AR Weapon Light
Welcome, gun enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of AR weapon lights — those game-changing accessories that turn your everyday AR into a formidable force in the dark. Join us as we explore top-of-the-line options, from budget-friendly choices to cutting-edge technology.
The Top 5 Best AR Weapon Light
- Integral M-LOK Mount for Modlite Systems and Surefire KE2-DF Bezels — The Reptilia Torch 18350 MLOK Blk RS is a high-quality, American-made gun light with anodized aluminum finish, designed for seamless compatibility with Modlite and Surefire systems — a top choice for AR weapon light enthusiasts!
- Maximize Your Brightness: Crimson Trace 900 Lumen Picatinny Laser Flashlight — Illuminate your path with the powerful and versatile Crimson Trace 900 Lu White Light M1913 Picatinny CWL-202, boasting a high-output Cree XPL LED and delivering up to 900 lumens of white light.
- HRT Awls Light: High-Performance Tactical Weapon Illumination — The HRT AWLS Full Size 18650 Weapon Light offers exceptional 1700 lumens runtime and 90,000 Candela peak beam intensity, making it the ultimate choice for AR weapons and home defense purposes.
- High-Candela MCH-HC AR Weapon Light with Aluminum Construction — The Cloud Defensive CLD Def MCH Micro HC Light FDE provides unmatched long-range lighting capabilities in challenging environments, making it an ideal choice for AR weapons and operators who demand superior illumination.
- Streamlight TLR RM 2 — Versatile 1,000 Lumen AR Weapon Light with Remote Switch — Securely attach the Streamlight TLR RM 2, a 1,000 lumen, IPX7 waterproof weapon light, to your long gun, and enjoy a powerful, concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination, all controlled by its safe off feature and remote pressure switch.
Reviews
Integral M-LOK Mount for Modlite Systems and Surefire KE2-DF Bezels
As soon as I held the Reptilia Torch 18350 in my hand, I knew it was a well-built piece of equipment. The anodized finish gave it a sleek, professional look and the fit was perfect, fitting seamlessly with my Modlite Systems bezels and tail caps, just as described. The M-LOK Mounting Hardware included made installation a breeze and it’s great to know it also works with Surefire KE2-DF bezel and tail caps.
Using this torch with my ATPIAL/PEQ 15 and NGAL was an effortless experience, and it truly outperformed my expectations. However, the integrated uni-body M-LOK interface could be slightly more low-profile, which might not be an issue for everyone.
Overall, it’s a reliable and highly functional piece of gear, perfect for any AR enthusiast.
Maximize Your Brightness: Crimson Trace 900 Lumen Picatinny Laser Flashlight
I recently added the Crimson Trace 900 Lu White Light to my trusted collection of firearms accessories, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised with its capabilities. The highlight for me has been the adjustable mounting straps; they’ve allowed me to position the light just where I need it, and I appreciate that level of customization.
One feature that really stands out is the light itself. It’s incredibly bright, and I’ve had no issues with its high output Cree XPL LED. The white light it produces is crisp and clear, making it easy to see targets at great distances.
However, there have been a few drawbacks to using this light. The remote on/off pad, for instance, can be a bit tricky to operate at times. I’ve found that it requires a firm press, and if I’m not careful, it can accidentally turn off or on while handling the firearm.
Additionally, the battery life has been a bit of an issue. Although I appreciate the 85-minute runtime, I’ve noticed that it seems to drain more quickly than I would have expected, given its size.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Crimson Trace 900 Lu White Light has proven to be a reliable and effective addition to my firearms setup. Its waterproof design and rugged construction make it a durable choice, and its versatile mounting options have allowed me to customize its placement to suit my needs.
HRT Awls Light: High-Performance Tactical Weapon Illumination
After using the HRT Awls Light in my daily life, I must admit, I was quite impressed! The 1700 lumens run-time and 103 minutes peak beam intensity make a noticeable difference in the ability to identify potential threats from afar. I especially loved the 90,000 candela color temp, providing a uniform spill for navigation, and the 5500k daylight balanced batteries, which made color representation more accurate.
One feature that stood out was the removable omni-directional activator, allowing easy separation of visible and infrared activations while preventing unintended white-light activations. And let’s not forget about the user-adjustable sensitivity! The 6.6-inch diameter and 1.25-inch weight were comfortable to handle, and the switch was simple yet effective.
Overall, the HRT Awls Light has been an excellent investment in my safety, providing reliable performance and easy manipulation for various situations.
High-Candela MCH-HC AR Weapon Light with Aluminum Construction
I recently had the opportunity to test out the Cloud Defensive CLD Def MCH Micro HC Light FDE, and let me tell you, it definitely left an impression. Being a fan of lights that can go the extra mile, I was excited to see how this little guy performed in my daily life as an AR Weapon Light.
First things first, the build quality is impressive — it’s no lightweight, but its aluminum construction ensures durability and a solid feel. The pocket clip was a nice addition, as it made storing this compact beast on the go a breeze. However, the 18350 Single Output option, while powerful with 63,000 Candela and 950 Lumens, burned through its battery life in no time. A heads-up for those requiring a longer burn time on their weapon lights.
