LEO Duty Light

[pwalters]

Hi all I am a newbie looking for my first LEO duty light. I have been searching these forums for awhile and every time I think I have found the perfect light I find something I do not like about it. I like the tk40 the AAs dont bother me, but the UI doesnt seem to be set up very well for my use. I also like the olight m30, but again the UI bothers me. I don't want to be fumbling through every setting and accidentally strobing someone. :shrug:

So I am hoping you flashlight vets can help me find what I am looking for.

LED
Crazy bright of course
Multiple settings with a easy to use interface
-I need something for searching but also a light that can be easily dimmed so I don't blind people during tasks such as writing tickets.
Instant access to a strobe function... I like the m30 for this, but a simple hold of the tailcap access would be great as well.
Reliable of course
Long run time... at least an hour on maximum output

Budget is roughly $150

Thank you for your help!

 

[turan8]

I question the use of a strobe as a LEO, I think something that would serve you better is something you can always carry on your duty belt, easy to use, only two levels that are easy to change, and uses 18650s for more energy capacity BUT can use CR123s in emergency.

Few lights do this but the EagleTac T100C2 w/ SMO reflector and the Fenix TK11 R2 are the best bets.

The nice thing about these lights are that their general modes last for pretty much the whole night.

Buy maybe 4 18650 cells and you'll always have light.

 

[flasherByNight]

TK30! The 40 has crap interface for your needs.

I'm considering the 30 myself just for the ability to have easy/immediate access to a high and a lower mode. (I love my 40, but having 2 immediate modes imo is a must)

 

[Search]

The Ra Clicky Tactical

An hour on high. Multiple modes that don't get in the way of "tactical" use (pressing the button momentarily without changing modes). Strobe that's easy to get to.

It only runs off one battery, but isn't too short.

 

[pwalters]

The more I read and continue my research I am leaning towards getting a smaller light to carry around on my duty belt and then saving for something like a tk40 in the future.:thumbsup:

tk11r2, jet III M, and eagletac t20c seem to be some good choices

 

[DimeRazorback]

Get a bored out Surefire C3, some 18500 cells and get a Malkoff M60 or one of the new M61's when they are released.

It is a bit over $150, but it is well worth it.

 

[gilly]

I use a Jetbeam M1X running on 2 x 18650s. I leave it in my patrol bag on the passenger seat and grab it for M/V stops. I also keep a TLR-1 in a pouch on my belt. For the M1X, tighten head for max, loosen for user-defined setting. I keep my user-defined setting at about 30% which is still plenty bright and gives you enough runtime to last through the night if needed. You could set it for strobe (for instant access) and then adjust it quickly to a lower, dimmer mode for writing tickets if needed. Not a perfect fit for your requirements, but definitely one to consider. If you haven't read Selfbuilt's review, you should:

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=230019


Another option might be the RRT-2 Raptor, although it is not nearly as bright as a TK30, TK40, M30 or M1X...

Good luck - stay safe.

 

[Alberta-Blue]

I would suggest that you wait and hold on to your money and save until the release of the new Surefire lineup.

I myself am waiting for the SF AZ2-S. Pretty well all the features that I would really need... Hi mode for tactical engagements/uses, Low mode for skulking around or up close use, and If I really REALLY need it I have a strobe too. If they werent releasing the SF AZ2-S I wouldnt even bother with a strobe, its never really served any purpose for me ('cept for messing around with co-workers).

For your purposes I would suggest an A2L-WH with its Hi/Lo twisty interface. If you cant go that expensive, go with a SF Z2 or even a 6P and the New Malkoff M61 that is being released. It will be simple, effective, basically bulletproof in every way 'cept the literal one, and everything is covered by limited lifetime warrenties from their respective manufactuers.

Just my 2 cents.

Stay Safe

Alberta-Blue

 

[skinnypig]

I have used the M30 for the past 6 months and love it. I have used the strobe a few (5?) times on people that are either too intoxicated or too stupid and are fake sleeping and don't want to pretend to hear me. A strobe on the side of the eye creates some serious blinking and that cannot be faked. I mainly use the high mode for traffic stops and all of my contacts and building and area searches along with assisting on K9 tracks. Mine is in high mode 90% of the time and I keep it there in the event I have to use it in a hurry. Our department has magchargers in the car and I have not taken it out since I got the M30. I use the low and medium mode for photography and the rare situations where I am not trying to throw as much light as possible. I carry it lens up in a Bianchi Accumold nylon ASP holder, 16-21 inch size. It fits in there absolutely perfectly. I keep a set of batteries in the bottom of my rubber glove holder in the event (and i has happened a couple of times) that my rechargeables die on my when I am doing something.

There is nothing I would change about the light. I did swap out the square end for the new rounded one that came out a few months ago, the square end was a pain for me. It was a challenge to find a holster that would fit my dept's requirement to stay with Accumold using the squared end. I had to abuse an ASP holder until the round cap came out and I got a new one and it fits excellently.

 

[parnass]

....LED
Crazy bright of course
Multiple settings with a easy to use interface
-I need something for searching but also a light that can be easily dimmed so I don't blind people during tasks such as writing tickets.
Instant access to a strobe function... I like the m30 for this, but a simple hold of the tailcap access would be great as well.
Reliable of course
Long run time... at least an hour on maximum output

Budget is roughly $150

Thank you for your help!

The 200 lumen T4 LED flashlight from Inova meets the requirements you cited. Made in Rhode Island (the supplied Lithium Ion battery is made in China).

