Going out to shoot in the dark is dangerous if you don’t have the right tactical light. No matter how sharp eyesight you have, you stand the risk of getting shot at or generally been in harm’s way without proper tactical light.
For those who use AR15s, the need for a tactical light can’t be overemphasized. Identifying possible treat is the primary reason why you need to have a rifle flashlight.
Some people believe that a tactical light puts a target on your back and makes you prone to attack. While this holds some level of truth, it is false in so many ways.
First, a tactical light is meant to be used when you perceive that there is danger. This means that you only turn on when you need to use it.
In this article, I will be sharing with you some of the best AR15 flashlights, giving you their pros and cons to help you make a better-informed buying decision when purchasing your AR15 flashlight.
Before we dive into the reviews of the best AR15 flashlights, here are some of the best AR15 flashlights.
Contents
- What Are The Best AR15 Flashlights?
- Ar15 Flashlight Comparison Table
- Top 11 Best Ar15 Flashlight Reviews in 2021
- 1. Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL
- 2. INFORCE WMLx 800 Lumens Gen 2
- 3. Feyachi FL-11 MB tactical Flashlight 1200
- 4. Fyland Tactical flashlight, 1200 Lumens
- 5. Ledlenser, P7R
- 6. BEST SUN tactical flashlight 1500 lumen Zoomable
- 7. OLIGHT PL-Pro Valkyrie 1500 Lumens
- 8. SHIGOO high power 1000Lm flashlight
- 9. WINDFIRE Tactical Flashlight Cree Xm-l T6 Led 1200 lm 3.7-18V 1 Mode Light Tactical Flashlight Torch with Pressure Switch/Tactical Switch and 45°Side Picatinny Mount Rail Offset Ring Side Mount
- 10. Monstrum 100 lumens
- 11. POVAST Tactical flashlight with Picatinny Rail Mount, 1200 lumens LED
- Things To Consider When Buying an AR15 Flashlight
- Things To Look Out For When Getting An AR15 Flashlight
- FAQs
- My Top Pick
What Are The Best AR15 Flashlights?
My research has helped me uncover some of the best AR15 Flashlights you can see in the market. I know you would make a great decision upon checking the list to determine the most suitable for you. Let’s see them!
- Best Budget Tactical Light: Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL
“1000-Lumen Tactical Weapon Mount Light with Rail Locating Keys and Lithium Batteries, Black-Box Packaged.” - Best Hunting Rifle Tactical light: INFORCE WMLx 800 Lumens Gen 2
“White Light Black Body WX-05-1 Weapon Mounted Light.” - Best High-Intensity Tactical Light: Feyachi FL-11 MB tactical Flashlight 1200
“Lumen Matte Black LED Weapon Light with Picatinny mount, rechargeable batteries, and Pressure switch.” - Best Waterproof Tactical flashlight: Fyland Tactical flashlight, 1200 Lumens
“LED Flashlight with Picatinny rails mount included Rechargeable batteries, pressure switch.” - Best sporting Tactical Light: Ledlenser, P7R
“Rechargeable flashlight with floating charger.” - Best Tactical Flashlight: BEST SUN tactical flashlight 1500 lumen Zoomable
“LED hunting light with quick release offset mount for outdoor hunting.” - Best Rifle Flashlight with Remote Switch: OLIGHT PL-Pro Valkyrie 1500 Lumens
“High Performance LED Rechargeable Weaponlight Rail Mount Tactical Flashlight with Magnetic Remote Pressure Switch.” - Best High Power AR15 flashlight: SHIGOO
“High power 1000Lm flashlight.” - Best long-distance Tactical Flashlight: WINDFIRE Tactical Flashlight Cree Xm-l T6 Led 1200 lm 3.7-18V 10
“Mode Light Tactical Flashlight Torch with Pressure Switch/Tactical Switch and 45°Side Picatinny Mount Rail Offset Ring Side Mount.” - Best Lightweight AR15 flashlight: Monstrum 100 lumens
“Ultra-compact Flashlight with 90-degree Ra mount and Detachable Remote Pressure Switch.” - Best backup Tactical Light: POVAST Tactical flashlight with Picatinny Rail Mount, 1200 lumens LED
“Hunting Torch with Wrist strap, super-bright, remote pressure switch tail, battery included, matte black.”
