You've probably come across the term "tactical" when looking for your next flashlight. However, given the findings, it might not be immediately clear what exactly characterizes a flashlight as tactical or why you might even want one in your everyday carry.
Tactical flashlights are heavy-duty, multipurpose tools with quick operation and effective lighting settings which make them excellent for self-defence and outdoor activities. They can also be used for "everything from finding a lost item under furniture to blinding a bothersome intruder, or scaring a persistent varmint, a troublesome raccoon, or a bear.
Given their versatility and outstanding performance which results in wide range of options available, choosing the right tactical flashlight can be challenging. To help you make the best selection possible we have compiled a list of the 5 best models everyone should include in their arsenal.
Fenix PD 35: Best Overall
If you’re on the hunt for a quality and high-performance tactical flashlight, then the hard to beat Fenix torch light ticks all the boxes! When browsing their website, you will see that the manufacturer offers tons of models to suit every taste. However, pay close attention to their Fenix PD 35 model.
Due to its excellent construction, powerful light output, and features, the Fenix PD35 Tac flashlight is the greatest all-around tactical flashlight of 2023. This torch is incredibly reliable and robust because it is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminium and has Type III hard-anodized finish.
It has a maximum output of 1,000 lumens, which is exceptionally bright. This guarantees that you will have enough light to see no matter the situation. Additionally, it has a strobe mode and numerous brightness levels. The flashlight may run on a single 18650 lithium-ion battery or two 3V CR123A rechargeable batteries, among other power sources. This enables you to select the energy source that suits your needs the best.
Overall, the Fenix PD35 Tac is a very dependable and potent alternative for anyone searching for a good tactical flashlight, as it stands out for its robust construction, brilliant light output, and numerous capabilities.
Fenix TK 16: Best Durability
Another great pick among Fenix torches is the TK 16 model. It’s a compact and durable tool thanks to its high-strength aluminium body and tough tungsten steel hard alloy bezel. These components have an IP68 durability rating, which means that the device can endure extreme high and low temperatures, sand, dust, filth, and up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.
The TK 16 Fenix torch light also has a sturdy design and several practical features, such as a rechargeable battery and a USB-C charging connection. However, keep in mind that not many rivals require you to remove the battery to recharge it.
Additionally, it contains a dual tail switch that you may use to instantly activate the lights, change brightness settings, or convert to strobe mode. And, given its amazing six brightness levels, you will have no difficulty finding the setting that best suits your needs.
The 3100-lumen Turbo mode offers the highest beam throw of 1,247 feet, while the 30-lumen Eco mode has the lowest beam throw of 131 feet. Even though the Turbo mode may operate for almost four hours, the flashlight's battery drains the fastest in this mode. The outstanding 43.33-hour runtime of the flashlight's Eco mode makes it the best choice for extended use.
Nitecore P20iX: Best Ultra-Bright
If you look for one of the brightest tactical lights, look no further as the Nitecore P20iX boasts 4000 lumens of brightness in Turbo mode. The flashlight can emit a beam throw of up to 723 feet at this setting, but it can only operate for 30 minutes. Five more settings are available in addition to the standard Daily mode, from Strobe to Higher (1700 lumens) and Low (50 lumens). As an alternative, you can activate Tac mode, which switches between four strobe and brightness settings.
The P20iX model has an IP68 classification, meaning it can withstand drops of up to 3 meters, exposure to elements like sand and dirt, and submersion in water for up to 2 meters. It can be recharged with a USB-C charging cable, and the flashing indication lets you know when the battery is about to run out of power.
OLIGHT Warrior X Turbo: Best Throw Distance
The Olight Warrior X Turbo is every bit as robust as it appears and sounds. This model has the most amazing throw when compared to other high-performance flashlights, with its beam reaching up to 3,280 feet (about nine football fields) on high mode. With its tough bezel, 1.5-meter drop protection, and IPX8 waterproof rating, the Warrior X Turbo is equipped to handle all weather conditions and emergency circumstances.
The brightness of this flashlight may be adjusted between 1100 and 150 lumens in two light settings, high and low. You can switch between the two modes with one quick button press. The Olight Warrior has a low mode runtime of 12.5 hours, which is a significant amount of time with such outstanding features.
Streamlight 88061 ProTac: Best Mini
This Streamlight ProTac 1L-AAA Dual Fuel Everyday Carry Light is about 4.25 inches long and weighs 2.5 ounces, making it the ideal everyday carry flashlight. Even in wet situations, you may connect it to a helmet or other item of clothing with ease and comfort because of its lightweight, compact form, and matching clip.
It is waterproof and has an IPX7 rating, which means it can tolerate being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes up to a depth of 1 meter. The ProTac 1L-AAA can withstand drops from a height of up to 2 meters and is impact resistant as well. It offers 350 lumens of brightness, which is significantly lower compared to other options, but still more than adequate for most uses considering its size.
