7 Best Tactical Flashlights (Complete List)
There are many choices when getting a tactical flashlight, and this post will cover the best tactical flashlights on the market.
With various price points, this article will help you decide which is right and will help you choose the perfect one for your intended use.
So if you want to illuminate the darkness, keep reading.
This post will review the best tactical flashlights.
Why Use A Tactical Flashlight?
The answer is simple, to see in the dark. You will never know the importance of a flashlight until you desperately need one and don’t have one.
Many people will suggest they can be used for self-defense as a blunt object, but I don’t recommend this unless you are all out of options. If you are a frequent reader here at First World Crusader, you should already have a concealed carry weapon with a flashlight.
That is primarily for self-defense.
But then why do you need a separate standalone tactical flashlight if you already carry a pistol with one attached to it, you may ask?
Because if you lose your keys at night, you don’t have to unholster your firearm and point it everywhere to use the light.
Also, you may be at a place where concealed carry is prohibited and still want your light. These are just a few hypothetical scenarios, but I guarantee you will use a flashlight more often when you start carrying one, and it will come in handy.
Best Tactical Flashlight Criteria
Below are the variables I think about when choosing a tactical flashlight and that you should also consider when choosing a flashlight.
Intended Use
Is this going to be carried on your person every day, all summer, and through the winter?
Is this going to be in a bug-out bag or used for camping? Will this be stored in your daily driver?
Or will this sit in the junk drawer in your house?
Determining how it will be used primarily will help influence which tactical flashlight you should purchase.
I recommend having a flashlight for all the scenarios I listed above and having an excellent tactical flashlight on your person all the time.
Brightness
Brightness is the first and foremost thing to consider when choosing a light. The higher the lumens, the better, but there does reach a point of diminishing returns.
One thousand lumens or close to that often tends to be the sweet spot with a good mix of brightness, battery life, and affordability.
The high-powered and high-lumen lights will not last very long before dimming, and they are too big and cumbersome to carry as an everyday carry (EDC) flashlight.
The powerful lumen and large lights are suitable for keeping at home or in a vehicle for emergencies or camping.
Durability
Most people have butter fingers and drop stuff. If you haven’t dropped anything expensive yet, you will.
Having a durable flashlight that is rugged and can withstand the elements is essential. Also, holding up to the cold and below-zero temperatures is important.
Cold weather seriously affects the batteries on flashlights, so this is something to keep in mind. So if you plan on keeping your tactical flashlight in your vehicle and live where you have harsh winters.
Size
Finding the perfect medium is hard to do sometimes. The best piece of gear is the one you have on you, and if you never carry your tactical flashlight, chances are you won’t have it when you need it most.
Make sure you find a comfortable tactical flashlight to carry with you all day. This may mean you have to choose a smaller or more expensive one that is more ergonomically designed.
Unless you wear a utility belt daily, you will most likely carry a flashlight. A slim design will dramatically increase your comfort.
Batteries VS Rechargeable
Next up is deciding to go for regular single-use batteries or rechargeable ones. The rechargeable batteries are convenient, but my favorite flashlights are designed to operate on both types. Good battery life is important and having the flexibility to use multiple types of batteries is nice.
High-powered flashlights usually run on expensive lithium batteries; depending on the battery life and brightness, they may only last an hour.
A USB-style rechargeable battery can save you a lot of money long-term, which is another critical variable to consider.
Price
The final factor when determining the best tactical flashlight is the cost.
I firmly believe in “you get what you pay for,” which is almost always true regarding tactical gear with electronics.
That doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune, but don’t go cheap. Below there are more affordable options that I recommend.
Best Tactical Flashlight
Now let’s get into the main reason you clicked on this article. Here are the best tactical flashlights on the market…
1. Surefire G2X Pro Flashlight
The Surefire G2X Pro Flashlight is a compact yet powerful polymer-body flashlight. These use high-efficiency, durable LEDs protected by a hard-anodized aluminum bezel.
The dual-output Surefire G2X Pro Tactical Flashlight offers a wide flood beam for peripheral light with a spotlight’s focus for brighter light on your target.
The Surefire G2X Pro Handheld Light is built with a rugged Nitrolon polymer body that is smoothly sculpted for an ergonomic, secure grip for your home, vehicle, hunting trip, or on-the-job.
The duel output option is excellent when you need a quick or permanent low illumination or a solid, intense light beam.
