Best Tactical Flashlight Reviews 2023 – Buying Guide

There are two types of flashlights available on the market. One is High quality flashlights and the other is low quality flashlights or fake flashlights. Quality does not depend only on price. You will find lots of crappy flashlights whose price is high. I am a survival expert and I have tested hundreds of flashlights. So, it is not hard for me to find out the best tactical flashlight for the money. A flashlight is a must have tool for everyone. So, don’t waste your money on a crap tac flashlight.

Top 10 best tactical flashlight comparison Chart 2023

If you want to know more about this Klarus xt11gt flashlight, then check this review.
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Flashlights have undergone a huge change since they were first discovered. For instance, flashlights used to be huge in size and operated using large batteries too. Today, there are different types and sizes of torches being used. In addition, the huge flashlights used in the past were created just to provide light but today, they offer more than light. Some can be applied as a security weapon, while others can assist in breaking glass and several other functions. You will find below the list of the best tactical flashlights of 2023.

But, first you need to know “What is a tactical flashlight?”. Because the right definition will help you to find the right flashlight.

In simple “A tactical flashlight is a simple torch which can be used any tactical or emergency situation”.

Here are the top features that should include in a tactical flashlight.

  • Durability
  • Brightness
  • Run-time
  • Clicky switch
  • Multi modes(include Strobe)
  • Portability
  • Water resistant
  • Impact resistant
  • Easy to carry

Many people have been asking me, what is the best tactical flashlight on the market. As simple as this question appears, it’s also challenging. This is because different people may need different features on a tac flashlight. In this review, we’ve highlighted information that will assist you to make the best choice and get a torch that will serve your duty better. A tactical flashlight can as well be referred to as a military flashlight or military torch. If you are looking for a dedicated website about flashlights then view this tactical flashlight guide website. Or read further to learn more.

Most Popular & Best Tactical Flashlight Reviews 2023

Despite the existence of several types and brands of tactical lights in the market, we managed to research and come up with our top five military grade best tactical flashlights.

Klarus Upgraded XT11GT LED tactical flashlight(Our Top Pick)

If you ask me; Which is your top pick flashlight for 2023, then I will suggest buying xt11gt. A tactical flashlight means it should have self defense functionality. The Klarus Upgraded XT11GT is one of the best tactical flashlights for self defense.

Product Description:

  • Uses CREE XHP35 HD E4 LED
  • 3 operating settings
  • Maximum output of 2000 Lumens
  • Tactical tail switch and side switch
  • Beam distance covers 316 meters
  • 6 brightness light settings and two flashing modes
  • Direct recharging function
  • Smart ITS temperature control system
  • The battery capacity indicator displays the battery level
  • Waterproof up to IPX8
  • Strike bezel
  • Pocket clip
  • Storage case
  • Weighs 130 grams without a battery
  • Klarus 5-year warranty

Technical Specifications:

Dimensions: 34.9mm(Head) x 25.4mm(Body) x 142.6mm(Length)
Weight: 130g(excluding battery)
Light Source: LED
Power Source: 1 Lithium-ion battery required(included)
Material: Aircraft Aluminum
Maximum Output: 2000 Lumens

Pros:

  • It is sturdily made of durable metal to last longer and withstand the tough outdoor conditions
  • It provides a very bright light with a maximum of 2000 Lumens
  • Easy to store with the case and pocket clip
  • It is built for tactical use as its waterproof and impact resistant
  • Versatile in use with 3 lighting modes

Cons:

  • Poor customer service as many clients have complained of Klarus not responding to their queries.
  • It overheats when used constantly in high mode. Change light modes to avoid it from overheating.

Fenix pd35 1000 Lumen CREE XP-L Tactical flashlights

The Fenix PD35 is a wonderful flashlight that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Despite it being small, the flashlight is still powerful and delivers great brightness with its 100 lumens. It has a tactical tail switch that makes using it be simple and quick. In case you run out of power, the pocket-size torch functions with two rechargeable batteries which are an 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery or two 3V CR123A lithium batteries. Change the light as you wish with this light as it has 5 different lighting modes for better performance. If you are looking for the best tactical flashlight brands, then Fenix is one of them.

