Corrections, opinions, and new information welcome from all.  If anyone has a new or not mentioned light they want put in, give me what info you have and some links to their website.

DEFINITIONS

Lumen ------- A measure of the output of a light.  More is better.

Candlepower ------- A measure of the intensity of a light (we don’t use this term much).

Run Time ------- How long a light puts out useful light.  Be careful: many manufactures use how long the light puts out any light for run time.  This is wrong since only the period of bright light is useful for tactical reasons.  Many lights will glow dimly for a while once the batteries are nearly dead.

Hotspot ------- The center, intense portion of a lights beam.  Good lights will have a uniform hotspot, while cheaper ones will have black patterns in the beam.

Throw ------- How well a lights beam works at farther distances.  This generally means a beam with a small hotspot that will still be small and bright at distance.

Flood ------- How well a beam lights up a large or wide area.  A light with good flood would light up a corner of a room, and you could still see the other walls in the room pretty good.  A beam with good throw would light up a smaller portion of the corner, but not spread as much light to the walls.

Shock Isolated ------- A term used to describe a light as being able to handle being dropped, hit, or take the recoil of a gun without sending much of the shock (vibration) to the bulb.  

Strobing ------- The method of blinking a light on and off so you disorient an unseen or hidden enemy without giving away your exact position.  There are MANY wrong ways to do this and only a few right, so do your research before becoming a homing beacon to the bump in the night.
( I need a good link describing tactical use of a light and how to properly strobe)

Momentary On Switch ------- You push it, the light stays on only as long as you hold down the button.  Useful for strobing.

Clickie/Constant On Switch ------- A switch that turns the light on once pushed until the button “clicks”, then stays on until pushed again.

Lock out Tail Switch ------- A switch that lets you somehow lock the light so that it will not come on when you don’t want it to or when the light is stored.

Tape Switch ------- A wire comes out of the back of the light and goes to a little pad.  If you press on or squeeze this pad, the light will come on.

Vertical Grip ------- A little handle that sticks below the hand guards.  Some people don’t like them, but generally they make a rifle handle quicker and allow you to use your thumb to push the button on your light if it’s mounted in the 3:00 position.  If you have a tape switch, you don’t need one because you can use a piece of bike inner tube or other bands to hold the tape switch to the hand guards.  Few people can control a weapon mounted light well when they just have a regular push button switch and not vertical fore grip.  This requires you to activate the light with your knuckle (not much control there).  

Bezel Diameter ------- The diameter of the bulb end of a light.  A larger bezel/reflector allows light to be focused more, so you get a smaller and hotter hot spot.  Small reflectors can’t focus the light as well and lead to more flood with a larger and duller hotspot.  That’s why spotlights and long range lights have large reflectors.

GENERAL DISCUSSIONS AND CONCEPTS

LED vs. INCANDESCENT ----- Luxeon LED’s are shock proof since they have no filament and offer longer run times than incandescent lights, but usually do not have the “throw” of an incandescent.  They are usually fine for CQB and will last a lifetime without failure.  Incandescent lights can have much higher output and a much longer throw than LED’s, but will eventually burn out and fail.  Some manufacturers are currently working on higher output LED’s that will improve their throw and output.  LED’s have a tendency to wash out in ambient light such as street lamps, lamps, etc.  They can not be used with infrared filters because they do not contain much of that wavelength, but several light manufactures offer good dedicated LED infrared illuminators for night vision use.  LED lights run at the same level until the batteries start to die, then they start to dim and emit less light over a period of time.  Incandescents die QUICK once the batteries get low.  Many people will think their light broke, when the batteries are really just dead.

BATTERIES ----- All serious lights will run on CR123 batteries.  Only Surefire SF123 or DL123 are recommended (others may blow up etc.).  These batteries are small, light, have a huge capacity, and produce a near constant output of 3 volts for 80% of their life, then they die down quick.  There are quite a few good rechargeable out there, but CR123’s will still be lighter for the same output.  NO good weapon light can run on AAA, AA, C, D, or lantern batteries because of the limited voltage possible, limited capacity, and high weight of those batteries.  Though if you just want something to spotlight with or walk to the dog with, any Wal-Mart light will do at a cheaper cost, more weight, duller beam that gets worse over time, and generally lower quality.  This discussion is for tactical/self defense/offensive/armchair commando purposes.

$$$$ MONEY $$$$ ----- (Gee…how did this heading stand out) How much you are willing to spend on a light depends on what you will be using the light/weapon combo for and how much you make really.  First off, you are better off getting a good weapon first, not a $500 kit gun with a $450 light.  Most of you newbies will be ok with a Surefire G2 fitted with a Z32 shock isolation bezel and tape switch, Pentagon X2 with good mounts and tape switch, or similarly equipped Streamlight or Laser Devices OP-6 for around $100….yes I said $100 and that’s about the cheapest route for an OK weapon light.  Get over it, but it will do for social shooting and would get you by at a carbine course.  It would also be better than nothing for the bump in the night.  Some of the above setups will hold up better than others for the price range.

If you are ULTRA cheap, a Wal-Mart Brinkman LX or Surefire G2 with scope rings will work for under $40, but nothing is guaranteed.  You can step up to Streamlight, Pentagon, or Laser Devices handhelds and scope mounts for around $70.  Tape switch tail caps cost $20+.  

If your gun is what you actually plan on using for home defense/ SHTF/ TEOTWAWKI/ Patrol/ Duty/ Sandbox use/ gun of the month competition, then you should get a dedicated weapons light.  These will generally cost over $250 and have to be mounted to a 1913 (picanty) rail on your forearm.  However, the Pentagon lights with a good mount seem to be popular and earning a good reputation for ~$100 for a complete setup.  When your life is on the line, you definitely want either a shock proof LED weapons light or a top quality shock isolated incandescent weapon light with battery retention that you can trust.

WEIGHT ----- Generally, you want an AR15 to be as light as possible.  Adding anything to an AR (like flashlights) is detrimental to this concept.  One thing to remember about a light is what accessories go with it or what it takes to mount it.  Your light may weigh only 5 oz, but once you add a 1 or 2oz mount, 1oz heavier clickie/lockout tail cap, 3oz vertical grip, and Rail system that weighs from 2oz (Daniel Defense 7.0 vs. CAR Hand guards) to 11oz (YHM Rifle vs. A2 shielded hand guards) MORE than standard hand guards, then your looking at adding a total of 11oz to 22oz to the weapon.  And whats worse, most of that weight is on the front of the gun where it throws the weapons balance off the most. So consider the SYSTEM, not just one component.  If you going to add a free floating forearm and vertical grip ANYWAY, your really only considering the lights weight over what you already wanted to do.

If your going the 1913 rail mount route(95% of us will), you’ve got to change over to either a free floating rail system, swap out for railed non-free floating hand guards, or bolt some little rail to your regular hand guards, the barrel, or front sight base.  Daniel Defense (usually around 2oz heavier than standard)has the lightest free floating rail systems with Larue and Yankee Hill Machines Lightweight series coming in at close seconds.  Fobus has some railed non-free floating hand guards that weigh little more than standard and are fairly cheap.  Rails that bolt to various parts of the gun are usually the easiest route as they involve little cost, don’t change the gun much, and only weigh a few ounces, but just aren’t as well received as they should be because they are not uber-tactical, cool looking, or sometimes as tough as other set ups.

Most any mount will weigh less than 3oz.  Built in light mounts on weapons lights also add similar amounts of weight, but are typically more reliable since they are one piece with the lights body.  Generally, any quality light mount will hold a handheld light in place just as good as an incorporated mount until you bring a hammer into the conversation.

Vertical grips make it easier to manipulate light buttons and add around 3oz.  They are more of an ergonomics question than weight.

Different tail caps can add fractions of an ounce to a light system, so don’t worry about the weight gain.  Just get the right tailcap/tapeswitch for ergonomics and function.

The lightest light is the Surefire M600 and M600A Scout Light at about 4 and 4.5oz respectively.  Most all other 6 volt handheld lights fall in the 5-8oz range plus a ~1oz mount and anything else you add.  Lights in this range will generally suit any of us and work on any gun for indoors or most outdoors use.  You really shouldn’t need anything more than a standard 6 or 9 volt weapons light or weapons grade handheld with good mounts.  

