User Panel
User Panel
User Panel
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 1:56:57 PM EDT
Here's where people think I'm completely nutzo, crazy, full-goose bozo, but after years of tinkering and trying different mounting positions and mounts, I've settled on a simple Surefire light in a scope ring mounted to one of those K-Z bayonet rails from Botach underneath the barrel. With the momentary switch on the Surefire, I just slide my offhand forward to hit the button with my middle finger knuckle for a quick flash of light in the pitch black, and I can also click the light for constant on with the same knuckle.
--The light is out of the way until I want it. --Being mounted in the middle underneath I don't have to contend with the sight tower interfering. --Being in the middle it lets me use it firing with either the strong or weak hand. --I can stick to relatively inexpensive lights and a simple 1" scope ring for mounting. --Not that it's a big deal, but mounting the light in the middle means that the light is evenly distrubuted and doesn't favor one side. --I can stick to the OEM unmodified M4 handguards and don't have to invest in a railed handguard --Hard gun cases have no trouble closing on the rifle since the flashlight doesn't create and extra "bulge" on one side that the case lid has to overcome. YMMV  Attached File |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 3:41:39 PM EDT
[#1]
Might have some issues rounding corners or barricade usage, but probably fine.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 3:49:01 PM EDT
[#2]
It doesn't matter what we think, it matters what you think as you're the user and not us.
I prefer offset and to the top left. It doesn't feel unbalanced at all and weight added is marginal. This way my preference for thumb over bore and the thumb break if fatigued is unhindered (I shoot lefty mostly). I know that you didn't ask in your header, but I prefer my switches up top and centered closer to my thumb for both thumb over bore or the thumb break. No shifts of impacts either. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 3:54:00 PM EDT
[#3]
I have my light mounted in an Elzetta 6 o'clock mount that is actuated by the front of the sling/sling swivel (depending on where you place the light.) I think simpler is better.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 3:55:59 PM EDT
[#4]
Offset top right keeps it out of the way of my support hand…
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 4:06:48 PM EDT
[#5]
9:00-10:00/2:00-3:00 depending if you are RH/LH
This allows you to operate the tail switch with your thumb while maintaining a normal support hand position. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 4:08:27 PM EDT
[#6]
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 4:34:43 PM EDT
[#7]
Noon is best, but 10:30/1:30 work really well IMO.
Can you shoot over cover without banging your light or having your light behind the cover when the light is mounted low. Is it easy to activate with either hand? |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 4:46:42 PM EDT
[#8]
I see your position as a negative prone and over barricade. But if you happy... I prefer 11 or 1
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 4:49:13 PM EDT
[#9]
If mounting the flashlight underneath was all that bad, why was it mounted that way on Larry Vickers' carbine?
 Larry's Delta CAR-15 |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 5:13:45 PM EDT
[#10]
Quote HistoryQuoted: If mounting the flashlight underneath was all that bad, why was it mounted that way on Larry Vickers' carbine?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56Si24-yEzQThat's not to say the way your doing it is wrong per se. If it works for you and you're aware of how others are doing it, carry on. I prefer to tuck my lights in offset, tight, and cantilevered out to the suppressor to minimize splash. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 5:35:05 PM EDT
[#11]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I see your position as a negative prone and over barricade. But if you happy... I prefer 11 or 1 This for me. Surefire M600 at 11 and Streamlight RM1 at 1 due to space on the rail and support hand position. Switch on top behind hand placement activated by moving thumb back an inch or 2. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 5:47:33 PM EDT
[#12]
1 or 3 o'clock with switch at 12 o'clock
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 5:50:23 PM EDT
[#13]
At 3 o'clock or offset around 1:30 or 2 -- keeps it out of the way and allows a thumb over bore grip w/ VFG as far out as you want it.
I generally prefer offset mounts because you can tuck it in tighter against the rail, but sometimes things like suppressor latches dictate mounting position.  
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 5:51:16 PM EDT
[#14]
Offset, top right, as a right hander.
The biggest down side to your setup OP is that if you go to rest your gun on top of a surface for stability you're grinding your light into the dirt/concrete/etc. and could damage it. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 7:15:00 PM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Offset, top right, as a right hander. With a remote switch, I'm assuming? |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 7:35:47 PM EDT
[#16]
On the carbines I do have a TLR-1 on, I run them at 12 o'clock.
I like this because the gun is no wider, and I can actuate the toggle via my right hand or left. It also sits below the plane of my optic, which is usually set at a lower 1/3 height. Lastly it put the light directly above the suppressor I'm using and has no upward shadow cast as if I put it at 6 o'clock. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 7:48:27 PM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryQuoted: With a remote switch, I'm assuming? |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 7:58:39 PM EDT
[#18]
11 with tailcap is the most reliable and thoughtless but I like having it at 1 for right-handed shooting as far as barriers go. I guess barriers can vary but I think if I could get a kick ass tape switch I'd mount most at 1 but 11 is simple.
I digress |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 8:22:57 PM EDT
[#19]
off set top left with the switch on top
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 8:59:24 PM EDT
[#20]
No matter where anyone mounts a light, there will always be a barricade or some position in which the light will be difficult to work with, or compromised by a barricade or cover. The light has to be mounted someplace, and all the reasons why other folks don't like OP's solution really don't matter...what matters is what OP finds most useful.
