Editor's Note: This article contains video clips of strobe lights. If you’re sensitive to flashing lights, you can avoid them by not pressing play on the embedded videos.
Can you get a quality tactical flashlight for less than $100?
Yes, and we found several!
Since tactical flashlights can mean different things to different people, I covered the bases with a variety of features and intended uses.
Let’s break down the options in terms of lumens, candela, durability, and features to find the best affordable tactical flashlight for you.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Overall
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Best Pocket Light
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Best Budget
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Best Weapon Light
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Best Durability
Table of Contents
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Tactical Flashlight Comparison Chart
| Max Output | Max Intensity | Battery | Dimensions | Weight | Price | |
| NexTorch TA21 | 1,300 lumens | 6,400 candela | 16340 / CR123A | 3.85” x 1.26” x 0.91” | 5 oz | $95 |
| Nitecore EDC23 | 2,500 lumens | 20,720 candela | Rechargeable | 4” x 1.33” x 0.88” | 3 oz | $74 |
| Coast G60R | 1,000 lumens | N/A | Rechargeable | 6.7” x 1.54” x 1.54” | 8 oz | $39 (pair) |
| Fenix TK16 V2.0 | 3,100 lumens | 36,100 candela | 21700 | 5.63” x 1.34” x 1” | 4 oz | $99 |
| SureFire G2X Pro | 600 lumens | 8,700 candela | 2 x CR123A | 5.3” x 1.35” x 1.35” | 5 oz | $85 |
How We Tested the Best Tactical Flashlights Under $100
I started this test by rounding up some of the most popular sub-$100 flashlights out there. Some of these came from brands I’ve known and trusted for years; others were new to me.
Size and weight were primary considerations, since you’re likely planning on carrying your next tactical flashlight in your pocket, in a CCW bag, or on a plate carrier. There are lots of ways to use a tactical flashlight, though, so I kept an open mind and included one particularly large option – that decision will make more sense in a minute.
We can compare lumens and candela until we’re blue in the face, but it’s more helpful to see how these tactical lights perform in the field. I took them all to a remote area one night to get an apples-to-apples comparison of how well they light up the night.
Durability testing included a 30-second spray from the garden hose and a drop onto concrete from waist height. I don’t expect flashlights to be indestructible at this price, but that seems like a reasonable standard.
Battery run time is so dependent on mode selection and external factors like temperature that it’s hard to provide a true representation. I listed manufacturer-provided run times for comparison.
Best Tactical Flashlights Under $100
1. NexTorch TA21 – Best Overall
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Red, duty, tactical, and lockout modes with a physical selector ring
- Glass breakers on the bezel
- Tactical ring
Cons
- Power is adequate but not exceptional
- I'd like more positive feel from the button
Specs
- Maximum Output: 1,300 lumens
- Maximum Intensity: 6,400 candela
- Modes: White, red, momentary white, strobe
- Battery: 16340 (USB-C) / CR123A
- Dimensions: 3.85” x 1.26” x 0.91”
- Weight: 5 oz
- Comes With: FR-1 tactical ring, charging cable, lanyard, manual
- Country of Origin: China
The NexTorch TA21 won me over with several modes, physical control over settings, and a compact size that’s easy to carry everyday. It’s the most well-rounded tactical flashlight here, and it impressed me during testing.
This little powerhouse is fairly thick, and it gets a little bulky with the ring attachment (though I think it’s worth the tradeoff). Still, it’s short and lightweight enough that I enjoyed carrying it in my front pocket.
| Lumens | Candela | Run Time | |
| White Light (Low) | 30 | 144 | 20 hr |
| White Light (Medium) | 230 | 1,156 | 2 hr 15 min |
| White Light (High) | 1,300 | 6,500 | 1 hr |
| Red Light (Low) | 3 | N/A | 50 hr |
| Red Light (Medium) | 30 | N/A | 5 hr 30 min |
| Red Light (High) | 150 | N/A | 3 hr 30 min |
| Strobe | 1,300 | 6,400 | N/A |
It comes with a rechargeable 16340 battery, and the flashlight is marked so you’ll know which way to orient the positive and negative terminals. I recommend picking up extras so you can always have some that are fully charged.