If you REALLY need to blind tangos (or deer) from 150 yard or see whether an AK47’s receiver is milled or stamped at 100 yards, then you’ll need the heavy duty lights and just accept about a 10oz weight penalty.  Right now, only Surefire offers the long range, 225+ lumen lights.  The M96X, M97X, M98x series weigh around 12, 13, and 15oz respectively, but let you identify targets out to well over 100 yards.  The M900 series weighs around 20oz, but that includes its built in vertical grip and all needed buttons and tape switches.  Personally, I don’t see the need for anyone mounting the M97x, or M98x over the M900 series.  After you add a vertical grip to the Millenniums, the weight will be nearly the same, but the M900s have all the controls built in at your finger tips.  Not to mention how long the Millennium lights are.  Of course the M900’s cost $450-$650, and that makes up most peoples minds for them.  Others just don’t like a vertical grip and would mount M97/M98’s using only a tape switch.

ERGONOMICS (VERTICAL GRIP VS TAPESWITCH) ----- You cannot effectively operate a push button light mounted to your hand guards using your knuckle or thumb to just push the button.  Sure you can turn it on and off, but you really don’t have much control.  You really need a vertical grip so your left hand thumb can just reach up to push/strobe a light mounted on the right side of your gun and preferably mounted in about the 4:00 or 5:00 position using an offset mount.  The other option is to just use a tape switch held to your hand guards or slid in a built in slot in the hand guards or in your rail covers.  Surefire XM tail caps offer both a push button and a tape switch.  Many vertical grips have a built in slot for tape switches, and lots of people run a vertical grip with the tape switch on the grip.  It all really comes down to preference and whether or not you like a vertical grip and whether or not you like tape switches.

BEAM FILTERS ----- Right now, Surefire is the only place I know of that makes beam filters.  Infra Red (IR) filters are used to filter out all light but infrared for using a light with night vision equipment.  Light in this spectrum cannot be seen with the naked eye.  So your light will work like an invisible flashlight for night vision equipment only.  LED lights don’t have much IR light in them, so using an IR filter on an LED is like putting a spoiler on a tractor.  Beam filters just make your light red or blue.  Blue light helps show blood in the night.  Red light does not ruin your night vision and is also very difficult for dear to see at night.  Beam shapers turn a tight and blinding beam into a wide and soft flood pattern.  Surefire numbers its filters as follows where the next to last number indicates what size bezel the filter fits and the last number indicates what type lens it contains.
FM0X------1.00” bezels
FM1X------1.63” bezels
FM2X------2.50” bezels
FM3X------1.25” bezels
FM6X------1.47” bezels
Lens types;
FMX3------Infrared.  These are expensive
FMX4------Beam shaper
FMX5------Red beam filter
FMX6------Blue beam filter
FMX7------Cover to prevent any light from escaping

WEAPON LIGHTS ----- All indoor weapon lights should have at least 60 lumen output with a good hot spot.  This will generally be most 6 volt incandescent lights or 5 watt LEDs.  Surefires 3 watt KL1 LED is about the only exception at the moment.  Indoor lights should generally have a good hotspot for blinding, but also a good flood pattern to better light a whole room.  Indoor lights should not be over 225 lumens or you will blind YOURSELF every time you light up a light colored wall or reflective surface (around 120 is better suited for indoors).  Outdoor lights should generally have at least 100 Lumens, but many people use 60+ lumen lights as long as they have a really good throw and hotspot.  All weapon lights should have battery retention unless they are powered by a quality LED or the design keeps the batteries front impacting the bulb.  Pistol mounted lights generally fall under the same criteria as indoor lights from above, but should be left on pistols.  You cannot easily activate most pistol light switches when they are mounted to a rifle or carbine hand guards.  Some offer tape switches that help this, but your still looking at something designed for indoor use.

WEAPON LIGHT MOUNTS
ARMS #17 -----The original quick release light mount.  Fits 1” bodies.



Larue Tactical Arms 17 Replacement -----Like the Arms #17, but uses Larues adjustable levers instead.  Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.7oz.



Larue Scout Mount ----- Fits the Executive series lights (.81” bodies)



Larue Tactical Customizable Offset mount for M9XX lights ----- goes on weapon lights.  This system offers complete adjustability for positioning the light and uses Larue throw levers.  Weighs 2.6oz and fits 1” bodies.


Vltor Classic Mount ----- fits 1” bodies.
…


Vltor CK ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.1oz.



Vltor E/G Series -----E fits .81-.826” bodies.  G fits 1” bodies.  Both weigh 1.1oz.



Daniel Defense Offset Mount ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 2oz.



Viking Tactics Offset Mount ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 2oz.



Fobus Tactical Light Mount ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.25oz.



TDI Light Mount ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.6oz.



FAS3



FAS 2Q ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs oz.



GG&G Offset Mount ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.75oz.



1” low Scope rings ----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.5oz.



1” medium Scope rings----- Fits 1” bodies and weighs 1.75oz.




OFFSET MOUNTS, BARREL MOUNTS, FSB MOUNTS

BM Tripple Mount----- Fits .750 barrels and offers 3 rails.  It weighs 3.8oz.

YHM 1 Slot Angled Dovetail Mount----- An offset mount that attaches to a rail and gives you another rail raised and offset from your handguard rail.  Weighs 1oz  


YHM 3 Slot Angled Dovetail Mount----- An offset mount that attaches to a rail and gives you another rail raised and offset from your handguard rail.  Weighs 1.2oz.  


YHM 5 Slot Angled Dovetail Mount----- An offset mount that attaches to a rail and gives you another rail raised and offset from your handguard rail.  Weighs xoz.  


YHM Large Head Screw---These weigh .6oz and make YHM mounts quick to remove.

VERTICAL GRIPS

Tango Down----- Weighs 3.6 oz and is one of the best quality.  

Fobus----Weighs 3.5oz.

Advanced Armament----- Weighs 2.75oz.

Bushmaster BMAS / YHM-9400------weighs 6oz.

TDI Short Grip-----Weighs 3.1oz.

Ace K Grip-----Weighs 1.34oz.

KAC (Knights) -----Weighs 2.75oz.



<Title update.  --tbk1>

LIGHTS


SUREFIRE HANDHELD LIGHTS
The best lights out there; the beam quality of any other light is judged by how it compares to the Surefire Equivalent.
Surefire_Handheld_Lights

Surefire G2 ----- Great cheap little lightweight polymer personal light.  It can be fitted with Z32 shock isolated bezel to make a reasonable weapon light, but not a true weapon light with battery retention.
Surefire G2Z ----- G2 with shock isolated bezel and D-Ring.  Basically it’s a nitrolon Combat Light.

Surefire 6P ----- Original high output top quality aluminum personal light.
Surefire 9P ----- Same as above, but 9 volts.
Surefire Z2, Z3----- Combat light version of the 6P with shock isolated bezel and D-Ring.  Combat light does not mean weapon light



Surefire C2, C3----- Combat light versions of the 6P, 9P with a D-Ring, shock isolated bezel, and pocket clip.



SUREFIRE EXECUTIVE SERIES –----- Top of the line personal pocket lights with extremely small frames.  E1L and E2L are LED models similar to the LumiMax series.  All others have incandescent bulbs that do not have shock isolated bezels or battery retention (E1E, E2E, E2O, and E2D).  These have tough bulbs that work well on weapons since the bulb and batteries don’t “float”.  E1x means 3 volts, E2x means 6 volts.  They can share LED heads with much of the LumiMax series.  The KL1 and KL4 LED heads are great for weapons use on the Executive Series.



SUREFIRE DEFENDER (E2D) ------ An Executive series light.  Basically it is an E2E with a crenulated bezel and tail cap.   Suitable for use as a strike weapon, but small enough to fit in your shirt pocket.  It can be used as a cheap mans M600 Scout Light for weapons use, but does not have a shock isolated bezel or battery retention. However, the E series bezel keeps the batteries and bulb from floating, so battery and shock isolation is not as important.  The LU60A (P60/61 bulbs) shock isolated bezel can be fitted to it for a lightweight and bright weapon system.  



SUREFIRE LUMIMAX SERIES –----- Small LED lights with great run times and many features. Since all are LED’s, they are all shock proof, but many lack controls suited for weapon mounting.  L1, L2, L3, L4, L6, L7
Surefire_LED_Lights

SUREFIRE MILLENNIUM SERIES –----- Top notch personal combat lights, can be mounted to weapons with great success, but don’t have the battery isolation you really need with a true weapons grade light.  Turbo heads and LED kits available for all models.  M1 IR Illuminator, M2, M3, M3T, M4 Devastator, M6 Guardian.  M3T is just an M3 with a turbo head.
Surefire_Millennium_Series_Combat_Lights



SUREFIRE WEAPONS LIGHTS
These lights are all designed to take the recoil of weapons fire.  They will either have shock isolated bezels and battery retention or an LED.  All can be mounted to a weapon or standard rail in some way.

