Tactical flashlight

6.81star

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Nov 26, 2008
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Nebraska
When choosing a tactical flashlight what features are you looking for?Obviously durability, quality materials, and for it to work everytime you hit the switch is a must. Is lumen output and cr123 batteries a big deal? Rechargeable vs. Non rechargeable batteries an issue? Also is there a minimum runtime that is a must. I would like to hear from all sides, military to LE to dockland.
 
Re: Tactical flashlight

It absolutely must work every time, as your life may depend on it! I'm not as concerned about lumens, but I like more than is necessary and usually choose something that has more then one output setting. It must be simple to operate though, in switching from one output to another. As far as batts go, well if it is the cr123 batts, then they must be rechargeable. I wouldn't want to feed it $10 or better every month or better. I don't mind a rechargeable flashlight. I'm currently using a Streamlight ultra stinger (with a couple mods), sunwayman t20c, nitecore sr3, and a Streamlight AAA pocket light for dl reading and such. I also must factor in cost vs quality vs features. I run rcr123 batts in the sunwayman and nitecore. These have got me by and have all held up to daily service use!
 
Re: Tactical flashlight

I have used Surefire lights now for well over 15 years and I have never broke or worn one out yet!!

I own and use 5 different models and i have them in range bags, cars, my safe, and have used them on active duty and through out my LE carrier. They ahve always worked and been tehre for me.

With that being said luck has it that I do have a NIB Surefire the same model i carry today for sale if interested.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...168#Post2949168
 
Re: Tactical flashlight

I've broken a couple Surefires. The heads are susceptible to high speed(64 mph+) impact hits on concrete. The bodies however always remain intact.

I'm currently carrying a Streamlight, as a long term comparison to the Surefire(I've carried some for well over two years). So far the results are good between the two, and I've noticed that there is a significant lack of battery drain with the Streamlight.

Still though, I have no problems with either. I still have my polymer G2 that I carried on my field gear. Makes a great momento for me.

Now if Chuck, our favorite resident Surefire employee, were to PM me for some good ideas on product development... LOL.
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