OP would never make everyone happy regardless of where he mounts the light...someone would think they have a better idea. It is almost a case of "stop liking what I don't like", but everyone is entitled to their opinion. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/25/2022 9:33:38 PM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted: If mounting the flashlight underneath was all that bad, why was it mounted that way on Larry Vickers' carbine? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56Si24-yEzQHe doesn't. That video just at trip down memory lane one what he USED to carry back when he was in Delta. They didn't have anything better...hell, it is wrapped in tape and held on with hose clamps. He actually runs his light on his personal weapon (and what he teaches with) at 12:00   FTA Larry Vickers Carbine Setup  Larry Vickers' Delta Force Colt 723 Carbine Edit: Added another video. That light is a divers light with a "pad" wired in by hand, and wrapped in innertube. Interesting video on Forgotten weapons. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 1:01:15 AM EDT
[#22]
As a right handed:
11 o’clock with tail cap. 1 o’clock with tape switch. OP, 6 o’clock has been working fine for decades. It’s a bit outdated for todays standards but if it works for you who cares. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 6:14:56 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryQuoted: |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 6:24:37 AM EDT
[#24]
 Attached FileI always mount mine on the right to keep it out of the way of my support hand and allow me to lay the rifle flat on it's left side. Pressure pad goes on top of the rail for actuation with my left thumb. I like to have the light tucked in at the 2 o clock but the IR laser kind of gets in the way for that. Also had to set my light back a bit on this rifle so I can get to the RC2 mounting latch. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 6:37:32 AM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryQuoted: 9:00-10:00/2:00-3:00 depending if you are RH/LH This allows you to operate the tail switch with your thumb while maintaining a normal support hand position. One of mine with a surefire light is set up at the 9:00. Super easy to operate with the support hand thumb on the tail cap switch.. My other light equipped rifle has the light at the 3:00, but has a tape switch on a vertical handle. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 6:47:13 AM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Offset top right keeps it out of the way of my support hand… |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 9:59:49 AM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryQuoted: No matter where anyone mounts a light, there will always be a barricade or some position in which the light will be difficult to work with, or compromised by a barricade or cover. This. When I mounted it anywhere between nine and three o'clock it seemed like I eventually snagged it on something. |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 1:04:04 PM EDT
[#28]
Shoot prone? Tall grass?
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 1:56:57 PM EDT
[#29]
Topic Moved
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 2:31:03 PM EDT
[#30]
I've got mine at 9:00. I don't use the pressure switch I use the toggle switch that came with it.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/26/2022 4:25:39 PM EDT
[#31]
As a righty I've traditionally used the light at about 1:30 or so, but since I've started buying suppressors I've considered moving the light to 10:30 or so as a small layer of protection from me slinging the rifle with a hot can against my leg.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 4/29/2022 11:28:40 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: LOL....fair enough... Something...something....moons and goons... |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/29/2022 11:38:36 AM EDT
[#33]
It is personal preference and how you use the weapon. 1 o'clock scout with 12 o'clock tape switch works well for me. Another factor is how far forward to mount it. I think it needs to clear the front sight post, if you have one, but not so far forward that side impact risk is increased. Just one opinion.
 |
|
|
|
Posted: 4/29/2022 11:50:17 AM EDT
[#34]
Quoted: Here's where people think I'm completely nutzo, crazy, full-goose bozo, but after years of tinkering and trying different mounting positions and mounts, I've settled on a simple Surefire light in a scope ring mounted to one of those K-Z bayonet rails from Botach underneath the barrel. With the momentary switch on the Surefire, I just slide my offhand forward to hit the button with my middle finger knuckle for a quick flash of light in the pitch black, and I can also click the light for constant on with the same knuckle. --The light is out of the way until I want it. --Being mounted in the middle underneath I don't have to contend with the sight tower interfering. --Being in the middle it lets me use it firing with either the strong or weak hand. --I can stick to relatively inexpensive lights and a simple 1" scope ring for mounting. --Not that it's a big deal, but mounting the light in the middle means that the light is evenly distrubuted and doesn't favor one side. --I can stick to the OEM unmodified M4 handguards and don't have to invest in a railed handguard --Hard gun cases have no trouble closing on the rifle since the flashlight doesn't create and extra "bulge" on one side that the case lid has to overcome. YMMV https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/271112/frankencoltwithromeo5_underbarrelflashli-2361692.JPG My only issues with that? 1. Creates barrel shadow that's above the light, removing some of my visibility. 2. Ever try to go supported against a barrier with that? Forces you higher than you might want to be. I keep my lights at the 10:30-11 position for ease of using my thumb to activate. Plus the Surefire Pro series keep the light super tight to the rail so no need to worry about being offset around walls, etc.  
|
|
|
|
Posted: 5/4/2022 9:51:38 AM EDT
[#35]
I think 12 o'clock is ideal but most of mine are at either 11 or 1 o'clock which are close enough for me.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 5/7/2022 8:03:28 AM EDT
[#36]
12 o’clock, as far forward as possible.
Ambidextrous No issues shooting over or around barricades on either side Adds no width to the gun Keeps the barrel shadow out of your FOV |
|
|
|
Posted: 5/7/2022 9:43:18 AM EDT
[#37]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I think 12 o'clock is ideal but most of mine are at either 11 or 1 o'clock which a close enough for me. I agree that 12 o'clock is ideal. Depending on the light, it will be at this point or 11 o'clock - no remote switch if I can help it. It adds weight and another point of failure. |
|
|
Win a FREE Membership!
Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week!
You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers.
AR15.COM is the world's largest firearm community and is a gathering place for firearm enthusiasts of all types.
From hunters and military members, to competition shooters and general firearm enthusiasts, we welcome anyone who values and respects the way of the firearm.
Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter to receive firearm news, product discounts from your favorite Industry Partners, and more.
Copyright © 1996-2024 AR15.COM LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Any use of this content without express written consent is prohibited.
AR15.Com reserves the right to overwrite or replace any affiliate, commercial, or monetizable links, posted by users, with our own.