Technical Specifications of the Fenix PD35:

Features Fenix PD35
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Run Time: 8 lumens(140h), 60 lumens(29h 15min), 200 lumens(8h 15min), 500 lumens(2h 55min), 1000 lumens(1h 10min)
Beam Distance: 200 Meters
Tactical Modes: 3
Waterproof: IPX-8 standard
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Guarantee from Fenix Lighting US
Weight: 1.19 pounds
Outdoor Modes: 6
Battery: Two CR123A batteries or one 18650 Li-ion battery (batteries not included)
Included: Holster, clip, lanyard and two spare O-rings

Main features:

  • CREE XP-L LED with a lifespan of 50, 000 hours
  • Tactical tail-switch
  • 1000 lumen max
  • Uses rechargeable batteries
  • 5 operational light modes

Pros:

  • It is a pocket size light for easy storage and carries wherever you go
  • Operates on two lithium-ion batteries that run for longer and can be recharged
  • Comes with 5 different operational modes that allow you to change the light as you prefer
  • It is very bright with 1000 lumens and over 50, 000 hours of lifespan

Streamlight Protac HL 88040 Professional Tactical Flashlight

Streamlight is among the most famous brands on the market at the moment. The firm offers some of the best quality tactical flashlights with the inclusion of the Streamlight 88040 pro tac professional tactical torch. It has 750 lumens to offer the ideal brightness. The 3 lighting modes ensure that the user can adjust the light according to use. It’s easy to operate with the tail switch and has C4 LED technology for maximum light output during use. It is one of the top rated tactical flashlights on the market.

Technical Specifications of the Streamlight 88040 C4 LED:

Features Streamlight 88040
Max Brightness: 750 Lumens
LED: C4 LED technology
Light Modes: 3
Tail Switch Button: Yes
Waterproof Level: IPX-8(2m)

Main features:

  • 3 different light modes
  • 750 lumens
  • C4 LED technology with 50,000 lifespan
  • Tail-switch button
  • Waterproof
  • Anti-roll face cap

Pros:

  • Easy to operate with one-handed operation
  • Provides bright light with its 750 lumens max
  • It is great for outdoor as its waterproof
  • Offers you different light options in three modes

Nitecore P12GT 1000 Lumen flashlight

This is the updated version of the P12. The Nitecore P12GT flashlight is the best affordable tactical flashlight for home or outdoor use.

Technical Specifications of the Nitecore P12Gt:

Features Nitecore P12Gt
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Run Time: 520 h 0 m / 21.66 d
Beam Distance: Max Beam Distance 320 m
Max Beam Intensity 25700 cd
Special Modes: Location Beacon, SOS, Strobe
LED: CREE XP-L HI V3
Material: Aluminum
Length: 140 mm / 5.51 in
Battery: 1 × 18650,2 × CR123
Weight: 91 g
Waterproof: ipx-8

Pros:

  • It is strongly built of aero-grade aluminum alloy material
  • It has a water-resistant finish to prevent water from entering the flashlight
  • Easy to use light with a tail cap and side switch
  • It provides great illumination of up to 603 meters
  • Sleek and compact design for easy use and storage

Cons:

  • It is not very sturdy and long lasting

ThruNite TN12 EDC flashlight

The ThruNite TN12 flashlight is the best small tactical flashlight for everyday use.

