Why Bezel Up Clip for Surefire?

[da.gee]

Is there a theory or practical reason why Surefire clips orient the head up? Why is it preferred over the reverse? I can see where it would be convenient to point the light out like on a hat brim or perhaps a shoulder epaulette but I don't like them for pocket carry as it exposes the tender parts. Just wondering.

[DaFABRICATA]

I wish there was an option of having the clip face the other way.

I LOVE the E1e/E1L body/clip set-up.....it fits on a hat perfectly!

[Monocrom]

I can only speak for myself. But when I carry a light bezel-down, I end up drawing the light by using a pinch technique; index finger and thumb. If I just draw the light straight up, a tiny part of the end of the barrel is going to be in my hand. I have to draw, then drop my hand down to meet the rest of the barrel. As the light is rotating between my index finger and thumb, it might fall from my hand.

With bezel-up carry, I just reach straight down, curl my last two fingers around the head of the light. And, as I draw the light, it naturally comes into my hand in a secure grip.

I know.... it would be far easier to show you than to describe it.

[da.gee]

Interesting. The E1 would seem to be the only one that could practically be put on the brim. I tried it with my E2L and it gave me a neck ache. Okay, not quite. Maybe there is some research backing it up. Since SF has ties to the military I was speculating there is some requirement or study that determines its orientation. The other alternative is it has to point some way with no particular advantage to either and they just do it the way they do it. It would be easier to grab head up as Monocrom describes, particularly in stress situations (thinking military and LE) from an SF holster.