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10 Best Tactical Flashlights in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks
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Do you want a tactical flashlight for your next adventure? For those unaware, this flashlight doesn’t only shine some light to help you make your way in the dark. Instead, a tactical flashlight comes with a set of advanced features and quality construction that make it ideal to utilize in the great outdoors.
Besides, a tactical flashlight is rugged and bright, meaning you can use it while hunting, hiking, or even catching criminals if you’re in law enforcement. In short, tactical flashlights are perfect for mission-critical tasks, and if you are in the police force or law enforcement, you may want to purchase one to get the job done.
So, which tactical flashlight should you opt for? The online marketplace is filled with many options and selecting one can be overwhelming.
To help you out, we have shortlisted our top 10 tactical flashlights available this year. Keep reading to explore various product reviews below.
Whether you want to go on a hunting expedition or even explore a new hike route, the Streamlight ProTac Tactical Flashlight is a great tool to own as a vital lighting source. One of the best qualities of this flashlight is that it is made of hardcore aluminum and has a robust anodized finishing that makes it durable and long lasting. This implies that you can use this product for as long as you want to keep it maintained.
What’s more, since this flashlight is waterproof, you can take it along to any location without the fear of damaging it. In addition, you don’t have to be an expert to utilize this flashlight. The product features a multi-functional push-button that makes it pretty easy to use with just one hand.
We also love that this product isn’t too heavy. However, its length could have been shorter to make it more travel friendly. Nevertheless, the Streamlight ProTac tactical flashlight is available in four different models, each having an additional light output. You can get your hands on models with outputs of 850 lumens, 1,000 lumens, and varying voltage capacity.
This flashlight has a USB charge port that quickly recharges the battery. Moreover, this product comes with a nylon holster and a removable clip to keep it safe when not in use.
The Streamlight ProTac tactical flashlight is an excellent option all around from its quality to its performance. This is why it is our choice for the best overall tactical flashlight and a highly recommended product.
Pros
Powerful and durable
Easy to use
Available in four different models and varying outputs
The 7620 tactical flashlight by Pelican is a relatively new product. However, it is as good as any high-quality flashlight present on the market. The flashlight is compatible with various rechargeable batteries, allowing you to explore and keep different battery options while on your mission.
In addition to that, this product is constructed using high-grade aluminum and features an anodized finishing, ensuring its high durability and longevity. So, you can carry this flashlight on your most adventurous missions without any fear of damaging it.
Also, this product has a battery life of between 2–37 hours. Of course, the final duration depends on how long you charge and use it.
Since this flashlight is available in different models, you can get one within the range of 28–1,124 lumens. The final output you select depends on the tasks you want to use this flashlight for. The flashlight is loaded with low, medium, high, and strobe mode options that you can program in five combinations.
Finally, we think this flashlight is more affordable than most options. It is also lightweight. However, the design could have been better. Moreover, many customers complained how it doesn’t come with any additional accessories and a cover to keep it safe when not in use. Regardless, this is our choice for the best tactical flashlight for the money.
Pros
Competent with many batteries
Made with high-quality materials
Up to 37 hours of battery life
Available in many models
Comes with four different programs to adjust the output
If you are looking for a comparatively lightweight tactical flashlight, you may want to get your hands on the SureFire G2X tactical flashlight, a next-generation product of the SureFire G2 family. This high-intensity flashlight offers excellent support during self-defense and general use. In addition, it has a single output, making it convenient to use during your nighttime expeditions.
The G2X tactical flashlight has a tough and durable structure. It is made of nitrogen, an abrasion-resistant and durable yet lightweight material. Furthermore, it is also corrosion-free, increasing the life of this product.
What’s more, this flashlight also has an aluminum bezel that has an adequate diameter to fit into all normal-sized holsters. This means that you may not find the need to find a separate holster for this product.
When it comes to producing a pre-focused and brilliant beam, this flashlight doesn’t disappoint. It puts out a brilliant and tactical-level beam which is almost four times stronger than flashlights with two D-cells. Additionally, this beam is strong enough to disorient or temporarily blind a person by affecting their night vision.
The small size and its easy-to-carry design make this flashlight a perfect choice for emergency kits as well. Besides, it is an affordable product.
However, the battery life of this torch is pretty limited—only 2.5 hours. This could be a problem for most people on long expeditions.
Streamlight is a well-known brand that manufactures and sells the most competent flashlights. Moreover, it has a wide range of flashlights to offer, from heavy to lightweight. So, if you are looking for a tactical flashlight with an affordable price tag and also comes with a rail mount, we recommend the TLR-1 HL flashlight.