The momentary “ON” function turns on the low 15-lumen light, which is bright enough to identify a threat but not so bright as to blind the user temporarily. A second press brings on the brightness if needed.
This light is incredibly bright for its size. I like the polymer construction and durability.
Overall, this tactical light holds up exceptionally well, is easy to use, and works without issue in heat and negative temperatures.
This is also an affordable tactical flashlight.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | SureFire |
| Flashlight Application: | Outdoor |
| Fabric/Material: | Nitrolon |
| Beam Color: | White |
| Light Output: | 15 – 600 lumens |
| Battery Life: | 2.5 – 40 hours |
| Bulb Type: | LED |
| Bezel Diameter: | 1.25 in |
| Bezel Type: | Anodized aluminum |
| Length: | 5.2 in |
| Weight: | 4.4 oz |
| Battery Type: | CR123A |
| Included Accessories: | Batteries |
| Condition: | New |
Features:
- Virtually indestructible LED emitter regulated to maximize light output and run time
- Two output levels – high for maximum light, low for extended run time
- Precision micro-textured reflector creates a smooth, optimized beam
- Tough polycarbonate window resists impact
- Tough Nitrolon body, anodized aluminum bezel
- Dual-output tail cap click switch – press for momentary-on low, click for constant-on low, return to off, then press or click again for high
- Weatherproof – O-ring and gasket sealed
- Includes high-energy 123A batteries with a 10-year shelf life
- Backed by SureFire’s No Hassle Guarantee
Click Here to check the current prices of the Surefire G2X Pro Flashlight
2. Streamlight Wedge LED Flashlight
The Streamlight Wedge LED Flashlight is compact and streamlined without compromising performance and looks like an out-the-front pocket knife.
This was designed to be carried more comfortably in your pocket.
The lithium-ion polymer battery charges from flat to full in 3 hours with the USB-C port.
The Streamlight Wedge has two modes: “Constant” and “THRO” (Temporarily Heightened Regulated Output). Constant gives a 300-lumen, 69-meter beam with a 3-hour constant runtime, so battery life is good. The THRO mode is 1,000 lumens reaching out to 110 meters in a 35-second burst.
The rotatable thumb switch allows easy one-handed operation and features a battery level indicator.
The pocket clip is reversible for left- or right-handed carry.
My favorite thing about this flashlight is how it looks, and it doesn’t look like you are a “tactical guy” who carries a flashlight, and it looks like you have a knife on a pocket clip or even a set of keys.
The activation button is sleek, well thought out, and ergonomically designed. The brightness is enough and casts a wide spill of bright light.
This is a good option if you are looking for a rechargeable tactical flashlight.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Streamlight |
| Flashlight Application: | Duty, Tactical |
| Fabric/Material: | Aluminum |
| Light Output: | 300 lumens |
| Bulb Type: | LED |
| Length: | 5.46 in |
| Weight: | 3.3 oz |
| Water Resistance Level: | Waterproof |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Battery Type: | Lithium Ion |
| Included Accessories: | Standard |
| Condition: | New |
Features:
- Features two lighting modes: Constant on and THRO (Temporarily Heightened Regulated Output) mode for maximum brightness
- 300 lumens; 69m beam; runs 3 hours
- THRO: 1,000 lumens; 110m beam; 35 second burst
- The thin, ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand and provides a clean pocket carry
- Rotatable switch with battery level indicator
- A deep carry pocket clip attaches on either side of light
- USB-C rechargeable. Lithium polymer battery charges in 3 hours
- Durable, anodized aluminum construction; tempered glass lens
- IPX7 waterproof to 1m; 1m impact resistance tested
- Limited lifetime warranty
Click Here to check the current prices of the Streamlight Wedge LED Flashlight
3. Fenix UC35 V2.0 Rechargeable Flashlight
The Fenix UC35 V2.0 Rechargeable Flashlight is the upgraded version of one of Fenix’s most popular flashlights.
Fitted with the Cree XP-L HI V3 LED, this light delivers a maximum of 1000 lumens at a distance of 873 feet (266 meters).
Turn the light on and off with the tactical tail switch and cycle through the six lighting modes via the newly designed metal side switch, which also has a built-in battery level indicator.
You can achieve an incredible 800 hours of runtime using the new moonlight brightness level.
