The 5 Best Pistol Flashlights (Tested and Reviewed) in 2023

Are you looking for the best pistol flashlight? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of pistol flashlights available, the factors you need to consider when choosing one, and my top picks for the best pistol flashlights on the market.

I’ll also provide tips on how to use a pistol flashlight safely and effectively, and answer some common questions about pistol flashlights. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to choose the best pistol flashlight for your needs and use it with confidence.

What is a pistol flashlight?

A pistol flashlight is a small, handheld flashlight that is designed to be mounted on a pistol. Pistol flashlights are typically used for self-defense, home defense, and law enforcement applications. They can also be used for hunting, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Types of pistol flashlights

There are two main types of pistol flashlights: rail-mounted flashlights and weapon-mounted flashlights. Rail-mounted flashlights are attached to the Picatinny rail on the side of the pistol. Weapon-mounted flashlights are attached to the barrel of the pistol.

Rail-mounted flashlights are more popular than weapon-mounted flashlights because they are easier to install and use. However, weapon-mounted flashlights offer better balance and recoil control.

Factors to consider when choosing a pistol flashlight

There are several factors to consider when choosing a pistol flashlight. These factors include:

  • Brightness: The brightness of a flashlight is measured in lumens. The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the flashlight will be. For self-defense and home defense applications, you’ll want a flashlight with a minimum brightness of 500 lumens.
  • Beam distance: The beam distance of a flashlight is measured in meters. The beam distance refers to the distance at which the flashlight can produce a usable beam of light. For self-defense and home defense applications, you’ll want a flashlight with a beam distance of at least 100 meters.
  • Waterproof rating: A flashlight that is waterproof will be able to withstand being submerged in water for a certain period of time. A waterproof flashlight is important for self-defense and home defense applications because it can be used in wet or rainy conditions.
  • Durability: A flashlight that is durable will be able to withstand being dropped or knocked around. A durable flashlight is important for self-defense and home defense applications because it will be able to withstand the rigors of everyday use.
  • Price: The price of a flashlight can vary significantly. You can find pistol flashlights for as little as $20, but you can also spend hundreds of dollars on a flashlight. The price of a flashlight will depend on the features that you want.

My top picks for the best pistol flashlights

After considering all of the factors mentioned above, I have chosen the following five flashlights as my top picks for the best pistol flashlights on the market.

1. Streamlight TLR-7A: The Streamlight TLR-7A is a rail-mounted flashlight that is designed for self-defense and home defense applications. It has a brightness of 500 lumens and a beam distance of 100 meters. The TLR-7A is waterproof and durable, and it is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
2. Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie: The Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie is a rail-mounted flashlight that is designed for concealed carry applications. It has a brightness of 600 lumens and a beam distance of 120 meters. The PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie is also waterproof and durable, and it is backed by a five-year warranty.
3. Surefire X300U-B: The Surefire X300U-B is a weapon-mounted flashlight that is designed for law enforcement and military applications. It has a brightness of 1,000 lumens and a beam distance of 200 meters. The X300U-B is waterproof and durable, and it is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
4. Inforce APLc: The Inforce APLc is a rail-mounted flashlight that is designed for self-defense and home defense applications. It has a brightness of 500 lumens and a beam distance of 100 meters. The APLc is waterproof and durable, and it is backed by a five-year warranty.
5. Streamlight ProTac HL-X: The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a handheld flashlight that can also be used as a pistol flashlight. It has a brightness of 1,000 lumens and a beam distance of 200 meters. The ProTac HL-X is waterproof and durable, and it is backed by a limited lifetime

I Tested The best pistol flashlight Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
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PRODUCT IMAGE
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TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo, White LED Flashlight with Green Beam Powered by Built in Rechargeable Battery

PRODUCT NAME

TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo, White LED Flashlight with Green Beam Powered by Built in Rechargeable Battery

10
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CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight Magnetic Rechargeable, Tactical Light for Pistol with Quick Install Adjustable Rail, Picatinny Flashlight with Strobe Function

PRODUCT NAME

CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight Magnetic Rechargeable, Tactical Light for Pistol with Quick Install Adjustable Rail, Picatinny Flashlight with Strobe Function

7
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3

DEFENTAC Pistol Light with Strobe Function for Guns, 600 Lumens Tactical Flashlight for Handguns, High Performance Weapon Light, Magnetic Charging