The TA21’s beam has a defined bright spot in the center with smooth falloff into a wide peripheral throw. The beam’s progressive edge provides a natural transition from light to dark that I think contributes to situational awareness by discouraging tunnel vision.
During testing, the brightest white light mode didn’t punch quite as far into the dark as some of the other lights here but it’s certainly adequate for all indoor and most outdoor uses. Multiple levels of red light make this a standout in the tactical arena, as does the physical collar that rotates to select red, duty, tactical, or lockout modes.
Red and lockout are self-explanatory. Duty mode is what you’d use most of the time: multiple brightness levels of white light. Tactical mode opens up the brightest white light setting and the strobe function.
The TA21 kept on trucking through my water test, and it showed no signs of damage – even cosmetic – after my drop test. It helps that there are three glass breakers on the bezel to absorb a lens-down fall.
2. Nitecore EDC23 – Best Pocket Light
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Blindingly bright at full power
- OLED display for settings and status updates
- Super slim
Cons
- Takes practice to figure out all the features
- I wish the pocket clip sat higher on the flashlight for deep carry
Specs
- Maximum Output: 2,500 lumens
- Maximum Intensity: 20,720 candela
- Modes: White, momentary, strobe
- Battery: Rechargeable (USB-C)
- Dimensions: 4” x 1.33” x 0.88”
- Weight: 3 oz
- Comes With: Lanyard, charging cable, manual
- Country of Origin: China
The positively miniscule Nitecore EDC23 is small enough to disappear in your pocket, making it an easy winner for anyone looking for a pocket-carry tactical flashlight. The brightest modes deploy hilarious power at the touch of a button. The OLED display and manual lockout aren’t gimmicks, either; they’re serious value-adding features.
This is by far the slimmest flashlight of the bunch. It’s less than an inch thick – and that includes the pocket clip. At the same time, the stainless steel body makes it feel substantial and high-quality in the hand.
| Lumens | Candela | Run Time | |
| White Light (Ultra Low) | 15 | 145 | 39 hr |
| White Light (Low) | 65 | 680 | 11 hr |
| White Light (Medium) | 200 | 2,000 | 3 hr 45 min |
| White Light (High) | 1,100 | 8,800 | 1 hr 30 min |
| White Light (Turbo) | 2,500 | 20,720 | N/A |
| Strobe | 2,500 | 20,720 | N/A |
The USB-C port and safety switch sit on either side, with the OLED display in the middle. I can’t overstate how nice it is to see which setting a flashlight is in before turning it on, not to mention checking the remaining run time and battery level in real time.
The EDC23’s beam is very crisp, with a sharply defined hot spot in the center and harsh falloff at the outer perimeter. It’s extremely effective, but it did encourage me to forget about everything outside the beam during testing.
This is the clear distance champion of the group. Nitecore claims a maximum range of 306 yards. During testing, I spotted glowing frog eyes at 300 yards and felt confident that I could see a person or larger animal out to at least 400 yards. It’s seriously impressive how much power this tiny flashlight contains.
The OLED screen makes it easy to cycle through the light’s modes and check remaining battery run time. The physical safety switch prevents negligent discharges. Access normal settings with the power button; activate maximum power and strobe with the secondary button.
Despite having two buttons, a sliding switch, and a digital screen, no water found its way into the EDC23 and it worked flawlessly after a ride through the splash zone.
The compact lens isn’t recessed very far, but it showed no signs of damage after a face-first fall onto concrete.
What do you think of Nitecore? Rate it below!
3. Coast G60R – Best Budget
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Pros
- Sold in pairs
- Simple operation
- Great for staging as a backup
Cons
- Too large for pocket carry
- Basic features
Specs
- Maximum Output: 1,000 lumens
- Maximum Intensity: N/A
- Modes: White
- Battery: Rechargeable (USB-C)
- Battery Run Time: 2 hrs 30 min (high), 6 hrs 15 min (medium), 14 hrs (low)
- Dimensions: 6.7” x 1.54” x 1.54”
- Weight: 8 oz
- Comes With: Two charging cables, manual
- Country of Origin: China
Being prepared is tactical, and one way to do that is to have a few Coast G60R flashlights staged around your house so you never have to fumble around in the dark when you need one. At less than $40 for two, this is the most economical way to stay prepared without sacrificing quality. I recommend picking up something else from this list as your primary light, then adding these as backups.
