Recently bought a SA Operator and I am now looking for a light to go on it.  

If my budget is roughly around $250.00, would you prefer an M3 or an x200a?  I know the x200 is more than double the price of an M3, but is the quality worth it?  Is it more reliable, brighter, better with batteries, or am I just going to pay for Surefire's ego trip?  Any other prudent information would be appreciated, as well as other choices I'm not aware of.

Weaponlights are new to me.  h.gif

Thanks much

I have the X200A and it is the bomb! Bright solid light, made well and not bulky like many of the others. The new X200B looks promising too. As far as weapon lights if you go Surefire you can't go wrong.

kinda new to me too--i went w/ a used M3 from the EE for $80--could not be happier

i cant see a light more expensive than another firearm....but thats just me i guess

I have both and they are Great lights!
IMO, for shooting, I prefer an LED to Not have the worry of a bulb malfunction when you may need it most..
As I recall, the X200A has a little tighter spot for longer distance and the X200B has a little larger spill area for closer range.

check out the ledwave weaponlight.i got one new 4 around $50.00 and im impressed!see my post 4 pics and more info.

The X200 will be longer lasting with batteries, and LEDs are nigh indestructable. I'd go with one of the X200's.  Probably the "B" model. Less throw, but a broader beam, better IMO for indoors use.

ETA: Factor in the cost of batteries and lamps (bulbs).  With the Streamlight you'll go through batteries faster, and you'll need to replace the lamps.  With the X200 you never have to replace any lamps (though after about 50,000 hours of use the LED might quit and you'll need a new unit), and you'll get twice as much use from the batteries.  Basically it's cheaper to run.

I have the X200A, it's outstanding.  If I had it to do over, I'd think more carefully about maybe going to the "B" version.  It's more money, but might be better suited to close quarters work.  Actually, I think you'd be happy with either.  

I fondled the other at the local GS and wasn't as impressed with the construction.

Just thought of something else...

You didn't ask, but there is a guy on the Industry Board goes by Briteflashlights.  Get a price from him.  I think you'll be surprised how much less he sells for than anyplace else I could find.  Great service too.

thanks for the information guys.  It was all a really big help.  Much appreciated.