[Tested] Best Tactical Flashlights | Complete Buying Guide (2024)

It can be difficult to find the best tactical flashlight. With so many options on the market, knowing which one is right for you is hard.

But don’t worry! This guide has everything you need to know about choosing the best tactical flashlight. From beam width and range to quality of light, we’ll help you make the perfect choice for your needs.

In this guide, you’ll find information on all of the important factors to consider when choosing a tactical flashlight. We’ve also included our top picks for the best tactical flashlights!

Fenix PD35

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Streamlight STINGER 2020

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Nitecore MT10A

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Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA

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Fenix TK16 V2.0

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Anker Bolder LC90

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Streamlight Wedge

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PowerTac M5 GEN2

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XURLEQ

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OLIGHT Warrior 3S

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Acebeam L35 Tactical Flashlight

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See Also

The Best Tactical Flashlights of 20238 Best Tactical Flashlights on the market (Military Reviewed) | Theusmarines.com5 Best Tactical Flashlights - Feb. 2024 - BestReviews10 Brightest Tactical Flashlights [Updated 2024 ]

The Best Tactical Flashlights

Anker Bolder LC90

The Anker Bolder LC90 flashlight is an extremely highly rated tactical flashlight and it’s easy to see why.

It has an impressive maximum output of 900 lumens, making it one of the brightest flashlights in its price range.

It also has five different brightness settings that can be adjusted to fit any situation, from low-light to high-brightness settings. The flashlight is rechargeable and has a decent runtime of up to 6 hours on its highest setting.

The flashlight is also waterproof and impact-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor use.

In addition, it comes with a handy holster and a convenient keychain attachment, making it easy to carry around with you.

Anker Bolder LC90

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Fenix PD35

The Fenix PD35 Tac flashlight is the best overall tactical flashlight of 2023 due to its high-quality build, bright light output, and features.

The flashlight is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and has a Type III hard-anodized finish, making it extremely durable and reliable.

Most importantly, the Fenix PD35 Tac is incredibly bright, with a maximum output of 1,000 lumens. This ensures that you’ll have enough light to see clearly no matter what environment you’re in.

It also features a variety of different brightness settings and a strobe mode. The flashlight is compatible with several different energy sources, including a single 18650 lithium-ion battery or two 3V CR123A rechargeable batteries.

This allows you to choose the energy source that works best for you.

Overall, the Fenix PD35 Tac flashlight is an incredibly reliable and powerful option for anyone looking for a tactical flashlight.

Its durable design, bright light output, and versatile features make it one of the best overall tactical flashlights.

Fenix PD35

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PowerTac M5 GEN2

The PowerTac M5 GEN2 is a pocket-friendly, bright tactical flashlight that weighs only 65g without the battery.

It is equipped with 1300 lumens, a USB magnetic cable for charging, six modes of operation, a water-resistant body up to two meters, and aircraft-grade aluminum alloy.

It offers great value as a tactical flashlight for a range of activities and purposes, giving users an advantage with its blinding brightness.

PowerTac M5 GEN2

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XURLEQ XD50S

XURLEQ has two adjustable focus modes, a powerful 10,000-lumen light beam, a long LED lifespan of 100,000 hours, and is waterproof.

Its small size makes it easy to store, while its brightness makes it ideal for illuminating the ground at night. It also has a great price point, with a $29.99.

With all these features, XURLEQ will be a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful tactical flashlight.

XURLEQ XD50S

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OLIGHT Warrior 3S

The OLIGHT Warrior 3S is a great tactical flashlight because it has several features that make it an ideal choice.

First, it has an impressive max output of 2,300 lumens, making it very bright and able to reach a beam distance of up to 1,900 feet.

Second, the tactical flashlight is powered by a 21700 lithium battery, which provides up to 8 hours of continuous light.

Third, it has an aggressive strike plate and knurled precision-machined aluminum body, as well as an optional magnetic remote switch for mounting the light on a firearm.

Fourth, it has a vibrating function to indicate battery life and a tactical grip ring to help prevent it from slipping out of your hands in a hurry.

All these features combined make the OLIGHT Warrior 3S a great tactical flashlight that can help you prepare for any unexpected situation.

OLIGHT Warrior 3S

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Streamlight STINGER 2020

The Streamlight Stinger 2020 is the perfect tactical flashlight, thanks to its incredible power of 2000 lumens, shockproof aluminum alloy body, ergonomic design for comfort and perfect grip, and intuitive controls that make it easy to use.