The G60R is the biggest and heaviest flashlight here. I wouldn’t want to carry it without at least a sling bag or fanny pack. But, like I said, this flashlight is for staging ahead of time; it’s not an everyday carry flashlight.
| Lumens | Candela | Run Time | |
| White Light (Low) | 120 | N/A | 14 hr |
| White Light (Medium) | 420 | N/A | 6 hr 15 min |
| White Light (High) | 1,000 | N/A | 2 hr 30 min |
The rechargeable battery is convenient. If your prepper gear includes some kind of solar generator (and it should), you’re in business. I appreciate the metal ring that slides over the charging port to protect it – it’ll last much longer than a flip-out rubber cover.
The G60R lets you adjust the beam depending on what you need. At one end of the spectrum, it doesn’t have a bright spot in the middle; it’s consistent from edge to edge, with linear falloff. The lens shroud twists to let you change that and focus the light’s power in the center. That’s a unique feature in this group, and the analog approach keeps costs down.
Distance is good but unremarkable in this company. The power button also cycles through the three power modes, which range from soft reading light to full-power searchlight.
This is the flashlight I was most concerned about going into my durability test. Surprisingly, the sliding charging port cover held up to water, and the lens didn’t break during my drop test.
The bezel suffered superficial dings, but nothing that affects the flashlight’s ability to function. I still wouldn’t advise being too rough with it.
4. Fenix TK16 V2.0 – Best Weapon Light
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Easily access max power and strobe
- Compatible with three Fenix weapon mounts
- Glass breakers on the bezel
Cons
- A little big for pocket carry
- Not compatible with Fenix pressure pads
Specs
- Maximum Output: 3,100 lumens
- Maximum Intensity: 36,100 candela
- Modes: Turbo, high, medium, low, eco, strobe
- Battery: 21700 (USB-C)
- Dimensions: 5.63” x 1.34” x 1”
- Weight: 4 oz
- Comes With: charging cable, lanyard, holster, spare O-ring, manual
- Country of Origin: China
The Fenix TK16 V2.0 is a handy tactical light on its own. If you dip into the Fenix accessory catalog, it also works as a weapon light. I recommend picking up a Fenix ALG-16 M-LOK mount and adding it to your AR-15 or tactical shotgun. That will put you over the $100 budget, but you can always run the light as-is and add the mount later.
The TK16 V2.0 is average in terms of size. It’ll fill up my hand but still fit in a pocket if need be (though a bag is better). It’s perfect for the nightstand or center console of your car, especially since the bezel features three glass-breakers for quick escapes.
| Lumens | Candela | Run Time | |
| White Light (Ultra Low) | 30 | 330 | 43 hr 20 min |
| White Light (Low) | 150 | 1,650 | 19 hr 10 min |
| White Light (Medium) | 350 | 3,900 | 8 hr 20 min |
| White Light (High) | 1,000 | 1,200 | 2 hr 50 min |
| White Light (Turbo) | 3,100 | 36,100 | N/A |
| Strobe | 3,100 | 36,100 | N/A |
The massive 21700 battery needs quite a while to charge from empty, then a few minutes once a week or so to top it off. It is removable, so keeping a fully charged spare is an option.
The TK16 V2.0’s beam has a soft transition from hot center to the rest of the pattern, with a harsh drop into darkness from there.
The power button is straightforward. Once the light is on, tapping the small mode button cycles through the power levels. Holding the mode button down activates the strobe at max power regardless of which setting you’re in at the time. It’s a simple, user-friendly setup with both buttons on the endcap.
I was impressed with this light’s performance in my distance test. If you want power, it’s between this and the Nitecore EDC23. The EDC23 is better for pocket carry; this one is better as a weapon light.
Water from a garden hose didn’t bother the TK16 V2.0 one bit. I’m sure it can take much harsher abuse.
The glass-breakers protected it from a direct hit when I dropped it onto concrete, and it emerged unscathed.