 

[elt1]

Keeping it simple is the best way to go IMO...

I use a Malkoff MD2 with a Malkoff M60W drop-in. Either 2XCR123 or an AW18650 in the tank. Works perfectly with the duty Surefire G2/6P holster.

I've also used Surefire 6P and G2 bodies but always with some type of Malkoff drop-in... Small enough to carry on the belt without paying for it in weight and its heavy enough to use as an impact weapon in the hand.

One thing that I'd like to see more lights use is a side-button switch, like the old Stingers. Works better for me generally when I've got my firearm out.

 

[gprice74]

I suggest the TA30, TA20 or TA21 for the needs you describe. Bright enough to search with, switch brightness with a selector ring and long enough to tuck under your arm if you decide to write violation tickets outside your PC.:welcome:

Lots of useful info out there. There are so many choices.

 

[Policetacteam]

I would agree with an earlier post for having something small that fits directly on your duty belt. Personally...I stick with EASY...high and low settings. Once you start getting into multi-use modes they become more of a burdon than a help. When you need quick access to your light there is only one requirement..it works when you need it to! I would also assume if your are just starting to look for a duty light that you are relatively new which means you are going to get stuck on overnights! Put some strong consideration into a light which can use both rechargeable 18650's or 123 lithium primaries. Having that flexability will help out. The EagleTac T100C2 Mark II is probably the best deal going right now. There are several other EagleTac's and the Fenix TK11 R2 has been a big winner at my department. PM me or email me at [email protected] for further info and help! Stay safe. Paul

 

[hyperloop]

How does the Jetbeam Jet III Military sound to you? with the head tightened it is on max 225 lumens (manufacturer claims) with the head loosened you enter user programmable mode, so you can set it for dimmer or strobe as you see fit. available at bugoutgearusa, IIRC there is a good discount going on there now using CPFJET discount code.

Get 2x18650s, a charger and you're all set. It can run on CR123s/RCR123s as well

For writing tickets, i suggest getting the cheap ($15 with free international shipping from 4sevens, also use "CPF8" for a discount) and durable Fenix E01 to hang from a neck lanyard or clipped to your shirt pocket, use that exclusively for writing tickets or low light use and save the Jet III for high powered uses.

 

[021411]

I'm a full-time LEO in a large metropolitan area. I am a follower of the KISS method. Off/on is all I need.

On my belt I use a Surefire Z2 w/ Malkoff M60W MC-E. For everything else I have a Streamlight SL-20X w/ a prototype 3x Q5 drop-in from Malkoff. It was made for me in 2008 and came in handy during Hurricane Ike.
I honestly do not see the need for strobing and other features.

When I'm writing a citation I have the SL under my support side aimed down a bit to use the spill. Haven't blinded anyone yet.

skinnypig,
Pain "testing" works well. When someone plays possum on me, I usually give them a GOOD sternum rub or pinch the upper part of their finger nail with my pen. Works every time. :devil:

 

[M@elstrom]

How does the Jetbeam Jet III Military sound to you?

I'm a full-time LEO in a large metropolitan area. I am a follower of the KISS method. Off/on is all I need.

Yeah the Jet III-M is KISS + 1 UI mode :thumbsup:

 

[CDP930]

pwalters

I would go along with Policetacteam in suggesting the Eagle Tac T100C Mark II for several reasons. Great throw and spill with the SMO reflector. All the lights mentioned are great and some may be better than the Eagle Tac. However, in this line of work everything we carry needs a good little holster to go with it.

The Eagle Tac rides great in a Blackhawk Mod U Lok holster, its a bit snug at first but the finish on the light with "sand" down the arms a little that keep the light in place. That is currently what i have on my rig.

I have it on my belt as a secondary light though. My Malkoff MD4 is my primary and I would suggest you get a good main light to go along with whatever you decide to put on your belt.

And it goes without saying that all the Surefires are a great choice coupled with a M30 or M60.

Hope this helps

 

[polkiuj]

The Inove T4/T5 has almost everything you ask for.

No chance to try the T4 but the T5 was excellent. The UI was especially the bomb!!

 

[woodrow]

I trust the Fenix T series lights over any other brand JMHO Be careful of the TA30 or TA20 though...their scalops are very sharp...not sure what would happen in court if a suspect was cut with them. The new Streamlight lights are great on high (stinger HP led and polystinger led...but they have a Very noticible pwm flicker on low.

Any of the lights you are looking at should work fine...there really few bad choices in lights anymore.

 

[hyperloop]

i own a TA30, its incredibly tough as mine was sent to me for testing, i tested it by hammering the head against a brick wall repeatedly (among others) and it has survived very well with some nicking of the teeth and loss of anodising.

The thing i like about the TA30 is the versatility of battery choices. I run mine on 2x17500s but it can run on:

2xCR123s/RCR123s
2x14500
2xAA alkaline (can change modes but with reduced output)
2xAA eneloops (no mode changes and with reduced output)

the lowest mode is workable and medium is probably what you will be using most often, max is incredibly bright and you still get 3.5 hours using max. Strobe is there if u need it. The nice thing about a control ring is that you can set the modes, use it in momentary if you need to, then change the mode without alerting anyone.

i have no experience with other lights of the TA series but i can tell you that the TA30 is a really tough light with great versatility and should suit someone in law enforcement, get the light, 4x 17500s a nice charger and you should be all set.