Its advanced C4 LED optic technology provides a concentrated 234m beam of light, allowing you to illuminate dark areas easily, and its USB rechargeable SL-B26 lithium-ion battery ensures it can last up to 1.75 hours.

The Streamlight Stinger 2020 is water resistant with an IPX7 rating and is live-fire tested for impact resistance.

It is lightweight at just 12.3 oz and the tethered battery door and latch mechanism keep your hands away from the muzzle of your weapon.

This is greaet for EDC Rating and has excellent reviews, the Streamlight Stinger 2020 is an ideal choice for those who need intense illumination and the best in tactical functional design.

Streamlight STINGER 2020

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Fenix TK16 V2.0

The Fenix TK16 V2.0 is an excellent tactical flashlight due to its exceptional performance.

The flashlight is IP68 rated, meaning it is waterproof and dustproof and can withstand extreme temperatures.

A high-capacity 5000mAH 21700 battery powers it and can produce 3100 lumens of light, making it perfect for throwing its light over 415 yards.

Additionally, its tactical tail switch allows for momentary-on and constant-on, and the strike bezel at the front helps with defensive application.

The flashlight is USB rechargeable, making it easy to charge. The Fenix TK16 V2.0 is perfect for a reliable and powerful tactical flashlight.

Fenix TK16 V2.0

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Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA

The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA is an excellent tactical flashlight for multiple reasons.

Firstly, it is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. Secondly, it is affordable and takes both AA and CR123 batteries, which makes it great for a bug-out bag. It also boasts an impressive running time, of up to 750 continuous hours.

Lastly, it offers three default modes, high, strobe, and low, with adjustable brightness levels and is easily operated with the single tail cap switch.

Streamlight ProTac

Run Time: 750 Hours

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Nitecore MT10A

The Nitecore MT10A is an excellent and compact tactical flashlight designed for EDC use.

It features a bright 920-lumen output and a red firefly light and can be powered by both IMR 14500 and AA batteries.

It is easy to use and carry, making it an ideal choice for travel and tactical operations.

The light has several modes, including turbo, high, medium, low, and red, allowing it to adapt to any situation or environment.

The light also includes a semi-focused beam, perfect for searching and general lighting.

Additionally, the light has a built-in heat protection system that automatically lowers output after 3 minutes to ensure user safety.

All of these features make the Nitecore MT10A a great tactical flashlight.

Nitecore MT10A

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Streamlight Wedge

The Streamlight Wedge TLR-1 has a solid machined aluminum sealed body and a black anodized finish for maximum durability. It has a shock-mounted Boro Float glass lens for optimal protection against impact.

Advanced C4 LED optic technology allows the 1000-lumens bulb to last for 50,000 hours, and it can project an extremely bright, concentrated 234m beam of light to illuminate a dark alleyway or woodland area.

It has an ambidextrous momentary/steady on/off switch that allows for one-handed operation, and the tethered battery door and latch mechanism stop the door from falling off.

Lastly, the flashlight is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Streamlight Wedge

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What are the benefits of using a tactical flashlight?

Here are some benefits and considerations to take into account when purchasing your EDC Flashlight.

Increase Visibility and Illumination

Using a tactical flashlight can increase visibility and illumination in a variety of ways.

Its powerful LED bulbs are designed to provide a bright, reliable lighting performance that can light up a stairwell, temporarily impair the vision of an assailant, or be used to hunt wild game in the woods.

The different lighting modes—high, medium, low, strobe, and SOS—allow you to adjust the beam to focus the light into a narrow beam or expand it to a wide beam, and the zoom-in and out mode will give you the best coverage.

Useful in Emergency Situations

A tactical flashlight can be extremely useful in emergencies, as it is a multipurpose power-packed lighting tool that can provide bright illumination in combat, emergency, or survival scenarios.

It can also be used as a striking tool and can be used to blind an assailant temporarily. A tactical flashlight can help you find your things in the dark, and can even be used to communicate with rescue teams in an emergency, as some models come with dedicated SOS and Beacon flashing modes.

Furthermore, some tactical flashlights come with a strobe mode which can be used to disorient an attacker and put them in a state of shock, allowing you to get out of harm’s way.

Easy to Carry and Use

The ease of carrying and using a tactical flashlight makes it a great choice for those who are looking for a reliable, powerful and versatile light source.

With the right model, you can find features such as adjustable focus, clip for hands-free usage, rechargeable batteries, and multiple settings that make them user-friendly and efficient, as well as robust and heavy-duty builds that make them durable and able to withstand harsh conditions.

Many tactical flashlights are designed to be compact and lightweight, allowing them to fit nicely in hand or a pocket clip, making them easy to carry and use when needed.