5. SureFire G2X Pro – Best Durability
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
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Pros
- Available in black and desert tan
- Simple, one-touch operation
- Practical for everyday use
Cons
- Limited features
- Only 600 lumens at max output
Specs
- Maximum Output: 600 lumens
- Maximum Intensity: 8,700 candela
- Modes: High, low
- Battery: 2 x CR123A
- Dimensions: 5.3” x 1.35” x 1.35”
- Weight: 5 oz
- Comes With: Manual
- Country of Origin: USA
I was kind of surprised to see the SureFire G2X Pro sneak under my $100 cap. This rugged tactical flashlight may not have the power or features you get from the company’s premium flashlights, but it’s also a fraction of the price. Enjoy the instant street cred that comes with pulling out a SureFire – the price can be our little secret.
The G2X Pro is similar in size and weight to the Fenix TK16 V2.0 (and most other tactical flashlights). With no pocket clip, this light isn’t set up for pocket carry but it’ll do great in your car, a tactical backpack, or a bug-out bag.
| Lumens | Candela | Run Time | |
| White Light (Low) | 15 | N/A | 52 hr |
| White Light (High) | 600 | 8,700 | 1 hr 30 min |
The G2X Pro has a warmer hue than the other lights here, which range from neutral white to slightly cool. The beam has a pleasant bright spot, outer throw, and falloff.
This is the least powerful flashlight of the test and test performance reflects that. While I couldn’t illuminate the surrounding countryside with the G2X Pro, it’s adequate for routine tasks and the single-button operation makes life easy. There are only two settings, and they alternate every time you turn the flashlight on.
Like the other contenders, the G2X Pro passed my water test. Given its lack of moving parts and external mating surfaces, I’d trust this one the most if I went for an unexpected swim.
It didn’t sustain any damage from my drop test, either. It may not be the brightest but it’s the light I recommend if you’re hard on gear.
How to Pick the Best Tactical Flashlight Under $100
There’s more to picking the best tactical flashlight than price and power. Here are a few considerations to guide your decision.
Intended Use
Tactical can mean a lot of different things. That’s certainly true of tactical flashlights.
In this case, I focused on lights you’d use freehand. You can keep them in your pocket, on the nightstand, or in your center console. They’re still packed with features that leave normal flashlights in the dust.
There are times when you might want to use your tactical flashlight as a weapon light. Fenix makes Picatinny, M-LOK, and magazine tube mounting systems for the TK16 V2.0.
Prepping presents its own challenges because it typically involves a significant financial investment. If that’s what you’re into, it’s nice to have a reliable option that keeps costs to a minimum. Two effective but inexpensive flashlights might be better than a single fancy one.
Light Colors & Modes
Most of the time, white light is the most effective option because it takes advantage of the full color spectrum. There are times when another color can be useful, though.
Red light does a better job of preserving night vision and minimizing your light signature. If that’s something you care about, the NexTorch TA21 is a solid choice.
Some tactical flashlights offer multiple modes and power levels. If you’re willing to learn to navigate features with button presses, it can be really nice to have everything from a soft reading light to a powerful searchlight in one tool.
Strobe functions are useful in defensive scenarios – not a magic wand, mind you, but a good less-lethal option.
Battery Type
There are two schools of thought when it comes to tactical flashlight and weapon light batteries, and both have valid points.
Disposable batteries are relatively inexpensive and readily available. You can replace them in seconds, which minimizes downtime.
Rechargeable flashlights cost more, and they go out of commission for extended periods of time for charging. The advantage is never needing to carry spares; just pack a charging cable and find a power source.
Some rechargeable batteries come out of the flashlight for charging. This is the sweet spot, if you ask me, because you can keep a fully charged backup on standby for hot-swaps without stockpiling disposable batteries.
Meet the Experts
Editing this article is Scott Murdock. Scott is a Marine Corps veteran who competed and qualified as a rifle and pistol expert while in service. In addition to shooting, Scott has written for a variety of publications, testing, researching, and evaluating guns and gear. He brings that knowledge and skillset to this article, editing and fact-checking for accuracy.
Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a National Rifle Association Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.
Final Thoughts
If I could only pick one of these tactical flashlights, I’d have to take the NexTorch TA21. It’s not the best at everything, but it’s the most versatile, and I value having a red light option.
If your needs call for something else, any one of these picks will serve you well. If you’re like us, you’ll probably end up with more than one, so don’t put pressure on yourself to find your forever flashlight.
Latest Updates
October 2025: Complete overhaul with new products, testing, and supporting content.