SUREFIRE SCOUT WEAPONS LIGHT –----- Smallest, lightest weapon light available and utilizes the 5w KL4 LED head. It can be fitted with an incandescent bulb using the LU60A head (P60/61), std. E series incandescent head (MN02/03) or the KL1 LED head. This is basically a SF E2E/D with the KL4 LED head, integrated mount and tape switch assembly. It does not have battery isolation or shock isolation, but the LED heads do not need it and the design of the E series bezels keeps the batteries and lamp from “floating” so that they will also hold up to weapons use. Surefire_Scout_Light



SUREFIRE MILLENNIUM UNIVERSAL M9xx Series Weapon Lights –----- Basically like the Millennium series handhelds, but have battery retention and either a lever mount or thumbscrew mounts built in.  They have complete parts interchangeability with the Millenniums.

M95x ----- 6V Small head
M96x----- 9V Small head
M97x----- 9V Turbo head, has greater throw but weighs more
M98x----- 12V Turbo head, a M4 Dominator weapon light

The last number indicates mount type
M9x1----- Thumbscrew mounts
M9x2----- Arms throw lever
M9xL----- Larue Adjustable Mount

Suffix indicates tail cap type
C ----- Two step pushbutton, part way is momentary; all the way clicks on/off.
P ----- Momentary push button on only, but twist for constant on.
SUxx ----- Pressure pad switch with xx length lead.  Typically 5, 6 or 7”.
XMxx ----- C type switch + a pressure pad switch of xx length built into one.  

The pressure pad can be disconnected and a rubber plug put in its place.
Surefire_Millennium_Series_Weapon_Lights


SUREFIRE M5xx SERIES WEAPONS LIGHT FORENDS ------ Hand guard mounted weapon lights for the AR15.  Not the best ergonomics for activation for most people, but the next best thing to a vertical grip set up.  The B series is the brightest light available for weapons use.  Simply remove your existing hand guards and replace them with the system.  These are heavy and expensive units and can get in the way of many slings.  Newer models feature extra navigation lights along with the blinding primary.  They have 4 switches.  1-A pressure pad to activate the main light.  2-A constant on switch.  3-A lockout switch.  4-A small switch to activate the small navigation LED lights.

M500----- Carbine length hand guards
M510----- Round rifle length hand guards
M511----- Triangular rifle length hand guards
M520----- Sig 551
M560----- H&K G36K Carbine
M570----- H&K G36 Rifle

Suffixes indicated lamp assembly and voltage
A----- 9 volt with small head

AB----- 9 volt with turbo head

B----- 18 volt with turbo head
Surefire_Forend_Incorportated_Lights


SUREFIRE M900 SERIES VERTICAL GRIP WEAPON LIGHTS ----- Integrated vertical fore grip and weapon light.  Superior ergonomics for activation.  A different tail cap is now available for selecting different modes such as lock out or constant on.  They are very heavy and expensive.  They also have LED navigation lights built in.  They mount only to rails using either thumbscrews or throw levers.  They have the same switching options as the M500’s, but have two pressure pads (one on each side of the vertical grip).  You cannot mount a bipod with these and the LED navigation lights will interfere with many side attaching slings.

M900----- Throw lever mount
M910----- Thumbscrew mounts

Suffixes indicated lamp assembly and voltage
A----- 9 volt with small head
AB----- 9 volt with turbo head
Surefire_Vertical_Grip_Lights


SUREFIRE CLASSIC UNIVERSAL SYSTEM WEAPON LIGHTS ----- These lights mount to weapons in various places.  They have an aluminum body, shock isolated Z32 bezel, battery retention, a 7” tape switch, and available XM07 tail switch (tape switch + pushbutton).  The first number describes the light or combination light/laser.

4xx----- 6 volt light + laser models
5xx----- 6 volt laser only models
6xx----- 6 volt lights
9xx----- 9 volt lights

The last 2 numbers only describe the type of mounting hardware.
x50----- no mounting hardware
x59----- inside of front sight housing (light under or beside barrel)
x60----- universal barrel mount
x74----- front sight mount
x76----- front sight mount
x78----- front sight mount

The most relevant models for an AR are the 650,659,660, 674, 676, 678, 950,969,960, 974, 976, 960, 460, 560, and 576

A suffix of “-05” or “-06” means a pressure pad tail switch of 5” or 6” long respectively.
Surefire_Classic_Weapon_Light_Systems


SUREFIRE SHOTGUN FORENDS ----- Classic Universal Light bodies mounted to custom forends that fit specific shotguns.   All are 6 volts that use P60/61 bulbs except where noted.  You can add the AXX extension to the 6 volt systems to use P90/91 bulbs, but the extra length can often put the bezel in front of the muzzle and adds even more weight to the front of the shotgun.

617FA / FGA- ---- Benelli Super 90
917FA ----- Benelli Super 90 (MN10/11 bulbs)
623FA / FGA----- Mossberg 500/590
621FA / FGA- ---- Mossberg 500/590 with 14” barrel
699S / T----- Remington 1100/11-87
618FA / FGA----- Remington 870
918FA----- Remington 870 9 volt light (MN10/11 bulbs)
636FA / FGA----- Winchester Defender with long for-end

There are 4 switch configurations:
FA----- pressure sensitive momentary activation switch and constant ON/OFF rocker switch
FGA----- pressure sensitive momentary activation switch, constant ON/OFF rocker switch, and system disable rocker switch
S----- Pressure sensitive momentary activation switch and system disable flag switch.
T----- Pressure sensitive momentary activation switch and a constant-on flag switch
Surefire_Shotgun_Forend_Lights


SUREFIRE PISTOL LIGHT SYSTEMS
Surefire has several different pistol systems with many features.  
Surefire_Pistol_Mounted_Lights

SUREFIRE X200A/B
The X200A/B have 5 Watt LEDs.  The A model is designed for distance.  The B model is designed for a lot of flood.  Basically use the B for indoors use where you want to light up a whole room.  The A model does not really have the range needed for and outdoor rifle, but it still has good range.  



Classic Pistol Light System .
6xx----- Classic System.  Has the same bezel and bulbs as the 6V Classic Universal Weapon Lights.  This system mounts to the frame of pistols with no rails and often has a replacement slide locks etc for mounting.  A suffix of “R” indicates a constant on rocker switch with the slim line pressure switch.  Otherwise they have only an integrated on/off switch in the frame.  These are very long as they do not have side by side batteries.
607R----- Para Ordinance P14 w/slim line
610R----- Colt 1911 w/slim line
630----- Browning HighPower
637R----- Beretta 96F w/slim line
609R----- HK USP Full Size Frame
640R----- Sig P228, 229
614R----- Sig P220
633R----- Beretta 92F/SB



Millennium, Nitrolon, Military Series Pistol Lights
The other systems share a common naming system and mount to rails built into the guns frame.  The first letter indicates the series.
M1xx----- Millennium System.  Has the same bezel as the 9V M3 and offers the brightest light (up to 225 lumens) you can mount to a pistol, but at a steep price, weight, and size.
P1xx----- Nitrolon System.  A lightweight polymer 6V pistol system.

W1xx----- Military Series.  These are rugged but heavier aluminum 6V pistol systems.


The first number (second digit) is always 1.  The second number (third digit) indicates whether or not the system has the grip activated momentary pressure switch shaped to the contour of the firearm.  1 means pressure pad, 0 means no pressure pad.  The pressure pads cannot be easily removed.  The final digit indicates what pistols the system mounts to

X1x1----- Glock
X1x2----- Springfield XD
X1x3----- Sig P220
X1x4----- Sig P226, 228, 229
X1x5----- H&K USP Full Size
X1x6----- Beretta 92F, 92SB, 96F

Suffixes indicate what type of switching and activation the system has.
None----- Constant on shuttle switch.  Light can be locked on. This is the standard arrangement.
C----- Constant on shuttle switch.  Light can be locked on.
D----- Disable shuttle switch.  Light can be locked off.
DG----- Slim line reduced contact momentary and system disable shuttle.  This was developed for special forces that wanted to lock the light out and be able to activated it with the momentary pressure switch only by pushing it in just the right spot.
C-DG----- Slim line reduced contact momentary and constant on shuttle switch.
D-DG----- Slim line reduced contact momentary and disable shuttle switch.


STREAMLIGHT
Streamlight makes pistol mounted lights used by police departments everywhere (M3, M6, M3X, M6X).  They are shock isolated with tough bulbs, but the switches are known to be on the weak side.  Other than that they are excellent for pistol use or indoor carbine use.  
Streamlight_Tactical_Lights

Streamlight handhelds are also great lights for the money. The TL series now feature lights advertised as shock proof and kits are available with pressure pad switches and light mounts.  These lights should be fine for weapons use.