Technical Specifications of the ThruNite T12 CREE:

Features ThruNite T12
Maximum Brightness: 1100 lumens
Smooth reflector: Yes
LED: Cree XP-L V6 LED
Side switch: Yes
Reverse polarity protection: Yes
Finish: Premium type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
Light Source: LED
Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Weight: 86 grams without battery
Waterproof: IPX-8 (2M)

 

Pros:

  • Built from the best material for prolonged use
  • Provides very bright light with a max of 1100 Lumens
  • It is able to resist water and impact
  • It is lightweight and thus carrying it won’t be a burden
  • Offers different light modes with Strobe
  • The reverse polarity protection prevents from placing the battery in the wrong direction

Cons:

  • Generally, this flashlight is poorly made. It is a bit longer and the tail cap switch is somehow loose.

SureFire G2X Series LED Flashlight Review

Surefire G2X has a tactical tail switch that makes operating the flashlight to be easy. Also, the light offers a lot of brightness with its LED bulb and 320-lumen maximum. It is simple to carry with its compact design. It can be kept in a pocket or carried in a backpack. The micro-textured reflector creates a simple, and enhanced beam. Also, the tactical torch will last longer as it’s made with a tough nitrolon body.

Technical Features of the Surefire G2x 320 lumens

Features Surefire G2X
Maximum Brightness: 320 lumens
Micro-textured reflector: Yes
tactical tail-cap switch: Yes
LED Bulb: Yes
Body: Tough nitrolon body

 

Pros:

  • Durably made to last longer
  • Simple to use with the tactical tail-switch
  • It offers great brightness with its 320 lumens and LED bulb
  • Compact design to fit in the pocket or backpack

Klarus XT12GT Tactical rechargeable flashlight

Do you want to get a high lumen tactical flashlight? Then, check this Klarus XT12GT flashlight.

Technical Features of the Klarus xt12gt Flashlight

Features Klarus xt12gt
Maximum Brightness: 1600 lumens
Minimum Brightness: 10 Lumens
Maximum Run-time: 200 hours (10 lumens)
Minimum Run-time: 1.2 hours (1600 lumens)
Beam Distance: 603 Meters
Battery includes: Yes (1 Lithium-ion battery)
LED: CREE XHP35 HI D4
Body: Aerospace Aluminum Alloy
Normal Modes: 4 (10, 100, 400, 1600 lm)
Flashing Modes: 2 (100, 1600 lm)
Switch: Tail switch
Waterproof standard: IPX-8 (2 meters underwater)
Length: 161.5 mm
Weight: 159 grams
USB Charging Connector Magnetic (include)

 

Pros:

  • Durable construction
  • A compact and lightweight flashlight
  • Provides bright light with a max output of 1600 Lumens
  • Capacity indicator lets you know when to recharge or replace the battery
  • The ITS temperature control ensures that the flashlight maintains ideal temperatures by not overheating.
  • Can be used as a protection weapon as it has a strike bezel and strobe mode
  • It is able to illuminate up to 603 meters which is excellent
  • It is built for tactical use as it is waterproof, impact resistant, and dustproof

Cons:

  • The charging system is not very effective and won’t be effective for long.

Professional Solaray Pro flashlight review ZX-1 Series

Another great brand to buy from is SOLARAY Pro. The Solaray Pro ZX-1 light has outstanding features that place it among the best. The flashlight has 5 different light modes that the user can apply in various conditions. In addition, it has 1200 lumens and a CREE XML – T6 bulb that is very bright. The aircraft grade aluminum ensures that the tactical flashlight is staying durable for a long time.

Technical Specifications of the SOLARAY Handheld LED Tactical Flashlights:

Features Solaray Pro zx-1
Material: Aluminum
Maximum Brightness: 1000 Lumens
Power Source: Battery-powered
Thickness: 1.8 inches
Usage: Camping, Hiking, Hunting, Fishing, Power Outages, Emergency, Automobile/Car, General Purpose, Everyday Carry, Survival Gear, Home, Outdoor Gear, Indoors, Commercial, Residential
Weight: 4.9 ounces
Dimensions: 6.5 x 1.8 x 3.6 inches
Color: Black
Included Components: 2x ZX-1 LED Tactical Flashlights, 2x AAA Battery Holders, 2x 18650 Battery Sleeves, 2x Pre-Attached Hand Lanyards

