Tactical?
- Thread starter Hoya
- Start date
greenLED
Flashaholic
IMHO, although the designation may have started with LEO, security, and armed forces applications, it seems like people now use "tactical" when referring to light with a tail switch (twisty or clickie), as opposed to the conventional switch on the side (a là cheapo Eveready) or on the head (twist head to turn light on).
MJWood
Newly Enlightened
That's a good question around here! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
I think the term tactical is one of the most mis-understood of all in the flashlight world, simply because there are so many definitions.
On one hand, I think the concept of calling a light such as the Surefire E series tactical is mis-labeling them. Yes, they may have a tactical style switch on them, but to me, they are no more tactical in nature than an Arc or similar. They simply borrow a tactical switch from the Surefire M series which I would qualify as tactical. (I'm really only using Surefire here since they have an obvious tactical / non-tactical lineup of lights IMHO).
Now... one might ask why I would consider the M series tactical and the E / L series non-tactical? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif In my mind, a tactical light consists of one which is meant for use in conjunction with a weapon. Now this is rather specific, but the Surefire M series fits this bill. They are engineered for a specific grip to use with a pistol and they have optional mounts for rifles and shotguns. In my mind, there are very few tactical lights, and a lot that borrow useful features from those that truely are tactical.
Personally, I love some of the features of tactical lights such as the tailcap buttons. The way I use my lights, this is more convenient for me since most of my use is momentary on / off. However, I really don't need a weapon mounted light, nor the tactical grip on the surefire M series. However, with all the flashlights out there, I'm sure there is something for everyone!!!
Just my $0.02. I'll be curious to see how other's answer this post.
I think the term tactical is one of the most mis-understood of all in the flashlight world, simply because there are so many definitions.
On one hand, I think the concept of calling a light such as the Surefire E series tactical is mis-labeling them. Yes, they may have a tactical style switch on them, but to me, they are no more tactical in nature than an Arc or similar. They simply borrow a tactical switch from the Surefire M series which I would qualify as tactical. (I'm really only using Surefire here since they have an obvious tactical / non-tactical lineup of lights IMHO).
Now... one might ask why I would consider the M series tactical and the E / L series non-tactical? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif In my mind, a tactical light consists of one which is meant for use in conjunction with a weapon. Now this is rather specific, but the Surefire M series fits this bill. They are engineered for a specific grip to use with a pistol and they have optional mounts for rifles and shotguns. In my mind, there are very few tactical lights, and a lot that borrow useful features from those that truely are tactical.
Personally, I love some of the features of tactical lights such as the tailcap buttons. The way I use my lights, this is more convenient for me since most of my use is momentary on / off. However, I really don't need a weapon mounted light, nor the tactical grip on the surefire M series. However, with all the flashlights out there, I'm sure there is something for everyone!!!
Just my $0.02. I'll be curious to see how other's answer this post.
Lightraven
Flashlight Enthusiast
- Joined
- Sep 2, 2004
- Messages
- 1,170
We used the word "tactical" in the Army (circa 1992) to designate anything related to combat. If you were "tactical" you were stealthy, had your gun loaded in your hands, and your unit fanned out in a combat formation.
What does this have to do with flashlights? Good question. Troops make heavy use of non-emitting night vision equipment to see in limited visibility. Parachute flares are also used. Flashlights, in my experience, were used to read the map under a poncho. They always had a red lens.
Lights mounted on guns are obviously tactical in nature. Beyond that, anybody who is likely to find themselves in a "tactical" situation would know what they are looking for.
What does this have to do with flashlights? Good question. Troops make heavy use of non-emitting night vision equipment to see in limited visibility. Parachute flares are also used. Flashlights, in my experience, were used to read the map under a poncho. They always had a red lens.
Lights mounted on guns are obviously tactical in nature. Beyond that, anybody who is likely to find themselves in a "tactical" situation would know what they are looking for.
BlindedByTheLite
Flashlight Enthusiast
i believe the definition of the word tactical changes from person to person and environment to environment.