PENTAGON LIGHTS
Cheap and effective personal lights.  Shock isolated bezels that seem to hold up to weapons duty quite well.  The batteries and bulb are separated by the design.  Their krypton bulbs have great throw and peripheral.  Typically they have 95% of the performance of the Surefire weapons equivalent, but at less than half the cost for the personal light models.  The X2 typically has a slightly better beam than a surefire P60, and the X3 has a beam slightly better than the P90.  The models with rail mounts (throw lever or thumbscrews) typically cost much more, but the only difference is the mount.  The L2 and L3 are LED versions which are basically shock proof and seem to have a beam that’s equivalent to the incandescent competition.  For the money, these are the best weapons grade lights you can buy.  The LED’s seem to be the way to go for a bomb proof cheap weapons light with average 6 volt throw.
Pentagon_Weapons_Quality_Lights
X2-HA

H3-HA



NIGHT OPS GLADIUS
A revolutionary LED handheld light with a beam slightly better in both flood and throw than typical 65 lumen rated incandescent 6volt bulbs.  It has a strobe mode, lockout position, digitally adjustable output, and momentary on switch positions.  Built as handheld, but the LED and quality construction makes it great for weapons use with just a good mount.  A tape switch is coming soon.
Knight_Ops_Gladius_Weapon_Quality_Light


LARUE TACTICAL BATTLE LIGHT
A new high quality LED dedicated weapons light from the maker of some of the best hardware and mounts found on AR’s.  The integrated body mount limits mounting positions, but typically works for 98% of us that use a vertical fore grip.  This is a 9V LED with awesome range, a good hotspot, and long runtime.  The light now comes with a spare body so you can use the light as a handheld as well.
Larue_Tactical_Battle_Light


LASER DEVICES
Very good lights and weaponlights at reasonable prices.  They are shock isolated and have great beams.
Laser_Devices
Laser Devices OP-6 with push button and built in throw lever top, OP-9 with switchable tailswitch and throw lever bottom

LAS/TAC2

Laser Devices OP-9 with tapeswitch


PELICAN LIGHTS
Great personal lights.  They are generally light, small, and balanced with beams similar to the competition.

INOVA
High quality LED lights with great performance and a tube like appearance.  They are not bright enough for tactical use, though great for a general light or navigation.  (I need some good commentary and information on these)

BRINKMAN LX MAXFIRE
This is a cheap Wal-Mart light known to start fights between AR15’ers because it’s cheap, but works pretty dang good as a weapons/tactical light. DO NOT TRUST YOUR LIFE TO THIS LIGHT, but its perfect for a plinker and makes a great cheap handheld.


TAC-STAR
Cheap Lights.  Ok for fun.  Not many people have used them or like them.

DIGILIGHTS
Cheap.  Not many people have used them, and probably for good reason.

The Big Flashlight Comparison Chart

Weights should be the weight of the light or system with batteries installed, but are not guaranteed correct.

Lum is the factory rated output in Lumens.  XX/YY denotes two different bulbs avaible and their respective output or runtime.

Bezel Diameter is the OD of the bezel.  AA/BB means a bezel with AA diameter, but other restriction such as bumps or raised patterns that can make the effective diamter BB.  The AA dimension would be used when choosing filters.



SUREFIRE LARGE FRAMED HANDHELDS

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF G2_______________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 4.00 oz___ _ 5.0 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF G2Z______________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 4.10 oz___ _ 5.1 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF Z2 Combat Light____ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 4.80 oz___ _ 5.1 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF 6P_______________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 5.20 oz___ _ 5.1 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF 9P_______________ 105/200 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 6.40 oz___ _ 6.7 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 9 V__ _ P90/91
SF C2 Centurion______ 65/120 Lum____ _ 60/20 min___ _ 5.30 oz___ _ 5.1 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF C3 Centurion______ 105/200 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 6.70 oz___ _ 6.4 in___ _ 1.25/1.3 in___ _ 9 V__ _ P90/91


SUREFIRE SMALL  FRAMED HANDHELDS (EXECUTIVE SERIES)

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF E1L______________ 25 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 2.90 oz___ _ 3.8 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 3 V__ _ KL1
SF E1E______________ 15 Lum_______ _ 90 min______ _ 2.20 oz___ _ 3.3 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 3 V__ _ MN01
SF E2L______________ 30 Lum_______ _ 180 min_____ _ 3.50 oz___ _ 5.3 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 6 V__ _ KL1
SF E2E______________ 25/60 Lum____ _ 150/75 min__ _ 3.10 oz___ _ 4.5 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 6 V__ _ MN02/03
SF E2O______________ 25/60 Lum____ _ 150/75 min__ _ 3.20 oz___ _ 4.5 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 6 V__ _ MN02/03
SF E2D______________ 25/60 Lum____ _ 150/75 min__ _ 3.30 oz___ _ 4.9 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 6 V__ _ MN02/03


SUREFIRE LED HANDHELDS (LUMIMAX SERIES + A2 AND U2)

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF L1_______________ 22/1 Lum_____ _ 240/5K min___ _ 2.90 oz___ _ 4.6 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 3 V__ _ LED
SF L2_______________ 100/15 Lum___ _ 60/1K min____ _ 4.20 oz___ _ 6.1 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 6 V__ _ 5watt LED
SF L4_______________ 65 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 5.30 oz___ _ 4.0 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 6 V__ _ KL4 5watt
SF L5_______________ 65 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 7.20 oz___ _ 6.0 in___ _ 1.47 in______ _ 6 V__ _ KL5 5watt
SF L6_______________ 65 Lum_______ _ 95 min______ _ 8.40 oz___ _ 7.7 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 6 V__ _ KL6 5watt
SF L7_______________ 75 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 11.30 oz__ _ 7.9 in___ _ 1.47 in______ _ B90 _ _ 5watt LED
SF A2 led/krypt_______ 50 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 4.10 oz___ _ 5.6 in___ _ 1.13 in______ _ 6 V__ _ MA/02
SF U2 ULTRA _________ 80var Lum____ _ _____ min___ _ 5.70 oz___ _ 6.1 in___ _ 1.47 in_____ _ 6 V__ _ 5wat LED


SUREFIRE COMBAT LIGHTS (NOT WEAPONLIGHTS, BUT WORK WELL ON LIGHT RECOILING WEAPONS)

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF M1 IR Illuminator___ ______ Lum___ _ 900__ min___ _ 3.10 oz___ _ 3.8 in___ _ 1 / 1.1 in____ _ 3 V__ _ ____
SF M2 Centurion_______ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 5.20 oz___ _ 5.8 in___ _ 1.47 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF M3 Combat Light____ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 7.00 oz___ _ 7.1 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF M3T Turbo Head____ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 9.60 oz___ _ 7.8 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16
SF M4 Dominator______ 225/350 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 11.40 oz__ _ 8.3 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 12 V_ _ MN60/61
SF M6 Guardian_______ 250/500 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 15.00 oz__ _ 7.8 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 18 V_ _ MN20/21


SUREFIRE PISTOL LIGHTS

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF M1xx Millenium Series 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF P1xx Nitrolon Series_ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.47 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF W1xx Miltary Series_ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.36 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF 6xx Classic Series___ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.36 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF X200A LED TIght____ 65 Lum______ _ 60 min______ _ 4.00 oz___ _ 3.7 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ 5watt LED
SF X200B LED Flood____ 65 Lum______ _ 60 min______ _ 4.00 oz___ _ 3.7 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ 5watt LED


SUREFIRE DEDICATED WEAPONS LIGHTS

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF M500A Carbine_____ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 20.80 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF M500AB Carbine ___ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 22.10 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16
SF M500B Carbine_____ 250/500 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 25.00 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 18 V_ _ MN20/21
SF M510A Rifle________ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ ____ oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF M510AB Rifle_______ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ ____ oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16
SF M510B Rifle________ 250/500 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ ____ oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 18 V_ _ MN20/21
SF 951C_____________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 9.20 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.47 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF 952C_____________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 10.00 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.47 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF 961C_____________ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 11.50 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF 962C_____________ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 12.30 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF 96LZ48___________ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 11.50 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF 971C_____________ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 12.80 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16
SF 972C_____________ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 13.60 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16
SF 981C_____________ 225/350 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 14.60 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 12 V_ _ MN60/61
SF 982C_____________ 225/350 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 15.40 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 12 V_ _ MN60/61
SF Classic Universal 6V_ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 5.20 oz___ _ 5.1 in___ _ 1.36 in______ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF Classic Universal 9V_ 105/200 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 6.40 oz___ _ 6.7 in___ _ 1.36 in______ _ 9 V__ _ P90/91
SF M60LZ61__________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 6.50 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF M60LUE07_________ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 7.30 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ P60/61
SF M600A scout_______ 30 Lum______ _ 180 min____ _ 6.50 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ KL1 3W
SF M600A scout ______ 65 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 6.50 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ KL4 5W
SF M600A scout kit____ 65/120 Lum___ _ 60/20 min___ _ 6.50 oz___ _ 0.0 in____ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ KL4/P61