Main features:

  • Rugged aircraft grade aluminum
  • 1200 lumens
  • Zoom lens with adjustable lens
  • 5 different light modes
  • CREE XML – T6 bulbs

Pros:

  • Sleek design and a nice grip for handling the torch while working
  • It is durable as it’s made from rugged aircraft grade aluminum
  • Comes with different lighting modes for better functionality
  • Offers extremely bright light with 1200 lumens and CREE XML – T6 bulbs

Fenix UC35 960 Lumen Flashlight

The Fenix UC35 flashlight is a high power rechargeable flashlight.

Technical Features of the Fenix UC35 Flashlight

Features Fenix uc35
Maximum Brightness: 1000 (before 960) lumens
Minimum Brightness: 14 Lumens
Maximum Run-time: 150 hours (14 lumens)
Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Waterproof standard: IPX-8 (Underwater 2 meters)
Minimum Run-time: 1 hour & 30 minutes (960 lumens)
Beam Distance: 200 Meters
Modes: 3 (14, 50, 180, 480, 960 lm)
Battery includes: Yes (Two CR123A Lithium & 3200mAh rechargeable battery)
LED: Cree XM-L2 (U2)
Length: 150 mm
Weight: 126 grams

 

Pros:

  • It is sturdily made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum
  • It has an over-heat protection to prevent the flashlight from warming up and get damaged
  • The reverse polarity protection prevents bad battery placement
  • It is very bright with a maximum of 960 Lumens
  • Easy to carry and keep in the holster and or attach the pocket clip to the belt
  • Comes with a USB charging cable for recharging the flashlight

Cons:

  • The charging feature spoils after a very short while.

EcoGear FX Tactical Flashlight review

Whether you are a survivalist, hunter, fisherman, security guard, or military man, this military torch will serve you better. It is made of aircraft grade aluminum alloy that is durable and will withstand harsh environments. The CREE T6 LED bulb with a maximum of 1200 lumens offers maximum brightness indoors and outdoors. It is water resistant due to its hard-anodized finish and comes with 5 different lighting modes to give the user a variety of light settings to pick from. Ecogear is one of the best tactical flashlight under 100!

Main Features:

  • Aircraft grade aluminum alloy
  • 1200 lumens
  • Zoom function
  • CREE T6 LED bulb
  • Hard-anodized finish
  • 5 light modes
  • Special reflector design

Pros:

  • It provides enough brightness for both indoor and outdoor activities
  • 5 light modes are for better functionality to the user
  • It is well constructed with aircraft grade aluminum
  • Its water resistant as a result of its hard-anodized finish

J5 Tactical V1-Pro flashlight

Are you looking for the best cheap tactical flashlight then buy a J5 Tactical tactical flashlight.

Technical Features of the j5 tactical v1-pro Flashlight

Features J5 V1 PRO
Switch: Tail Cap Press
Reflector: Convex Lens
Beam Distance: 182 Meters
Belt Clip: Yes
Maximum Brightness: 300 lumens
Minimum Brightness: 150 Lumens
Modes: 3 (150, 300, 300(strobe))
Model of LED: J5
Body: Aircraft aluminum
Waterproof:
Yes
Length: 4 inches
Weight: 2.29 oz
Battery Include: No (single AA or a 14500 battery)

Pros:

  • It is durably made to survive tough conditions
  • It is water resistant and can resist impact
  • Very bright light with a maximum output of 300 Lumens
  • It is small in size and easy to keep while not in use
  • When dropped, it will survive and will not roll
  • Suitable for outdoor and tactical use
  • Adjustable focus range allows the user to change from spotlight to floodlight or vice-versa
  • J5 Tactical provides a one-year replacement warranty and has a friendly customer support
  • It is built for tactical use with the strike bezel and stroke mode

Cons:

  • The 300 Lumen light is not very bright to illuminate a huge area.

Fenix E12 130 Lumen LED flashlight

The Fenix E12 is the best compact tactical flashlight.

