Upgrade your pistol’s lighting capabilities with the best 10 pistol lights of 2023.
We have tested over 12 different weapon lights currently on the market, and these are the top options that provide powerful lumen output, durable constructions, lightweight and at a good price.
Top Pistol Lights
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For Full Size
Best Overall
Best Price
Best Ergonomics
For Compact & Subcompact
Best For Subcompact
Best For Carry
Best For Beginner
How To Pair A Good Handgun Light
Lumen & Candela Intensity
Balanced Throw and Flood
Throw Focused
While an output of 800 or even 1000 lumens may be desirable. However, A high lumen output alone is not sufficient for a pistol light; a candela output of at least 15,000+ is necessary for effective target identification in low light based on today’s standard
Beam Types
For longer ranges, a more focused hot spot is preferred to control threats from safe distances. For shorter ranges, a balanced flood and throw light beam is preferred to light up most things in front of the user.
Mount Types
Most lights feature quick detach slide on mount. Some feature thumb screw mount, and we highly recommend them because they don’t damage the rail and they feature adjustable screw tension
For pistols without rail slot, there are lights that can mount around the trigger guard like the Streamlight TLR 6
Holster Light Fit
When choosing a holster for your pistol light, it’s important to ensure that it is specifically designed for the light you are using. Many holster manufacturers offer light-bearing options that are tailored to fit specific lights, which can ensure a secure and safe fit.
Additionally, for those who carry their pistol concealed, it’s best to select a light that sits flush with the muzzle in order to minimize the overall profile. It’s also important to consider the protection of the trigger and light activation switch, as a properly fitting holster will protect these sensitive areas.
Activation Switches
When it comes to activating your pistol light, the ergonomics of the switch are crucial for maintaining proper grip and recoil control. It’s important to consider the different types of activation switches available and their pros and cons.
For example, some lights offer a constant-on switch, while others offer a momentary switch or strobe feature. Additionally, it’s important to consider the placement of the switch, as it should be easily accessible and intuitive to use.
Pistol Light Reviews
Surefire X300U - Best Overall
- High ouput: 1000 lumens
- Peak Candela: 11300 candela
- Batteries: 2 123A
- Switch: Ambi toggle
- Length: 3.6″
- Weight: 4 oz
The Surefire X300U-A Weapon Light boasts 1,000 lumens of LED output and a precision TIR lens, providing a powerful beam for close- to medium-range engagements.
This high-quality light is a favorite among law enforcement and military personnel and features ambidextrous switching for easy operation. Made with a rugged, aerospace aluminum body, the X300U-A is weatherproof and Mil-Spec hard anodized for exceptional durability.
Trust in the expertise and reliability of The Standard with the American Made X300U-A for accurate identification of threats and enhanced situational awareness.
Pros
Cons
- Durable construction
- Powerful output
- Wide beam CQB pattern with momentary on
- Accepts DG switch
- One piece bezel construction requires the entire unit to be replaced if the lens cracks
Streamlight TLR 1 HL - Best For The Money
- High ouput: 1000 lumens
- Peak Candela: 20000 candela
- Batteries: 2 123A
- Switch: Ambi toggle
- Length: 3.39″
- Weight: 4.32 oz
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is a top-of-the-line, 1000-lumen tactical light that is specially designed for firearms. Its compact, lightweight design and wide beam pattern make it an ideal choice for professionals in law enforcement and military.
The TLR-1 HL is built with shock-proof power LED technology for exceptional durability and performance. The secure rail clamp ensures easy attachment and detachment, and the tethered battery door allows for simple battery replacement without the risk of loss.
Constructed with an anodized finish and IPX7 waterproof rating, this light is built to withstand harsh conditions. Additionally, it features an ambidextrous switch for easy operation and runs on two 3-volt CR123 lithium batteries. You can trust Streamlight’s long track recording for making durable lights for contractors.
The Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL is a lightweight, compact, high lumen lithium battery powered gun-mounted tactical flashlight featuring the latest in shock-proof high power LED technology and providing 1.5 hours of continuous run time. The high-power LED, while light source is impervious to shock with a 50,000-hour lifetime. The 1,000 lumens, 20,000 candela peak beam intensity and 283m beam distance shines light when and where you need it. The TIR optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination and the optimized electronics provide a regulated intensity during operation. The TLR-1 features an ambidextrous momentary/steady On-Off switch and a double tap or momentary paddle within 0.4 seconds activates the strobe functionality. This Streamlight TLR-1 HL, model number 69260 comes with 2 x 3-volt CR123A lithium batteries, which are included, and rail locating keys. The Streamlight TLR-1 HL in Flat Dark Earth Brown is available as Streamlight 69267 while the Streamlight TLR-1 HL in Flat Dark Earth as available as Streamlight 69266. Each model is sold separately. Please note that remote switches are available for use with the Streamlight 69266, 69267, and 69260. Please look for those optional accessories with the following part numbers Streamlight 69130 and Streamlight 69161. The TLR-1 HL model with dual remote kit in Black is available as Streamlight 69889 and the TLR-1 HL with long gun kit in Black is available as Streamlight 69262.
Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL-Technical Details
Pros
Cons
- Durable construction
- Features strobe mode
- Powerful output
- Easy activation switch
- Very affordable
- None