The most standout feature by far is the micro compactness of the MCH-HC. It proved perfect for me as I often found myself needing to shoot in confined spaces where a traditional flashlight would hinder my mobility. The beam pattern was indeed different than the MCH-EDC, providing an intense light that penetrated even the toughest physical environments, like windows, street lights, or transient lighting.
Even though it seemed a bit too intense in some cases, particularly when dealing with admin functions in very enclosed spaces, the MCH-HC truly dominates in high-candela situations. In conclusion, if you’re looking for an AR Weapon Light that delivers a blinding, long-throw beam, this might just be the one. Just be prepared to deal with the short battery life.
Streamlight TLR RM 2 — Versatile 1,000 Lumen AR Weapon Light with Remote Switch
The Streamlight TLR RM 2 has been my trusty companion in my daily adventures. It’s a perfect addition to any long gun, thanks to its secure attachment with MIL Standard 1913 rails. I’ve found the engineered optics to be truly handy, producing a concentrated beam with an optimum peripheral illumination.
The 1,000 lumens and 200-meter beam make it a reliable tool, especially when I need to focus at night. One of the best features for me is the safe off feature that prevents accidental activation, thus saving precious batteries. And in case of mishaps, it’s nice to know that the TLR RM 2 is IPX7 waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes, ensuring it can handle a splash or two.
The included kit with mounting key makes it even more convenient. However, I must admit that the 1.5 hours run time could be a bit longer, especially when I’m out exploring for extended periods. Nevertheless, this tactical weapon light is definitely worth the investment for its quality and performance.
Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right AR weapon light is crucial for enhancing your nighttime and low-light situational awareness. These lights not only allow you to see your target clearly but also help in maintaining your aim during nighttime firefights. Here’s a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you select the best AR weapon light for your needs.
Important Features to Consider
- Mounting System: Ensure that your weapon light has a reliable and secure mounting system. The most common mounting systems are rail-mounted and direct-mounted.
- Brightness: Look for a light with a high lumen output to ensure that it can illuminate a wide area and provide adequate light for your target.
- Light Modes: Choose a weapon light with different light modes, such as low, medium, and high, to help conserve your battery life while also giving you control over the amount of light you need.
- Battery Life: Your weapon light’s battery life should be long enough to last for multiple missions without needing frequent replacements.
- Waterproofing: Your weapon light should be waterproof to withstand harsh environments and last longer.
General Considerations
- Compatibility: Make sure that the AR weapon light you choose is compatible with your rifle’s rail system, as well as any other accessories you may have installed.
- Ergonomics: The AR weapon light should be comfortable to hold and should not obstruct your line of sight.
- Durability: Choose a light that is built to last, with high-quality materials and a sturdy construction.
- Weight: A lightweight weapon light is easier to carry and may be less tiring to use for extended periods.
General Advice
When selecting an AR weapon light, it is essential to prioritize your needs and budget. Consider the types of missions you’ll be using the light for, as well as the environment in which you’ll be operating. Research different brands and models to find the best combination of features, quality, and affordability.
FAQ
What is an AR Weapon Light?
An AR Weapon Light is a device designed to mount on an AR (Armalite Rifle) or M4-style rifle to provide illumination during nighttime operations or in low light conditions. It consists of a light source, a power supply, and a mounting system that attaches to the rifle’s handguard or under the barrel.
Who needs an AR Weapon Light?
AR Weapon Lights are primarily used by law enforcement officers, military personnel, and hunters. They are especially useful for those who need to navigate and engage targets in low light situations. Additionally, home defenders and recreational shooters may also benefit from having an AR Weapon Light.
What types of LEDs are used in AR Weapon Lights?
AR Weapon Lights typically use either Cree LEDs or high-quality LEDs from other reputable manufacturers. These LEDs are known for their durability, brightness, and energy efficiency.
What is the difference between an AR Weapon Light and a Handheld Flashlight?
The main difference between an AR Weapon Light and a handheld flashlight lies in their design and use. AR Weapon Lights are attached to the rifle, allowing the user to keep both hands on the weapon while illuminating their surroundings, which is crucial for target acquisition and situational awareness. Handheld flashlights, on the other hand, require the user to manually aim the light while using their non-dominant hand to hold the flashlight.
How many lumens do AR Weapon Lights generally have?
AR Weapon Lights typically range from 100 to 1000 lumens. Higher-level lights provide greater illumination, but also consume more energy and may not last as long before needing a new battery or recharge.
What power sources are available for AR Weapon Lights?
- AA or AAA batteries
- CR123 lithium batteries
- Rechargeable LiPo batteries
- Rechargeable built-in batteries
What is a weapon light mode switch?
A Weapon Light Mode Switch is a control that allows the user to cycle through various settings, such as on/off, low/medium/high brightness, strobe, or momentary settings. This provides the user with multiple lighting options to suit their needs in various situations.
Which mount styles are available for AR Weapon Lights?
AR Weapon Lights come in various mount styles, including KeyMod, M-Lok, Picatinny, and Weaver rail systems. These mounting options ensure that the light can be securely attached to most AR-style rifles.