Technical Features of the Fenix E12 Flashlight – 130lm

Features Fenix E12
Maximum Brightness: 130 lumens
Minimum Run-time: 1 hour (130 lumens)
Beam Distance: 88 Meters
Impact Resistance: 1 meter
Minimum Brightness: 8 Lumens
Maximum Run-time: 22 hours (8 lumens)
Modes: 3 (8, 50, 150 lm)
Waterproof standard: IPX-8 (Underwater 2 meters)
Length: 90 mm
LED: Cree XP-E2
Body: Durable Aircraft-grade aluminum
Weight: 28.5 grams
Battery Include: Yes (AA Alkaline)

Pros:

  • Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum for longevity
  • Great finish to resist dropping, dust, and water
  • Three light modes for easy control and management of the flashlight
  • Uses indestructible Cree XP-E2 LED bulb for excellent brightness
  • The reverse polarity protection prevents from inserting the battery the wrong way
  • Easy to use tail tap switch

Cons:

  • The tactical switch is not sturdily made and it may disturb you a bit.

1TAC TC1200 Tactical flashlight

Do you want to get the best waterproof tactical flashlights? Then, 1TAC TC1200 flashlight is perfect for you.

Technical Features of the 1TAC TC1200 Tactical Flashlights

Features 1TAC TC1200
Max Lumens: 1200 lumens
ZOOM IN-OUT: 1x-2000x Telescoping Focus
Power Source: 3 (AAA) or Lithium Battery(Batteries not included)
Lighting Modes: 5 (High, Medium, Low, Strobe & SOS)
Waterproof standard: IP65 (Protected from dust & water)
Lamp Life: 100,000 Hours
Guarantee: 30-Day
LED Emitter: CREE XM-L2 (Made in the US)
Assembled Product Weight: 0.45 Pounds
Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 6.00 x 4.00 x 8.00 Inches
Price:

Pros:

  • Well-built with aircraft grade aluminum metal
  • Lightweight and compact in design for simple use and carry
  • It can resist impact, corrosion, and droppings
  • This flashlight has a strike bezel and strobe mode for protection
  • It has 5 light modes with strobe and SOS mode for easy control of the flashlight
  • It provides excellent illumination with a maximum of 1200 Lumens.
  • The light covers a wide area as the beam reaches up to 500 meters

Cons:

  • Overall quality isn’t good.

Fenix TK16 1000 Lumen Flashlight

Technical Features of the Fenix TK16 LED Flashlight

Features Fenix TK16
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Minimum Brightness: 10 Lumens
Maximum Run-time: 150 hours (10 lumens)
Minimum Run-time: 1 hour & 10 minutes (1000 lumens)
Beam Distance: 240 Meters
Impact Resistance: 1 meter
Modes: 5 (1000, 400, 150, 10, 1000(strobe))
LED: Cree XM-L2 U2
Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Length: 140 mm
Weight: 122 grams
Waterproof standard: IPX-8 (Underwater: 2 meters)
Battery Include: Yes (Two CR123A Lithium)

Product features:

  • Aircraft-grade aluminum, dual-layer construction
  • Dual tactical tail switch
  • Uses Cree XM-L2 U2 LED
  • 4 output levels with instant strobe
  • Strike face bezel
  • IPX-8 waterproof rated
  • Impact resistant up to 1 meter
  • 1000 Maximum Lumens
  • 240 Maximum beam distance

If you are a prepper or survivalist, then the Fenix TK16 is the ideal flashlight for you. Powered by two LegionArms CR123A Lithium batteries, this best tactical flashlight will give you very bright light that reaches over 240 meters. This is good for hunting or camping. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about its durability as it is made with sturdy and lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. The flashlight as well offers 4 light modes to pick from and an instant strobe mode for use in an emergency. If you are attacked, you can hit the assailant using the strike face bezel on the front end of the flashlight. So, this isn’t just a flashlight, but also a weapon.