Ar15 Flashlight Comparison Table
Below, I will highlight a summary of the best Ar15 Flashlights. This will enable you view their specs from a first-hand point and enable great decision-making. I know you will love it.
Top 11 Best Ar15 Flashlight Reviews in 2021
1. Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL
(Best Budget Tactical Light)
Going to any battle requires you to be well prepared for the worst. With the Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 hl 1000, you are assured of one of the brightest tactical lights in the market. With a 1000 lumens brightness, and a 20,000-candela peak beam intensity, you can adequately see the center beam, and the light’s splash helps you see your surrounding area.
The build of this tactical is so sturdy that it can withstand any problematic shooting situation. The recoil-proof is strong, thanks to the aluminum used to make it. Also, it is lightweight, which means you don’t have extra weight on your hands.
The lithium battery lasts for up to 1.5 hours, allowing you enough time to scan and shoot.
One fantastic feature of this tactical light is how well it fits onto different rails and a broad range of weapons. The one and off switch make it easy for you to turn it and off quickly. With the ‘on and off’ levels, you don’t have to fiddle with the switch when turning it on. You get the brightest beam with the flicker of a switch.
You can easily replace the battery when it runs down, the tethered battery door and latches mechanism preventing battery loss.
The engineered optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination. With the IPX7 waterproof that protects the flashlight for up to 30minutes, under harsh rainy or snowy conditions, your flashlight won’t go off.
Key Features:
- Rail clamp system
- It mounts directly on handguns with Glock-style rails
- 1000 lumens; 283 beams
- Made from aluminum
- Lithium battery
- Portable flashlight for your rifle
- Bulb voltage of 3 volts
Pros
- It is waterproof and lasts for 30 minutes underwater
- The battery life is fair enough, lasting for 1hour 30minutes
- It has a bright, concentrated beam and a powerful peripheral illumination
- Steady on/off switch that makes it easy to turn the lights on and off
- It can fit existing light bearing holsters
- Has LED bulbs
Cons
- The battery doesn’t last very long
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Streamlight |
Material | Aluminum |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | 1.5 hours |
Battery type | Lithium metal |
Voltage | 3 volts |
Weight | 4.2 ounces |
2. INFORCE WMLx 800 Lumens Gen 2
(Best Hunting Rifle Tactical light)
The 800-lumen intensity of this flashlight helps you see as far as possible, making hunting easy and more fun.
A well-built flashlight with a glass-reinforced polymer body offers high-impact resistance and durability, making it withstand the harshest weather and the toughest of topographies. The waterproof of the INFORCE WMKx is so strong that the light will work effectively even in 66 feet deep water.
It has two lithium 123a batteries that last up to 2 hours on full use. The LED bulb is bright and has a powerful beam.
With this tactical light, you can see as far and as complete with a warm beam. The 800-lumen white light is powerful enough to offer you maximum illumination, no matter how dark the environment is.
Lightweight, the INFORCE WMKx weighs a paltry 0.22KG, adding very minimal load to your AR15 rifle. And the light is easy to install and can be attached to any 1913 Picatinny rail.
