If you consider yourself a: Fisherman / Hunter / Police / Guarder / Explorer / Survivor / Military, then we know why you are here looking for the best tactical flashlight of 2021.
No matter what your title work or occupation is; a tactical flashlight is one of the handiest tools to have not only for the efficiency of operating in the dark but also for security purposes among others.
It also works as a potential of a simple self-defence weapon. It can be a pocket-saved or life-saving that does not require a license or permission.
Our job is to give you an easy-to-digest solution about what to pay attention to and when you look for your online tactical flashlight.
We know how an unsuspecting consumer could see these beautiful flashlights, and we want to inform you about whether an LED tactical flashlight is something that you need.
Here is our best affordable tactical flashlight Guide 2021 – the good, the bad and the directly useless. Do not get caught off guard when you find a flashlight offer that seems too good to be true. Read this guide, and you will know everything you need to know to buy a tactical military-style flashlight.
Why Do You Need a Tactical Flashlight?
Operating in the thick darkness of the night can be a challenge for many people from those in the night shifts, to hunters, to fishers, and those who are out camping among others. The good thing is that you can carry the convenience of adequate lighting with you in the name of a tactical flashlight.
Moreover, safety is one thing of great concern when it comes to walking around at night and a quality tactical flashlight can not only help you spot trouble on its tracks but also defend yourself. The best LED flashlight is just a simple device that you could carry with you all day long with much ease. It can be small enough to perfectly fit in your pocket without looking cumbersome and feeling heavy.
Despite the size, the Tactical LED has a very powerful beam of light that cuts through the darkness to make movements and other operations easy at night. Better yet, the light can be used for self-defense in the instance of an attack more so if you are using best brightest flashlight.
One of the best things about the light is you could use it as a strong tool to hit your enemy because it’s made of solid metal.
When it comes to the SureFire Defender Series LED Flashlights, you will never have any problem protecting yourself if the night will move in.
This super bright led flashlight would always give you an opportunity of escaping or confronting your attacker.
Keep in mind that every time you will have it with you, things will be alright. It includes over 600 lumens of light power. That means your enemy will be blinded for a long time. Thus, you’ll be able to flee and get to safety.
Remember, most of the flashlights come from the East and the Far East regions of the world but the most sophisticated and effective flashlight is made in the USA.
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What is a Military Tactical Flashlight?
When it comes to versatility and durability, the military flashlight rules. The name itself is enough to let you know that you are dealing with a construction aimed at withstanding harsh conditions the military personnel is exposed to. The design of the military tactical flashlight was developed as a result of the failure of the standard flashlight to meet the expectation of the military in terms of navigation and illumination. That was back during the World War II.
Over the years, advancements in the design of the flashlight have come up to increase efficiency and functionality. One such is the color of the lenses to prevent detection from afar as well as hindrance of the night vision equipment. A few advantages of the Military tactical flashlight which make it the first choice for many civilians as well as the military personnel include the ergonomic design, its ability to be used hands-free because it sits at a right angle and, of course, the sturdy and durable construction.
Comparison of Our Best Pick
6 Best Tactical Flashlight Reviews
1. Streamlight 88066 Pro
These flashlights are not for anyone but are designed for those who need a higher light power.
For example, if you are a night hunter, or you like survival in the field, these flashlights are ideal for you. If you want to participate in rescue work, it will also be useful there. It’s simply spectacular.
The first is the Streamlight 88066 Pro, which offers a luminous power of up to 1000 lumens that allows a light range of up to 219meters beam distance.
It guarantees you the best service in the most complicated situations.
Besides, it should be noted that, despite that scandalous power, it has no autonomy problems. It lasts about 25 hours with an uninterrupted use at a power of 300 lumens with medium bright light.
Keep in mind; it has water resistance according to the IPX7 standard, which allows it to be submerged up to one meter deep.
After reading these features, you can already understand why this flashlight is recommended for hunting, survival or search and rescue.
What we liked:
- 1000 high lumens
- Multi-battery versatility
- 219 meters beam distance
- Running time battery: 25 hours
- Max Candela: 12,000
What We Didn’t Like:
- A bit low-quality battery
- Expensive but you’ll pay for quality
2. ThruNite TN12
If you’re looking for an EDC flashlight or going for hunting, hiking or camping, why you don’t take ThruNite TN12 XP-L with you? This powerful light is designed to be used in any type of weapon or as an attachment to illuminate in situations of poor visibility, as it is equipped with anti-fog Xenon light.
