You should check it out.
I’ll give a big thumbs up to Streamlight, but I prefer the Rail Mount HL-X over both the Rail Mount 2 and *gasp* the Surefire M600. Mine has survived numerous Airborne Operations, hard use in training, and everything I’ve thrown at it since leaving the military. I prefer its throw and dispersion and will contend that it was never too bright for room clearance. I will also recommend it highly for 4 legged pest control since it will extend the range at which you can identify, engage, and destroy targets. Neat as the Ten Tap is, I’ve found myself leaving it in high only mode unless my navigation light has failed and I’m using the low function of my weapon light to get out of the woods while preserving battery life. The Streamlight didn’t mind the light drizzle that rendered my headlamp useless. Mine has been on everything from a .22LR to a 12 gauge shotgun. I think it’s time to get another HL-X just so I’m not moving the one I have around so much.
Personally I really like my M&P with Crimson Trace. The system is totally wireless with controls on the grip for easy on / off as necessary. The green laser is also very nice for any middle of the night surprises. Just push the button on the grip and you have target recognition and acquisition at the same time. I’m running a Holosun green dot sight co-witnessed for daylight shooting but for low light situations I think the Crimson Trace is the bees knees. Only draw back is at 300 lumins it’s not going to blind anyone; but I figure that’s going to be addressed by brass on target. Overall a great article though with some very nice options for add on equipment.
I personally have been a huge fan of Olight for years. I’m in the military and have been consistently spending more and more money on their products because they are very well made products! I have the Olight PL-1 Valkyrie mounted on my Remington 870 and my custom built AR pistol in .223 Wylde. For $60 you get a 450 lumen flashlight coming standard with a Picatinny rail using (1) CR123A...and it’s waterproof! Even a 5 year warranty. For $60 you can’t really get much better than that. Worth it to check it out.
Informative article, with interesting choices. Personally, I have great things to say about the surefire 600 and it has last me years. It is expensive so buy once cry once right? I would also take a good look at Arisaka's 600 series, it's easier on the wallet & interchangeable with surefire mounts/switches.
Thanks Alfredo! Haven't heard of Arisaka but I'll try to get them for the update.
IMO , on my bump in the night gun i have 2/two flashlights , i used 2 do cave diving and the rule is redundancy in everything or 2 is 1 ,1 is none , so i use 2 cheaper/less expensive lights on 1 gun , handguns 1 on the gun another in hand/pocket , just offering my older guy perspective ;-)
Yup...it's always during something important that you run out of batteries or something else goes wrong!
Streamlight all day. Have three ProTacs. If I was rich I’d probably splurge on Surefire, but I’m more than satisfied with my Streamlights.
Yup! If I need a light that will work and not break the bank...it's Streamlight.
Nice article as always. What are your thoughts on the new Crimson Trace Tactical lights? They seem like a great option and the price is right. I just picked up the CWL-201 (900 lumen model with keymod or m-lok mounts).
Thanks, Ryan! Haven't tried out their tactical lights...let me know how it runs!
Hi Ryan - I also recently mounted the CWL-201. So far, I'm very happy. Seems to be a very solid light, especially for the price. I don't think I'll use the pressure pad, but the end cap switch seems fine.
You had another article for AR-15 mounted lights. Those were off-brand more budget options. Can't find the article now. Can you please link it? Or did you completely replace it with this one?
Hey Eugene, I swapped it out with this one since these I have first-hand experience.
Eric, can you maybe link to that article or possibly just send me the list from it. Those were good recommendations for a low-cost build. I'm actually looking to put a light into a CCA vertical grip that doubles as a flashlight holder and has a button on it that activates the flashlight switch on the back. Wanted something relatively inexpensive. Has to be 1-inch diameter light. Thanks!
Fenix TK15UE (Ultimate Edition) seems worthy of mention. Check it out.
What about Elzetta?
That is an Elzetta mount. I have one and it is great for 1" lights like the surefire 6p or g2. Be sure to use a quality led module though for durability and brightness.
What is the light mount on the front sight pictured above?
You asked why a person wouldn't want a flashlight mounted on a self defense weapon? How about the target that your flashlight becomes when you use it right in front of your face. I've been advised by law enforcement officers to keep any flaslight as far away from my main body as possible. They suggest to hold it in your non-dominent hand as far to the left or right as possible and only use it in short bursts with a button that only lights it while pushed.
True,this is the method most real cops prefer and it works best, but with a rifle the only choice is to mount it on the weapon itself and learn to use it before you have to use it.
How about Streamlight? They make some great flashlights too.
Yup, they are my go-to for pistol mounted flashlights. I have buddies that run them on their AR's too.
you should look into Fenix lights. I use them for basically everything, and they haven't failed me yet. Granted, I've never had to use it for home defense, but I've not been gentle with it either.
Yup, I have a few Fenix's for my bugout bags!