Different Types of Flashlights for Different Uses

There are three main types of flashlights: handheld, headlamps, and weapon lights.

Handheld flashlights are the most commonly used type of flashlight. They are small, lightweight, and usually feature a single light output setting. These are perfect for everyday tasks such as walking the dog, working on the car, or even home defense.

Headlamps have a strap or band that allows them to be worn on the head, leaving you hands-free for other activities.

They typically feature adjustable brightness settings and have a wide beam for maximum visibility. These are great for off-road camping, wilderness trekking, or nighttime hikes.

Weapon lights are designed to be mounted on a pistol or long gun. They normally feature multiple lighting modes. Most AR-15 rifles are equipted with some type of flashlight. Some of the best AR-15 flashlights mount directly to the guns rail.

They are perfect for professional tactical combat situations.

Can be Used for Self-defense Purposes

Yes, the tactical flashlight is able to be used for self-defense purposes.

It can be used as a striking tool with its crenulated bezels that are shaped to easily break windows or faces, and it can be used to temporarily blind an assailant.

It can be used as a communication tool to signal for help in an emergency situation, with some models having dedicated SOS and Beacon flashing modes.

Ultimately, tactical flashlights are an ideal tool for self-defense, both for their ability to disorient attackers and for their ability to cause some serious damage.

Increase Safety when Walking or Cycling at Night

A tactical flashlight can help increase safety when walking or cycling at night by providing a bright, wide-area beam of light to help illuminate potential risks.

The high lumen output can disorient attackers and cause them pain, while the striking tool and bezel can be used as a defensive tool if necessary.

Carrying a tactical flashlight and scanning your surroundings can help protect you, your loved ones, and your possessions.

What to consider when buying a tactical flashlight?

Quality of light

When shopping for a tactical flashlight, it is important to consider the quality of light it produces.

Tactical flashlights are designed to be incredibly bright and give off an intense light to illuminate targets near and far.

The light is usually produced by a high-powered LED bulb, ranging from 300 to 1200 lumens, with an advanced lens design such as a C4 LED or a Cree bulb with a super-smart microchip.

This ensures a crystal clear illumination and superior visibility. Additionally, some models may have various lighting mode settings, such as a single-output beam, adjustable zoom lens, emergency strobe, SOS, or beacon lighting. By considering the quality of light a tactical flashlight will provide, you can ensure you have the best flashlight for your needs.

Power output

Power output is one of the most important factors when buying a tactical flashlight.

It refers to the amount of light emitted by the flashlight, measured in lumens.

A higher lumen output means the flashlight will be brighter and have a longer range. This is essential for tactical flashlights since they are used in various situations ranging from self-defense to outdoor activities.

A higher power output is beneficial for a few reasons. It allows you to see better in dark environments and can be used to temporarily blind an attacker.

It also provides a longer reach, which is useful for identifying potential threats and illuminating a larger area.

Keep in mind that a higher lumen output leads to a shorter runtime since a higher lumen output will drain the battery quickly.

When looking for a tactical flashlight, it is important to pay attention to the power output and pick one that will meet your needs.

Modes of operation

Tactical flashlights are designed with multiple modes of operation to help meet any situation.

These modes range from low-output Moonlight modes for longer runtimes, to high-output brightest levels ideal for self-defense.

Strobe mode is also a common setting for tactical flashlights, allowing for momentary disorienting bursts of light.

In addition to lighting modes, features like forward-throw switches, knurling, easy-to-activate switches, and strike bezels can also be found on tactical flashlights.

These features provide convenience and ease of use when it comes to operating the flashlight.

Finally, there are also additional accessories and features available on tactical flashlights. These can range from pocket clips to attach the flashlight to clothing, lanyards for attaching the flashlight to a backpack or belt, and mounts for attaching the flashlight to a weapon.

In summary, the main modes of operation for tactical flashlights are high output brightness, low output Moonlight, strobe mode, and additional features for convenience and ease of use.

Size and weight

Size and weight are key considerations when buying a tactical flashlight.

Compact and pocket flashlights are the most popular because they are light enough to carry with you every day and small enough to fit in your pocket or even on a keychain.

The ideal length of a mini tactical flashlight should be between 2 and 6 inches and the ideal diameter should be between 0.50 to 1 inch. A good weight for a tactical flashlight should be between 1 and 4 ounces.

It is important to find the right balance between a short length and a small body diameter and performance.

