Tactical Light?

Question

I am looking to purchase a tactical light for my Glock 23. I was wondering what I need to look for to make sure that I get a good quality one. The prices jump from about $150 to like 300.

Answer 1

Since the questioner was asking about tactical lights, and not asking for opinions as to whether he should buy a tactical light, it would seem appropriate to answer the question.

Probably your first consideration should be the brightness of the light, which is usually measured in lumens. The less expensive lights will put out 60 to 80 lumens. As the brightness goes up, so usually does the price. $200 or so will get you a 125 to 150 lumen light. There are some lights available that run into the hundreds of lumens.

Pistol-mounted weapons lights will generally have a switch on the light itself or a switch that can be mounted on the grip. It's your choice as to which is more convenient.

Another factor affecting price is the construction of the weapons light. There are some models that are completely airtight and waterproof, and are submersible down to dozens of feet. If you anticipate going under water with your light (don't know why you would, though), this might be a consideration.

Batteries are also a consideration. Some will run for an hour or more. On the other hand, there are some extremely bright weapons lights that use up the batteries in just 15 minutes. You should check to see just how expensive the batteries are for the light you're considering, too.

As for the arguments for or against weapons-mounted lights, you might want to read an article I wrote (link below) that summarizes the advantages and disadvantages.

Answer 2

you should hunt in the daytime- it's safer.

Answer 3

I'd like one for my G22, and have done plenty of research on Insight, Surefire, and even Glocks very own tactical light, but just can't see spending $$$ for a glorified flashlight, which will get very little use (in the home), and the batteries will just drain over time.

Invest in tritium night sights instead, and turn on a light, or carry a little flashlight instead.

Nice idea, looks cool, but just not practical in price, or for carry in concealed holster. :D