It has a range of 218 meters and has a single mode of lighting, but the good thing is that it has anti-fog Xenon, which can pass through smoke and fog.
It has a mount to adapt it to any type of firearm, both short and long. The interesting thing about this model is that it has a rechargeable battery, so you do not have to worry about changing the batteries every time, just charge the device with the included charger.
It has an anodized aluminum finish and is water resistant.
This led flashlight is top due to its great features.
What we liked:
- Compact & Reliable Flashlight
- 1110 high lumens
- Rechargeable battery
- 218 meters beam distance
- Super Long Run Time & versatile modes
What we didn’t like:
- Loose switch
- Not for permanent use
3. Fenix PD35 TAC 1000 Lumen
This is another top listed product that could meet your criteria. Of course, the lighting degree provided by flashlight should be the main feature in which you must pay attention when choosing one.
Particularly, it has a high level of lighting, thanks to the fact that it has LED technology.
The lighting quality is incomparable to last long, and this LED flashlight includes 1000 high lumens in its body, which allows you to light up a wide range or in areas of large space, around a distance of 656 feet.
On the other hand, mentioning the issue of the energy consumed by this device is regulated by 3V CR123A Lithium batteries, which means that the equipment has more power when using. Because of long-lasting batteries, this is a product that you can use in the rain as it is waterproof so that you can use it comfortably during rainy and dark days.
What we liked:
- 1000 high lumen flashlight
- 3V CR123A Lithium batteries
- 656 feet beam distance
- A lifespan of 50,000 hours
What we didn’t like:
- Overheating could be a problem
4. Streamlight 88054 ProTac HL USB
Another flashlight worth taking note of is the Streamlight 88054 professional tactical flashlight. This is one of those products that need no explanation because one can almost get everything in the brand name; but for the sake of the newcomers, we shall. Lightweight and a sturdy build are among the first few impressive things that you learn about the flashlight from the first look. It is designed with precision with the military specifications in mind.
With up to 60 hours run time, you can be sure to count on the Streamlight 88054 to offer convenience when you need it to. Flashlights are one of the few items that you need to carry on your person everywhere you go, and if you were worried about having to pack a big flashlight in your pocket, then you have not come across the Streamlight 88054 flashlight. It comes with a 6.5-inches long body making it easy to carry around.
But that is not all; this flashlight features a high-intensity bulb that produces a strong LED beam with a lifespan of up to 100,000 hours. In fact, the beam is so intense that you can use it as a defense mechanism to blind the attacker. Charging your flashlight should not be a problem since the Streamlight 88054 comes with a charger in the box.
What we liked:
- Produces a powerful beam of EDC light
- Offers great value for the money
- Considerably longer running hours compared to the SureFire P2X
- Perfect size to carry around unnoticed
- Can double as a self-defense weapon
What we didn’t like:
- Quite heavy to carry around
- Battery life is not as long as other previous models
5. Surefire P2X Fury
One of the big names that you will find in the flashlight market is SureFire, and it is all for the right reasons. The manufacturer makes quality and highly effective flashlights, and the P series has been featured in many reviews for best flashlights in the year.
Concerning the construction, the SureFire is small enough to fit in your pocket without looking cumbersome. The size is for sure no indicator of its efficiency since regardless the size; you can count on the LED lighting system of this flashlight which comes with a failure-proof. It comes with two-lumen emission options of 15 or a high of 500 both focused. The switch is the click-type located at the tail of the flashlight made of high-quality anodized aluminum that meets military specifications. This means that corrosion, abrasion, and scratches should be the least of your worries.
The innovation in the construction of the P2X ensures that the beam produced passes through a seamless path to not only maximize the transmission but also ensure tamed power consumption. You get up to 46 hours of operation when using the low-lumen setting of 15 Lumens and 1.5 hours in the high 500-lumen setting.