For example, the Olite S1 is incredibly small, with a length of 2.4 inches but has a diameter of 0.83 inches. The Streamlight Stylus Pro is a bit longer with a length of 5.3 inches but has a tiny diameter of 0.60 inches.

Compared to regular-sized tactical lights, greater emphasis is placed on weight, size, durability/reliability, and usability – rather than power and features.

A full-sized tactical flashlight may be too heavy to carry around and unsuitable for your situation.

Consider your particular needs and carefully decide which size and weight are best for you.

Beam Pattern

A beam pattern is how a flashlight or other device creates and disperses light.

It is an important consideration when purchasing a tactical flashlight because it affects how far the beam of light can reach, how wide the beam is and the area it covers and the intensity of the light.

In tactical situations, it is essential to have a powerful beam that reaches far enough to illuminate a wide area.

The wider the beam, the more visible the surroundings will be, and the farther the beam reaches, the more likely a person is to spot a potential threat before it becomes a problem.

A beam pattern that is too narrow will not provide adequate coverage and can leave areas dark and vulnerable.

A flashlight with a focused beam pattern is ideal for tactical purposes because it can reach a greater distance and provide a more intense light output.

Switches and Controls

Tactical flashlights are designed with special switches and controls to give users the optimal amount of illumination during a potentially dangerous situation.

The main switch is usually a tail-activated switch that lets the user quickly turn on the flashlight. This switch is easy to access and use, allowing for a speedy response.

Many tactical flashlights also feature additional controls, such as multiple lighting modes, a forward-throw switch for momentary-on activation, and a strobe mode.

These different modes allow the user to adjust the light to the situation, providing the optimal light for whatever task.

The knurling on tactical lights is also built to provide a secure grip during use, reducing the likelihood of accidental drops.

Finally, tactical flashlights are often made of aircraft-grade aluminum and/or water-resistant or waterproof materials, making them durable enough for any situation.

Battery Type

When buying a tactical flashlight, there are two popular battery types: traditional D or C batteries and USB rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Traditional batteries are a more familiar replacement option and provide a more dependable beam strength over time, while rechargeable batteries are generally easier to maintain and allow flashlights to be smaller and more compact.

Selectable modes are great if battery life is important, but checking the battery specifications is wise.

Both rechargeable and disposable batteries can be accommodated, giving you the best of both worlds.

Battery Life

The battery life of a tactical flashlight depends on the type of batteries used. Using normal alkaline batteries can last up to one hour on full power.

Disposable or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries can last from 2-6 hours on a medium setting.

For the highest performance and reliability, look for flashlights with superior Lithium-ion batteries designed for maximum performance and long run times.

Bezel setting

The bezel setting of a tactical flashlight is an important factor to consider when buying one because it affects the overall performance of the flashlight.

The bezel is the part of the flashlight that surrounds the light bulb, and it is typically made from metal, such as stainless steel.

The bezel can be designed in many different ways, but the most common is a crenelated or strike bezel.

A crenelated bezel features a ridged design which is designed to help with grip and gives the flashlight a more tactical look, while a strike bezel has a flat, sharp edge designed for striking and self-defense.

Having a crenelated or strike bezel is an important factor to consider when buying a tactical flashlight because it can come in handy in a self-defense situation.

The ridged design of the crenelated bezel can be used to help grip the flashlight and gives you a better chance of keeping control of it if you have to use it to defend yourself.

The flat, sharp edge of the strike bezel can be used to strike an attacker in order to temporarily disable him or her.

Overall, the bezel is an important design feature to consider when buying one because it can affect your safety and security in a potentially dangerous situation.

Body design

When evaluating the body design of a tactical flashlight, there are several factors to consider.

The most important factor is the material used to construct the body – tough and almost indestructible aircraft or military-grade aluminum alloy with a black anodized finish or an extra-strong Nitrolon polymer body.

Aluminum alloy provides excellent impact and abrasion-resistance, with shockproof and skid-proof qualities, while Nitrolon polymer is lightweight and provides a good grip.

Water resistance is also important, with IPX4, IPX5, IPX7, or IPX8 ratings recommended.

LED Light Technology

LED technology has revolutionized the lighting industry with its energy efficiency, long-lasting durability, and bright, focused beam.

LED lights consume 70-80% less energy than traditional bulbs and can run for up to 10,000 hours.

Tactical flashlights require a bright beam to be effective in low-light settings, and LEDs deliver the intensity and focused beam needed in tactical situations.

Furthermore, LED lights are much tougher and more resistant to impact and abrasion than traditional bulbs, making them a better choice for rugged outdoor activities.

With their superior performance, LEDs are the ideal choice when selecting a tactical flashlight.

