It’s dark, there is a bump in the night. You’re wondering if you were just dreaming, or if it’s time to protect your family. You’re groggy, tired, and disoriented. You reach for your glasses, you suddenly hear something again. Your heart stops for a moment. Is this it? You place your fingers on the safe to unlock your personal protection pistol.
You’re not sure if it’s a neighborhood cat rubbing up against its reflection on your sliding glass door, or the people who have been invading homes in your area at an alarming rate. You are quiet, but in a panic, you wake up your significant other: “…where’s the flashlight?” you ask. They don’t know. What now?
There’s a reason you need the best pistol light you can get.
Don’t be unsure. Don’t be caught without the tactical advantage. Solve the obvious problems before they become problems. The pistol light has its place in the world of tactics and self-defense.
For years the law enforcement community and top tier operators in military special forces around the world have advocated for pistol lights. Forget about the 2-hand hold that requires a flashlight and a firearm.
Forget about the adjustment to the light that full room lighting can cause. With the best pistol light, you’re going to be able to identify threats or the lack of a threat quickly and easily. You’ll be able to act quicker and perhaps it could save your life with the time it saves and the utility it offers.
Below is a list of every excellent pistol flashlight available to the mainstream community and a review of each light’s unique capabilities and utility. We’ve also included a bit of information to give you a solid foundation to help you decide which light attributes and characteristics make the most sense and how to pick a winning pistol light.
Do I need a flashlight on my pistol?
The short answer is yes. Because thieves in the night; gangbangers that want to hurt you in the alleyway outside your apartment, and low life’s that would just as soon see you in the ditch while taking the cash out of your wallet as hold a respectable job, they don’t count on being out to the light.
They work in the shadows. They rely on dark alleyways, and the middle of the night to hold a knife against your back or invade your home.
Pistol lights are preemptive; they are helpful in deterring threats before the threat is too great to handle. The preparation of using a pistol light puts you in a ready state and helps you to make an informed decision about what the actual threat is and what level of threat it offers.
Long story short, for the inexpensive cost of a top-tier pistol light, you can ensure you never get put in a position where the shadows can rule the night, and you don’t get a say.
The price of tactical pistol-mounted flashlights has come way down, due to their proliferation and the improvement of technology in the lighting space including LED technology; high-grade polymers, and easy access to aircraft-grade aluminum.
Not to mention the heavy increase in personal defense consumers of late. They know that they would rather be in control of their potential to become a victim, instead of leaving it to chance and some bad actors that aren’t able to distinguish the importance of human life whether it is because of drugs, the influence of others; sociopathy or psychopathy.
Do you need a pistol flashlight? Yes. Because if you don’t have one you’ve saved a paltry sum of money and you won’t have any help in identifying and acting on potential threats when you need it the most.
You don’t have to, but with the prices that these spectacular lights have, it’s almost foolish not to entertain the idea. After all, the low weight, long life, and durable build qualities of these top-tier lights mean you have very little to worry about in protecting your investment.
Important Aspects of a Pistol Flashlight
There are a few things that will help you determine the best pistol light. These are the quick, down, and dirty aspects of picking a light for your handgun that make sense to consider.
Lumens
There are plenty of complicated definitions of what a lumen is, but that’s not helpful here. The basics are as follows: the higher the lumen count, the brighter the perceived light on the target and in the surrounding area.
Lumens are often misreported and lied about by manufacturers. About 300 lumens is enough if shined directly in the eyes of another human being to temporarily blind them in a dark room. You can do it with less, but the 300-lumen threshold is effective for a few seconds at least, especially when in a dark room.
The lumen counts on this list of products are generally considered to be accurate. Either this is by research-proven to be true in comparative tests to other lights, or they are stated by reputable brands that make the lights.
Lumens aren’t generally a thing affected by price too much. That is on the low end of the numbers anyway. That is to say: even a cheap light can boast impressive lumens and be accurate, but the cost isn’t exponentially higher to get a lumen count that is comparable to others in the class or lights.
That said: to get super lofty lumen counts, you can expect to pay a price premium (generally for lumen counts significantly above 600 lumens).
Throw vs. Flood
Throw in the distance that light can remain focused to provide a spotlight-like effect on the target. A flood is the amount of light that can leak out into the immediate area to illuminate a broader angle of the area. Sometimes you want heavy throw (when you want to illuminate something far away) and sometimes you want heavy flood (when you are in a small room and need to see all the corners at one glance).