So, why is this product special? For starters, this flashlight generates superior illumination, making all your tactical missions successful. Further, this gun-mounted flashlight easily detaches and attaches to the Picatinny and Glock-style rails using a clamp system.
Additionally, this well-constructed tactical flashlight is made of aircraft aluminum, a solid and durable material that increases the longevity of this product. We also love how compact and lightweight this tactical flashlight is.
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL flashlight has a steady on-off switch, making operations pretty smooth. Also, the user-programmable strobes can be conveniently disabled and enabled, meeting all your lighting needs.
We can’t deny that this flashlight is of superior quality. However, it doesn’t lack a good battery life. It only stays charged for 1.75 hours.
Whether you want a versatile light or a well-improvised weapon light, the SureFire tactical flashlight EDCL2-T will serve all your purposes comfortably. Made with solid aluminum, this product weighs only 4.1 ounces, making it extremely lightweight and convenient to carry. In addition, the anodized body is corrosion resistant and doesn’t experience any premature wear and tear, making this valuable product for a long time.
What’s more, it has a hardcore LED emitter that generates maximum runtime and output. However, the beam covers a much shorter distance than most similar flashlights, which could be a major disappointment for many.
It features tail-cap activation that helps turn on the flashlight and adjust its brightness easily. Also, the tail cap provides a solid surface to grip on, and the well-designed two-way clip makes it convenient to carry this tactical flashlight for a long time.
This fantastic product has a shelf-life of 10 years. Furthermore, it is also relatively inexpensive, making it affordable for most people to buy it.
Are you looking for a high-performing tactical flashlight? In that case, we recommend you try the Fenix TK20R tactical flashlight with an extraordinary output of 3,000 lumens. Moreover, this tool has a 519-yard throw, making it ideal for patrolling or serious search and rescue missions.
This relatively new flashlight comes with a unique tail switch design that allows you to use it with one hand only. To use the large switch, you simply tap it for momentary use or press it completely for constant mode.
What’s more, this flashlight has a compact structure. However, it is comparatively heavy, but it fits in your hand pretty conveniently.
Additionally, it is effortless to charge this flashlight. You simply have to twist the area below the head to access the charging port. This flashlight features a hidden design for the port that protects it from dust and water.
This flashlight might be relatively expensive, but it is made with durable and high-grade aluminum that is both impact-resistant and waterproof. It can also easily bear temperatures as high as 113°F and as low as -31°F. This means regardless of your location, you can use this product with ease, and it won’t let you down.
The Streamlight Scorpion X features a fantastic tactical flashlight with C4 LED technology. In addition, it comes with three operating modes with a strobe, so you can conveniently use this flashlight for many tactical purposes.
In addition, the bulb can conveniently run up to 50,000 hours without getting heated, meaning you won’t find the need to replace it. Finally, since this flashlight comes with an excellent tail-cap push button, you can use the flashlight with one hand without any effort.
This product has a sealed O-ring that prevents moisture and increases impact resistance. Further, the solid aluminum body increases durability and resistance against damage. Since this flashlight has a shelf life of 10 years, you can use it as an emergency product with convenience.
However, most customers have complained about its low output compared to its available price. The flashlight is comparatively expensive.
Imagine being outdoors at night and suddenly your flashlight refuses to work. Although you made sure to charge it before leaving home, it only served you for 2 hours. Owning such a flashlight is useless.
However, we have an excellent solution for you. The Feyachi FL11-MB tactical flashlight is one of the best products available. It has a battery life of almost 4 hours and a brightness of 1,200 lumens, supporting your adventures in the darkest of areas.
What’s more, this product features an all metal body with water-resistant qualities. Customers love how this flashlight even works during heavy rains.
Additionally, this product comes with a dual tail cap that makes it easy to carry with a single hand. Finally, it features two different modes, constant and momentary, to serve your varying tactical needs.
Unlike most other flashlights on this list, this flashlight comes with an offset mount that can conveniently hold your flashlight so that you can use this product with ease.
Overall, we found this flashlight pretty impressive. However, the battery life isn’t very long compared to other flashlights on this list.
Our next recommendation is the excellent tactical flashlight from SureFire. This single output flashlight produces 600 lumen light and is a perfect product for military and tactical use.
The flashlight has a compact structure and features simple operations so that anyone can use it with ease. In addition, its LED doesn’t contain any filaments, so the chances of burning or breaking out are minimal.
