AR15 light

[Ou224]

I am looking for a LED light to put on my AR15. Must be relatively small/lite. Needs to have a remote tape switch option. And would prefer something rechargeable. And without having to remove it from the mount to recharge would be best. Any suggestions?

 

[scsmith]

How often will you be using the light? If you wont be using it frequently I'd skip the rechargeable requirement. Because I use my weapon lights so infrequently (outside of training) I keep lithium primaries in them to ensure reliability, since all rechargeables self discharge. I recently switched my AR15 light from a Surefire G2X Tac to an ArmyTek Viking S. The Viking S has a much tighter beam pattern, much longer throw, and is only slightly larger than the G2X. Plus, the Viking S can use a single 18650, so I have the option of a rechargeable battery for training, and the reliability of CR123 primaries for regular use. The battery (1x18650) or batteries (2xCr123) can be removed by unscrewing the head or tail to change them out, leaving the rest of the light in the mount. I don't run a tape switch, but ArmyTek does offer them for under $20. If you want more flood you can get their Viking X light. Both lights are available CPFM dealer Going Gear for about $80, and this month they're running a 15% off coupon code (new15). Orders over $50 ship free as well. I hope that helps.

 

[MartinDWhite]

I use a Malkoff MD4/HoundDog or MD2/M61 with QuickDisconect scope rings mounts. The light bodies are 1", so 1" scope rings work great. I tried pressure tape but did not like it, so I use the stock tail cap switch (Judco) and just put the light where my thumb falls when holding the weapon. I run either CR123A or 18650's.

Here is a pic from before the QD rings.

 

[Ou224]

How often will you be using the light? If you wont be using it frequently I'd skip the rechargeable requirement. Because I use my weapon lights so infrequently (outside of training) I keep lithium primaries in them to ensure reliability, since all rechargeables self discharge. I recently switched my AR15 light from a Surefire G2X Tac to an ArmyTek Viking S. The Viking S has a much tighter beam pattern, much longer throw, and is only slightly larger than the G2X. Plus, the Viking S can use a single 18650, so I have the option of a rechargeable battery for training, and the reliability of CR123 primaries for regular use. The battery (1x18650) or batteries (2xCr123) can be removed by unscrewing the head or tail to change them out, leaving the rest of the light in the mount. I don't run a tape switch, but ArmyTek does offer them for under $20. If you want more flood you can get their Viking X light. Both lights are available CPFM dealer Going Gear for about $80, and this month they're running a 15% off coupon code (new15). Orders over $50 ship free as well. I hope that helps.

Thank you I will look into those. Rechargable is not a make or break deal. I have tlr1 on my glock and batteries seem to last ok. I want the remote cause I hold on the mag well area with my non trigger hand.

 

[scsmith]

Probably a bit outside the scope of CPF, but please consider a VFG of some variety for your support hand. I know it's rare, but if you get a case rupture or a round that fires out of battery the AR-15 design will blow the mag out of the mag well to relieve the pressure, saving the upper receiver and your face. The lower receiver usually survives as well, but the mag catch assembly will blow out and need to be replaced. I'd keep my support hand away.

 

[2vtx]

:popcorn:

 

[cland72]

Surefire 6P in a 1" scope ring, or VTAC offset mount, with a XM07 tailcap and pressure switch. Put a Malkoff in it. You can run 17670 cells, or if you send it out for boring you can run a 18650.

 

[Brigadier]

IMO, forget the rechargeable requirement, and just get yourself a Streamlight TLR-1S and tape switch on a VFG.

 

[eclipse13]

Probably a bit outside the scope of CPF, but please consider a VFG of some variety for your support hand. I know it's rare, but if you get a case rupture or a round that fires out of battery the AR-15 design will blow the mag out of the mag well to relieve the pressure, saving the upper receiver and your face. The lower receiver usually survives as well, but the mag catch assembly will blow out and need to be replaced. I'd keep my support hand away.

THIS...kinda.

You are going to be able to control the rifle better if you learn to put your support arm further forward and with a 'thumbs forward' style hold. This will also put your hand in a better position for activating a light with your support thumb. I have a Surefire G2 LED in a Viking Tactics mount, but if I were going to do it again I would get the Inforce WML-HSP. 125 lumens, single CR123 battery, integrated mount, all for $110.

 

[Novan3]

Surefire X400 with a XT07 pressure switch.

 

[Novan3]

I have a Surefire G2 LED in a Viking Tactics mount, but if I were going to do it again I would get the Inforce WML-HSP. 125 lumens, single CR123 battery, integrated mount, all for $110.

The HSP Inforce WML is actually rated at 200 lumens.

 

[philpac33]

The Inforce/HSP WML was specced by Haley Strategic Partners to increase lumens from 125 to 200 and to offer momentary only as the standard switch. It is extremely lightweight and the ergonomics are awesome for a weapon mounted light. I've had the light at 6:00 and 9:00 but I'm currently running it at 12:00, where it seems to belong. Mount is solid on standard 1913 picatinny rail.

 

[Nkelly226]

I've been using a streamlight tlr-1 but I have been considering the insight WML like mentioned above because I like the buttons/user interface on it better and love the lockout function

 

[UVvis]

If you have identified a way to operate the light based on your ergonomics on the blaster, good, that is step one complete.

Do you want a tape switch only giving you momentary light only, or a constant on capability too? The reason the constant on might be useful, is if you need to do some sort of admin function where you can let the rifle hang and leave the light on to provide some lighting for whatever it is you might be doing. Both can be very useful (think surefire XM and SR switches).

Next, how much light do you want and what do you want to do with it? In other words, what is the purpose of the AR? For example, shooting deer at night at 300 yards needs a different light than what I want on a home defense AR, which is different than what I might want for LEO or Military use.

Just things to think about.