Key Features:
- Waterproof to 66 feet
- Easy-to-use operating models
- 2 hour run time
- Attaches to any standard 1913 Picatinny rail
- Weighs up to 4.02 ounces with batteries
Pros
- The lightweight of this flashlight means you have little or no extra weight on the rifle
- The battery lasts up to two hours, giving you enough time to recharge after the battery runs down
- This flashlight is easy to install on your rifle
- It has excellent ergonomics, making it easy to switch it on and off
- Doesn’t break or scratch easily
- An affordable flashlight for your rifle
Cons
- It can be hard to mount on the rail due to the unmatched wrenchscrew
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Inforce |
Material | Polymer |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | 2 hours |
Battery type | Lithium metal |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 4.3 ounce |
3. Feyachi FL-11 MB tactical Flashlight 1200
(Best High-Intensity Tactical Light)
There are a few tactical lights that are as durable and bright as the Feyachi FL-11 MB tactical light. With a brightness of 1200 lumens that can reach a distance of 200m, there is little chance that you will be caught unaware in the dark.
The charging time of the Feyachi FL-11 MB tactical flashlight is only 3 hours, meaning you can charge and go. And given how long the battery lasts: 4hours, you can rest assured that your battery will last you well into the night.
It can be mounted on any Picatinny rail and is easy to mount.
For military users, the dual-switch tail cap allows for easy single-handed operation.
Key features:
- Has two types of switches – a constant switch and a momentary ‘on pressure’ switch
- Offset mount is equipped with QD cam lock
- Made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy with a black anodized matte finish
- Has a brightness of 200 lumen
Pros
- The battery lasts long; 4hours
- Strong and durable
- Can withstand adverse weather conditions
- Has a pressure switch
- Can be easily installed
Cons
- Not the most portable tactical flashlight in the market.
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Feyachi |
Material | Aluminum alloy |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | 4 hours |
Battery type | Lithium |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 0.45 KG |
4. Fyland Tactical flashlight, 1200 Lumens
(Best Waterproof Tactical flashlight)
Going under the water with your riffle should not be a reason to worry about the Fyland Tactical Flashlight. With its rechargeable batteries and high brightness, this flashlight works entirely underwater, giving you more optimal quality in harsh weather conditions.
Strong and durable, you can rest assured that this flashlight won’t break easily and will serve you for a long time, thanks to the aluminum body. The constant on the button makes it easy to turn on.
The torch is so light that it shines as far as 656ft and a run time of four hours.
The torch can work both indoors and outdoors activities.
Key Features:
- Powerful ultra-bright light 1200 lumens
- Beam distance of 200 meters
- Ridges strike bezel
- 6061T aluminum Metal body
Pros
- It has a long battery life
- The body is durable and can withstand tough hitting
- Lightweight and portable
- Can be installed easily on several rails
- Has a pressure switch
- Has a quick release Picatinny mount
- The lithium battery charges fast
Cons
- Not the most affordable tactical flashlight
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Fyland |
Material | Aluminum alloy |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | 4 hours |
Battery type | Lithium |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 0.42 kg |
5. Ledlenser, P7R
(Best Sporting Tactical Light)
This flashlight comes with three lighting modes and an intense beam that pierces every darkness and exposes every enemy. The Lenlenser P7R is so good that many shooters trust its high intensity and brightness.
A durable flashlight made from the finest of materials, aluminum, these flashlights will serve you for as long as you want, in the harshest of weathers.
The three lighting modes means that you have a long battery life as you can switch between light modes. Also, the high intensity means that you can easily blind an attacker and shoot.
The ergonomics of this flashlight is so good that you can switch it on and off fast.
Key Features:
- Intense beam
- It is a very durable flashlight
- Universal rail mount
- It has three lighting modes
- It is compactable and lightweight
Pros
- This can be easily installed
- It has three light modes, so you can conserve your battery by switching to a dim mode when you’re not trying to blind a target
- Lightweight and can be moved around easily
- Water-resistant
- It has an-easy-to-find the ambidextrous switch
- The lithium battery that lasts relatively long hours
Cons
- The 3-switch light mode could be a problem in high-pressure situations.
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | GaiGaiMall |
Material | Aluminum alloy |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Lithium |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 3.2 ounces |
6. BEST SUN tactical flashlight 1500 lumen Zoomable
(Best Tactical Flashlight)
Looking for a durable flashlight with rechargeable batterie, the BESTSUN tactical flashlight 1500 lumen zoomable LED hunting light is your best bet. With the 1500 lumen intensity and an illumination distance of 300metres, this flashlight is your perfect eye-blinding flashlight.