This is an excellent pocket-sized light. Five different levels of light are significant. You don’t always need 1000 lumens, but it’s there if needed. The rechargeable part of it saves on batteries.
Compact and built-tough, the UC35 V2.0 flashlight is IP68 rated, dustproof, and waterproof underwater to two meters.
Charging by the USB port is done without taking it apart. It’s a magnet connection and works great. You change brightness levels with a different switch, and it remembers that setting the next time you use it. Plus, it has a battery level indicator.
This Fenix tactical flashlight is also the best affordable tactical flashlight.
Spec:
| Manufacturer: | Fenix |
| Flashlight Application: | Tactical, Duty |
| Color: | Black |
| Light Output: | 1000 lumens |
| Bulb Type: | CREE LED |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Battery Type: | 18650 |
| Included Accessories: | Standard |
| Condition: | New |
Features:
- 1000 Lumens, six modes, rechargeable, includes ARB-L18-3500 Li-ion battery, micro USB charging cable, body clip, rubber switch boot, lanyard, holster, two spare o-rings
- Cree XP-L HI V3 LED, with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
- Powered by one 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery or two 3V/CR123A Lithium batteries
- 5V/2A Micro USB rechargeable included 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery
- Battery level indication and low-voltage warning function
- Digitally regulated output maintains constant brightness
- Reverse polarity protection to protect from improper battery insertion
- Anti-roll and anti-slip body design
- The tactical tail switch features instant activation
- Functional side switch for output selection
- Made of durable, high-strength, and oxidation-resistance aluminum
- Premium type HAIII hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
- Toughened ultra-clear glass lens with an anti-reflective coating
Click Here to check the current prices of the Fenix UC35 V2.0 Rechargeable Flashlight
4. Streamlight ProTac HL X Flashlight
The Streamlight ProTac HL X Flashlight has been my go-to light for years. It is built to handle law enforcement operations but is user-friendly for anyone who needs a reliable lighting solution.
These are constructed from anodized aluminum for a rugged, lightweight structure resistant to corrosion. Plus, the waterproof construction and impact-resistant design ensure you can use it in harsh conditions without worry.
This Streamlight ProTac HL X Handheld Flashlight also features an anti-roll head and multiple programming options that adapt to your current needs.
For the size and price, this flashlight is very nice. It is convenient at work to shine a light on objects that are way up near the ceiling or down in a confined space.
It’s relatively compact and has a durable and comfortable clip. It also has a very nice low-lumen option that is great for shining light on objects up close. The strobe on this flashlight is also very significant.
This flashlight is bright and durable, so you do not have to worry if it is dropped. The finish will scratch, but the light will work.
It does burn through batteries relatively quickly compared to some of the other flashlights on this list.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Streamlight |
| Flashlight Application: | Duty, Tactical |
| Color: | Black |
| Beam Color: | White |
| Light Output: | 65 – 1000 lumens |
| Bulb Type: | C4 LED |
| Length: | 5.4 in |
| Weight: | 6.2 oz |
| Water Resistance Level: | IPX-7 |
| Additional Features: | Strobe |
| Battery Type: | CR123A |
| Included Accessories: | Holster |
Features:
- C4 LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000-hour lifetime
- 6000 Series machined aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish
- Glass lens, gasket sealed
- Multi-function, push-button tactical tail switch.
- One-handed operation of momentary, variable intensity or strobe mode
- TEN-TAP programmable switch allows the user selection of 1 of 3 different programs: high/strobe/low (factory default), high only, or low/med/high
- IPX-7; waterproof to 1m for 30 minutes
- 2m impact resistance tested
- Solid State power regulation provides maximum light output throughout battery life
- Anti-roll head
- Removable pocket clip
- Serialized for positive identification
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Click Here to check the current prices of the Streamlight ProTac HL X Flashlight
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5. Streamlight ProTac HL 5-X Flashlight
The Streamlight ProTac HL 5-X Flashlight is similar to the previous one mentioned, but this one is brighter and can also use rechargeable batteries.
These Multi-Fuel options allow you to use the rechargeable USB port or four lithium batteries to power them.
This Streamlight ProTac HL 5-X High Beam Flashlight provides a customized experience with its TEN-TAP Programming that offers three different lighting modes, including a strobe mode that can disorient attackers.
With waterproof and impact-resistant construction, these flashlights can be used in harsh conditions and challenging situations.
