It’s not the most glamorous piece of equipment you’ll carry as a first responder, but your flashlight is the piece of equipment that will likely see the most use over your career. There are many to choose from, but here are the basics you need to know when choosing the light that’s right for you.
Full-Size Lights
A “full-size” flashlight typically measures 10” or more in length and features a larger head to accommodate a more powerful bulb or even multiple LED bulbs. The light’s relatively large size provides plenty of real estate for a large, powerful battery. This is what a full-size light is all about.
The larger battery capacity allows longer intervals between battery replacements, or increasingly more popular, recharging. In addition to run time, the increased power supply provides a potentially brighter beam. While more compact lights may be capable of matching the brightness of a full-size, only a full-size light will reliably project that beam for an extended period of time.
For all of their fine qualities, there’s no getting around the fact that a full-size light is big and heavy. Long run times come with a price, and that price is measured by the ounce. Along the weight there’s the length, which can be particularly cumbersome when frequently entering and exiting vehicles. Although, these lights are excellent for keeping in your vehicle should the need arise.
Choose a full-size light when:
- You need a light with long run times for extended use
- You’re not already weighed down with heavy gear
- You don’t expect to frequently enter and exit vehicles
Duty Lights
A convenient compromise between size, weight and power, duty lights are a favorite for most law enforcement professionals. And for good reason. These are versatile tools that can be considered a scaled down version of the full-size flashlight.
The reduction and size and weight is due to the smaller battery capacity. This is the compromise. While they provide practical run times, duty lights simply cannot match the extended run time of a full-size light. Although, they are often just as bright and can project just a powerful a beam. Most duty lights include selectable power modes to extend the battery life and to suit the situation at hand.
Their compact size and modest weight make these an essential addition to any duty belt. Duty lights are perfect for any public safety professional who needs to keep a light on their person at all times, and may be frequently entering and exiting a vehicle.
Choose a duty light when:
- Weight is an important consideration
- Long run times are not critical
- You expect be frequently entering and exiting vehicles
Weapon Mounted Lights
The most specialized of all public safety flashlights, these lights are most commonly found paired with a duty pistol. Mounted to the weapon itself, this allows both hands to control the weapon without concern for manipulating a light as well. Some weapon mounted even incorporate laser aiming devices, adding versatility to tactical deployment.
Although weapon mounted lights were popularized by dedicated tactical units like SWAT, they are increasingly used by patrol officers. With cross-training become more common, the Tactical Patrol Officer concept is a perfect scenario for weapon mounted lights.
Weapon mounted lights require additional training, as they demand some adjustments to shooting style and holster draw. Importantly, these lights are not one size fits all. They are made to fit specific makes of duty pistol and must be matched accordingly. They require specialized holsters as well.
Choose a Weapon Mounted Light when:
- You need weapon/light system for tactical operations
- You need the versatility of tactical response combined with patrol carry
- Additional weight is not a concern for pistol carry
Tactical/Backup Lights
These lights are short and sweet, typically small enough to carry in a pocket or on a keychain. Tactical/backup lights project a beam that can be just as intense as a full-size light, but only for short periods of time.
Choose a Tactical/Backup Light when:
- You need to carry concealed, such as plain clothes operations
- Long run times are not critical
- You need a handy backup that won’t take up much room
Firefighting Lights
These specialized lights are built to meet the unique needs of firefighting professionals. Typically incorporating powerful, tightly focused beams, these lights can “cut” through smoke to improve visibility. Many firefighting lights are also rated for safe use in volatile/flammable environments, which makes them useful for other first responders as well.
Choose a Firefighting Light when:
- You need a powerful beam that can cut through smoke
- You need a light that is safe for volatile environments