SUREFIRE VERTICAL GRIP BOTTOM RAIL MOUNTED LIGHTS

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SF M900A vert grip____ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 18.90 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF M910A vert grip____ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 18.10 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.62 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN10/11
SF M900AB vert grip___ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 20.20 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16
SF M910AB vert grip___ 125/225 Lum__ _ 60/20 min___ _ 19.40 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ MN15/16


STREAMLIGHT

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
SL M3_______________ 80-90 Lum____ _ 60 min______ _ 3.30 oz___ _ 3.4 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ ________
SL M3X______________ 125 Lum______ _ 60 min______ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 3.4 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ ________
SL M6_______________ 100 Lum______ _ 60 min______ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 3.4 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ ________
SL M6X______________ 126 Lum______ _ 60 min______ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 3.4 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ ________
SL TL-2 1W LED_______ 42 Lum_______ _ _____ min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 0.90 in______ _ 6 V__ _ 1watt LED
SL TL-2 Xenon________ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 0.90 in______ _ 6 V__ _ ________
SL TL-3 5W LED_______ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min___ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 9 V__ _ 5watt LED
SL TL-3 Xenon________ 200 Lum______ _ ______ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 9 V__ _ ________
SL Scorpion__________ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min___ _ 4.40 oz___ _ 4.9 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ ________


LASER DEVICES

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
LD OP6______________ 95 Lum_______ _ 90 min_____ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ ________
LD OP6 weapon________ 95 Lum______ _ 90 min_____ _ 4.60 oz___ _ 5.3 in___ _ 1.00 in______ _ 6 V__ _ ________
LD OP9______________ 120 Lum______ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 9 V__ _ ________
LD OP9 weapon________ 120 Lum_____ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 9 V__ _ ________
LD LAS/TAC2_________ 125 Lum______ _ 70 min______ _ 3.10 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ 5watt LED
Pistol Mnt LED

LD LAS/TAC2_________ 95 Lum_______ _ 60 min______ _ 3.10 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in___ _ 6 V__ _ ________
Pistol Mnt Xenon



PENTAGON

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
Pentagon X2 krypton___ 70 Lum_______ _ 60 min_____ _ 5.20 oz___ _ 5.5 in___ _ 1.25 in______ _ 6 V__ _ BX-2
Pentagon X3 krypton___ 135 Lum______ _ 60 min_____ _ 6.90 oz___ _ 7.0 in___ _ 1.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ BX-3
Pentagon X4 krypton  ___ 250 Lum_____ _ 60 min______ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 12 V_ _ BX-4
Pentagon MS2 krypton _ 70 Lum_______ _ 60 min_____ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 5.5 in___ _ 1.25 in______ _ 6 V__ _ BX-2
Pentagon MS3 krypton__ 135 Lum_____ _ 60 min______ _ 8.40 oz___ _ 7.0 in___ _ 1.50 in______ _ 9 V__ _ BX-3
Pentagon MS4 krypton__ 250 Lum_____ _ 60 min______ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 2.50 in______ _ 12 V_ _ BX-4
Pentagon L2 3W LED___ 65 Lum_______ _ 60 min_____ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.25 in______ _ 6 V__ _ 3watt LED
Pentagon L3 LED______ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 9 V__ _ ________
Pentagon L4 LED  ______ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 12 V_ _ ________
Pentagon S2 19LED____ 19 Lum_______ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ 19 LEDs
Pentagon S2 3W LED___ 30 Lum_______ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ 3watt LED


VARIOUS HIGH QUALITY WEAPONS LIGHTS

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
Gladius LED___________ 80 Lum______ _ 90 min______ _ 5.50 oz___ _ 6.2 in___ _ 1.25 in______ _ 6 V__ _ 5watt LED
LT Battle Light________ 100 Lum______ _ 90 min______ _ 12.50 oz__ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.4/1.5 in____ _ 9 V__ _ 5watt LED
LT Weapon Light ______ 70 Lum_______ _ 90 min_____ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ 3watt LED


OTHER VARIOUS LIGHTS

Light__________________ Lumens ______ _ Run_ ______ _ Wt._ __ _ Length __ _ Bezzel Dia___ _ Volt __ _ Bulb
Brinkman LX___________ ______ Lum__ _ _____ min__ _ 4.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ 1.32/1.37 in___ _ 6 V__ _ ________
Pelican M6 LED________ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 6 V__ _ 3watt LED
Inova T3_____________ ______ Lum___ _ _____ min__ _ 0.00 oz___ _ 0.0 in___ _ ______ in____ _ 9 V__ _ LED

THROW DISTANCE RATING CHART

This Chart lists the bulbs/heads/LED's of various lights and ranks them by their ability to "throw" light over distance


ID range will be considered as the max distance where you can still tell the difference between 2 peoples faces in complete darkness considering only light factors, not distance/eyesight factors.  I own none of these lights, so comparisons and actual experiences/tests are welcome.

Hotspot @ 10' is the diameter of the "hotspot" of the beam in inches measured from 10 ft away.

Please don’t go on about my X is a lot better than Y without doing a physical, personal test and comparison.  Im looking for actual comparison with comments like; " X and Y have the same throw" or " I could identify the target with X from 10 yards farther away than with Y".


__ ____________________ __ ___ Lumens _ Run _ ___ _____ Hotspot _
__ 150 - blinding_________ Volt ___ Rated __ Time _ ID_ Range at 10' _ Comment________________________
_1 SF MN21 Turbo Head__ 18V __ 500 ____ 20 ___ 160 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_2 SF MN61 Turbo Head__ 12V __ 350 ____ 20 ___ 130 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_3 Pentagon BX-4________ 12v __ 250 ____ 60 ___ yd___ 0 in.____ Not released yet
_4 SF MN20 Turbo Head__ 18v __ 250 ____ 60 ___ 100 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_5 SF MN60 Turbo Head__ 12V __ 225 ____ 60 ___ 90 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_6 SF MN16 Turbo Head__ 9V ___ 225 ____ 20 ___ 90 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_7 SF MN11____________ 9V ___ 225 ____ 20 ___ 80 yd___ 0 in.____ Better throw due to reflector
_8 SL TL-3______________ 9v ___ 200 ____ __ ___ 75 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_9 SF P91______________ 9V ___ 200 ____ 20 ___ 70 yd___ 0 in.____ Lots of flood




__ ____________________ __ ___ Lumens _ Run _ ___ _____ Hotspot _
__ 100 - 150 lumens_____ Volt ___ Rated __ Time _ ID_ Range at 10' _ Comment________________________
_1 SF MN15 Turbo head 9V ___ 125 ____ 60 ___ 70 yd___ 0 in.____ Awesome throw, tight hotspot
_2 SF MN10____________ 9V ___ 125 ____ 60 ___ 60 yd___ 0 in.____ Better Throw due to reflector
_3 Pentagon BX-3________ 9V ___ 135 ____ 60 ___ 60 yd___ 0 in.____ Much like theSF MN10
_4 SF N3 + LED_________ 9v ___ 140/20 __ 40/150 60 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_5 SF N2_______________ 9V ___ 105 ____ 60 ___ 60 yd___ 0 in.____ Interchangeable with MN15/16
_6 SF N90 + LED________ ___ 140 ____ 40 ___ 60 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_7 SF P61______________ 6V ___ 120 ____ 20 ___ 55 yd___ 12 in.___ Great outdoor weapons light
_8 LD OP9_____________ 9V ___ 125 ____ 60 ___ 55 yd___ 0 in.____ Adjustable spot to flood, but overrated
_9 LD Lac/Tac2 (5W)_____ 6V ___ 125 ____ 60 ___ 55 yd___ 0 in.____ Lots of flood
10 Streamlight M3X______ 6V ___ 125 ____ 60 ___ 55 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
11 SF N5_______________ 9v ___ 110 ____ 50 ___ 55 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
12 SF P90______________ 9V ___ 105 ____ 60 ___ 50 yd___ 0 in.____ Good flood.
13 Larue Tactical Light 5W 9V ___ 100 ____ 90 ___ 50 yd___ 0 in.____ Best LED