Pros:

  • Durable construction to withstand tough conditions
  • Very bright light with maximum Lumens of 1000
  • Very easy to use with the dual tactical tail switch
  • Has a strike bezel for breaking glass or striking an assailant
  • Great for outdoor use as its both impact and water-resistant
  • Versatile use with 4 brightness modes and a strobe mode

Cons:

  • The tail cap switch is not sturdily made as it gets loose quickly

Fenix UC30 Rechargeable LED Flashlight

The Fenix uc30 rechargeable flashlight comes with a built-in micro-USB charging port that makes charging to be easy. It has a slim and ultra-compact design that makes a one-hand operation to be possible. When the battery is low, the low-voltage indicator will alert you instantly. In addition, the flashlight uses a Cree XP-L HI V3 LED bulb, which is very powerful and indestructible. Other special features of this flashlight include overheating protection, reverse polarity protection, and digitally regulated output.

Technical Features of the Fenix UC30 Flashlight

Features Fenix uc30
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Minimum Brightness: 5 Lumens
LED: CREE XP-L HI V3
Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Maximum Run-time: 150 hours (5 lumens)
Minimum Run-time: 1 hour & 25 minutes (1000 lumens)
Beam Distance: 253 Meters
Modes: 5 (5, 50, 150, 350, 1000 lm)
Battery includes: Yes (One 18650 rechargeable battery)
Waterproof standard: IP68 (Underwater 2 meters)
Length: 130 mm
Weight: 77 grams

Features of the Fenix UC30 rechargeable flashlight

  • 5 brightness levels plus a strobe mode
  • Durable aircraft-grade aluminum body
  • Uses Cree XP-L HI V3 LED
  • Stainless steel side switch
  • Toughened ultra-clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating
  • Battery level indicator
  • Reverse polarity protection
  • Overheat protection
  • Low-voltage warning

Benefits of the Fenix UC30 flashlight

  • It is sturdily constructed to withstand tough outdoor conditions
  • Has 5 brightness levels and a strobe mode for various uses
  • Easy to use the side switch
  • The battery level indicator lets you know when the battery is low or full
  • Overheat protection prevents the internal parts from being damaged
  • The lockout function prevents accidental activation of the light
  • It is resistant to water, dust, and impact

Fenix PD35 V2.0 Upgraded Best Tactical Flashlight

This is an improved version of the Fenix PD35 tactical flashlight. The Fenix PD35 V2.0 2018 version is equipped with a Cree XP-L HI V3 LED with the ability to produce a maximum of 1000 Lumens that makes it be even brighter. In the brightest mode, the flashlight covers a distance of 250 meters and can run up to 2 hours and 50 minutes. This powerful LED technology offers the user with 5 light modes and a strobe mode. The light modes are eco, low, medium, high, and turbo modes. Also, it has an upgraded stainless steel side switch that is very easy to use with just one hand.

Technical Specifications of the Fenix PD35:

Features Fenix PD35
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Run Time: 8 lumens(140h), 60 lumens(29h 15min), 200 lumens(8h 15min), 500 lumens(2h 55min), 1000 lumens(1h 10min)
Beam Distance: 200 Meters
Tactical Modes: 3
Outdoor Modes: 6
Battery: Two CR123A batteries or one 18650 Li-ion battery (batteries not included)
Waterproof: IPX-8 standard
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Guarantee from Fenix Lighting US
Weight: 1.19 pounds
Included: Holster, clip, lanyard and two spare O-rings

The tactical flashlight is powered by either a rechargeable 18650 battery or two CR123A non-rechargeable batteries. On top of that, it is water-resistant with a rating of IP68 and can resist an impact up to 1-meter. The PD35 V2 TAC light is great for camping, home use, fishing, hiking, and general use.