You can change the zoom width to focus on a target or to see your peripheral surroundings.
As a one-mode flashlight, you don’t need to worry about not switching the lights on fast enough in a high-pressured situation. The strong aluminum alloy used to make this flashlight makes it a great bet in harsh conditions.
And even after a few hits on a hard surface, the BESTSUN won’t have visible scratches or break. On rainy days also, your flashlight is steady and ready to go.
The quick-release offset mount makes it easy to install. And this flashlight can be mounted on a standard rail and is fully adjustable with nuts and screws.
Key Features:
- Has a remote switch
- Quick-release offset mount
- It is waterproof.
- Aluminum body
- Zoomable adjustable focus
Pros
- The aluminum body makes it able to withstand high pressure and harsh conditions
- It has a relatively long battery life, 3 hours of battery life
- Waterproof so that you can use it well, even in rainy conditions
- Very bright and illuminates over a long distance; 300 meters
- Lightweight, making it easy to move around
- Portable
- It is easy to install
- Comes with great mounting hardware
Cons
- The remote switch can be dangerous in high pressured situations
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Bestsun |
Material | Aluminium |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Lithium ion |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 8.4 ounces |
7. OLIGHT PL-Pro Valkyrie 1500 Lumens
(Best Rifle Flashlight with Remote Switch)
If you’re the type of shooter who likes to control your rifle on/off with Remote Switch, then the Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie is your best choice. The Switch remote helps you turn the light on and off quickly.
The Olight PL-Pro is designed with a quick and attach feature that helps you Mount the light easy and fast.
The ambidextrous ON/OFF switch helps you to quickly switch the light on within the twinkle of an eye.
Bright illumination that can see as far as 280m, the Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie can help you far enough, the white light spreading across a vast space, blinding your target.
One other incredible quality about this gun is how well it fits with a wide range of rifles. And with a rechargeable lithium battery, you can never run out of battery power.
Key Features:
- Has a rail adapter
- The battery is rechargeable
- The switch has a lockout mode for safety
- It was built for pistol and rifle
- It has a strobe capacity of 1500 lumens
Pros
- It is easy to install
- It is easy to move around because of how light the weight is
- The light doesn’t switch on and off randomly, thanks to the lockout system the switch has
- It has the GL rail adapter and 1913 rail adapter, and the magnetic remote pressure switch can be connected to the magnetic charging port
Cons
- The price is too much
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Olight |
Material | Aluminum alloy |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Lithium |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 0.18 kg |
8. SHIGOO high power 1000Lm flashlight
(Best High Power AR15 Flashlight)
The intensity of your flashlight determines, to a great extent, how well you shoot in dark spaces. With the SHIGO high power 1000LM flashlight, you are assured of a compact and rugged flashlight that meets several of your needs.
This flashlight is made from the strongest of materials, air-craft grade aluminum, making it durable. The anti-slip design ensures your flashlight does not slip off your hands when you hold it. And you can quickly Mount it on a Picatinny rail.
The dual switches are designed so you can quickly switch the flashlight on and off.
What’s the use of a rifle flashlight if the battery runs down quickly? With the SHIGO high power flashlight, you have more than three hours of run time power, thereby making the shooting more relaxed because you know your flashlight has got your back…or your front.
