The AR-15 is one of the most versatile rifle types in the world, but even experienced enthusiasts need some assistance in low light environments. Fortunately, the AR-15 has a wide variety of flashlights that users can mount to the barre. The top flashlights can help illuminate your target and keep your accuracy on point, even in the dead of night.
But finding the best AR-15 flashlight might be harder than you think. Flashlights come in all shapes and sizes, so narrowing down flashlight based on illumination or weight is an important matter. We’ve found the best AR-15 flashlights and want to share them with you. Let’s check out our top picks and arm you with the knowledge you need to pick out a great flashlight for yourself.
The Best AR-15 Flashlight
Surefire M300C
The Surefire M300C is an ultra-compact flashlight powered by a phenomenal 123A lithium battery. This affords it a phenomenal life span without increasing its weight too much or compromising its luminosity. It features a powerful LED bulb set and mounts securely to most Picatinny rail styles, using a thumbscrew clamp for easy installation. This allows you to take it off or set it on quickly without too many tools.
The beam is ultimately 500 lm, making it perfect for most indoor but also many outdoor shooting scenarios. It’s also fairly stable and recoil-proof, so feel free to use it with a semiautomatic or automatic weapon alike. It’s ideal for close to medium range visibility needs, as it produces enough surrounding light to help you see your ambient environment decently as well as your main target.
You may also be interested in some of the best tactical flashlights from our list. Choose the right one for your next adventure.
- Produces versatile beam
- Has a great, rechargeable battery
- Can easily be mounted
- Very compact and lightweight
Arisaka 600
The Arisaka 600 Series 350 Light is a fantastic package all around. It utilizes a special TIR lens to focus its beam beyond many others’ best efforts, measuring in at 350 lm. This sweet spot allows it to work for both indoor and many outdoor scenarios since it won’t be too dim or bright for most. It can run for 1.8 hours with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. It also features an infrared mode that can go for up to 12 hours.
It’s also made with a special head that can withstand recoil: an ideal addition for heavy-recoil AR builds. It’s fairly durable thanks to its aluminum body and anodized coating, which protects it from corrosive damage. It’s even sealed to let it work in inclement weather. With all these benefits, it only weighs 3.5 ounces even with the battery inserted.
- Light weight
- Very durable
- Produces ideal beam for most settings
- Works well under recoil
Firefield Charge XLT Flashlight and Laser Sight
The Firefield Charge XLT Flashlight combines decent illuminating capabilities with a laser sight. It’s a perfect combination accessory for an AR 15 build, constructed of high-performance thermoplastic. This allows it to provide excellent durability without costing too much.
The light is 220 lm in intensity, making it perfect for indoor applications or tactical scenarios. The laser sight is green and is less than 5 mW, so it’s not too powerful or dangerous to the eyes. Both devices can be controlled from buttons on the top of the shell, and it can be mounted to either Weaver or Picatinny rails depending on your preference.
For some super affordable options, be sure to read our comprehensive guide to the top flashlights under $20.
- Combines flashlight and laser sight capabilities
- Very affordable for most
- Decently durable
- Includes battery and pressure pad
Surefire M600U Scout Light
The Surefire M600U is an evolution of the earlier flashlight we looked at. It’s also quite lightweight and compact with an ultra-high LED output 1000 lm in strength. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor or hunting scenarios, as it’s powerful enough to cut through darkness with ease. It uses a proprietary lens to help you see your target even in motion.
It’s also fairly ergonomic, with an excellent thumbscrew clamp. It’s all built with lightweight aluminum to keep it durable without affecting your overall build weight. It’s also hard anodized with a mil-spec finish, providing it with corrosion resistance and enhanced durability. It even has a special sealant to let you use it in any weather condition and keep out the elements.
- Can be used in inclement weather
- Has two lithium batteries for good battery life
- Very powerful luminosity
- Lightweight yet very durable
Inforce MIL WML White Light
The Inforce MIL WML White Light is a versatile flashlight for your AR 15, with a 400 lm brightness rating. It has two modes: white or infrared, with the batteries last either 1.5 or 4 hours, respectively. This allows you to use the flashlight in a variety of scenarios. It only weighs 3 ounces, but it still produces a high-intensity beam that’s ideal for close to mid-range target identification.
It uses an easy switch lever to swap between the modes or turn the light on. It also features a lockout system to prevent the light from being activated and the battery from being wasted until you are ready. It can clamp to any mounting system without the need for tools, making it one of the most snappy, easy to install or remove models available.
For more excellent gear like this, be sure to browse our list of the top AR-15 stock adapters.
- Can easily be mounted or removed
- Ideal for a variety of situations
- Has two modes for variable needs
- Uses easy access lever for control
Inforce MIL WMLX Gen 2 Light
The Inforce MIL WMLX Gen 2 Light is similar to the last choice, although it’s more powerful with an 800 lm rating. It’s still not much heavier, and it comes with three operating modes rather than two: constant, momentary, and strobe. The strobe light is excellent for rescue situations or when you need to signal your allies in tactical situations. The constant and momentary modes are also useful.
