This post is about the best shotgun lights. A shotgun is one of the most versatile weapons. It makes a great personal and home protection weapon in addition to being a weapon of choice for almost any kind of game hunting.
The most crucial addition to a shotgun accessories kit is a tactical flashlight. These devices will enable you to distinguish between friends and foes and aid in hitting your targets in inadequate light.
Crafted with precision and durability in mind, each light in our collection is meticulously engineered using cutting-edge technology and premium materials. From sleek and compact designs to rugged and robust constructions, our lights are built to withstand the rigors of any mission or adventure.
The best shotgun lights deliver a potent beam of light that cuts through darkness with unparalleled intensity. You can adapt your light to suit any situation or preference with customizable brightness settings and versatile mounting options.
Best Shotgun Lights
Let’s get straight to the top models available for you to pick.
1) Streamlight TLR-1 HL Weapon Light
With a powerful beam that extends up to 283 meters and an astounding 20,000-candela peak beam intensity, this light source can provide an incredible 1000 lumens of light, guaranteeing unfettered visibility in even the darkest of settings.
Equipped with advanced white LED technology, this light is impervious to shock and boasts a remarkable 50,000-hour lifetime. The TIR optic harnesses this power, producing a concentrated beam with optimal peripheral illumination, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed.
Designed for versatility and convenience, the TLR-1 HL mounts directly to handguns with Glock-style rails and all MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails, offering compatibility with a wide range of firearms. The rail grip clamp system enables swift and secure attachment or detachment without the need for tools, all while keeping your hands safely away from the muzzle.
Worry not about compatibility, as the TLR-1 HL comes with keys for Glock-style, Picatinny, Beretta 90two, S&W 99, S&W TSW, and Sig P320 rails, ensuring a perfect fit for your firearm. This light also fits existing light-bearing holsters, seamlessly integrating into your gear setup.
Enhance your tactical advantage with the user-programmable strobe feature, which allows you to easily disorient potential threats. The Streamlight TLR-1 HL Weapon Light is the ultimate companion, offering unparalleled performance, reliability, and versatility in any scenario.
Features
- 283m beam distance
- 6000 series machined aircraft-grade aluminum with hard-coat anodization
- It runs on two 3-volt CR123A lithium batteries
- A run time of 1.5 hours
- A length of 3.39 inches
- Weighs 4.32 ounces
- 1000 lumens
- High-temperature, shock-mounted glass
- Single-handed interface snap on and tighten
Pros
- Straightforward and reliable mounting
- LED lights
- Very durable
Cons
- Pricier compared to other models
2) SureFire DSF-870 Ultra-High Two-Output-Mode LED Weapon Light
Harnessing the power of an ultra-high-output LED, this formidable weapon light generates an astounding 600 lumens of blinding light on its maximum setting, providing unparalleled visibility in any situation. For extended use, switch to the high setting, offering 200 lumens with nearly double the runtime, ensuring you’re never left in the dark when it counts.
Equipped with a precision reflector, this device, which is one of the best shotgun lights, produces a versatile beam with ample reach and surround light, making it ideal for close to medium-range applications. Whether navigating through confined spaces or engaging targets at a distance, the DSF-870 delivers consistent performance with uncompromising clarity.
Designed for ease of use and adaptability, the DSF-870 features ambidextrous momentary and constant-on switches on both sides and an output-mode-selector switch for seamless adjustment of lighting modes. Additionally, a system-disable switch on the front bottom provides added convenience and safety during storage or transport.
Crafted from Mil-Spec hard-anodized aluminum, the body of this weapon light is built to endure rigorous use. At the same time, the coated, tempered window and O-ring and gasket seals ensure weatherproofing and protection against the elements. The slender, lightweight, high-impact polymer forend is textured for a secure grip, allowing for confident handling in any situation.
Features
- O-ring and gasket seals for water-tight performance
- Slender, textured high-impact polymer forend for snug hold
- It produces 600 lumens of blinding light on its maximum setting and 200 lumens on its high setting
- Hard-anodized aluminum housing
- Ergonomic switching
- High-energy 123A batteries are included
- A precision reflector offers enough reach and surround light
Pros
- Ergonomic controls for use when mounted
- Ease of installation
- Very bright light
Cons
- Costly
3) Helotex G2 CREE LED Tactical EDC Flashlight
Next up is the Helotex G2 CREE LED Tactical EDC flashlight. Powered by a CREE XR-E LED, the Helotex G2 delivers consistent and reliable performance, ensuring a potent beam of light that cuts through darkness with unrivaled clarity.