__ ____________________ __ ___ Lumens _ Run _ ___ _____ Hotspot _
__ 60 to 100 lumens______ Volt ___ Rated __ Time _ ID_ Range at 10' _ Comment________________________
_1 LD Lac/Tac2 Xenon____ 6V ___ 95 _____ 60 ___ 45 yd___ 0 in.____ Adjustable spot to flood, but overrated
_2 LD OP6_____________ 6V ___ 95 _____ 60 ___ 45 yd___ 0 in.____ Adjustable spot to flood, but overrated
_3 Laser Devices OP-6____ 6V ___ 90 _____ 60 ___ 45 yd___ 0 in.____ Overrated Lumens and useful run time
_4 Gladius (5W)_________ 6V ___ 80 _____ 90 ___ 45 yd___ 0 in.____ Great Throw for LED, adjustable intensity.
_5 SF N1_______________ 6V ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 45 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_6 Streamlight M3X LED__ 6V ___ 125 ____ 60 ___ 40 yd___ 0 in.____ Great handgun light, lots of flood
_7 Pentagon BX-2________ 6V ___ 70 _____ 60 ___ 40 yd___ 0 in.____ Like SF P60_______________________
_8 SF P60______________ 6V ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 40 yd___ 12 in.___ Minimum Performance for weapons light
_9 Brinkman LX__________ 6V ___ ?? ______ ?? ____ 40 yd___ 12 in.___ Not a quality beam, dark spots etc
10 Streamlight M3_______ 6V ___ 80-90 __ 60 ___ 40 yd___ 0 in.____ Great handgun light, lots of flood
11 Pentagon L-2 (5W)____ 6V ___ 70 _____ 60 ___ 40 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
12 SF KL3 (3W)new______ 6/9V ___ 19 _____ 255 __ 40 yd___ 0 in.____ Very small hot shop, no real flood
13 Pelican M6 (3W) 6v ___ ___ _____ ___ ___ 40 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
14 SF MN03____________ 6v ___ 60 _____ 75 ___ 35 yd___ 0 in.____ Small, very tough bulb.  Great beam
15 SF KL6 (5W)_________ 9v ___ 65 _____ 95 ___ 35 yd___ 0 in.____ LED with larger head for more throw
16 SF KL5 (5W)_________ 6V ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 35 yd___ 0 in.____ LED with flood and throw like P60
17 SF X200A (5W)_______ 6V ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 35 yd___ 0 in.____ The throw model
18 SF KL1 (3W)_________ 6V ___ 30 _____ 180 __ 30 yd___ 0 in.____ Tight beam, great throw, long run




__ ____________________ __ ___ Lumens _ Run _ ___ _____ Hotspot _
__ Indoors only_________ Volt ___ Rated __ Time _ ID_ Range at 10' _ Comment________________________
_1 SF X200B (5W)_______ 6V ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ The flood model
_2 SF L7 LED___________ B90 ___ 75 _____ 60 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_3 SF KL4 (5W)_________ 6V ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ Bright with lots of flood
_4 SF L4 LED___________ 6v ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_5 SF L5 LED___________ 6v ___ 65 _____ 60 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_6 SF L6 LED___________ 9v ___ 65 _____ 95 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________




__ ____________________ __ ___ Lumens _ Run _ ___ _____ Hotspot _
__ Not bright enough___ Volt ___ Rated __ Time _ ID_ Range at 10' _ Comment________________________
_1 SF MA02 + LED______ 6v ___ 50 _____ 60 ___ 25 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_2 SF MN02____________ 6v ___ 20 _____ 150 __ 20 yd___ 0 in.____ Long lasting, but very bright
_3 SF KL3 (3W)Old______ 6/9V ___ 19 _____ 255 __ 20 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_4 SF L1 LED___________ 3v ___ 22 _____ 240 __ 15 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________
_5 SF MN01____________ 3v ___ 15 _____ 90 ___ 10 yd___ 0 in.____ ___________________________________

Surefire Standard Heads/Bezels/LED Heads/Turbo Kits


Head __ _______________________________ Bezel ___ Shock _ ___________ Output
Kit __ Description______________________ Dia.__ _____ Isolated Bulbs______ __ Lumens Run Time _ Body __ Fits_____________________________________
Z32 __ Classis Universal Syst. shock isolated bezel_ 1.36 in____ yes ___ P60/61/90/91 __ 65-200 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Type __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
G2 ___ G2 standard bezel________________ 1.25/1.3 in__ no ____ P60/61/90/91 __ 65-200 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Type __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
6P ___ 6P standard bezel________________ 1.25/1.3 in__ no ____ P60/61/90/91 __ 65-200 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Type __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
E ____ Standard Executive Series bezel_____ 1/1.1 in___ N/A ___ MN01/02/03 ___ 15-60 ____ 150-70 ___ Exec___ __ E1L, E1E, E2, E2E, E2O, E2D, E2L, M600A


LED Conversion Heads

KL1 __ 3/6v LED Conversion Head__________ 1 / 1.1 in___ LED ___ 3 watt LED ____ 25/30 60/180 ___ Exec___ __ E1L, E1E, E2, E2E, E2O, E2D, E2L, M600A
KL2 __ L2 Head adjustable ouput head______ 1 / 1.1 in___ LED ___ 5 watt LED ____ 100 _____ 60 ______ L2_____ __ L2
KL3 __ 6/9v LED Conversion Head__________ 1 / 1.1 in___ LED ___ 3 watt LED ____ 19/19.5 ____ 255/420 ___ 6P Type __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
KL4 __ 6v LED Conversion Head___________ 1 / 1.1 in___ LED ___ 5 watt LED ____ 65 ______ 60 ______ Exec___ __ E1L, E1E, E2, E2E, E2O, E2D, E2L, M600A
KL5 __ 6/9v LED Conversion Head__________ 1.47 in____ LED ___ 5 watt LED ____ 65 ______ 60 ______ 6P Type __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
KL6 __ 6v LED Conversion Head___________ 1.63 in____ LED ___ 5 watt LED ____ 65 ______ 90 ______ Millen__ __ M3, M3T, M4, Millenium, M96x, M97x


Turbo Head Conversion Kits

KT1 __ 6v Turbo Head Conversion Kit________ 2.50 in____ no ____ N1,MN15/16 __ 65 ______ 60 ______ 6P Type __ 6P, C2, D2, Z2, M2
KT2 __ 9v Turbo Head Conversion Kit________ 2.50 in____ no ____ N1,MN15/16 __ 105 _____ 60 ______ 6P Type __ 9P, C3, D3, Z3
KT3 __ Turbo Head Conversion Kit + LED____ 2.50 in____ no ____ N3_________ __ 140/20 ____ 40/150 __ 9AN___ __ 9AN
KT4 __ Turbo Head Conversion Kit__________ 2.50 in____ yes ___ MN15/16 ____ 125-225 ___ 60-20 ___ Millen__ __ Millenium, M3,M4, M9xx,M5xx
KT5 __ 9v Turbo Head Conversion Kit________ 2.50 in____ no ____ N5_________ __ 110 _____ 50 ______ _______ __ 8AX, 8NX


Standard Bezels for Millenium Series

M2 ___ Shock isolated incandescent 6 volts__ 1.47 in____ yes ___ P60/61/90/91 __ 65-200 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Type __ M2, M95x, or add battery exension for 9v bulbs
L10 __ Shock isolated incandescent 9 volts__ 1.62 in____ yes ___ MN10/11 ____ 125-225 ___ 60-20 ____ Millen__ __ M3,M3T, M96x,M97x, M9x0 A/AB, M5x0 A/AB
L15 __ Same but 9 volt Turbo Head_________ 2.50 in____ yes ___ MN15/16 ____ 125-225 ___ 60-20 ____ Millen__ __ M3,M3T, M96x,M97x, M9x0 A/AB, M5x0 A/AB
M60 __ Same but 12 volt Turbo Head________ 2.50 in____ yes ___ MN60/61 ____ 225-350 ___ 60-20 ____ Millen__ __ M4, M98x,(M3,M3T, M96x,M97x w/batt ext), M9x0B, M5x0B


Conversion Kits for putting Millennium Type Heads on 6P type bodies using special adapters.  (indicates what bezel)

LU10 __ 9V shock isolated conversion kit (M3)_ 1.62 in____ yes ___ MN10/11 __ 125-225 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Adap __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
LU15 __ 9V shock isolated turbo conv. kit (M3T) 2.50 in____ yes ___ MN15/16 __ 125-225 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Adap __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
LU60 __ 12V shock isolated turbo conv. kit (M4) 2.50 in____ yes ___ MN60/61 __ 225-350 ___ 60-20 ____ 6P Adap __ 6P,9P,Z2,Z3,G2,G2Z,M1,M2,D2,D3,C2,C3,Classics
LU60A _ Incandescent Head for M600A_______ 0.00 in____ yes __ P60/61/90/91 __ 65-200 ____ 60-20 ____ Exec___ __ Scout Light (M600A), add battery ext. for 9v bulbs


SUREFIRE HEAD/BODY/TAILCAP COMPATIBILITY

The following Surefire bodies have bezels exchangeable with the 6P (6P Type)
6P,9P
Z2, Z3
G2, G2Z
M1, M2
C2, C3
D2, D3
M95x
L5 (M2 body)
All Classic Universal System Weaponlights (they use Z32 bezel)

The following Surefire bodies have bezels exchangeable with the Millennium Series (Millennium Type)
M3,M3T,M4,M6?
M96x, M97x, M98x
M500 series
M900 series
L6 (M3 body)

All 6P and Milleniuim type bodies can share the same tailcaps.
The Z41, Z48, Z49, Z58, Z59, SW01, SW02, SU0x, UM0x & XM0x tailcaps will all interchange with 6P or Millennium type bodies.