Accessory Options

Accessory options for tactical flashlights include rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, aircraft-grade aluminum bodies for durability, waterproof and water-resistant designs for protection, multiple lighting modes, and tactical tail switches for easy on and off access.

Additionally, there are a range of flashlight accessories available, such as holsters and lanyards, that can help you get the most out of your tactical flashlight.

Weatherproofing

Weatherproofing is an essential feature when buying a tactical flashlight because it offers reliable protection from the elements.

By having a flashlight that is rated IPX4, IPX5, IPX7, or IPX8, you can be sure that it will withstand the rigors of whatever weather you find yourself in.

This is especially important for those in the military, law enforcement, and security personnel as they often face extreme conditions.

These flashlights are designed to be taken into wet and dusty environments, so having a waterproof and dustproof flashlight is key to ensuring that it will work reliably in any situation.

By investing in a flashlight with a good weatherproofing rating you can be sure that it will not be damaged by rain, snow, or dust, and that it will be able to take a beating and keep on shining.

Cost and Availability

Are you looking for the best tactical flashlight to add to your toolbox and don’t know where to start?

The cost and availability of tactical flashlights varies depending on the features and specifications you need. You can find basic models for as little as $20 for a pair, but you can expect to pay upwards of $100 for more advanced models.

For instance, the GearLight S1000 is the most highly rated flashlight on Amazon and only costs under $20, while the DanForce G1 rechargeable LED flashlight is a bit more expensive at $100, but comes with a variety of features including a compass and power pack.

Regardless of the price, the best tactical flashlights share common features like robust construction, good grip, and multiple settings.

So, when shopping for the perfect flashlight, be sure to compare the prices and available features for the one that best suits your needs.

Warranty

A tactical flashlight typically comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that protects against any defects or malfunctions in the product.

Generally, these warranties last for a period of one to five years. This warranty ensures that the flashlight will work as expected and helps protect the user from any manufacturing issues that could lead to a malfunction or failure of the device.

In addition, the warranty may cover any repairs that may be necessary due to accidental damage or normal wear and tear.

Focusability

This feature allows one to adjust the beam of the flashlight to a smaller, more concentrated area, which increases the distance and intensity of the light.

This is especially helpful in self-defense situations, as it can be used to blind a potential assailant temporarily.

Focusability also allows the user to adjust the beam to better suit the situation at hand.

For instance, a wide beam can be used to light up a larger area, while a more concentrated beam can be used to identify a target at a greater distance better.

Therefore, when selecting a tactical flashlight, it’s important to consider the focusability of the flashlight to ensure it meets your needs.

Ergonomics

When looking to buy a tactical flashlight, there are several ergonomic considerations to take into account.

The first is size and weight. Tactical flashlights should be light enough to not weigh you down, yet durable enough to withstand everyday use.

They should also fit comfortably in your hand, with an ergonomic design for easy gripping.

Finally, tactical flashlights should be designed with use in mind. So switches, tail caps, and battery compartments should be well designed.

Activating the flashlight while holding the light in one hand should be smooth and easy to achieve.

The tail switch is important when it comes to using a flashlight. This switch allows the user to turn the light on and off quickly.

Changing the battery of your flashlight should be easy and fast. The battery comparment should be sealed for durability reasons.

When choosing a tactical flashlight, it’s important to consider all of these ergonomic considerations for the best performance and reliability.

Light Distribution

The most important factor is brightness, as this determines how far a light can reach and the intensity of the beam the shape of the beam and its ability to focus light on a specific target is important, as well as the color temperature of the light.

The beam pattern, throw angle, and tail switch are all important features when considering the usability of a tactical flashlight.

Regarding brightness, tactical flashlights usually have a higher output than regular EDC flashlights, with some flashlights having as much as 1000 lumens.

This higher output offers greater visibility and distance for the user. The beam pattern is also important, as some flashlights have a floodlight pattern that offers a wider beam and more area coverage, while others have a spot mode that focuses light on a specific target.

The throw angle is also important, as this controls how far downrange the light can go and how wide the beam can be.

All these factors should be taken into account when choosing a tactical flashlight, as they can all affect the overall performance of the flashlight.

Best Tactical Flashlights Conclusion

So there you have it, our complete guide to the best tactical flashlights.

We’ve covered everything from beam width and range to quality of light and even thrown in some tips on weatherproofing.

So now all that’s left for you to do is choose the perfect flashlight for your needs. If you are looking for a weapon mounted light be sure to read our article on AR-15 mounted flashlights or pistol flashlights.