Constructed from anodized 6063-T6 aircraft aluminum, this flashlight exudes durability and ruggedness, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of any mission or adventure. With O-ring seals on all parts, it offers optimum weather resistance, making it a dependable companion in any environment.
Delivering a formidable 130 lumens of illumination, the Helotex G2 illuminates your surroundings with clarity and precision, providing ample brightness for a wide range of tasks and environments.
Enhancing its versatility even further, the Helotex G2 features a tri-mode functionality, allowing users to switch effortlessly between high, low, and strobe settings to suit their specific needs. Whether you require maximum brightness for long-range visibility, reduced output for close-up work, or a disorienting strobe for self-defense purposes, this flashlight empowers you to adapt to any scenario easily.
This flashlight can run on either AA or CR123 batteries (not included), so you’ll never be left in the dark, whether you’re stocking up on standard household batteries or prefer the reliability of CR123 batteries for extended use.
Features
- High, low, and strobe functions that are easy to toggle
- All parts are o-ring sealed for weatherproofing
- It operates on either a single AA or CR123 battery
- Battery life of up to 50,000 hours
- Crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum
- Cree XR-E LED lighting
- An ambidextrous button on the back for easy operation
Pros
- Two different battery options
- Easy on your wallet
- Durable and aesthetically pleasing
- Portable
Cons
- Batteries need to be bought separately
4) OLIGHT Warrior X Pro 2100 Lumens Tactical Flashlight
Experience ease of use and convenience like never before with the OLIGHT Warrior X Pro. The strong magnetic tail switch effortlessly toggles between high and low modes, while the aggressive texture ensures a secure grip, preventing the flashlight from slipping in your hand. Additionally, the integrated clip enables you to attach the light to a strap or pocket for hands-free convenience.
Powered by a rechargeable battery, the OLIGHT Warrior X Pro, which easy vies as one of the best shotgun lights, offers a maximum runtime of up to 8 hours, ensuring you have ample power to tackle extended missions or outdoor adventures.
With the convenience of fast charging via the included MCC3 fast charging cable, which boasts a 2-amp output, you can replenish your battery in record time, ensuring minimal downtime between uses.
Equipped with an upgraded NW LED, the OLIGHT Warrior X Pro delivers an astounding maximum brightness of 2100 lumens and a throw distance of up to 500 meters, ensuring unparalleled visibility in any situation.
Built to withstand the rigors of tactical operations and outdoor adventures, the OLIGHT Warrior X Pro boasts a thick IPX8-rated aluminum alloy housing, making it rugged enough to endure a harsh 3-meter drop test. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this flashlight offers peace of mind and confidence in its reliability and durability.
Features
- High and low operating modes
- It runs on a customized battery with a maximum runtime of 8 hours.
- A built-in indicator to let you know when the battery is low
- Advanced NW LED
- Heavy-duty housing with an IPX8 rating
- The aggressive texture prevents the unit from slipping down
- Maximum performance of 2100 lumens
Pros
- Bright light
- Decent battery life
- Lightweight
Cons
- The low-high function on the tail switch is hard to operate
5) Inforce WML 400 Lumens Gen 2 Weapon Light
Last but not least, in our review of the best shotgun lights is the Inforce WML 400 Lumens Gen Weapon Light.
It is constructed of 100% Nylon, a synthetic polymer renowned for its strength, durability, and versatility. Manufactured and assembled in the United States, it upholds the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, ensuring unwavering performance when it matters most.
It is made with convenience in mind as it incorporates a user-friendly lockout feature, activated with a simple 1/4 turn of the head. This lockout mode is specifically tailored for travel, transport, and storage scenarios, providing peace of mind and security wherever you go.
To improve user control and safety, it features a safety lever that minimizes the risk of accidental discharge, empowering users with confidence and peace of mind during operation. Additionally, the integrated clamp seamlessly interfaces with MIL-STD-1913 rails, expanding the light’s versatility and compatibility with various equipment and accessories.
