7 Things to Look for in a Tactical Flashlight

We’ve already discussed the importance of having an everyday carry flashlight, now it’s time to look at tactical flashlights. For those who may not know, a tactical flashlight is a reliable durable, lightweight, and hand-held flashlight with a high-light intensity. Typically, tactical flashlights are made for self-defense so they’ll be built with better and stronger materials. They are usually perfect everyday carry flashlights that provide a multitude of functions for the user. So if you’re out there looking for a tactical flashlight, here are some things to consider:

1. Lightweight

A tactical flashlight is one that you would carry around with you so it’s important to find one that is lightweight and feels comfortable to you. Of course a comfortable weight can be different for everyone. Some FlashlightZ team members really love the Klarus XT11, but others prefer the MecArmy PT18 (shown below).

2. Uses an LED

LED technology far surpasses the older style light sources. LED sources provide a greater illumination for a longer amount of time and for significantly less energy. Not to mention that cool white light that LEDs shine. There’s just no beating that brightness. On the box, it should have an FL1 standard sheet. This lets the user know that the light complies with the FL1 standard of measurement for lumens.

3. Has a Strobe mode

The Strobe mode on flashlights is a convenient non-lethal way to defend yourself. In order to know that the Strobe mode will be really effective it is best to get a flashlight that has a maximum output of at least 500 ANSI lumens. Also, make cerain that it has a straight to strobe function that allows you to instantly access the Strobe mode.

4. Easy to operate in all kinds of conditions

Knowing that a tactical flashlight is made for self-defense and survival, it is important that it is easy to access. Most will have an easy push button that you can access quickly with one-hand in the dark. This makes it incredibly convenient for the user. We, at FlashlightZ, prefer the switch on the tail cap because it is easy and quicker to find then the switch on the side. However, some prefer the switch on the side so pick whichever feels more comfrable for you.

5. Has a long max run time

Once again, because this flashlight is made for a variety of situations, it should have a long runtime. For example, the Klarus XT11 has a maximum runtime of 145 hours on its lowest lighting mode. By having such a long runtime, the user can be put at ease and not have to worry about the battery running out of energy too qickly

6. Is rechargeable or uses a rechargeable battery

By being rechargeable or having a rechargeable battery, the flashlight becomes much more user friendly and easier to maintain. Some flashlights will come with a USB port so you can recharge the battery inside the flashlight. Other flashlights use rechargeable batteries, but have no charging port. In this case, there are multiple battery chrgers to pick from!

7. Durable

This one is also incredibly important. A tactical flashlight needs to be reliable and durable. Many of the flashlights are constructed from an aircraft grade aluminum alloy, creating a tough torch. Make certain to look for an impact resistant and waterproof flashlight complying with FH1 standards!

So there you have it! Of course, some people might suggest looking for more aspects in a tactical flashlight, but, in the end, just find the flashlight that feels most comfortable to you!