Key Features:
- Lamp life of 100,000 hours
- Rechargeable battery
- The brightness of 1000 lumens
- Made from aluminum
- The battery lasts long, around 3 hours run time
Pros
- The battery takes you for three hours straight if turned on
- It is easy to install
- The switch is easy to use
- The flashlight lasts long because of the strong material, aluminum, used in making it
- It has two switch modes; the Tail cap switches on/off and the light momentary ‘on’ switch by a pressure pad
Cons
- It takes a long time to charge; 5 -7 hours
- The brightness is not so much
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | SHIGOO |
Material | Aluminum |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Lithium-ion |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 3.53 ounces |
9. WINDFIRE Tactical Flashlight Cree Xm-l T6 Led 1200 lm 3.7-18V 1 Mode Light Tactical Flashlight Torch with Pressure Switch/Tactical Switch and 45°Side Picatinny Mount Rail Offset Ring Side Mount
(Best Long-distance Tactical Flashlight)
With an Illumination distance of about 500 meters, this high energy flashlight with a long-lasting battery illuminates pretty long distances. The high operational voltage ensures that you have a flashlight that can withstand thick darkness and shines so bright that your target is partially blinded by the light, affording you a fighting advantage.
Its dual switches provide you with different options to turn it on, fast. The tail cap switches on/off and the light momentary ‘on’ switch pad by pressure gives you a quick way to turn on the light in the middle of a fierce battle. Or competition.
Strong and durable, you can comfortably take this flashlight everywhere you are going, no matter how tough the topography and how harsh the weather.
Key Features:
- Two modes remote pressure switch
- Made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy
- 1200 white lumen light
- Designed to mount on certain hand pistols, rifles, and shotguns with proper mounting equipment
Pros
- It is sturdy and durable
- Lightweight
- Has a long illumination distance
- Affordable
- Easy to install
Cons
- The switch button doesn’t respond very fast
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Windfire |
Material | Aluminum alloy |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Lithium |
Voltage | 3.7 – 18v |
Weight | 0.29kg |
10. Monstrum 100 lumens
(Best Lightweight AR15 Flashlight)
This is one of those flashlights that you can install within seconds. The easy installation doesn’t affect the solidity and effectiveness in any way. The 90 degrees offset model features the light mounted to the side of the rail mount.
This flashlight is an excellent fit for shotguns and rifles. The pressure switch gives this light that adds advantage because you can switch the flashlight on quickly.
The reliable aircraft-grade aluminum used to make this flashlight makes it strong and durable and withstand severe pressure. And the recoil-proof I strong, staying firm after every shot is fired.
With a weight of 1.3 ounces, you can rest assured that you won’t feel the weight of this beauty when you have it mounted on your rifle.
Key Features:
- Has a pressure switch
- The rail type it mounts on is Picatinny and Weaver rails
- Lightweight
Pros
- The weight is so light it is almost negligible
- It is portable
- The flashlight has an anodized scratch-resistant finish
Cons
- The battery life isn’t reliable; it doesn’t last long
- The brightness is not that good
- The remote button
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | Monstrum |
Material | 6061 Aircraft Grade aliminium |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Cr2 |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 1.3 ounces |
11. POVAST Tactical flashlight with Picatinny Rail Mount, 1200 lumens LED
(Best backup Tactical Light)
I love this flashlight because it has all the features a good rifle flashlight should have. From the super-bright beams to the steady and robust materials, the POVAST Tactical Flashlight is the choice for every shooter.
The price is affordable; it is easy to operate and has a rechargeable battery.
Another outstanding quality about this flashlight is that it mounts safely on a standard Picatinny rail, giving you the balance you need. The short on-off button works fast, allowing you to turn the lights on quickly.
And oh, if you are going to be working late into the night with your rifle, you can rest assured that the POVAST TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT has got your back. It’s five hours run time after it’s fully charged is amongst the longest in the market.
Key Features:
- Has remote switch
- Has ipx5 waterproof
- Works for standard Picatinny rails
- Waterproof
Pros
- Durable and strong
- The switch works well, making it easy to turn it on and off quickly
- The green and red lights that indicate whether the battery is fully charged or low helps you know when to turn it off, manage the battery power, and use it economically
- It can mount on any Picatinny rail
- The illumination distance is around 600ft
- You can use it underwater, and under the rain, because it is waterproof
- It has a rechargeable battery
- It can be used both indoors and outdoors
Cons
- Strobe mode does not work with the switch
- The pressure switch is not so great
Product Specification:
Manufacturer | povast |
Material | Aluminum |
Bulb | LED |
Battery power | Not specified |
Battery type | Mah li-ion battery (rechargeable) |
Voltage | Not specified |
Weight | 0.34 kg |
Things To Consider When Buying an AR15 Flashlight
When you meet a firearm dealer to buy a tactical light, the first question the dealer will ask you is, “WHAT ARE YOU USING THE RIFLE FOR?”