The non-slip switch makes switching between lighting modes effortless. It offers control over constant, momentary, and strobe functions. This intuitive interface ensures users can easily adapt to changing situations, enhancing overall usability and effectiveness.
All these attractive attributes cement this device as one of the best shotgun lights.
Features
- A streamlined design for seamless mounting with no tools needed
- A non-slip switch for control of constant, momentary, and strobe functions
- A lock-out feature with a user-friendly design
- Made of 100% nylon
- A safety lever that reduces the risk of unwanted discharge
- A toolless interface compatible with any mount
- Waterproof up to 20m
- 3800-candela beam intensity
- 400 lumen output on high mode
Pros
- Extremely bright
- Low weight
- Sleek design
Cons
- Inadequate throw for long-distance illumination
What To Look for In the Best Shotgun Lights
How do you choose the best shotgun light? Picking the ideal model entails an evaluation of various factors, such as;
Light Type and Brightness Level
These days, almost all firearm lights that attach are LED-powered. However, not every LED light is made equally. Take note of how many lumens the flashlight you are thinking about purchasing has.
For the most part, 300 to 1000 is acceptable. However, you should pick a light with a higher lumen count that meets your needs if you need a brighter light that beams farther.
The quality of the reflector is also essential when it comes to the light produced. Depending on its design and quality, the reflector will either concentrate the light beam in a neat line that illuminates the center of your view or disperse the light particles across a large area.
Mounting and Compatibility
Ensure compatibility with your shotgun’s rail system, whether a Picatinny or Weaver rail. Look for lights with versatile mounting options to accommodate different rail sizes and configurations.
Depending on your specific application and preferences, consider additional features such as adjustable beams, strobe modes, and remote switches.
Although there are aftermarket mounting hardware choices, it is best to go with a light that the manufacturer guarantees will accommodate the weapon you plan to mount it on.
Cost
This review of the best shotgun lights shows that these devices vary in price. Since they have distinct features, it’s no wonder their prices are different.
A device will cost more if it emits more lumens, has a longer-lasting battery, and is constructed of a more robust material. Some brands cost more than others, but this doesn’t significantly increase the price.
It is advisable to evaluate how you will likely use the flashlight. If you plan to use it for hunting, it is recommended that you purchase a model with a high-lumen output and long-range illumination. You’ll be able to shoot more accurately and acquire more targets as a result.
You should choose a model with a good shelf battery life if you intend to use the flashlight on your home-defense shotgun. It’s usually preferable to ensure the flashlight functions when you need it, as everyone would like not to use that firearm very often. An extended shelf life will also reduce maintenance expenses because fewer battery changes will be required. When searching for a flashlight for tactical use, ensure it has a bright light output and a good strobe function. By using this feature, you can get a significant advantage by disorienting and blinding your opponents.
Size and Weight
Shotguns are by no means small and compact, but they don’t provide similar mounting options as rifles. The size of the flashlight can also affect the possibility of mounting other accessories on the rail.
Choose a shotgun light that balances size and weight to maintain firearm maneuverability and comfort during use.
Opt for a compact and lightweight design that minimally impacts the balance and handling of your shotgun, primarily if it’s intended for tactical or hunting purposes where mobility is crucial.
Durability
Durability is another pertinent element to look at when shopping for the best shotgun lights. Choose a shotgun light constructed from robust materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum or synthetic polymers like nylon, which are known for their strength and durability.
Look for lights with features such as O-ring seals and impact-resistant designs to ensure they can withstand rough handling and adverse conditions without compromising performance.
Which Side Should You Mount a Shotgun Light?
If the light itself has a conventional pressure switch, operating the left side of the gun is typically quite intuitive. It’s your hand’s natural position, and you’ll be good to go.
What Are Shotguns Good For?
Shotguns are arguably the most versatile kind of firearm. They are highly adaptable in that they can be used for hunting, as well as defensive, tactical, and clay target shooting. In fact, the first historical use of the shotgun was for hunting.
Conclusion
There are various factors to consider when choosing the best shotgun lights. Balancing price with desired features is essential, allowing for a selection that meets both budgetary constraints and performance expectations. Compatibility with your shotgun’s rail system, versatile mounting options, and additional capabilities like adjustable beams or strobe modes further enhance functionality and usability.
Read Also: