Surefire X300 or Streamlight TLR1?

I'm looking for a multipurpose weapon light that will either be mounted on a handgun or shotgun...which do you guys recommend?

Thanks,
Mark

I suggest buying a pair of TLR-1's. That way you won't have to move the light between two firearms. My collection of Surefire lights is fairly excessive, but the Streamlight TLR-1 is a great light and I'm running three of them.

Paladin

I prefer SF X300's. I like the controls and mounting of the SF's...

X300, no question.

I've used two TLR1s on my pistols for years. Never had any issues. I really like Surefire lights, but its hard to beat the TLR1, especially when they are under $100.

I prefer the Streamlight, the price just makes it even more attractive.

Never used a TLR-1, but I've got two X300s; one on my M4gery and one on my glock 30. Lightweight, unearthly bright, and the throw allows me to cover the majority of the property from the driveway. I vote the surefire.

Having used both only thing I like better on one that the other doesn't do is the way the switch on the Surefire works.

+1 on the x300

If you have the money, then spring for the X300.

I prefer the x300. I like being able to turn the light on by pressing the rocker forward, and rocking the switch either way engages the constant on.

What are you doing with it? If you're kicking in doors, get a Surefire. If you're a homeowner, either will work fine, but try to handle them. There are some minor switch differences; some people have a strong preference, some don't. If the money's not an issue, get whichever switch you like best. If $120 is something you have to plan for, get the Streamlight. If you're happy with it you can get a second one for another $100 and not worry about switching them back & forth.

Pretty good video review
Youtube review

I've had both. The TLR1 is adequate, but the X300 is tougher. Will either fail? Doubtful, but for a serious working gun its worth the extra 80 or so for the build quality of the SF.

I am a BIG Surefire fan with a rather extensive Surefire collection. (I'd hate to think think about how much SF stuff I have almost)

My pistol wears a TLR-1s. I picked it up for about $95 shipped, which was great. I then had the opportunity to try an X300 and I wouldn't even give $75 for one. I HATE the switch. Looking at it, it looks the same as the Streamlight, but it's not. It's counter-intuitive to me and I don't care at all for having to have that little button gouging into my thumb just to activate the light, now add stress, some moisture, and NO WAY.

Buy a pair of Streamlights and a tape switch for one of them and don't look back.

The Streamlight works good in smaller rooms and enclosed spaces. The X300 is king if you have a larger space that needs light.

Possibly irrelevant since you're talking pistols and shotguns, but...

http://www.tacticalyellowvisor.net/8301/106721.html

Thanks for the link....i've actually been considering using them on carbines as well....the lights are more compact than the typical weapon lights.

X300

Snap-on, snap-off to attach to the gun.

Twisting the TLR onto the gun gets old fast, and isn't as secure of a connection.

This right here is of much benefit for home defense. You don't need to be on a seat squad to realize the benefits of the surefire product


On top of that, it is brighter, more reliable, and an overall better product.

Both are good lights but I prefer the X300

Tough poll, since I have 1 ea. (TLR-1 on a shotgun, X300 AR) I didn't vote. The X300 is the better light, but cost a lot more. I got mine for $180 which made it worth it to me. The TLR-1 is a great light for ~$100.

For a handgun, I prefer the DG switch so the choice is obviously the X300. However, if I didn't want to use the DG switch, I'd get the TLR1.

+1 but only because I can get the DG switch for my pistols. I would have no problem buying a TLR if I didnt care about the DG switch and wanted to save some cash.

You can get what is essentially the same thing for the Streamlights at around half the price.
http://www.botachtactical.com/stcoreforglp.html

Wow, for some reason I thought Surefire was the only one that made a switch like that. I may look into the TLR if I ever need another handgun light.

I've never used the x300 but I do have a tlr1 on a sig P226. The mount on the streamlight isn't as secure as it should be. After about 50 to 100 rounds, the screw starts to come loose. First time I used it after about 20 rounds, the thing went flyin off when I fired a shot. You really have to make sure you screw it down tight and recheck periodically. Jjust from pics I've seen, the SF seems like a better mount. I would spend the extra cash if that were the case. Unfortunately I didn't choose or buy my light, it is just what was issued to me.

Will a TLR-1 fit on the rail on an HK USP type pistol?

+1. If the tlr was momentary only, maybe. I dont like that it locks on one way and not the other. I'm going to try to mod mine if i get the time.

Eta: the x300 is much easier to activate on a pistol for me. Poke with trigger finger to flash, identify, move to trigger, bad guy sees second light flash.

Yeah. Surprised me. I used to use the TLR1 and I emailed Streamlight and asked them if they would ever consider making a DG type switch. Streamlight never responded so I sold my TLR1s and bought the Surefire X300.

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