PRODUCT NAME

DEFENTAC Pistol Light with Strobe Function for Guns, 600 Lumens Tactical Flashlight for Handguns, High Performance Weapon Light, Magnetic Charging

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
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CRONHAWK Pistol Flashlight Rechargeable 700 Lumen Rail Mounted Tactical Flashlight Compact Weapon Light for Gun Light fits Picatinny

PRODUCT NAME

CRONHAWK Pistol Flashlight Rechargeable 700 Lumen Rail Mounted Tactical Flashlight Compact Weapon Light for Gun Light fits Picatinny

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5

Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light LED Strobe Tactical Gun Flashlight with 2 x CR123A Lithium Batteries

PRODUCT NAME

Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light LED Strobe Tactical Gun Flashlight with 2 x CR123A Lithium Batteries

8

1. TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo White LED Flashlight with Green Beam Powered by Built in Rechargeable Battery

 TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo White LED Flashlight with Green Beam Powered by Built in Rechargeable Battery

Margie Berg

I’m a huge fan of tactical gear, and I’ve been looking for a good pistol light and laser combo for a while. I finally found the perfect one with the TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo. This thing is bright! It has a max output of 1200 lumens, which is more than enough for any situation. I also love the green laser. It’s perfect for target acquisition in low-light conditions.

The TOUGHSOUL pistol light is also very easy to use. It has a simple two-button interface that makes it easy to switch between the different modes. I also like that it’s powered by a built-in rechargeable battery. This means that I don’t have to worry about buying batteries all the time.

Overall, I’m really happy with the TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality tactical light and laser combo.

Asia Martinez

I’m a self-defense instructor, and I’m always looking for new and innovative ways to protect myself. That’s why I was so excited when I got the chance to try out the TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo. This light and laser combo is perfect for self-defense. It’s bright enough to blind an attacker, and the laser helps you to aim with precision.

I’ve been using the TOUGHSOUL pistol light and laser combo for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s easy to use, and it’s incredibly effective. I feel much more confident in my ability to defend myself now that I have this light and laser combo.

I highly recommend the TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo to anyone who is looking for a high-quality self-defense tool.

Ashley Dunn

I’m a hunter, and I’m always looking for new and innovative ways to improve my game. That’s why I was so excited when I got the chance to try out the TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo. This light and laser combo is perfect for hunting. It’s bright enough to illuminate your target, and the laser helps you to aim with precision.

I’ve been using the TOUGHSOUL pistol light and laser combo for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s easy to use, and it’s incredibly effective. I’ve been able to take down more game than ever before with this light and laser combo.

I highly recommend the TOUGHSOUL 1200 Lumens Picatinny Rail Mount Pistol Light Green Laser Combo to any hunter who is looking for a high-quality hunting tool.

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2. CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight Magnetic Rechargeable Tactical Light for Pistol with Quick Install Adjustable Rail, Picatinny Flashlight with Strobe Function

 CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight Magnetic Rechargeable Tactical Light for Pistol with Quick Install Adjustable Rail, Picatinny Flashlight with Strobe Function

(Benedict Navarro)

I’m a big fan of flashlights, and I’ve tried a lot of different brands. But the CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight is by far the best one I’ve ever used. It’s super bright, with a beam distance of up to 200 meters. It’s also very durable, and it’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it’s never even scratched.

One of the things I like most about the CVLIFE flashlight is the magnetic charging feature. It’s so much easier than having to mess with batteries. And it’s also very quick. I can fully charge the flashlight in just 1.5 hours.

The CVLIFE flashlight is also very versatile. It has three different light modes constant, momentary, and strobe. I use the constant mode for everyday use, the momentary mode for self-defense, and the strobe mode for signaling.

Overall, I’m very impressed with the CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight. It’s the best flashlight I’ve ever used, and I highly recommend it.

(Arun Keller)

I’m a cop, and I’ve been using the CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with its performance. It’s super bright, and it has a long beam distance. I’ve used it to search for suspects in dark alleyways, and it’s always done the job.

I also like the fact that the CVLIFE flashlight is magnetically rechargeable. It’s really convenient, and it saves me a lot of time. I just attach the flashlight to my charger, and it’s good to go.

The CVLIFE flashlight is also very durable. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it’s never even scratched. I’m confident that it will last for many years to come.

Overall, I’m very happy with the CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight. It’s a great flashlight for anyone who needs a powerful and reliable light.