The best pistol light will be a hybrid usually, with the ability to illuminate to intermediate distances, but also to illuminate enough of the immediate area for safety reasons. MOST lights choose one or the other; pistol flashlights generally operate as a hybrid model because they are used in varied use cases and many different scenarios.
Mounts
Each gun has its own potential for mounting options. There are a few standards, but no light is 100% versatile and usable across the entire spectrum of mounts and rails, without at least an adapter.
Lucky for consumers who want the ease of implementation, most gun lights come with adaptors or are built to the specific guns they own and fit easily.
Worst case scenario, almost ALL models available can accept an adaptor of the universal capability to mate to a specific firearm. You will need to know what kind of mount you need and match it to the light. You can usually find this information in your firearm’s owner’s manual. If you cannot, you can ask a gun expert or do a few searches online to make sure that you have the correct information.
Battery Life
Different lights use different batteries. Not all batteries are created equal. Some lights use really good batteries, some don’t. And this isn’t just a matter of Duracell versus Energizer. Sometimes the batteries are totally different platforms and sizes. Most of the items on this list use high-quality batteries and last a decent amount of run time to keep you out of danger.
That said here are a few notes for consideration:
Most pistol lights run off some iteration of the powerful CR123A battery. Some on this list opt for an internal proprietary battery to run the lights, but they are top-quality iterations. Some others may require CR1/3N Lithium cells or CR2 lithium cells. All of these are potent cells for these types of devices and will serve you well.
8 Best Pistol Lights
1. Flag Power 1200
Features
| Part Number | QD-001-US |
| Color | Black |
Admittedly, the Flag Power is one of the cheapest on the list, and it isn’t of particularly high quality, but it serves a purpose and it is able to be used without any excuses due to the price point.
It won’t last for many years and it doesn’t boast proven results or high performance. What it does do and does it well: it inexpensively shines light onto targets and helps you assess threats with more data.
Pros
- Cheapest light on the list
- Decent reviews by other consumers
- Fits standard Picatinny rails
Cons
- Not particularly durable
Why It’s Recommended
The Flag Power is cheap and it does meet the minimum expectation/specification of lighting up a room adequately enough to identify risks/threats.
2. Streamlight TLR-1
Streamlight TLR-1
4 used from $132.26
Features
- 1000 lumens; 20,000 candela peak beam intensity; 283 meter beam; runs 1.5 hours
- White LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime. TIR optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination
- Mounts directly to handguns with Glock-style rails and to all MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails; verify compatibility and fitment prior to purchase, Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of the muzzle
- Includes keys for Glock-style, Picatinny, Beretta 90two, S&W 99 and S&W TSW and Sig P320; verify compatibility and fitment prior to purchase
- Rail clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of the muzzle; fits existing light bearing holsters; user programmable strobe can be enabled/disabled
This is a nice light for the money and offers an easy to mount snap-on interface as well as a high lumen count of 800 lumens.
The range of weapons it fits is excellent. The durability and quality of manufacture are very high. The TLR-1 HL features a c4 LED and uses a couple of CR123 3-volt battery cells which offer an excellent run time of 1.75 hours with a high throw beam focal point.
The hybridized beam and reflector offer sufficient light in smaller spaces too, with the beneficial light bleed.
Pros
- Top-quality brand name
- The excellent price point for the feature set
- 800 lumens
Cons
- Not the finest item in their vast product portfolio
Why It’s Recommended
Streamlight makes top-quality products and they have this segment of the market well covered with top-tier products in general.
3. Olight Bundle
Features
| Binding | Misc. |
| Brand | OLIGHT |
| Label | Olight |
| Manufacturer | Olight |
| MPN | PL mini |
| Package Dimensions | Height: 140; Length: 480; Weight: 25; Width: 240 |
| Package Quantity | 1 |
| Part Number | PL mini |
| Product Group | Sports |
| Product Type Name | TOOLS |
| Publisher | Olight |
| Studio | Olight |
| Title | Olight Bundle PL MINI Valkyrie Rechargeable Flashlight Cree LED 400 Lumen with magnetic usb charger and patch |
Olight is famous for making incredibly high-quality, intuitive products in the mainstream flashlight market. Their general approach is towards over-engineering and making very durable products.