Most Streamlight flashlights have the power button in the base of the light. This light’s power button is located where your thumb sits when naturally holding the light on the barrel.
This tactical flashlight is extraordinarily bright and on high and will output 3500 lumens which is insane.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Streamlight |
| Flashlight Application: | Tactical, Duty |
| Color: | Black |
| Finish: | Black |
| Fabric/Material: | Aluminum |
| Light Output: | 3500 lumens |
| Bulb Type: | C4 LED |
| Beam Distance: | 452 m |
| Diameter: | 2.35 in |
| Length: | 9.53 in |
| Water Resistant Mark: | 1 m |
| Water Resistance Level: | Waterproof |
| Run Time: | 1.25-11.5 Hours |
| Handle Material: | Rubber |
Features:
- Multi-Fuel – uses two Streamlight SL-B26 protected Li-Ion USB rechargeable battery packs; also accepts four CR123A lithium batteries
- Features TEN-TAP Programming – Choice of three user-selectable programs: 1) high/strobe/low 2) high only 3) low/medium/high
- High (SL-B26 battery packs): 3,500 lumens; 452m beam; runs 1.25 hours
- High (CR123A): 2,500 lumens; 385m beam; runs 1.5 hours
- Medium: 1,000 lumens; 237m beam; runs 2.5 hours (CR123A); runs 3 hours (SL-B26 battery packs)
- Low: 250 lumens; 120m beam; runs 10.5 hours (CR123A); runs 11.5 hours (SL-B26 battery packs)
- Strobe for signaling or disorienting: runs 1.5 hours (CR123A); runs 1.25 hours (SL-B26 battery packs)
- IPX7 waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes; 1-meter impact resistance tested
- Durable, anodized aluminum construction
- Anti-roll head prevents the light from rolling away when placed on a flat surface
- Rubber sleeve provides thermal insulation and a sure grip
- 9.53 in. (23.65 cm);
- 1 lb 3.4 oz (550g) with two SL-B26 battery packs; 1 lb 2.4 oz (522g) with four CR123A batteries
- Limited lifetime warranty
- RoHS compliant
Click Here to check the current prices of the Streamlight ProTac HL 5-X Flashlight
6. SureFire Everyday Carry LED Tactical Flashlight
The SureFire Everyday Carry LED Tactical Flashlight is another excellent option and one of the best tactical flashlights.
These were designed with an anodized aerospace aluminum chassis to survive in even the roughest conditions and environments. This SureFire Everyday Carry Light is ideally suited for tactical operators, law enforcement, or anyone who needs a reliable light source built tough as nails.
The knurled body and tail cap provide an ergonomic, secure grip on this light, even in wet conditions.
On its highest setting, you can bring a bright beam to the field for an hour, and on the lowest setting of 5 lumens, this flashlight can last 45 hours on a single CR123A battery.
A Total Internal Reflector (TIR) lens optimally shapes the LED light to offer the perfect balance of situational awareness and concentrated light on your intended target.
You can even use this in conjunction with your firearm as an improvised weapon light, especially since the tail cap offers easy activation.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | SureFire |
| Flashlight Application: | Everyday Carry |
| Color: | Black |
| Finish: | Matte |
| Fabric/Material: | Aluminum |
| Beam Color: | White |
| Bulb Type: | LED |
| Diameter: | 1.125 in |
| Bezel Diameter: | 1.125 in |
| Lens Material: | Polymer |
| Lens Finish: | Clear |
| Length: | 4.5 in |
| Weight: | 3.3 oz |
| Water Resistance Level: | Water Resistant |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Battery Type: | CR123A |
| Included Accessories: | One high-energy 123A battery with a 10-year shelf life |
| Package Type: | Clam Pack/ Plastic |
| Gender: | Unisex |
| Age Group: | Adults |
Features:
- Highly versatile light serves as an everyday carry light or an improvised weapon light
- Virtually indestructible LED emitter regulated to maximize output and runtime
- Fully press the tail cap switch for high output, and slightly press the tail cap switch for low. Twist for constant on
- High-strength aerospace aluminum body, Mil-Spec hard anodized for extreme durability
- The body and tail cap are knurled for a secure grip
- Two-way clip permits light to be carried bezel up or down
- Includes one high-energy 123A battery with a 10-year shelf life
Click Here to check the current prices of the SureFire Everyday Carry LED Tactical Flashlight
7. Nitecore P20iX CREE XP-L2 V6 Flashlight
The Nitecore P20iX CREE XP-L2 V6 Flashlight is unrivaled in performance. Nitecore took the popular P20i frame and maintained the compact size, ergonomics, and doubled the power with four LEDs.