The Purpose Of The Flashlight
Before buying a tactical light, the first thing you should be clear about is the reason why you have a rifle and what you want to use the rifle for – or what you have been using the rifle for. Knowing what the rifle is meant for will help you select the flashlight with the right weight, good battery power, the right mounting rail, and the likes.
Your Budget
There are different AR15 flashlights out there, many of them with different battery power, luminosity, and weight. They also come at different prices, some affordable while others are quite expensive. Therefore, be well aware of how much you have to buy the AR15 flashlight that both suits your need and your budget.
Things To Look Out For When Getting An AR15 Flashlight
Getting a flashlight for your rifle can be pretty tough if you are a new shooter or new to the firearm accessories market. It is possible to get overwhelmed with the varieties of flashlights in the market.
If you are new or an oldie in the firearms accessories market, here are some vital flashlight elements you should look out for. Whichever flashlight you decide to go for, ensure it suits your needs well.
Weight Of The Flashlight
One of the critical features of many firearm accessories, whether it’s a flashlight or an iron sight, is how heavy the accessory is. Unlike rifle barrels, where the more massive the barrel, the better it is, with accessories, lightweight is the way to go. There are no hard and fast rules to how much your flashlight should weigh, but be careful not to add an extra kilogram burden on your rifle just because you want a flashlight. The lighter some of your accessories are, the better for you. So, lookout for a relatively lightweight flashlight with the right brightness, battery life, switch system, etc.
The Quality Of The Material Used
As crucial as an AR15 flashlight’s weight is, you don’t want to sacrifice a sturdy, reliable, and durable battery for a lightweight one. The material used determines how long the flashlight will last, as well as the recoil-proof it has. Most times, flashlights made from aluminum alloy are preferred because they are lightweight and can withstand adverse weather conditions, and have string recoil-proofs.
The Light Intensity
The light from the flashlight isn’t meant only to help you see a target or an enemy; it also helps you blind the threat temporarily. The intensity of the light is imperative as the brighter the light, the more power you have. However, some other factors include the color of the beam, the coolness of the beam, how blinding the light is, etc. that one needs to consider when buying a tactical light.
The Battery Power
How durable a battery is essential when getting a tactical light because you don’t want your light going dim in the middle of a fierce battle or when a threat is close. Lithium batteries are the standard type of batteries used. Lithium batteries have a long shelf life, have slow voltage decay, and high specific energy. There are also alkaline batteries, which are not as durable as lithium batteries. For flashlights that draw high currents, alkaline batteries’ internal resistance is high, making it less effective and less durable. Lights with high intensity, rechargeable batteries such as NIMH, and Nicad are the best bet if you want longer shelf life.
Bulb
The type of light that you want determines the type of bulb you’ll get. LED bulbs and xenon bulbs are two of the popular high-intensity bulbs. LED lights are brighter, have more energy efficiency compared to xenon bulbs.
FAQs
These are some of the questions people often ask me about rifle flashlights
My Top Pick
My choice of a rifle flashlight is hinged mainly on how well the batteries last, how bright the bulbs are, how sturdy it is, and how well they fit on the rail. The one flashlight that I can easily recommend to anyone who asks me for a tactical flashlight is the OLIGHT PL-Pro Valkyrie 1500 Lumens High Performance LED Rechargeable Weaponlight Rail Mount Tactical Flashlight with Magnetic Remote Pressure Switch.
The brightness, the intensity, the grip, the sturdiness… this flashlight wins it for me, every day, all year long.