At 800 lm, it’s ideal for many outdoor scenarios, though it might be a little too intense for indoor tactical situations. It still features the easy to operate lockout system from the last Inforce light, as well as the all-inclusive clamp to let you mount it quickly and easily to any mounting rail style. All in all, it’s a great alternative to the other Inforce pick if you want something higher powered and more suitable for outdoor situations.
- Great luminosity overall
- Can be quickly and easily mounted or controlled
- Lightweight
- Has three modes for variable scenarios
Streamlight Protac Rail Mount Light
The Streamlight Protac Rail Mount Light is an affordable and effective option that uses either lithium or AA batteries depending on your preferences. This allows you to use the rechargeable lithium battery as your main power source, then have backup batteries in case you accidentally run out of juice. It also features a smart remote switch to let you swap between constant or moment operation without having to take your hands off of your weapon’s main grip.
It features a dedicated fixed-mount for Picatinny-style rails. It also features variable brightness settings between 40 and 150 lm. This makes it an ideal choice for indoor situations or tactical combat conditions.
- Great for indoor shooting
- Has a dedicated mounting system
- Several brightness modes
- Two ways of powering the flashlight
Streamlight TLR-1 HL Weaponlight
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL Weaponlight is a powerful device that can provide up to 800 lm for maximum illumination in either indoor or outdoor scenarios. It has a wide beam pattern to light up large areas quickly rather than a more focused beam. Despite this, it has about a 50,000 hour lifetime for the bulbs, and is quite durable, working well with high recoil weapons.
It can run for about 1.25 hours and is powered by twin, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. It also features a rail grip clamp system to work with most mounting needs. It also includes an ambidextrous switch to swap between different modes: momentary, steady, or on/off. An additional user-programmable strobe setting can be enabled or disabled if you need it.
- Works with most mounting systems
- Works well with high recoil weapons
- Good luminosity overall
- Can be handled with either right or left-handedness
Previous Article and Picks
Today, one of the most popular accessories for an AR-15 gun is a flashlight or weapon light. This is not surprising because this accessory can provide several benefits, especially if you’re planning to move in the dark. One of its benefits is that it helps you identify your target before you take a shot. Aside from that, a weapon light can also help immobilize and temporarily blind your attacker or target, giving you ample time to make a move. Furthermore, an AR-15 flashlight can also improve your accuracy, and it gives you more control in your shooting.
Unfortunately, there are tons of AR-15 flashlights available on the market. Some are made of high-quality materials while others are not. So, what are the features you need to consider when buying a weapon light?
Because the main function of an AR-15 flashlight is to illuminate a dark area, one of the most important features you need to consider is the amount of light it can produce. The amount of light is measured in lumens. Some products can provide 500 or more lumens, which is a great feature if you’re planning to hunt in the dark.
Another vital feature you need to consider is the brightness, which is measured in candelas. In this case, brighter is definitely better because this feature allows you to see your attacker or target better.
Aside from those features, the flashlight’s battery power is also important. This is especially true if you’re a hunter. As much as possible, opt for a product that allows you to use it for at least an hour continuously. Of course, you also need to choose a product that you can easily attach to your AR-15 gun. Lastly, you should also consider the product’s quality and durability.
Here are the 12 best AR-15 flashlights available on the market.
Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL Tactical Flashlight
Hunting in the dark is not an easy task. Fortunately, there are numerous AR-15 flashlights you can use that can provide bright light. One, in particular, is the Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL.
This product from Streamlight has C4 LED technology that delivers bright white light with a peak beam intensity of 12,000 candelas. But, this flashlight is not only capable of illuminating the darkest spot in your area; it also features 800 lumens. Remember, the lowest amount of light necessary to disorient a vision is about 50 lumens. Thus, with 800 lumens, this flashlight can temporarily blind and immobilize an animal, allowing you to identify an animal before you take a shot. Aside from that, this flashlight also uses TIR optics, which comes with a peripheral illumination and produces a concentrated beam, delivering a remarkable total internal reflection.
Another great feature of this product is that it’s easy to mount, thanks to its Picatinny rail styles. Moreover, this product is also waterproof, and it comes with sturdy construction. So, you can use it in different kinds of environments. The best part is that this product is compatible with other kinds of guns other than an AR-15 rifle.
SureFire X300 Ultra Series LED Weapon Light
If you’re looking for the best AR-15 flashlights on the market, the SureFire X300 should be one of your top choices. As you know, SureFire is a popular brand in the weapon light industry, so you’re guaranteed that you’re getting a durable and high-quality product. In fact, this model is made of an aerospace aluminum body, which ensures that it will last long even when you use it in harsh environmental conditions.
Aside from being extremely durable, the SureFire X300 also offers numerous features. For one, it delivers 600 lumens of light. Plus, it also has a precision TIR lens that creates a smooth beam with ample light for peripheral illumination. As such, these features will not only allow you to see in the dark. It will also help immobilize and temporarily impair your target’s vision, giving you the chance to act quickly. Also, this product is great for long-range applications, thanks to its good peripheral illumination.
