Note: This list was updated for 2024 to feature newly released products.
A portable hand-held electric lamp known as a flashlight or “torch” is one that can be carried around. The light source used to commonly be a tiny incandescent light bulb, but since the mid-2000s, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have taken their place. The common components of a flashlight are a light source mounted in a reflector, a clear cover (often paired with a lens) to shield the light source and reflector, a battery, and a switch, all of which are housed in a case.
The flashlight market continues to be expanding quickly, especially into the “tactical” segment. If you aren’t already, you should be carrying a flashlight and we’ve covered that in great detail here. Tactical flashlights are designed to be EDC (everyday carry) friendly and as such will fit on vests, in pockets, and in pouches easily. But there is so much more to it than that. They are designed to pack a lot of lumens in the smallest package, and someone are even designed to be a secondary weapon or tool. But the most important feature of a tactical flashlight is that it is durable and built like a tank to handle the “tactical” environment.
Fenix UC35 V2.0 Tactical Flashlight – $80-$100
One of the favorites around here, the Fenix UC35 V2.0 tactical flashlight packs a lot of features for a lot less money. You get a 1,000 lumens light with a max runtime of 800 hours and a throw distance of 873 feet. The size of the light is great and fits comfortably in your hands but can also fit in any pocket or pouch easily. The body is solid and feels sturdy, like it could take some damage and keep going. It’s power by a 18650 battery so it’s rechargeable too. You can find the full review here.
Surefire E2D LED Defender Ultra Flashlight – $190-$210
These days in the flashlight game it’s hard to compete with the Surefire brand. From gun lights to flashlights, they have created legendary lights for the market. Their E2D Led Defender Ultra flashlight is a compact light that can put out 500 lumens and has different modes to suit different situations. As far as durability, this is one of the most durable lights on the list with an anodized aluminum body. One of the coolest parts of the list light is it has a designed bezel which is meant to inflict blunt force trauma should you need to defend yourself.
Streamlight ProTac HL USB Flashlight – $125-$145
Streamlight has made some strides in the tactical flashlight game and there ProTac HL USB light is definitely one to check out. It’s rechargeable via USB, hence the name, and it can put out 850 lumens of light. It has a 12 hour run time and several different functions including a strobe setting. This light is certified IPX4 water resistance and has a body that will take some impact.
Surefire P2X Fury Dual-Fuel Flashlight – $200-$220
Like I said earlier, Surefire is a great brand that makes unbelievable lights which is why there are two of them on this list. There is good reason, working in law enforcement I have field tested these lights in the toughest of situations and they have proven themselves well. The Surefire P2x Fury Dual-Fuel flashlight is the one you want if you are after more output as it’ll put out 1,000 lumens. It can take either two 123A lithium batteries or a single 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Built mil-spec so you know it’ll take everything you can throw at it.
Pelican 7600 Tactical Flashlight – $100-$130
Pelican is not a new brand to the tactical market although you might not consider it a flashlight brand. That will change once you take a look at the Pelican 7600 tactical flashlight. This is a flashlight specifically designed to be used by military, police and firefighting personnel so you know it’ll take a beating. It puts out a max 944 lumens and is unique as the color of the LED light can be swapped on the fly. Bonus, it’s one of the few lights on this list with a lifetime guarantee.
Ben