From Merriam-Webster:
Main Entry: tac·ti·cal
Pronunciation: 'tak-ti-k&l
Function: adjective
1 : of or relating to combat tactics : as a (1) : of or occurring at the battlefront <tactical defense> <tactical first strike> (2) : using or being weapons or forces employed at the battlefront <tactical missiles> b of an air force : of, relating to, or designed for air attack in close support of friendly ground forces
2 a : of or relating to tactics : as (1) : of or relating to small-scale actions serving a larger purpose (2) : made or carried out with only a limited or immediate end in view b : adroit in planning or maneuvering to accomplish a purpose
- tac·ti·cal·ly /-k(&-)lE/ adverb
Main Entry: tac·ti·cal
Pronunciation: 'tak-ti-k&l
Function: adjective
1 : of or relating to combat tactics : as a (1) : of or occurring at the battlefront <tactical defense> <tactical first strike> (2) : using or being weapons or forces employed at the battlefront <tactical missiles> b of an air force : of, relating to, or designed for air attack in close support of friendly ground forces
2 a : of or relating to tactics : as (1) : of or relating to small-scale actions serving a larger purpose (2) : made or carried out with only a limited or immediate end in view b : adroit in planning or maneuvering to accomplish a purpose
- tac·ti·cal·ly /-k(&-)lE/ adverb
gadget_lover
Flashaholic
At one time, a tactical light had a momentary function (usually in the tailcap) and a minimum output. The idea is that the light is able to be quickly switched on, blinding a would be assailant and quickly switched off to avoid being a target.
I've seen something that listed 60 lumens as minimum light output. I don't remember where. In reality, that should probably be combined with a minimum lux reading, as a good 60 lumen flood is not as blinding as a 60 lumen light with a 20 or 30 degree optic or reflector. A 30 lumen light with a 10 degree optic will be blinding, but will have to be accurately aimed.
I'd consider my Pelican M6 to be tactical. So's my Surefire L4 and my Streamlight TL-3led. All can be held properly with a handgun and all are bright enough that they would temporarily blind a person up to 15 feet without careful aim. All three have tailcap switches and all are above 60 lumens.
I'm not a cop, and know only what I've read; /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Daniel
I've seen something that listed 60 lumens as minimum light output. I don't remember where. In reality, that should probably be combined with a minimum lux reading, as a good 60 lumen flood is not as blinding as a 60 lumen light with a 20 or 30 degree optic or reflector. A 30 lumen light with a 10 degree optic will be blinding, but will have to be accurately aimed.
I'd consider my Pelican M6 to be tactical. So's my Surefire L4 and my Streamlight TL-3led. All can be held properly with a handgun and all are bright enough that they would temporarily blind a person up to 15 feet without careful aim. All three have tailcap switches and all are above 60 lumens.
I'm not a cop, and know only what I've read; /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Daniel
AuroraLite
Enlightened
I am not a LEO or in the army, but I do agree that the word 'tactical' is probably overused and mis-understood.
If by definition of 'anything related to combat', then what about a nice rolled up magazine(for ex, FHM or maxim), a chair, a bicycle lock? Could all be considered 'tactical' when used as impromptu weapons for 'tactical' situation?
Personally, anything that are specifically designed for and would significantly improve the chances of surviving or overcoming a conflict situation is considered 'tactical'.
If by definition of 'anything related to combat', then what about a nice rolled up magazine(for ex, FHM or maxim), a chair, a bicycle lock? Could all be considered 'tactical' when used as impromptu weapons for 'tactical' situation?
Personally, anything that are specifically designed for and would significantly improve the chances of surviving or overcoming a conflict situation is considered 'tactical'.
C
Cosmic Superchunk
Guest
Outside of Military or Law Enfocement circles, the word "tactical" is just a marketing term. This applies to knives, flashlights, and other gear. It can be a bit confusing since these days it seems like any flashlight with tailcap switch is marketed as tactical, which is a joke to me. One could very well argue that any well made flashlight can be used in a tactical situation. Heck, what do you think our troops used before Surefire came into existence? Now, if you specifically design a flashlight for military applications and it can withstand the physical abuse of battle, then I would consider it to be a true tactical flashlight.
As a marketing tool, the word "tactical" presents a cool image. This is clearly seen when manufacturer plasters ads of their items being carried by big, bad dangerous looking chaps in military garb. Soon, others want to jump on the bandwagon because it will make their items look more macho and thus more appealing to male consumer. These items will be marketed towards the military and/or law enforcement, and they may indeed be purchased and used by those in the field, but they will also appeal civilians. Just ask your average elitist keyboard commando. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
As a marketing tool, the word "tactical" presents a cool image. This is clearly seen when manufacturer plasters ads of their items being carried by big, bad dangerous looking chaps in military garb. Soon, others want to jump on the bandwagon because it will make their items look more macho and thus more appealing to male consumer. These items will be marketed towards the military and/or law enforcement, and they may indeed be purchased and used by those in the field, but they will also appeal civilians. Just ask your average elitist keyboard commando. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
