Weapon lights are arguably one of the most important upgrades that you can purchase for any firearm. You can’t shoot what you can’t see, so being able to positively ID someone or something can make a huge difference. We want to cover some of the weapon light brands that we enjoy and give you some more knowledge, so when you do purchase a weapon light, you’re not left in the dark.
Before we start, just a quick disclaimer: we’re not experts on weapon lights or combat situations. We're just regular civilians who want to ensure we are well-prepared for any situation.
What Are Weapon Lights and Why Do You Need One?
Weapon lights are designed to provide illumination when shooting in low-light conditions. Whether you're defending your home, using your firearm for recreational shooting, or involved in professional law enforcement or military operations, a weapon light is essential for identifying targets and ensuring accuracy.
Candela vs Lumens: Understanding Weapon Light Specifications
Two key terms you'll often encounter when shopping for weapon lights are "candela" and "lumens." Understanding the difference between them is crucial for selecting the right light for your firearm.
What is Candela and Why Does It Matter?
Candela is the measurement of the intensity of light in a specific direction. Unlike lumens, which measure the total amount of light emitted by a flashlight, candela indicates how far that light can travel and how well it can penetrate other light sources. For example, if you need to see beyond a bright streetlamp or identify a target in the dark, a higher candela rating will allow your light to cut through the ambient light, providing clearer visibility.
What Do Lumens Mean for Weapon Lights?
Lumens measure the total brightness of a light. A higher lumen count means a brighter light, which can help illuminate a large area. However, in the context of weapon lights, brightness isn't always the most important factor. While lumens are essential for visibility, candela plays a more significant role when it comes to distance and clarity.
Should You Prioritize Lumens or Candela?
The ideal weapon light will strike a balance between lumens and candela. A light with around 1,000 lumens is typically bright enough for most uses, but if you're looking for greater distance and clarity, prioritize a higher candela rating. Some models offer a combination of both, allowing you to see farther while still having enough brightness for close-range tasks.
Best Weapon Lights for Handguns, Rifles, and Tactical Use
Choosing the right weapon light depends on your firearm type, your intended use, and your budget. Below are some of the best options for handguns, rifles, and handheld tactical use.
Handgun Lights:
For handguns, you want a light that is compact, powerful, and easy to operate. Some of the top brands include SureFire, Modlite, and Streamlight.
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Budget-Friendly Options: The Streamlight TLR-1 and Streamlight TLR-7a are excellent budget-friendly choices, both offering solid performance for under $150.
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High-Performance Models: The Modlite Series and the Surefire Turbo Series are known for their superior light output and long-lasting durability. These lights are perfect for those looking for more powerful options for defensive or professional use.
For duty-style lights, the Surefire X300 series is the industry standard, offering extreme durability and performance, with the new Turbo Series taking candela to new levels for better long-range visibility.
The Modlite PL350 is another top choice, offering an incredibly high candela rating for unmatched performance in challenging environments.
Rifle Lights:
Rifle lights come with more variety, and the options can vary based on your specific needs. Some top recommendations include:
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SureFire, Modlite, Streamlight, and Cloud Defensive are all solid choices. Streamlight and Cloud Defensive offer more affordable options, making them great for budget-conscious buyers.
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Many rifle lights come with pressure pads, which allow for better light manipulation. While not necessary, a pressure pad enhances the usability of your weapon light, especially in tactical situations.
Handheld Lights:
These aren’t considered weapon lights, but still a crucial piece of gear. All of the weapon light brands that we have mentioned above make handheld lights, but there are more solid options. Choose something that you will want to carry with you every day. If it is too big or uncomfortable, then you won’t want to carry it, and you won’t have it when you need it the most.
Lumens vs. Candela: What Matters in a Weapon Light
Conclusion:
Choose a weapon light based on your mission and environment. Whether you carry daily, train professionally, or simply want to be prepared, there's an option that fits. Don’t be afraid to experiment and sell what doesn't work. The most important thing is to train with what you carry, because when you need it, your light can make all the difference.