Pros:

  • Durably constructed to withstand tough conditions
  • Compact and portable
  • Extremely bright light
  • Versatile with 5 plus a strobe mode
  • Waterproof and impact resistant
  • Very easy to carry and use

Cons:

  • Slightly expensive

Maglite ML300L LED Flashlight

The latest Maglite ML300L tactical flashlight is a sturdy, durable, and reliable flashlight suitable for the military, law enforcers, campers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The slim and comfortable flashlight is constructed from an anodized aluminum body with a diamond knurled design. It is very easy to operate with a side switch and its beam can be adjusted with the quick click and quick focus feature. Furthermore, this best tactical flashlight features eco, low, full power, momentary, and strobe light levels.

Technical Features of the Maglite ML300L tactical flashlights

Features Maglite ML300L
Maximum Brightness: 625 lumens
Water-resistant and shock-proof: Yes
Material: anodized aluminum body
Adjustable focus: Yes
Beam Distance: 406 Meters

It has a special activation made up of law enforcement, general, tactical, and outdoor light settings. This makes it be extremely versatile. In the highest mode, the flashlight produces a maximum of 625 Lumens and it covers up to 406 meters. You can drop this flashlight many times and it will still function as it is drop resistant. Additionally, you can use it in rainfall as it is IPX4 waterproof rated.

Pros:

  • It is both water-resistant and shock-proof
  • It produces an extremely bright light with a maximum of 604 Lumens
  • Sturdily constructed with an anodized aluminum body
  • It has an adjustable focus for easy access from spot to flood beam
  • It comes with a multi-mode electronic switch for versatile use

Cons:

  • It is a bit long for the pocket and won’t fit perfectly

Features to Look for in the best tactical flashlight 2023

Identifying a military grade flashlight is simple if you understand what you’re looking for. Different flashlights come with slightly varying features that make other brands to be superior to others in performance. Below are some of the key features to look at when searching for the best military flashlight on the market:

  • Lumens

First and foremost, the number of lumens a flashlight has should be highly considered. Imagine a situation where you get stuck in the dark and the tac light isn’t able to lighten your way fully because of its low number of lumens. Thus, it’s crucial for a survivalist or hunter to acquire a tac light with the ideal number of lumens to brighten their path. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter your torch will be. Anything above 500 lumens is great.

  • Beam distance

What distance do you want the light to cover your path or area? Depending on what you do or engage in, you might prefer a tactical flashlight with a long and broad beam or a bright and shorter beam.
Choose a military grade light that has a beam distance that assists you to facilitate well your various activities. Beam distance is measured in candles.

  • Durability

If you want a flashlight that you will use for a very long time, then searching for a durable type is important. The durability of a tac light can be determined by the materials used to build it. A flashlight meant for tactical use should be durably built so that it can survive the hard conditions it is likely to face out there. For example, military men go through a lot of hardships hence they need a well built torch to help in the hour of need. Some of the common materials used to create the best tactical torches are aluminum, stainless steel and titanium.

  • Type of battery

This is another important aspect when looking for the best military grade flashlight. The battery a flashlight uses can determine how long it operates. Different tac lights use different types of battery power. Some use rechargeable batteries while others use disposable batteries. Most of the low quality flashlights use disposable batteries that are categorized into alkaline and disposable batteries. Alternatively, the high end military tactical flashlights usually use rechargeable batteries and are costly but very powerful and run for longer periods. The most common batteries are AAA, AA and 18650.

  • Runtime

Not all tactical flashlights have the same runtime. Others have a longer runtime than others. To pick the best, pick a flashlight with a longer run time, and consider how many hours of continuous use does it offer. This will then decide how progressively you can utilize the torch. Runtime shouldn’t be confused with how long the battery functions before it runs out of power. Avoid using your phone’s torch as a source of light as it won’t last long before it runs out of power. Instead, opt for a quality tac light for your lighting needs.