The following Surefire bodies have exchangeable heads and tailcaps (Executive Type)
E1E, E1L, E2E, E2D, E2L, E2O
M600A Scout
L4

The Z52, Z57, Z61, Z68 & UE tailcaps will all interchange on Executive type lights. The E series bezels, KL1 & KL4 LED heads & the LU60A module will all interchange.

The L7 and the 8AX have the same body.


SUREFIRE TAILCAPS LIST



This is a partial Surefire Parts list that focuses on Tailcaps.  I need help with the blanks.


Tailcap __ Finish______ __ Button Shape___ __ Lockout __ Click on __ Cord_ __ Body __ __
Z10 _____ ___________ __ Protruding Switch __ Yes___ __ NA____ __ NA___ __ ____ __ __ Lockout switch for M900's
Z41 _____ ___________ __ _______________ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ ____ __ __ ____________________
Z48 _____ HA gray_____ __ Protective Lip___ __ Yes___ __ Yes___ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
Z49 _____ BlacK______ __ Protective Lip___ __ Yes___ __ Yes___ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
Z52 _____ ___________ __ _______________ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ Exec __ __ ____________________
Z57 _____ HA Green___ __ Protruding Button __ Yes___ __ Yes___ __ NA___ __ Exec __ __ ____________________
Z58 _____ Hard Anodized __ _______________ __ No____ __ Yes___ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
Z59 _____ ___________ __ _______________ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
Z61 _____ HA black____ __ Protruding Button __ Yes___ __ Yes___ __ NA___ __ Exec __ __ ____________________
Z62 _____ ___________ __ _______________ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ ____ __ __ ____________________
Z68 _____ ___________ __ _______________ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ Exec __ __ ____________________
SW01 __ ___________ __ _______________ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
SW02 __ ___________ __ Protruding Button __ ______ __ Yes___ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
UE07 __ ___________ __ Tape Switch____ __ No____ __ No____ __ 7in___ __ Exec __ __ ____________________
XM0x __ ___________ __ botton/tape switch __ No____ __ No____ __ 5" - 7" __ 6P__ __ __ Push button + tapeswitch
Su0x __ ___________ __ Tape Switch____ __ No____ __ No____ __ 5" - 7" __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________
UM0x __ ___________ __ Tape Switch____ __ ______ __ ______ __ NA___ __ 6P__ __ __ ____________________


The Z41, Z48, Z49, Z58, Z59, SW01, SW02, SU0x, UM0x & XM0x tailcaps will all interchange wit 6P or Millennium type bodies.

The Z52, Z57, Z61, Z68 & UE tailcaps will all interchange on Executive type lights.



A21 _____ Spacer: allows the use of 1 more battery

A19 _____ Spacer: allows the use of 1 more battery

A12 _____ Spacer: allows the use of 1 more battery

The following Surefire Bodies have threads (head and tailcap) identical to that of the Executive Series
E1E, E1L, E2E, E2D, E2L, E2O
M600 Scout
L4


The L1, L2 and A2 share the same TailCap (Z62 I believe)

The L5 and L6 share the same bodies as the M2 and M3

The L7 shares the same body as the 8AX

I thought Gladius was 3W LED not 5W LED.

Gladius is a T bin Lux III star based light.

Originally Posted By new-arguy: Keep the info and additions coming. This is excellent. I tac thee!

 Whoo Hooo.... Thanks new-arguy.

I need a link to how to properly use a light for defensive/offensive use and the weights of light mounts and various dimensions ill describe above.  Ill fix as many errors tonight as I can, but this may take a while to get straightened out.  When I get it all fixed, Ill get forest or someone to put the Excel spreadsheet up on themarylandar15shooter site.

In the Flashlight comparison chart, should I just take the last section (low battery runtime) out completely.  Especially since it only applies to LED's and takes up room I could use to "neaten" things up.

Opinions please.

Updated with pictures (mostly working) and HOT links.

I really need some good opinions on the THROW CHART.  I have made all those deductions based on peoples input from here.

More to be fixed later.  I gotta get some sleep.

Great info.

Has anyone seen the new TacStar lights.  I have 2 of them called the T9.  its a 9-volt 135lumens for an hour+, shock isolated light.  For $70 and under, they arent bad.  I dont think TacStar makes them, I think they have either Pelican or Pentegon make them.

+1 for  jonathan1994  Good info

i would take a second look at digilight. i used to be a hardcore surefire fan, but they have let me down and i refuse to deal with them any longer, i don't know if they have gotten to big for their own good, but i there customer service has gone down hill. ymmv

I built a couple of digilights using their parts from distributors. I use there t12 with a range extender head and find it to be very adaquate for identifying targets out to 100yds. I just recently went 'yote hunting with it attached to my AR. I have also put close to 1000 rnds with it mounted on there(left off) but probably around 100-200 or so rounds where is was on for an extended amount of time mounted. price for putting together one was around 120.00 including the price of the mount. i also carry a t12 as my truck light and it has well with stood the abuse i have put it through. and i carry a t9 daily at work along with a inova 5led floodlight(which is a great little light by the way). and have a t6 mounted on my helmet(i'm also a vol. firefighter) I still have a few surefire lights and comparing digilight to them, the quality is pretty much the same if not a little better as they use glass lenses instead of plastic, and through my own experience they will melt in a short amount of time. and the cost of digilights is about the price of a surefire. and I deal with blackrifles.com as a digilight distributer and their customer services is absolutely excellent.

I also have a friend that I bought a t9 for when he when over to the sandbox. he comes back home tommorow, but he is very impressed with how the light held up during his tour, including the life span of the bulbs, he had to change it only once while he was over there, he said he when through quite a few batteries over there. he leaves in a few weeks to go to afganistan, and he is taking the t9 with him.

Originally Posted By BrightFlashlights:
Originally Posted By jonathan1994:

The following Surefire bodies have identical tailcap threads:
6P,9P
Z2, Z3
G2, G2Z
M1, M2, M3, M3T, M4
C2, C3
D2, D3
L5, L6
All Classic Universal System Weaponlights
M95x, M96x, M97x, M98x
U2 Ultra

I know this is a crazy question but since the G2 shares the same tail cap threads as theses other lights, would it be safe to assume that the tape switch xm07 tailcap assembly would fit the G2 as it fits the Z58 serries tailcaps?
Crazy I know!?..  Who would want to put a $120.00 switch asssembly on a $36.00 light. But I've seen people ask.
Me? I got a cheap Xenon tape switch @ a gun show that works fine for $20.00. But decided that a tape switch on my light may prove to be a bad ideah. Don't want it turning on at the wrong times.

Thanks, I was just wondering. So what is your thoughts on this setup, as you have it shown?

For the record if anyone is looking for a tape switch only. CAA has one for $34.95 Part # PS8G2.

dAvE

So, will the XM tailcap work with Pentagon X2's or X3's?

No.  Surefire stuff wont work with the Pentagon Stuff.  Check with BrightFlashlights or Grant for tailcaps for the Pentagons.

And I gotta get back on this FAQ sometime. Lots of new stuff since December.

Thanks Jonathan.

Why are  junky pentagon lights so junky they give junk a bad name? Someone MUST know

Originally Posted By crazyneddie: Why are  junky pentagon lights so junky they give junk a bad name? Someone MUST know

I only own Surefire so I dont have personal experience, but everything I have heard about Pentagon has been great.  I plan on buying a few IF I ever get around to building my next rifle.  Lousy negative bank accounts

I would have to say most people think Surefire is first, but expensive.  Pentagon is a very close 2nd and a lot cheaper.

Where have you been getting your info?

So you explained red and blue filters but what are the green filters good for, the streamlight thunder ranch light includes a green light filter

Just curious did some searching with no real results other than navigation.

Originally Posted By gsxr_rcr: So you explained red and blue filters but what are the green filters good for, the streamlight thunder ranch light includes a green light filter Just curious did some searching with no real results other than navigation.