64 Leave a Reply
Thank you guys SOOO MUCH for adding the “country of origin” field. Love that!! A very very important information point these days. Thanks again, keep up the great work.
Thanks, Jay Jay!
You missed the mark. Whoever said a built-in battery was a good idea is promoting a failure in a tactical light. Ideally the battery should at least be an 18650, optimally 21700 for a tactical light. In a pinch I would go to a couple double AA just for availability, never CR123 because of the lack of availability. Only the Fenix makes it from your list.
I will admit I do like the Fenix PD32 V2.0 a lot. I do wish they came out with a version using a 21700 battery. Clean and functional. Surefire make one that use either 18650 or two cr123. Unfortunately finding one under a hundred is hard. I have the Surefire weapons light, it is outstanding. Nitecore and Olight make ones that fit the build also.
I do have a Fourevens Quark QK2A MKIII which come in under $100 and uses double AA. I do have a Quark QK16L MKIII and consider it the perfect size for my EDC but wouldn't recommended it for a tactical light since it uses a hard-to-find battery.
I am not a fan of charging a flashlight via a USB cord since doing so introduces a weak point. Plus, I do not wany to tether my flashlight somewhere to charge it. I have batteries just sitting on a charger, simply switch them. Which is the same advantage over a built-in battery.
There are advantages and disadvantages to every design, Ed, that's why I included a little bit of everything and explained the differences between various power sources. I've never had trouble sourcing CR123 batteries, and I like having compatibility between my handheld lights and pistol lights. To each their own, though; it's ok to have preferences.
Must have been a very short Amazon search: first item that I found was a 990,000 lumens flashlight made by EkoLuker, which can illuminate objects out to 1500 meters: adjustable focus; five different lighting modes; USB-C recharging; LED display for power remaining; lasts 4-12 hours, depending upon lighting mode chosen. Under $100 for package of 3.
I just did a test of Olight’s ArkPro Ultra, a pocket-sized light that’s wonderful for tactical use: not only has a brilliant 1700 lumen LED light (white), but also has a green laser and UV light. All lights have several modes, including the laser. Light has 7 different color modes, 5 brightness modes; useable as a spotlight or floodlight; can illuminate objects clearly out to 205 meters. Rechargeable battery is rated at 2000 mAh, and has a USB-C charging cable. If you used this light 30 minutes a day at medium setting, it would last 26 days.
Olight also offers the Maurader Mini light, 7000 lumens, tons of features from colors, intensity modes, and switches from spotlight to flood light. It’s a beast.
Olight tends to be a polarizing brand, but I'm glad your experiences have been positive. As for the EkoLuker, that is a an extraordinarily niche product. The likelihood of readers needing to warn ships about coastal rock formations is a lot lower than the risk of them burning their retinas to a crisp because they popped off nearly a million lumens indoors.
The bit about warning ships about rock formations is a bit unnecessary, but your list — which does seem so the dated - tends to emphasize that more is better.
With regard to a million lumens, I have used such lights in search and rescue missions, several on Mt. Hood and many in Snoqualmie Pass, WA — most in high-angle rock and ice rescues — over 38 years, and helping aid units rescue vehicle occupants who slid off mountain roads throughout the Pacific Northwest. Your sarcasm is duly noted, but some of us may have a little more experience than you.
If you can't take it don't dish it, my man. It sounds like you're describing situations that call for a niche product, not something the average reader with a budget of $100 needs.
Or, as someone wisely once said, "I’m with you on this. While it helps to have a brilliant light to find something at distance — occasionally — my preference is something that’s dimmable so that I don’t telegraph my approach, especially when clearing a house. ... If I must search for something at distance, a brilliant LED light is useful, but tactically, I much prefer to use thermal sights or night vision gear if I must engage something at night: having a light that will illuminate an adversary at 20-100+ yards is a great way to get shot, or have a jury convict you of murder: why shoot someone at distance is what a jury and prosecutor would ask."
The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA is a solid, affordable option. Not only does it run on a CR123 battery, but you can also use a standard AA battery. The light output isn’t as high with the AA, but it’s still effective. It also comes with a pocket/hat clip that is really helpful. The light is currently on Amazon for $50.