  • Light modes

Usually, most tactical flashlights have 3 lighting modes which include low, medium and high. These light modes should be applied appropriately so that the tactical torch can work for a longer period of time. Always adjust the modes appropriately as the high mode tends to deplete the battery quickly. For longer and steady use, stick to the medium mode which is brighter and operate for a longer period of time.
But if you want more than just light, modes like SOS, strobe and beacon modes should be considered. This is most ideal for people who tour the woods or dark alleys where they can be attacked and end using strobe mode to blind the attacker. The beacon mode can be sued to alert people when you are in danger.

  • Bezel

This part is very important and should be considered as well. The bezel is the head of the torch which holds the flashlight’s body. In short, the bezel holds the window of the flashlight intact and increases the brightness of the military flashlight by somehow having the lens firmly rooted.

  • LED

Another excellent aspect to check in the quality of light is the type of bulb it has. Today, most of the best tactical flashlight on the market have LED bulb which is very efficient and effective in performance. It is bright and lasts longer than the other types of bulbs.

Things to consider when acquiring a flashlight

After checking out the features to consider in a quality torch, it’s important to know the other factors that can assist an outdoorsman or survivalist make a great choice when selecting the best military light.

  1. Size

Before you can decide on any other elements such as quality, battery type, or level of brightness of a tactical flashlight, it’s important to know which size is great for you. Here are small, medium-sized and large flashlights on the market. The size that you opt for has a lot to do with the purpose of the light. If it’s for commercial use, the torch should be huge such as a headlamp. This is because a lot of light may be required to cover a wider area. But for daily tactical applications, a medium-sized light or even a keychain flashlight can serve you better. These are easier to carry as some come with clips or lanyards for storage.

  1. Purpose of the flashlight

What purpose do you want the tactical torch to perform for you? Whether you are a survivalist, hunter, fisherman, security officer, or an outdoor-man, you need to have the top tactical torch to help you execute your job better. If you work in harsh environments, pick a flashlight that can withstand difficult conditions like water, and crushing on a wall or stone. Choose an impact resistant and water-proof flashlight for better functionality. It is not hard to find the best tactical flashlight for self-defense.

  1. Type of switch

Every tactical torch will at least have one of the three available types of switches on the market. These are head switch, body switch and tail switch. The head switch is common in small flashlights and it isn’t very effective as it gets loose quickly. Secondly, the body switch is popular and works very efficiently by providing the user with different grips. Finally, the tail switch is the most common of the three types and functions easily.

  1. Brightness

The main reason why people purchase flashlights is that they want a source of light as they perform their different activities. Though, some practices need much brighter light than others. The best torches with higher lumens are brighter than the low quality ones. Go for the best military grade tactical flashlights if you want to light your path better, especially in very dark light.

  1. Additional accessories

Look for a tactical flashlight with additional features that can assist you in a number of ways. It can be blinding the enemy, or breaking glass. Also, extra modes such as strobe modes help you blind the enemy and act as a security weapon. Other additional features include: alarm, radios, lantern mode and USB charge capability.

  1. Price

Work with a budget when shopping for the best military flashlight. There are various brands offering different types of flashlights with varying features and quality. The most priced product isn’t always the best. Come up with a budget and look for features that you feel are suitable to you and choose a flashlight that serves most of your needs if not all.

  1. Brands

The brand you buy from as well matters. Not all tac torches are of high quality and you should be worry about counterfeit products. Go through reviews of the torch you want to buy so that you end up getting one that serves your lighting needs. Some of the notable brands include Surefire, Streamlight, Nitecore, Fenix, and Solaray, to just name a few.

  1. Warranty

A warranty is a surety about the quality of the product and it’s important that the manufacturer you are buying from offers at least one year plus warranty.

This guarantees the replacement of the product in case it comes with a defect or some other issue.

Conclusion
Finding the best tactical flashlight isn’t hard if you understand what you are searching for. This is from the features the flashlight should have to what you intend to use the source of light for. Create a manageable budget and work with it. Whether you are a fisherman, hunter, or survivalist, pick a torch that will match well with what you do for efficiency. The above top 5 tactical lights are a great example of some of the best in the field.

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