With our research, we help you to explore the best tactical flashlights in the market, along with the tips to know on how to choose one of them (or more).
Tactical flashlights have seemingly hit the market en masse these days. Tactical flashlights have grown in popularity as they have grown more affordable and advanced. In addition, tactical lights are built to be extremely strong and long-lasting.
These flashlights are handy in a variety of situations. They have been designed with everyday use in mind. Tactical flashlights are waterproof, very robust, and may be used for self-defense, so there’s no excuse not to upgrade from your current flashlight. Genuine tactical flashlights are designed with critical situations and self-defense in mind.
When you compare them to standard EDC flashlights, which tend to provide lower brightness outputs and modes for longer runtimes, tactical flashlights usually come with high output brightness, a strobe mode, a switch for momentary-on activation, aggressive rugged surface, and sometimes with a rim on the flashlight’s head that helps protect its lens.
Are you trying to find the perfect tactical flashlights? Here’s a quick guide to the best tactical flashlight to help you decide.
Comparison for the Best Tactical Flashlights
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1. ThruNite TT20 Tactical Flashlight
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2. Cree XP-L LED Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight
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3. Streamlight 78101 Stinger 2020 Rechargeable Flashlight
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4. ThruNite TC20 V2 4068 High Lumen Handheld Flashlight
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5. OLIGHT Warrior Mini 2 1750 Lumens Tactical Flashlight
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Best Tactical Flashlights
1. ThruNite TT20 Tactical Flashlight
Equipped with a smooth reflector, the ThruNite TT20 has a max beam distance of up to 282 yards and adopts the latest SST70 LED to allow output up to 2526 lumens. It comes with stepless dimming and double-click to get to turbo mode; get to strobe with a triple-click. The tail switch for quick access to high outputs keeps you safe when in a dangerous environment.
Stepless dimming reduces the heat to extend the lifespan. The Intelligent Power Indicator flashes with purple color when abnormal charging takes place.
Specifications
Weight | 3.46 ounces |
Luminous Flux | 2526 lumen |
Color | Black |
Light Source Type | LED |
Material | Aluminum Alloy |
Features
- 5 lighthing modes: Turbo, Infinity High, Infinity Low, Firefly, Strobe
- IPX-8 Waterproof
- Impact resistant to 1.5 meters
- Dual-Direction Clip
2. Cree XP-L LED Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight
With this flashlight, you get 1000 lumens max for around 1430 minutes. The beam distance goes up to 255 meters. A sturdy body from aero-grade aluminum alloy and military-grade hard-anodized.
Thermal management safety program with overheat protection by dropping high output by 50% within 1 minute of constant on.
Specifications
Weight | 3.17 ounces |
Luminous Flux | 1500 lumen |
Color | Black |
Light Source Type | LED |
Material | Aluminum Alloy |
Features
- 5 lighthing modes: High, Medium, Low, Moonlight, Strobe
- IPX-8 Waterproof (2 meters submersible)
- Impact resistant to 1.5 meters
- Tail stand capability
3. Streamlight 78101 Stinger 2020 Rechargeable Flashlight
The Streamlight Stinger provides 2000 lumen power dressed in an aluminum alloy case. Its shape escapes from the common round one that most tactical flashlights follow and offers an anti-roll rectangular grip. There are 2 selectors for output and activations.
The lighting modes switch makes it easy to “set and forget” a setting without the need to cycle around again.
Specifications
Weight | 12.3 ounces |
Luminous Flux | 2000 lumen |
Color | Black |
Light Source Type | LED |
Material | Aluminum Alloy |
Features
- 4 lighting modes: High, Medium, Low, Strobe
- IPX7 waterproof; 2 meter impact resistance tested
- Ergonomic anti-roll body design with textured grip
- LED Charge-continuity indicator on charger base
4. ThruNite TC20 V2 4068 High Lumen Handheld Flashlight
The ThruNite TC20 V2 emits a beam with a 326 yeards length. It literally lights the road ahead. With the USB-C 2A charging port and cable you don’t need an extra battery and the related indicator lets you know when voltage is low.
This tactical flashlight is very durable and shockproof, plus weather-resistant. In firefly mode, it can run up to 71 days. Memory Function will turn the light on in the last mode accessed.
Specifications
Weight | 12.3 ounces |
Luminous Flux | 4068 lumens |
Color | Black |
Light Source Type | LED |
Material | Aluminum Alloy |
Features
- Very compact and handy
- 6 lighting modes: High, Medium, Low, Firefly, Strobe, Turbo
- IPX8 waterproof; 2 meter resistance tested
- Super bright with CREE XHP70 2nd generation
5. OLIGHT Warrior Mini 2 1750 Lumens Tactical Flashlight
The compact Olight Warrior Mini 2 doesn’t just look good. It works great; it feels great and durable and shines fantastically. It even has a proximity sensor! This flashlight is suitable as an everyday carry for outdoors and self-defense. Its max output is 1750 lumens and can throw a beam to 220 meters. When fully charged, it can run for 45 days.