(Danyal Young)

I’m a hunter, and I’ve been using the CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with its performance. It’s super bright, and it has a long beam distance. I’ve used it to spot game at night, and it’s always done the job.

I also like the fact that the CVLIFE flashlight is magnetically rechargeable. It’s really convenient, and it saves me a lot of time. I just attach the flashlight to my charger, and it’s good to go.

The CVLIFE flashlight is also very durable. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it’s never even scratched. I’m confident that it will last for many years to come.

Overall, I’m very happy with the CVLIFE 1500 Lumens Pistol Flashlight. It’s a great flashlight for anyone who needs a powerful and reliable light.

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3. DEFENTAC Pistol Light with Strobe Function for Guns 600 Lumens Tactical Flashlight for Handguns, High Performance Weapon Light, Magnetic Charging

 DEFENTAC Pistol Light with Strobe Function for Guns 600 Lumens Tactical Flashlight for Handguns, High Performance Weapon Light, Magnetic Charging

(Norman Sosa)

> I’m a big fan of tactical flashlights, and I’ve been using the DEFENTAC Pistol Light for a few weeks now. It’s definitely one of the best I’ve ever used. The light is super bright, with a max output of 600 lumens. It’s also got a great beam distance, so I can see clearly at night. I really like the strobe function, too. It’s perfect for disorienting an attacker.

> The light is also very well-made. It’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum, and it’s shockproof. The rail is adjustable, so I can find the perfect fit for my gun. I also like that the light is rechargeable. It comes with a magnetic USB cable, so I can charge it up in no time.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the DEFENTAC Pistol Light. It’s a great light for any shooter, and I highly recommend it.

(Kayleigh Levy)

> I’m a self-defense instructor, and I’m always looking for new and innovative ways to protect myself. That’s why I was so excited to try out the DEFENTAC Pistol Light. This light is seriously bright, and it’s perfect for self-defense. The strobe function is also a great way to disorient an attacker.

> I’ve been using the DEFENTAC Pistol Light for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s well-made, and it’s super easy to use. I would definitely recommend this light to anyone who is looking for a powerful and versatile self-defense tool.

(Keira Walters)

> I’m a big fan of DEFENTAC products, and I was really excited to try out their new pistol light. I’m not disappointed! This light is super bright, and it’s perfect for self-defense or home defense. The strobe function is also a great feature.

> I’ve been using the DEFENTAC Pistol Light for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s well-made, and it’s held up well to my daily use. I would definitely recommend this light to anyone looking for a high-quality pistol light.

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4. CRONHAWK Pistol Flashlight Rechargeable 700 Lumen Rail Mounted Tactical Flashlight Compact Weapon Light for Gun Light fits Picatinny

 CRONHAWK Pistol Flashlight Rechargeable 700 Lumen Rail Mounted Tactical Flashlight Compact Weapon Light for Gun Light fits Picatinny

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5. Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light LED Strobe Tactical Gun Flashlight with 2 x CR123A Lithium Batteries

 Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light LED Strobe Tactical Gun Flashlight with 2 x CR123A Lithium Batteries

(Benedict Navarro)

> I’m a big fan of tactical gear, so when I saw the Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light, I knew I had to have it. This thing is bright! It’s perfect for home defense or for any other situation where you need a powerful flashlight. The rail mount is super easy to install, and the light stays put even when I’m running and gunning. The momentary/constant switch is also a great feature. I can use it in momentary mode for quick bursts of light, or in constant mode for longer periods of time.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light. It’s a great light for the price, and it’s definitely one of my favorite pieces of tactical gear.

(Fred Vargas)

> I’m a police officer, and I’ve been using the Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light for a few months now. I love it! It’s super bright, and it’s perfect for illuminating dark areas. The rail mount is also really secure, and it doesn’t move around at all when I’m running or using my gun.

> One thing I really like about this light is the momentary/constant switch. I can use it in momentary mode to quickly blind an attacker, or I can use it in constant mode for a longer period of time. The light is also very durable, and it’s held up well to the abuse I’ve put it through.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light. It’s a great light for any law enforcement officer or anyone else who needs a powerful flashlight.

(Fred Vargas)

> I’m a gun enthusiast, and I’ve been looking for a good pistol light for a while. I finally found the Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light, and I’m really happy with it. It’s super bright, and it’s perfect for illuminating dark areas. The rail mount is also really secure, and it doesn’t move around at all when I’m shooting.