This light is not an exception. The low price and high-quality build a potent rechargeable internal battery and a very acceptable 400-lumen brightness, as well as a 5-year warranty, make this a legitimate option.
Pros
- 5-year warranty
- Top-quality build
- Low price
- Good LED and battery
Cons
- Not the best OLIGHT available despite having great value for money
Why It’s Recommended
An easily rechargeable battery pack and a solid 400-lumen output, this is a powerhouse piece with a very nice build from Olight. The 75-meter throw distance makes this a very good hybrid light, which is suitable in short hallways as well as long alleyways.
4. Streamlight TLR-3
Streamlight TLR-3
$81.05 in stock
Features
- 170 lumens with 1.5 hours run time
- Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools
- One handed snap-on and tighten interface keeps hands away from muzzle when attaching/detaching
- Durable yet light impact-resistant polymer construction
- Ambidextrous momentary/steady on-off switch
Yes, it’s not the brightest light ever, and it’s focused on cutting costs to meet a price point, but the Streamlight 69220 is still better than anything else in its price class from lesser makers.
It offers 1.5 hours of run time and has impressive waterproofness as well as a decent battery source. The mount fits Glocks or standard Picatinny rails making it quite versatile. The other mounts available can be had inexpensively.
A fantastic mix of flood and throw make this a good all-purpose weapon light despite the lower lumen count.
Pros
- Great weather resistance
- Great brand name
- Good hybrid beam focal point
- The very good price point for the brand name
Cons
- Not the finest option from Streamlight despite good entry-level and compact performance.
Why It’s Recommended
Simple, with a robust mount offering and a nice quality built. This is a legitimate bargain offering from Streamlight, a leader in this market segment.
5. Streamlight TLR-6
Streamlight TLR-6
7 used from $85.65
Features
- Designed to securely attach to the rail and trigger guard of specific Glock models with Factory Rails. See the compatibility chart in the Images and the product description
- Ultra lightweight and compact
- Batteries can be replaced while light remains mounted on gun
- No need to re-sight laser after battery change
- Windage and elevation adjustment screws mounted in brass bushings for long life and dependable zero retention of laser
The Streamlight TLR-6 is only 100 lumens and that hurts a little. It won’t provide blinding light for you to disorient intruders, but it will be easier for your eyes to adjust to and the battery life will be better compared to heavy drain LEDs.
The dual light and laser combination for Glock pistols only offers some additional considerations for hitting what you are aiming at. This is an impressive light/laser combination for the price point.
Pros
- Laser and light combination
- Low price for the utility of the item
- It Fits Glock pistols exceptionally
Cons
- Made only for Glock pistol mounts
Why It’s Recommended
It’s a quality build and while it isn’t the most powerful option light-wise, this is a nice combination device for the Glock pistol range. A Streamlight light/laser combination is always a good option.
6. InForce
INFORCE
Features
- 1/4 turn of head engages lockout mode for travel, transport & storage.
- Seamlessly transition between white & infrared mode.
- Safety lever minimizes accidental discharge.
- Integrated clamp interfaces with MIL-STD-1913 rails.
- Non-slip switch controls constant, momentary & strobe functions.
The InForce is a nicely balanced 700 lumen light that is as bright as it should be to add some tactical advantage by blinding most targets, but it does help you to attenuate to the surrounding light output in smaller spaces more readily.
This brand is up and coming and offers good quality feature sets for decent price points. Runs for 2 hours and 4 hours on infrared and is relatively lightweight creating a good balance on the gun.
Pros
- Generation 2 upgrades
- Fits standard Picatinny
- Nice light focus
Cons
- First-generation light had some durability and mount security issues
Why It’s Recommended
Great customer reviews on the InForce and attentive customer service helping to fix a bad batch of frame mounting hardware means this company has done what most companies wish they could.
7. SureFire X300
SureFire X300
1 used from $214.32
Features
- Special off-white high-performance LED produces 600 lumens biased in the yellowish-green spectrum optimal for human vision
- Precision TIR lens creates a smooth, tight beam with enough surround light for peripheral illumination
- Integral, ergonomic one-finger ambidextrous momentary and constant on switching
- Instantly attaches to both Universal and Picatinny accessory rails. FITS: The new T-slot mounting system fits most railed handguns (and rail-equipped long guns) but adapter mounts are available for some non-railed handguns
- Accepts optional pressure-activated switches for precision control without altering grip on weapon
Long the standard-bearer for the tactical pistol mounted flashlight world, the SureFire brand, and product offering hasn’t skipped a beat in offering the best in class light and longevity that most companies are envious of.