That's funny, John. I have a ProTac 1L-1AA on my desk as I write this. It's been in my rotation for years and you're right - it's a great little flashlight. This time I tried to mix it up with some newer releases but there's nothing wrong with us keeping the ProTac around.
I like the new list! Amazon Prime Days got me just before this came out though- picked up a few Olights and a new Streamlight. No complaints!
Nice! Gotta love those Prime day savings.
Have you done any reviews on Powertac? The M5 is under $100 and meets the same criteria as these do.
I haven't used on of those before, but it sounds interesting. Thanks for the recommendation!
You did not mention any flashlight tazer combos. I looked on Amazon and there are many under $100.
That's a different ball of wax, Dan. You can find those in this article - happy reading!
As with much, personal preference may be the decider. I have an expensive Surefire keychain light which is the best general purpose light I've carried. I have "cheap" lights everywhere for general use, incl dealing with critters when out with my dog. Point: lots of trial-and-error and adapt to one's life and needs. Good luck, everyone, we're on the same team!
Very well said, JJ. Thanks for reading!
Great article. I'm surprised there is no mention of Streamlight. I carried a Streamlight on duty most of my career. I have 2 that still work form 1996. One has the original rechargeable battery. Considering their sterling reliability, reasonable prices and variety of models I"d like to see more included in the article. Streamlight has at least one or 2 under $100.
I'm a big fan of Streamlight, too, Leland. The old ProTac 1L-1AA is one of my personal favorites. We're kind of spoiled for choice these days, aren't we?
I just yeeted my TN12 out the window of my car on the freeway. Ok, that's a lie- I angrily threw it in my in-law's trash can. But my story's better.....
I got sick of of ruining shit. The con listed "Can get hot in turbo mode" is an understatement- even just pushing the side light made the things hot enough to burn/melt things. Victims of this light include:
A favorite pair of 5.11 pants
My sling bag
My safety-orange dog waking vest
And the final straw today- melting the door pocket in my brand-new Nissan Pathfinder.
To add insult to injury today: I never even turned on the light. Did that on it's own. And refused to turn off until I unscrewed the hot casing and removed the battery.
Screw this light. Never again
That is a huge bummer, Michael. We have a rewrite coming very soon and I think you'll be excited about the new picks.
The experience I had in the Army was that a tactical flashlight was LOW lumen and red lens. My cycle at Benning was tasked to use blue lens covers, which are also effective to a degree, but they aren't as night vision friendly. Looking for a small red keychain light lately, I find a lot of "stargazer" lights with red featured prominently - but the lumens are much too high.
For red light operations, 7 - seven - lumens is about the norm. And even then, they weren't clipped onto the soldier, on, for the entire night operation. Nope, you crawled under your poncho to use them concealed, viewing map or compass, possibly operating a radio. Illuminating the surrounding forest with a high lumen white light - possibly lighting the underbrush like a blow torch? Not so much.
What the "tactical" community is pushing are confrontational lights to manage conflict situations that could result in lethal force, what the military requires is just enough low detection light to maneuver into position for recon, a listening post, or to set up an attack - often as not just before the sun goes up. It's hard to move 30-100 men quietly in the middle of the night, only small highly trained units do that and they do it with nite vision. Even the IR illuminators are off.
If you are wanting to star gaze, get around a campsite, make 2AM coffee in a camper - or in the kitchen next to the bedroom - a small, low lumen red light makes much more sense than the blazing searchlights that destroy nite vision and set the furniture on fire. Will marketing finally pick up on that, no, there are less small red light LED's out there now than 5 years ago - Inova for one is almost gone off the market, Nitecore Tubes are revised even brighter now and no red leds. The paradigm has been flipped in favor of the photon escalation race and it's not going back.
I’m with you on this. While it helps to have a brilliant light to find something at distance — occasionally — my preference is something that’s dimmable so that I don’t telegraph my approach, especially when clearing a house. A light that can emit red wavelengths is better for preserving your night vision: I purchased one about 25 years ago and it varies from 10-40 lumens (red), much higher in white. I’ve used headlamps considerably and most have both red and white light capability — but not one is dimmable.