This Xtreme tactical flashlight outputs a 4000-lumen flood light that can reach up to 241 yards.
Designed for law enforcement and military users, enjoy instant turbo, instant strobe, six brightness modes, and two programmable user modes. Nothing can hold the P20iX back when it can shatter through with its steel bezel with silicone nitrided glass breaking inlays.
The P20iX uses intelligent 21700 batteries. This enables a potently efficient output, granting 30 minutes of 4000-lumen burst and a max runtime of 350 hours on low.
Fast recharge the P20iX via its built-in USB-C port. 2x CR123A batteries can also power it as a backup.
With an IP68 waterproof rating and a covered charging port, the P20iX can be used safely in any climate. Included is a tactical holster compatible with duty belts and MOLLE systems.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Nitecore |
| Flashlight Application: | Outdoor, Duty |
| Color: | Black |
| Beam Color: | White |
| Light Output: | 4000 lumens |
| Battery Life: | 350 hours |
| Charger Type: | USB, USB-C |
| Bulb Type: | CREE XP-L2 V6 LED |
| Beam Distance: | 241 yds |
| Diameter: | 1 in |
| Bezel Diameter: | 1.25 in |
| Lens Material: | Mineral Glass |
| Lens Finish: | Anti-Scratch |
| Length: | 5.57 in |
| Weight: | 4.09 oz |
| Weather Resistance: | Impact Resistant |
| Water Resistant Mark: | 2 m |
| Water Resistance Level: | IP68 |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Battery Type: | CR123, Lithium Ion, 21700 |
| Package Type: | Box |
Features:
- Rechargeable via USB-C port
- Built-in power indicator that flashes to show the power level remaining
- Silicon nitride ceramic inlays in bezel
Click Here to check the current prices of the Nitecore P20iX CREE XP-L2 V6 Flashlight
Final Considerations
As you can see, there are lots of options when it comes to tactical flashlights. All of the ones mentioned on this list are great, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Strobe mode on a tactical light is unnecessary and is sometimes annoying if you activate it by mistake.
Having the brightest tactical flashlights isn’t always the best in every situation, especially for indoor use.
Also, be careful picking up a budget tactical flashlight as they are often poor quality and will not last long.
Best Tactical Flashlight FAQ
How many lumens is suitable for a tactical flashlight?
You should have at least 150 lumens minimum for a bright enough flashlight. Most flashlights will have two modes (high & low), and the low setting should be at or above this number to effectively disorient an adversary.
How many lumens is a military-grade flashlight?
Military flashlights vary in brightness depending on the need, and typically, the best military flashlight will range from 1000-3000 lumens.
How far will a 1000-lumen flashlight shine?
A 1000-lumen flashlight is quite bright and, depending on the lens or reflector design, powerful enough to reach a distance of 200 meters or more. This type of flashlight allows you to see objects from a far distance.
How effective is a tactical flashlight for self-defense?
A tactical flashlight is an effective tool for self-defense. It can produce light powerful enough to deter an attacker, optically disorient them, or be used as a blunt-force self-defense weapon. Nothing is better than a firearm; having a tactical flashlight mounted to a pistol is the best self-defense weapon.
What makes a flashlight a “tactical” flashlight?
The most important feature of a tactical flashlight is its powerful brightness. Tactical lights are designed for law enforcement. Therefore, they must be bright enough to dazzle a potential attacker to defend themselves.
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)
- Surefire G2X Pro Flashlight
- Streamlight Wedge LED Flashlight
- Fenix UC35 V2.0 Rechargeable Flashlight
- Streamlight ProTac HL X Flashlight
- Streamlight ProTac HL 5-X Flashlight
- SureFire Everyday Carry LED Tactical Flashlight
- Nitecore P20iX CREE XP-L2 V6 Flashlight
Have you ever used a tactical flashlight? Which one did you decide to go with?
Let me know in the comments below.
Further reading on Firstworldcrusader.com: Are you interested in learning more about guns and gear?
This list of the Best Red Dot Sights can help you choose the best optic for your rifle.
In addition, here are the Best AR-15 Upgrades & Accessories that can help you get more out of your primary battle rifle.