This tactical flashlight comes with a Customized 3500mAh 3.6V 18650 rechargeable battery that charges with a USB magnetic charging cable. It weighs 122 grams (4.3oz). That is due to its Aluminum Alloy body. The light source is a high-performance LED (6000-7000K).
This tactical flashlight is waterproof up to 2mt and passes the 1.5mt drop test.
The lighting options have two buttons where each provides many different beam options.
Specifications
Weight | 4.3oz |
Luminous Flux | 1750 lumen |
Color | Black |
Light Source Type | LED |
Material | Aluminum Alloy |
Features
- 7 lighting modes: Turbo, High, Med, Low, Moon, Strobe
- 7 lumens red light (steady or flashing)
- Pocket clip and lanyard
- IPX8 Waterproof
Our Tactical Flashlight Choice
Choosing is a tough one, right? It depends on what you seek in a flashlight. All these are very good. We find the ThruNite TT20 Tactical Flashlight as the best option, based on needed lighting range options and lumens and size. It is also the one that fits great in a pocket without the need for an extra side case.
It is a fact that some outdoorsmen like the highest number of lumens and if that is your criteria then -as you see- we also have such an option.
What Is a Tactical Flashlight?
Said, tactical flashlights have been developed explicitly for tactical purposes. Such as in the military, police, hikers, and search and rescue units.
The best military-grade flashlights are primarily developed for the forces mentioned above. But, as we’ll see below, they’re also helpful for everyday use for the average person in the street.
What are the Features of Best Tactical Flashlights?
There are many different tactical flashlight models available on the market. So which one should you choose? Your budget and personal preferences usually determine the one you pick.
However, there are a few things you should check for when choosing a tactical flashlight:
Size of Tactical Flashlights
Consider how large a flashlight you need based on what you want to use it for. Remember that if you’re going to carry this daily, you’ll need a torch that won’t get in the way. Therefore, it is critical to get the right combination of size and power for your requirements.
Small Tactical FlashLight
A small flashlight usually is about 4 inches long. Unfortunately, most small flashlights cannot accommodate dual batteries. However, you can find them with extra functions. For example, there are more possibilities with tail buttons in this small size, and the lights may have deeper reflectors to send their light further.
So, you’re beginning to see some solid foundations for a tactical flashlight despite the low wattage.
Medium Tactical Flashlight
A medium tactical flashlight will be around 6 inches. Most of this size tactical flashlight will need two batteries to operate. Additionally, flashlights equipped with 18500 and 18650 specialized batteries will become available.
Greater battery capacity equates to increased power. With increased power comes improved LEDs, resulting in a greater light source. However, the greater light source is also dependent on factors such as reflector quality.
Large Tactical Flashlights
As with the other flashlights above, these tactical flashlights have a high light intensity. However, these flashlights may have a few additional functions because of their increased size than the somewhat smaller lights. Anything larger than 6 inches that are conveniently handled falls into this category.
Many offer a variety of settings, colors, and even the quantity of LEDs. All of this adds up to highly potent tactical flashlights!
Compact Tactical Light
Suppose you’re looking for something compact enough to carry in your pocket daily. For example, the size of your flashlight should be no larger than your hand.
Lumens and Light Output
A flashlight must be brilliant enough to disorient assailants to be a good self-defense weapon. The light output should be at least 120 lumens. Over 300 lumens are required to blind an attacker. So anything under 120 lumens will not be enough. You may need more lumens if you want a flashlight suitable for self-defense.
Simple to Use
On the market, tactical flashlights with strobe or SOS features are available. Alternatively, flashlights enable you to adjust the intensity of the light output based on how many times the on/off button is pressed.
While many users vouch for these capabilities for a compact flashlight, we advise against over-complicated designs. You don’t want a highly complex flashlight that you have difficulty using the fundamental function of brightness when it is indispensable. A straightforward on/off button should suffice.
A Waterproof Tactical Flashlight
You want a compact tactical flashlight that is effective in rain, sunshine, snow, or storm. Purchase a waterproof flashlight that will operate in rain or other wet environments.
A Tactical Flashlight That Is Rugged
Because your flashlight will almost certainly get a lot of usages, choose one that will endure the use. Choose one that is composed of hard-anodized aluminum. It is a robust yet lightweight metal.
Additionally, ensure that the metal on the tactical flashlight is machined so that it can give you a proper grip. You don’t want to let it slip out of your hand when needed most.
LED Flashlights or Incandescent?
LEDs are the best. When dropped, incandescent lights often break, but LEDs can take a hammering. Additionally, incandescent lights are inefficient in terms of energy use. You’ll go through light bulbs and batteries far more quickly than you would with LED lights.
Battery or Rechargeable?
The finest on the market is a compact, brilliant, and rechargeable tactical flashlight. The latest best models come with a magnetic rechargeable backend. That eliminates the need to purchase replacement batteries or carry a bulky flashlight around.
Beat It and Shine On!
Next to a pocket tactical knife, a small, tactical flashlight is one of the most valuable and versatile tools a man can carry.
We all need a flashlight at some point in our lives. Everyone, from military and emergency personnel to hunters, police officers, campers, and dog walkers. It is an essential piece of equipment that we all need. However, it isn’t until you need one to realize how important it is to have one on hand.
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