If I must search for something at distance, a brilliant LED light is useful, but tactically, I much prefer to use thermal sights or night vision gear if I must engage something at night: having a light that will illuminate an adversary at 20-100+ yards is a great way to get shot, or have a jury convict you of murder: why shoot someone at distance is what a jury and prosecutor would ask.
I can't say it is a tactical flashlight. However the Streamlight Wedge has been my EDC Flashlight for about two years now. It is amazingly easy to carry and I have found it to be incredibly useful to have on my person every day. Turbo mode is very bright and even the normal mode is bright enough for most purposes.
Having an article on ANY technology that was witten 7 years ago is like rating a 7 year old computer! It's a waste of time. Pewpewtactical is faster getting dropped from my reading list. I don't need my time wasted like this.
Hi Ron, totally get where you’re coming from—tech moves fast, and nobody wants to be reading yesterday’s news. Just wanted to let you know that we’re always updating our articles to keep them fresh and relevant. Even those pieces from 7 years back get a facelift with the latest info. Our goal is to make sure you’re getting the good stuff, no matter when an article first hit the site. Stick with us, and we promise to keep things up-to-speed. Appreciate you pointing this out, and we’d love to hear more from you anytime. Thanks for reading.
The article is from 7 years ago and says that it tested all the most popular lights, yet I don't see a list of the lights tested. Can you simply start putting the list of items tested? How do I know if you accounted for a bunch of relatively new items or not?
Unfortunately your evaluation criteria did not include carrying the light around for a few days. I followed your link and purchased the TN12. (I should have scrutinized the Amazon reviews more carefully.) It's deficient as a "tactical" light because it turns on very easily if unlocked due to the side button protruding from the side of the case. If locked, the tail switch does not turn it on immediately, which kind of defeats the purpose.
Is this an article about the worst lights to buy? Because I didn't see a single unit listed that I'd consider a go to light.
I like and use the Streamlight Protocols. That's what's in the 2 ARs I've set up for Home Defense. Two reasons I chose the Protacs are the price, and the ability to use either CR123's or AA's. Though I keep CR123's on hand, you generally can't find them at Convenience stores. If and when SHTF, AA's are a lot easier to scrounge for.
For its price point, the ProTac is hard to beat.
Here's the thing about finding flashlights in water to prove some point, same with most gear items that use batteries.
The effect of the water is practically zero even if it did get inside the "tactical gear' flashlight. Now why is thst? Its because these water immersion 'tests' in types of articles don't prove anything because, one, the water does not have enough 'conductive ability' to cause electrical damage at battery voltage levels and, two, think about the components there selves being 'water proof' by their material structure so unless the water has a corrosive component (e.g. salt water) that can compromise that seriously its very unlikely that some water in the thing at battery voltages will cause it to fail once the water is removed. So basically the 'water test' here is useless to prove anything because 99.999% of ALL flashlights, tactical or not,, using the low voltage and current in the batteries used here will still work fine anyway tested for water resistance or not.
correction....
"Here's the thing about finding flashlights..."
was suppose to be ...
Here's the thing about dunking flashlights...
and "thst" is suppose to be "that"
darn spell/grammar correct on phone is still messed up...substitutes words randomly not intended ever since I added some abbreviations to its 'dictionary'.
I'm tired of seeing the word "Tactical" attached to everything in the gun community market, especially 'gear' things like these flashlights that are clearly intended to capture a share of market based upon the word 'tactical' without being actually 'tactical gear'. Simply making something in a durable metal structure in a style concept that mimics literally thousands of other gear things and coloring it black does not make it 'tactical'.
At most, these flashlights are 'Tacti-Kewl'. Although they are 'rugged' in the sense of the material body, they do not have the qualities of reliability and durability and life expectancy and dependability expected of true tactical gear in purpose built use. It is true that one could say 'well, it works for me and been ok so far so you should give it a try if interested' which is overall what the article author seems to be saying, but to call them 'tactical' is giving them too much credit.
If you approach them as a lower cost alternative to something that is designed with actual 'tactical gear' qualities then ok, there is nothing wrong with that and it may very well give you good service in some routine uses. But just turning them on and them casting light of a certain 'strength' or area illumination is not defining 'tactical'.