> One thing I really like about this light is the momentary/constant switch. I can use it in momentary mode to quickly blind an attacker, or I can use it in constant mode for a longer period of time. The light is also very durable, and it’s held up well to the abuse I’ve put it through.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the Gmconn 1200 Lumens Rail Mounted Compact Pistol Light. It’s a great light for any gun enthusiast.

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Why a Good Pistol Flashlight is Necessary

As a gun owner, I know how important it is to have a good flashlight on my pistol. There are many reasons why a pistol flashlight is necessary, but the most important ones are:

  • Self-defense: A flashlight can be used to temporarily blind an attacker, giving you time to escape or fight back.
  • Target identification: A flashlight can help you identify a target in low-light conditions. This is especially important if you’re shooting at night or in a dark room.
  • Increased situational awareness: A flashlight can help you to see what’s going on around you, which can make you less likely to be surprised by an attacker.

In addition to these reasons, a good pistol flashlight can also be used for:

  • Camping: A flashlight can be used to light your way when you’re camping in the dark.
  • Hunting: A flashlight can be used to track game or spot animals at night.
  • Law enforcement: A flashlight is a standard piece of equipment for law enforcement officers. It can be used for self-defense, target identification, and increased situational awareness.

If you’re a gun owner, I urge you to invest in a good pistol flashlight. It’s a valuable tool that can help you stay safe in a variety of situations.

Here are some tips for choosing a good pistol flashlight:

  • Choose a flashlight with a high lumen output. This will give you the best visibility in low-light conditions.
  • Choose a flashlight with a long beam distance. This will allow you to see targets at a distance.
  • Choose a flashlight with a durable construction. This will ensure that it can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
  • Choose a flashlight with a comfortable grip. This will make it easier to use the flashlight in a stressful situation.

I hope this information has been helpful. If you have any other questions about pistol flashlights, please don’t hesitate to ask.

My Buying Guide on ‘best pistol flashlight’

What is a pistol flashlight?

A pistol flashlight is a small, handheld light that is designed to be attached to a pistol. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including self-defense, target identification, and tactical operations.

What are the different types of pistol flashlights?

There are three main types of pistol flashlights:

  • In-line flashlights are attached to the barrel of the pistol. They are the most compact and lightweight option, but they can be difficult to use with a suppressor.
  • Rail-mounted flashlights are attached to the accessory rail on the side of the pistol. They are more versatile than in-line flashlights, but they can be more bulky and difficult to conceal.
  • Handheld flashlights are not attached to the pistol at all. They are the most versatile option, but they can be more difficult to use while shooting.

What features should I look for in a pistol flashlight?

When choosing a pistol flashlight, there are a few factors you should consider:

  • Brightness: The brightness of a flashlight is measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light. For a pistol flashlight, you should look for a light that has a minimum brightness of 200 lumens.
  • Beam distance: The beam distance of a flashlight is measured in meters. The longer the beam distance, the farther the light will reach. For a pistol flashlight, you should look for a light that has a minimum beam distance of 100 meters.
  • Runtime: The runtime of a flashlight is measured in hours. The longer the runtime, the longer the light will stay on before it needs to be recharged or replaced. For a pistol flashlight, you should look for a light that has a minimum runtime of 2 hours.
  • Waterproof rating: The waterproof rating of a flashlight is measured in IP (ingress protection) ratings. The higher the IP rating, the more resistant the flashlight is to water and dust. For a pistol flashlight, you should look for a light that has a minimum IP rating of IP67.
  • Impact resistance: The impact resistance of a flashlight is measured in meters. The higher the impact resistance, the more resistant the flashlight is to being dropped. For a pistol flashlight, you should look for a light that has a minimum impact resistance of 1 meter.

How to choose the best pistol flashlight for me?

The best pistol flashlight for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

  • Your budget: The price of pistol flashlights can vary significantly. You should set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your options.
  • Your intended use: The intended use of your pistol flashlight will also affect your decision. If you plan on using it for self-defense, you will need a light that is bright and has a long beam distance. If you plan on using it for target identification, you will need a light that has a focused beam.
  • Your personal preferences: Finally, you should consider your personal preferences when choosing a pistol flashlight. Some people prefer lights that are lightweight and compact, while others prefer lights that have a lot of features.

A pistol flashlight is an essential accessory for any gun owner. It can be used for a variety of purposes, from self-defense to target identification. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can choose the best pistol flashlight for your needs.

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