The 500 lumens are a good mix of blinding power, and high suitability for enclosed spaces so as not to blind the user of the weapon.
Pros
- 500 lumens
- Good run time
- Stellar history
Cons
- Pricey
Why It’s Recommended
Not that you’ll need it, but it has a limited lifetime warranty. SureFire generally is so good in this realm, though, that it’s usually a moot point to have a warranty. The bright 500 lumen light and the good run time for the output (1.5 hours at peak).
8. Streamlight TLR-7
Features
- Compatible with Glock, most models up to Gen 4, 17, 19 Gen 5; Sig Sauer 320 Compact and 1911 GSR, 320 Carry and Full Size, P200 Series; Smith & Wesson TSW (with Riveted Rail) and 99, M&P (Full Sizes); Beretta 92 FS/M9A1 Models, 90Two, 92/96 A1, APX, PX4 Storm Full Size; Springfield Armory XD (9, 40, 45, 9(M)); FN FNS-40, Five-Seven, 509 and FNX; HK VP9, P30; CZ P-01, P-07, P-10, 75 SP-01; Kimber 1911 Custom; Ruger SR-9; 1913 Picatinny Rail
- White LED produces 500 lumens; 5,000 candela; 131-meter beam; runs 1.5 hours; user enabled strobe function
- Custom optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination; optimized electronics provide regulated intensity
- Durable machined aircraft aluminum construction with black anodized finish IPX7 waterproof to 1m for 30 minutes; High temperature, shock mounted, impact resistant Borofloat glass lens
- Low-profile, multi-function push-button side switch for ambidextrous operation; Quick press for constant on operation and press and hold for momentary operation
The Streamlight TLR-7 is a very nicely made, fairly universal pistol light that offers a high lumen count and a 1.5-hour runtime on the peak. The quality of construction means this is a strong contender for those who are tough on their firearms.
Pros
- 500 lumens
- Good run time on the peak
- IPX7 waterproof
Cons
- No real CONS to speak of
Why It’s Recommended
It’s hard to knock anything about this Streamlight product. The high lumen count and the great build quality make it a very nice choice.
Bottom Line
Now you know enough about the best pistol lights to make an informed decision. More importantly, you know how to avoid a seriously disadvantaged position if you are ever required to furnish your personal protection firearm in a life or death situation.
Having the ability to see a clear picture of what is before you and identify and act on threats properly as well as potentially disorienting those threats can be the difference between a lawsuit for shooting the wrong person and responding to improve your immediate safety against a legitimate threat.
A simple, inexpensive (yes, we admit, not all of them on this list are “inexpensive”) handgun light can make all the difference in the world.
Not to mention: there has never been a recorded instance in history where a defensive shooter admitted to “being glad they didn’t know if the thing they thought was a threat, was actually their child or spouse”. A pistol light can help you know what or who you are aiming at and if they are in fact, a threat.
This is especially true when things go bump in the night and you need to know if it’s Tabby the cat from next door, or the well-armed drug addict looking to score a stolen piece of your property. Things can escalate quickly, make sure you can act properly and speedily – use a tactical pistol light.
Check out all the other gun accessory articles put together by our expert team here at Guns & Safety Reviews;
- Glock Sights
- Night-Sights
- Laser Bore Sighters
- Red Dot Magnifiers
- Shotgun Lights
- Red-Dot-Sights
- Shot Timers
- Rifle Cases
- 308 Scopes
- Rifle Bench Rests
- Rifle Scopes Under $200
The Review
Best Pistol Light
Clearly identifying threats can be the difference between a lawsuit for shooting the wrong person and responding to improve your immediate safety against a legitimate threat. The products reviewed are all high quality so be sure to read through the reviews and find the right product for your needs.
Review Breakdown
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FLAGPOWER 1200
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Streamlight TLR-1
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Olight Bundle
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Streamlight TLR-3
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Streamlight TLR-6
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InForce
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SureFire X300
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Streamlight TLR-7
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