Not a clue myself.  maybe someone else knows.

Purchased a digilight T6 some time ago for $35.

it was rated for 70 lumens.

For the money, it was "ok".  Now that they're $55-$60, I'd pass (unless there's been a model upgrade I'm not aware of).

brightness?  with fresh batteries it was about as bright as my SF A2, but the beam wasn't as "clean" with little dark spots throughout.

given the choice (considering the digilight's new price) I'd take a SF G2.


The real champ here is the Pentagon lights X3 that I just received (thanks Calvin for the groupbuy).  Plenty of "aura" for peripheral identification, with a super-bright, concentrated central beam that's positively blinding.

The X3 is going to make a dandy weapon-light.  

As far as green filters go I have heard that they are good for hunting since they do not spook game and are supposed to preserve night vision.  I have not put this to the test other than using in a hiking situation (A2 Aviator in Green) when we came across javelina on the trail at night.  The pigs just sat there looking at us, but then javelina have never really run off when I have come across them in full light as well.

Can anyone shed any light on the quality and performance of the Pentagon UX200 and UX300 lights.

Thanks
11BLT

This might be a stupid question but I am searching for a flashlight for my Dads Birthday. I cant stand seeing him working on airplane with a huge 4D battery mag light. How many Lumen are the Mag lights? I see allot of 80 lumen lights but dont know if thats enough. My dad works indoor allot but need as much light as possible. I read on page one that 240 lumen is too much for indoor. Yet allot of the 112 lumen flashlight are too big still. I want to get him a small one yet not blind his eyes.

Any of the good 60 lumen lights mentioned will have a brighter and better beam than a 4D mag light.  Get him a Surefire G2, Pentagon X2 or their chepo light, or any of the other good 6v (2 battery) lights from Streamlight or .  Be sure to get plenty of batteries online cause they cost $5 each at Wal-Mart.  Thats the big advantage to a Mag Lite- D batteries are everywhere.

If your looking to spend over $100, get him an E2, Aviator, L2,U2, etc from surefire the Streamlight version of a Gladius.  All are AWSOME lights that will last a lifetime

Hey Calvin I bought a couple products from you, two 6P's and a TLR2

Question:  Why is the M600A so dam expensive?  $375 retail is crazy!  What features does it have to justify the cost?

Hey calvin,

I got an L2-HA from you last september.  I was wondering if I could put a tailcap with a remote tapeswitch on it.  The Pentagonlight website was clear as mud on that score.

Any light you could shed on the subject would be appreciated.  Er, no pun intended.

Does anyone have a pic of a Pentagon MS2 or MS3 on a rail? -I know they are excellent lights, but they sound a little large to mount on a forend?

Thanks in advance

Anyone know if there is a CREE LED for a M951XM?

Calvin-  


Will either the Vltor CK mount or The Larue LT-606 Mount fit my Surefire M3CB? Specifically the region north of the rubber baffle on the light and south of the bezel/head.

Calvin (Kevin?), do you know what I'm doing wrong with my G2 Nitrolon?  It keeps blowing bulbs.

My story:
I bought it at a local gun shop about 6 months ago on impulse (it was hanging next to the ammo cans that I was looking through).  I had read great things, but I thought, "$30 for a flashlight - this had better be worth it."  I took it home, installed the batteries, and tested it - wow.

I put it on my nightstand for "what was that sound downstairs?" patrol at night.  I have since turned it on 3 times.  If you add up all the times, it is about 5-10 minutes tops.  

The second time I turned it on - bright light for a split second, then dead.  I tested the Surefire batteries - 3.09V DC each.  I called Surefire, and they apologized and sent me a new P60 lamp assembly.  I installed it, tested it for a minute, and put it back on my nightstand, assuming I had gotten a bad lamp from the factory the first time.

Third time I turned it on just now (about 4 months later) - same thing: bright for a split second, then dead.  I called Surefire again - apology, new P60 being sent out.  This time, the guy said to keep both dead lamps in case it dies again and all needs to be sent back.

What am I doing wrong?  I am using their batteries that came with it.  I have never dropped the light or spilled anything on it.  All times I have used it, I twisted the tailcap on instead of pushing the rubber doohicky.  My bedroom is neither humid, hot, nor cold.  I don't let it run at all - just on, then off after a minute or so.

Do you think I have some kind of intermittent short across the bulb or something, or do you think I got two dud P60s?  Would buying an LED assembly for it make this go away?  I just wish I had a working flashlight I could count on, since I paid $35 with tax for it.  Surefire CS is great, but I want to be able to trust this thing and not need CS.  I'm afraid it will blow another lamp when I need it most.

You sell lots of them, so I figure you'd know more than anyone.  Thanks for any info you can provide (and for all the great YHM gear you sold me in the past).  

Originally Posted By BrightFlashlights: Do have a 4 year old that likes to use your light as a hammer? Seriously, I'm really not sure what's happening, the failures you've expierenced do sound like a defective lamp issue but the frequency is definitely abnormal for even the unluckiest individual.  Send me an IM or an email via AR15.com along with your address and I'll replace the G2 for you. Just return the other and I'll play with it when it gets here to see what's happening.

Nah, I couldn't ask you to do that.  I bought it from a local gun shop, so it's not your problem.  I just was hoping you'd say, "oh, because of the current regulator design, you need to turn it on at least once a month" or something.  I have looked it over (what little I can see without destroying it), and it looks fine to me.  I have had quite a few circuits classes, and I don't see any way it could go bad (no real way shorts could cause lamps to blow unless the short is in the lamp assembly), but I thought it was maybe more complex than it looked.  I've never dropped it, and I leave it stored on its side on the night stand.

I'll stick in the new lamp assembly and hope for the best.  If it blows, I will send it all back to Surefire with the dead P60s too.  Thanks for the offer to help, though.  I really do appreciate it.  

Who would have ever thought that a GLOCK pistol light the Glock 10 would fit on the front rail of my little AR pistol with a 10.5" Barrel and YHM ff rails, and kick out big time light, I am impressed for an $80 dollar investment:






Heres a review from Sniperworld:

Glock tactical weapon light GTL 10 [2nd generation]
Manufacturer Glock  
Description Weapon mounted tactical light

Quick look  [June 2005]
This time around the light came to us straight from the factory in Austria. Unlike the 1st gen. light that we sent back to Glock a while ago this one came in a proper Glock storage box including a spare bulb and an instruction manual. The light looked exactly the same as the first one we had but after closer inspection some differences and improvements were found.

The 2nd. gen light has a better on/off switch than the previous one. It's shaped a little differently which improves operating the light and it also has a better feel to it. It's now easier just to flick the light on for a second or two without it turning on fully. In fact the GTL10 switch feels better than the switch on the X200, but since the X200 has been used for a while (it has been tested underwater amongst other things) we can't say if the switch on the X200 is as sticky from the box as the switch on this particular light. The rubber seals on the battery compartment cover and light bezel on the GTL10 are now red as opposed to black on the previous model. We don't exactly know why this is or can it be used to identify the second generation lights from the first gen ones. Also the battery contact springs have been modified and are supposedly better than the original ones. Since we no longer have the 1st gen. model for comparison it's hard to tell how the springs are different. That's about it, we couldn't find any other differences between the 1st. and 2nd. gen. lights.

Testing
We will be testing the light by shooting at least 500 rounds through the gun with the light mounted and turning it on and off about 500 times. This in no way a proper durability test, but it should give some clue if the problems we experienced with the first light have been resolved. We will post the results of the test on this page also once we get the testing completed.

Test update July -05
So far so good. We have fired couple of hundred rounds through a G17 with the light mounted and turned on . The light switch has been tested by turning the light on and off about 1000 times now. So far we have experienced zero failures and after close inspection no cracks on the light frame were found. We will keep abusing the light some more and report the results again on this page.

[update Aug. 05]
The light has been attached to the G 17 for about 800-900 rounds now. No problems whatsoever. It appears that this one is a keeper.

I want to build an ar-15 upper and I want to use the 12 inch Yankee Hill forearm. I also want to get a tactical flashlight (the M900A Vertical Foregrip Weaponlight or the Pentagon MD3R LED Laserlight) but I'm not sure where to position it. I'm worried that where I want to place it may be too far back from the end of the forearm restricting some of the beam of light. Therefore I'm thinking that I need to get the shorter forearm so that the end of the flashlight lense area will be flush with the end of the forearm or stick out slightly further giving me more light. What is the rule for tactical flashlights to get the most optimum light. I really am interested in the 12 inch forearm because it allows more room to add other devices. What is your expert advice on this?? Am I putting too much thinking effort into building this upper or not?? Any help would be appreciated. I want to do it correctly the first time around.