Tactical Flashlights as Self-Defense: TLs vs Dedicated Weapons

Carrying a tactical flashlight instead of a dedicated weapon can be an attractive option for the average civilian. Of course, professional law enforcement prefers dedicated weapons such as clubs or sidearms (although an increasing number are turning to tactical lights as a less aggressive option!). However, these are not necessarily practical or desirable for the average civilian to carry.

Dedicated weapons are typically large, and clumsy and uncomfortable to carry. Not to mention they can be alarming for others. Even the most responsible open-carry enthusiast is going to make people nervous if she shows up to a Friday night gathering with a sidearm at her hip! (Although maybe that's what she wants, in which case, more power to her)

The tactical flashlight has none of these disadvantages. Tactical lights come in many shapes and sizes, but are most often small and sleek. They slip easily into a discrete holster, on a purse or even on a keychain. And let's not forget that flashlights are also a useful every day tool, so even if you're lucky enough never to be attacked a day in your life, you've still had access to a very practical item.

Whether the issue is a lack of light to see or something much more serious, if you are carrying a tactical flashlight, you're never helpless. And that's the whole point.