Tactical flashlights often called police flashlights or law enforcement flashlights, are an essential tool to have, no matter what profession you are in. They can come in handy in various situations, such as police, security, or military operations. They are also excellent for everyday use when going camping, fishing, hunting, or other outdoor activities.
With so many types, sizes, and features of tactical flashlights on the market today, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best for you. Here are 10 things to consider when buying a tactical flashlight:
1. Lumens
In simple terms, lumens represent the total amount of light that a tactical police flashlight emits. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light of the tactical flashlight will be. This is important to consider if you are planning to use the flashlight in low-light situations.
When buying a tactical police flashlight, look for flashlights with a minimum of 300 lumens and up. If you are planning to use the flashlight for activities such as camping, you may want to opt for a brighter light with even more lumens. This can ensure that you have a bright enough light to find your way in the dark or spot potential threats.
2. Size and Weight of the Tactical Police Flashlight
Tactical flashlights come in a variety of sizes and weights. Look for a flashlight that is not too heavy and can easily fit in your pocket or attach to a belt. It should also be lightweight enough for you to hold and use for extended periods comfortably.
Typically, the best tactical police flashlight for law enforcement are just under 6 inches in length and are made of lightweight materials such as aluminum or titanium.
3. Battery Type
Tactical police flashlights come with either rechargeable or disposable batteries. When considering one, it is best to go with rechargeable batteries so that you don’t have to keep replacing them. Rechargeable police flashlights are also more cost-effective in the long run. Thus, making them the more sensible choice.
However, one thing to consider is the battery type. Some tactical flashlights come with regular NiMH batteries, while others use lithium-ion ones. The latter is known to have a longer lifespan and is more reliable. On the other hand, the former is cheaper and easier to find but has a shorter lifespan.
4. Features
When it comes to tactical flashlights, features are an important consideration. Look for tactical police flashlights that come with features such as adjustable focus, tactical strobe, and tactical lockout.
These features can help you in various situations where you may need bright light or tactical lighting effects. Additionally, a tactical lockout will help to prevent the flashlight from turning on accidentally and draining the batteries.
5. Run Time
The run time of a law enforcement flashlight depends on the battery type and the number of lumens the flashlight emits. Generally, tactical flashlights with higher lumens tend to have a shorter run time than those with lower lumens and vice versa.
Similarly, if the battery type is a rechargeable one, the run time will depend on the capacity of the battery and how much power it can store. Thus, when buying tactical flashlights, look for ones that have a long run time so that you don’t have to worry about recharging them frequently.
A good police flashlight will have a run time of at least two to three hours on a single charge. So make sure you buy a tactical flashlight that can last you for at least that long.
6. Water Resistance
When it comes to police flashlights, water resistance is also an important feature to consider. Look for flashlights that are rated IPX7 or higher, as they will be able to withstand heavy rain and other water-related conditions. This can also be beneficial if you are planning to use the tactical flashlight outdoors in wet and humid climates. In addition, look for tactical police flashlights that are also shock-resistant, as this can help prevent damage from drops and falls.
7. Beam Distance
This is another important factor that should be taken into account when buying tactical flashlights. Beam distance is how far the light can travel and still be able to illuminate a target.
Look for tactical police flashlights that have a beam distance of at least 200 yards or more. This will ensure that you can see your target even at far distances. If you are planning to use the tactical flashlight for activities such as hunting, then you may want to opt for one that has a higher beam distance.
8. Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider with police security flashlights. Durability is the measure of how well the flashlight can withstand wear and tear over time. Look for tactical flashlights that are made of high-quality, sturdy materials such as aluminum or titanium. This will ensure that your tactical flashlight is durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Moreover, look for a warranty or guarantee offered by the manufacturer. A good tactical flashlight should have a warranty that covers any defects or malfunctions with the flashlight itself.
9. Beam Style
Tactical flashlights typically come with either a focused or diffused beam. Focused beams provide you with a concentrated light that is directed at the target. On the other hand, diffused beams provide a wider coverage with more light spread around the target. The best police flashlight is usually a combination of both styles, as this allows you to direct the light where it is needed and still have enough coverage.
10. Cost
Finally, you should consider the cost of tactical flashlights. Prices can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars depending on the features and quality of the tactical flashlight.
If cost is an issue, then look for tactical police flashlights that come with basic features and are of decent quality. This will allow you to save money without sacrificing too much on the quality of the tactical flashlight.
Conclusion
We hope this blog will help you decide which tactical flashlight to buy. At the end of the day, it’s important to consider all of these factors when buying tactical flashlights. Doing so will help ensure that you get the best tactical flashlight for your needs and budget.
With the right tactical flashlight, you can be prepared for any situation and have peace of mind knowing that you are protected.