What we liked:
- Sturdy construction
- Compact size that fits in the pocket
- Powerful LED lighting system
- Two light emitting settings
- Easy to use click-type switch
- Efficient light emission lenses
What we didn’t like:
- The P2X consumes the battery fast in the 500-lumen setting
- Some users complained of its high price
6. Streamlight 88052 ProTac HL USB
If you still do not know which the best-LED flashlight is, then consider this proposal. This is a team made, also with solid aluminum, to guarantee its durability. It has a range of 7.50 continuous hours, so it is ideal to take it during a trip, fishing, bike ride, etc.
If you want a flashlight in aquatic type works, this flashlight is ideal, thanks to its special protection system, which also allows it to be used during the rain.
It can be easily carried in the pocket since it only measures 6.5 inches long and weighs 453 grams, so it is a light one. If you’re worried about its price, this LED flashlight is one of the cheapest on the market, and even supports falls, due to the thick layer of aluminum that makes up it’s housing.
Sometimes it is difficult to decide which LED flashlight to buy, for that reason it never hurts to review the benefits and the disadvantages of each model.
What we liked:
- USB Rechargeable battery
- 850 high Lumen
- Beam distance 200 meters
- 1.5 hours of battery life at the maximum high intensity and 12 hours at the lowest level
- Eco-mode for an extended time
- User-programmable function cycles
What we didn’t like:
- Low-quality batteries
- Not great one
Considerations before buying a LED flashlight
The best and brightest flashlights are popular accessories for all types of users. A tactical flashlight is a very important tool for everyone like police, military, hunters, night runners or who like to camp. But if you really need it, there are some things you can consider before buying it:
What should I look for?
Hunting, survival, search, night sports or visibility over long distances require a powerful flashlight with a lot of brightness. If you are basically looking for camping or recreational activities such as mountaineering or fishing, you will need something from 200 lumens as the 6 models that we have taught you.
A sturdy design is essential so you can take good shots. If you want a shorter lumen distance, you don’t need so many features, and something that reaches 100 to 200 lumens can do well in your service.
How much brightness do I need?
LED flashlights are interesting and fun gadgets to use. The more brightness, the better you have because it is your main purpose. Here you will see a basic guide to know what to look for.
From 10 to 20 lumens: For very close tasks such as looking under the table or in the closet.
From 20 to 150 lumens: To look around the house or walk the dog on a night.
From 160 to 200 lumens: For more general tasks, camping, security, and surveillance walking outside at night…
From 200 to 500 lumens: For tactical survival, hunting, climbing…
From 600 to 1000 lumens: You really do not need much unless your life depends on living at night and they are costly.
More than 1000 lumens: You could light your entire house. They are already used more for search and rescue.
Weight, material and water resistance
Most LED flashlights are built in aluminum making them strong and light. Some models have the option of steel without stains or strong plastics, but it depends on the brand and the role. The advantage of aluminum allows covering certain parts well and making the LED flashlight water resistant.
Body size
It is an important factor when you want to buy an LED flashlight, then the thing you need to consider is not to carry something cumbersome on all sides. And if you take it from one country to another, it will be good for the suitcase that weighs little.
Traditionally to have good brightness, you needed a lot of battery, and this meant to carry a heavy flashlight on the sea, luckily it is not like that anymore.
Although in some cases, police officers carry some bigger ones, the truth is that for other tasks you do not need them.
Type of batteries
LED flashlights can work with traditional AA or AAA batteries, or with lithium batteries. If you like to be practical, you can choose the traditional ones that you can find anywhere.
Lithium batteries can be difficult to replace. They are required to be the same voltage and model so that your flashlight can operate efficiently. However, in another case, you get the LEDs because of the energy savings, and the batteries will last longer.
Brand and Price
There are plenty of best-known brands today that are Jetbeam, Fenix, Olight, Surefire, and Sunwayman. There are less known brands as well that are also very good. In this category, Zebralight and Niteye stand out.
Generally, for a well-made Li-ion based light, you have to invest over $50. For $75-$90.00, you could have an excellent flashlight with 600-800 lumens. Don’t be afraid because it’ll be fully waterproof and virtually unbreakable! This is actually considered as military-grade and could be ideal for any situation including search and rescue missions.
Final Thoughts
Finally, if you’re planning to purchase a good tactical flashlight, our top selected 6 best tactical flashlights could be a good list to begin with. For your convenience, we researched and analyzed those that got top customer reviews, and our experts recommend the ThruNite TN12 XP-L Edition 1110 Lumen not only for its quality build but also reliable efficiency.