What’s more, you will find a classic tail-cap switch on this flashlight. You have to twist for the constant-on mode and press for the monetary-on mode to experience this flashlight’s functions relatively quicker.
While this flashlight is affordable, it features a robust aluminum body that offers a secure grip and, at the same time, remains free from abrasion, corrosion, and scratches. Further, the gasket seal and the O-ring make this product entirely weatherproof.
Pros
Lightweight flashlight with powerful single output
Get your hands on the Nightstick tactical flashlight if you are looking for a slim, compact, and non-rechargeable flashlight. Although this product has a short battery life and is on the heavier side, it still serves the purpose of generating a high-efficiency beam that travels up to 150 meters.
This flashlight also features a tail-cap switch that provides constant and momentary functionalities. Further, the tail cap and the entire housing are made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which enhances the durability of this product. Moreover, the anodized finishing keeps the flashlight safe from any damage.
The flashlight is available in black color. Besides, it has a high water resistance level, so you can conveniently use it under all weather conditions.
Pros
Tail cap offers two functionalities
High water resistance
Cons
Short battery life
Heavy
Low output
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Tactical Flashlight
If you don’t want to risk your money and want to select a suitable tactical flashlight for your use, there are a few imperative factors to consider before making a purchase. Let’s explore them in detail.
Types
There are two types of tactical flashlights available, mounted and normal. Police forces often use the weapon-mounted flashlights as they offer a hands-free operation, enhancing movement and mobility.
On the other hand, a normal tactical flashlight doesn’t come with any attachments, and you can use it like any other source of light. So, depending on your purpose of buying a flashlight, you can select one type that meets your requirements.
Quality
You should first check the quality and standard of your shortlisted tactical flashlights. For instance, evaluate its durability and construction.
Flashlights are usually made of aluminum as this material is long lasting and ideal for such products. However, we recommend you invest in aircraft-grade aluminum, which is far more robust and durable than other forms.
Besides, the construction of the tactical flashlight also matters. For example, the different features such as the O-ring and gasket seal make a flashlight waterproof, increasing its shelf life.
Image Credit: OgnjenO, Shutterstock
Light Output
Depending on your purpose and use of a tactical flashlight, select this product according to the output it produces. The light output is measured in lumens, and different flashlights generate varying beam intensities.
Further, also evaluate the distance that the beam travels. Again, this factor can majorly impact the use of this product.
Power Source
This refers to the battery your chosen flashlight requires to work. The battery directly impacts how long the flashlight power lasts and the light’s efficiency.
Tactical flashlights usually operate on rechargeable batteries. That’s because they can be charged many times and produce excellent output.
However, since they are expensive, many people opt for flashlights that operate using disposable alkaline batteries. These batteries are readily available and also have a long shelf life.
Size and Weight
Make sure that the weight and size of your tactical flashlight should make it easy to hold it for a long time.
For example, if you are opting for a normal flashlight, it should be lightweight and compact so you can grip it properly. Similarly, if you select a weapon-mounted flashlight, the product shouldn’t be heavy, making it easy for you to hold your weapon.
Budget
Make sure you have a set budget before investing in a tactical flashlight. Luckily, these flashlights are available in a wide price range so you can get a decent one even on your limited budget. Just remember, don’t compromise on the quality, and find a good product that works well for you.
Conclusion
A tactical flashlight is a crucial investment, especially if your job or hobbies allow you to spend nights in the dark. So, make sure you buy one that serves you for a long time and offers easy operations. In addition, invest in a flashlight that doesn’t require you to charge the batteries frequently.
We hope that our recommendations will help you select a tactical flashlight. We think all options are great in their own ways, but the Streamlight ProTac tactical flashlight is a powerful product and is also available in different models. Because of the many features it has, it is our choice for the best overall tactical flashlight. However, if you want to buy a budget-friendly flashlight, SureFire G2X tactical flashlight may serve the purpose.
Jeff is a tech professional by day, writer, and amateur photographer by night. He's had the privilege of leading software teams for startups to the Fortune 100 over the past two decades. He currently works in the data privacy space.
Jeff's amateur photography interests started in 2008 when he got his first DSLR camera, the Canon Rebel. Since then, he's taken tens of thousands of photos. His favorite handheld camera these days is his Google Pixel 6 XL. He loves taking photos of nature and his kids. In 2016, he bought his first drone, the Mavic Pro. Taking photos from the air is an amazing perspective, and he loves to take his drone while traveling.
