Weapon-mounted lights have changed a lot over the past twenty years. The biggest improvement has been in lumen output, making lights brighter and brighter every year. Recently, there has been more focus on reducing size. A smaller footprint creates a smaller holster. A smaller holster provides more options for carrying concealed or on a duty belt.

Even though brightness and size are very important, we sometimes overlook other developments in weapon lighting, like the user interface. The user interface is crucial for illuminating a target and discharging a firearm at the same time. If the shooter can’t see what they are shooting at, and be accurate, the there is no point in carrying a firearm.

To be clear, no matter which weapon-mounted light you use, you should always seek professional instruction on how to use it. As a former Law Enforcement Officer and Firearms Instructor, I taught thousands of police officers how to shoot, make decisions under stress, and conduct themselves as safely as possible. Operating a pistol and a flashlight simultaneously takes proper instruction and lots of practice. Proper safety precautions cannot be taught by reading a blog or watching a video. The information I’m providing is just a starting point so that you can make an educated decision, with your instructor, about what type of pistol light you need.

Streamlight’s TLR-1® and TLR-1 HL® have been the gold standard in weapon-mounted pistol lights for years now. Their quality, beam pattern, brightness, and user interface have made them a popular choice for officers everywhere. I carried a TLR-1® while on SWAT because it was the best light available. The rocker-style switch allows the user to activate the light with their thumb, freeing up the trigger finger to do its job. If you are a K-9 handler or hold a shield on duty, you probably only have one hand available at a time. The TLR-1®’s accessible user interface is a perfect solution.

Streamlight® introduced a more compact series of lights, the TLR-7® X. They are designed to fit the width of most pistol frames, allowing for slimmer duty holsters and concealed carry. The TLR-7® X has a rear activation switch, like the TLR-1® switch. The X, however, can accommodate a high or low switch depending on the user’s preference. The high switch is my preference, as I shoot with my dominant hand’s thumb on top of my support hand’s thumb. Additionally, the TLR-7® X switches allow for temporary or permanent activation. A tap of the switch will activate the light. Holding it will keep the light on while pressed and turn the light off when released.

Streamlight has also developed a TLR-7® X Contour Remote. Unlike the TLR-1®, this is not an accessory that can be added to a TLR-7® X, it is a standalone light/remote switch combo. The contour remote allows the user to choose between the remote or the standard X switches. It’s only available for a couple firearm models at this time, but more will be added down the road.

As lighting continues to develop, one thing is undeniable – there is no “one size fits all” solution. Different equipment and techniques are decided by the needs of the user. Whether you’re responding to a 911 call or defending yourself and your loved ones, Streamlight has an option that will suit your specific needs. Please reach out to a qualified firearms instructor or your Streamlight sales representative if you have any questions.