These use common off the shelf parts that are present in flashlights from what you sometimes see on the impulse buy rack at the grocery store checkout to what you see in infomercials about a light that for some reason the viewer suddenly can't live without and its only $9.95 so buy it now while supplies last to the lower cost 'sporting' gear flashlights. These flashlights are not purpose use built as tactical gear, they have not been tested or vetted for the qualities of true tactical gear, they are common cheap variety parts packaged in a 'rugged use' manner to mimic what is considered a 'tactical style' concept and are intended to capture a 'market share' based upon them being cheaper and being called 'tactical'.
Painfully obvious you have no one writing for you who is actually knowledgeable about either knives or flashlights. Perhaps you should stay in your lane.
Nitecore MT10A - No No NO! a thousands times NOOOOOOO!!!!
Tried one, and it worked - for about 30 seconds and was not able to turn on again. But it does travel well when you chuck it as hard and as far as you can, and if you do that tactically well its still a tactical flashlight then.
Which one of the 5 have tactical momentary swtiches?
Looking to keep things made in USA, the MF (Monster Flashlights) look to be a decent option over the Chinese made products. A bit more expensive but worth keeping an America company in business. Just my 2 cents.
Have you done any reviews on Olight flashlights, I recently purchased their Warrior X and it seem good so far, however it does heat up quickly on high
I think that the TN12 flashlight by Thrunite is a dated model. I just purchased the new TC12 from Thrunite which has the same features and dimensions only upgraded. It also came with a battery from Thrunite as the TN12 did not on amazon. Maybe make the update to include the TC12 instead of the TN12 (2016). Great and helpful article! I appreciate the time taken to actually get hands on and test them!
Have you ever checked out Olight? They have very reasonably priced flashlights with decent lumens.
Is a > $100 light worth it?
How do the Surefire and Elzetta lights compare?
Have you looked at any Klarus flashlights? In particular the Klarus XT11GT? I would love to see your thoughts on that light.
Hi John, haven't tried out any handhelds, but one of our writers liked it as an AR-15 mounted light...article here.
Agreed, I am stunned that the XT11Gt was not one of the top 5, let alone being number 1.
I love my fenix tk-16. Great light for everyday and tactical uses. I have one for the car and one foe the house. I love the tail switch only design and the fact I can get a remote switch for use with firearm platforms.
Yup, really liking my Fenixes
Try Streamlight Protac 2L-X and HL-X. They have 500 lum and 1,000 lum respectively, both use 2xCR123A or 1x18650. From factor for the 2L-X is similar to 1L-1AA, just longer. HL-X has a bigger bezel.
Form factor*
The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA is an amazing light...small enough that you forget you are carrying it. Cannot go wrong with it!
What is the country of origin for each of these lights?
I know Fenix is based out of the U.S. Not sure about any of the others though.
Thanks for the very detailed write-up. I've been looking at the Nitecore MH25GT for a while now, but haven't taken the plunge yet. One note I might add about the 18650 batteries is there are two types. One type is flattop, which are used in e-cigs While the non-flattop are used in flashlights such as those in the article. The two are not interchangeable.
Great article! I don't currently have an EDC tac-light. Are tac-light weights typically negligible? Is there a battery advantage in terms of weight?
What do you think about the Klarus XT 11GT 2000lu @ $89.95
We didn't get to try it...but one of our writers really likes the brand.
No surefire, no recommandation.
Hey Jackman, we note that we were only going after sub-$100 lights. And also state that if money if were no issue to go with the Surefire. Thanks!
Did you look at any Monster Flashlights? I don’t know if they have one under $100 but I’d guess so. I love mine!
Hi Dave, haven't heard of them but might check them out later.
Really, how is it? I've been on the fence on getting a Monster light for EDC, so any info would be nice to know before I take the plunge.
A quick tip for using lights with a side button, rotate the pocket clip so that it points at the button.
RE: the Fenix PD models, the tactical versions use a small smooth metal button that is harder to locate. The non tactical versions use a larger rubber button that is (IMHO) easier to use without looking. I've had both, I still have/use the ones with the rubber button but sold the tactical version after a week or two.
As a flashlight geek who also shoots I have to say your eval is pretty damn good!
Good tip...thanks Jack!
I positioned the clip so it would fit under my knuckles. That way, my pinky is nearly always on the button. But I agree, they are hard to find. I think stippling it would make it better, though I'm too nervous to try it on my TK15UE.