In addition to those features, the SureFire X300 also has ambidextrous switching capabilities. This feature allows you to use this product whether your right or left-handed. Lastly, this flashlight can also fit in any railed handgun and long gun.
Monstrum Tactical LED Flashlight
If you’re searching for a budget-friendly AR-15 flashlight, the Monstrum Tactical LED Flashlight is a good choice. The main reason is that this product is designed to be functional but affordable.
For its features, the Monstrum Tactical LED Flashlight is made from aircraft grade aluminum, which is sturdy and lightweight. This product can also attach to any kinds of guns with a weaver or Picatinny rail. So, you can use it with a pistol, rifle, or shotgun. Furthermore, this product comes with a detachable remote pressure switch that allows easy on and off access.
As for its light, this product delivers 90 lumens. This is low compared to the other products on this list. However, as mentioned, a flashlight only needs about 50 lumens to disorient a target or assailant. Thus, this flashlight can still temporarily impair your target’s vision.
Overall, the Monstrum Tactical LED Flashlight is best suited for indoor use or home defense but not for hunting in the dark. Nevertheless, this is still a noteworthy product, considering its numerous features and affordable price (less than $20).
Streamlight PolyTac LED Flashlight
Another product on this list made by Streamlight is the PolyTrac LED Flashlight. Compared to the Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL, this model is a bit less expensive (less than $100). Nonetheless, it also offers some great features. For example, this model delivers 120 lumens of light. Plus, it has a 4,800-candela peak beam intensity. Because of these features, this product can illuminate a dark area and temporarily blind your target, giving you enough time to identify your target and make a shot.
In addition to those features, the Streamlight PolyTrace LED Flashlight is made with a super tough nylon polymer for optimum durability and superior grip. It also has a runtime of up to 3 hours, so you can spend a lot of time on the woods without worrying about your battery dying in the middle of a hunt. Aside from that, this model will securely fit on any type of gun with a weaver of Picatinny rail. Furthermore, this product also comes with a Mounting Solutions Plus one-inch offset ring flashlight mount, which you can use if you don’t have a mount. Lastly, this weapon light comes with a tailcap push button that provides one-handed momentary or constant “on” operation.
SureFire M300 Scout Light
The SureFire M300 is one of the best AR-15 flashlights available on the market. The main reason is due to the great features it offers. One of these features is the TIR lens, which creates a versatile beam with enough reach for medium-range applications and enough surround light for the peripheral vision. But, that’s not all. This tactical flashlight also has a recoil-proof LED that generates 500 lumens of blinding white light with a runtime of 1.3 hours. As such, this product is capable of illuminating a dark area. Plus, it can also immobilize and temporarily blinding your target, giving you enough time to take the shot when you’re hunting in the dark.
Another great feature of the SureFire M300 is it comes with thumbscrew mount that allows you to securely attach it to any kind of guns with a Picatinny rail. Additionally, this product has a tailcap click switch. This feature allows you to press the switch for momentarily on and press the switch further for constant on. Plus, it has a patented lockout feature that prevents accidental activation. Lastly, this product is also long-lasting, thanks to its sturdy construction, which is made of aerospace aluminum.
CISNO Portable LED Tactical Flashlight
The CISNO Portable LED Tactical Flashlight is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a product that generates a great amount of light. This weapon light can deliver 1,000 lumens of light. As such, it can brighten a large area, which is helpful if you don’t see well in the dark. Plus, this weapon light also produces less heat compared to other LED bulbs.
Aside from those features, this tactical flashlight from CISNO is also made of high quality 6061T aluminum with waterproof o-rings and anti-abrasive coating. So, this product can last long even if you use it during rainy days.
Another great feature of the CISNO Portable LED Tactical Flashlight is its two tail switches. These two switches are a regular button switch and a remote switch for two modes (constantly and temporarily press). Lastly, this product also comes with a one-ring 45-degree offset mount, which you can attach to your AR-15 when you’re hunting.
Sightmark LoPro Combo
The Sightmark LoPro Combo has a military-inspired design and delivers the finest accuracy and versatility. Basically, this product is a combination of a laser and a weapon light. Plus, it offers controls that are specifically designed for AR-15 rifles.
For the amount of light, the Sightmark LoPro Combo emits 220 lumens. This amount can be used for illuminating a room, allowing you to spot your targets in pitch black darkness quickly.
As for the laser, this product has a 3R green laser. It also has a visibility of 50 yards during the day and 600 yards at night. Moreover, this product features a 1 MOA-click adjustment, and the hand adjustable windage and elevation turrets that allow you to zero in the laser dot for close-range shooting.
Aside from those features, this product is also equipped with a pressure pad operation and a push button. These features enable you to use the device easily and to place the light where it’s needed quickly.
For its construction, the Sightmark LoPro Combo is made of high-performance thermoplastic, making it reliable in a wide range of harsh climates. Plus, it is also resistant to 1,000g’s of maximum recoil. Lastly, this product is best for home defense and military replica purposes.
Aimkon HiLight P10S Strobe Flashlight
The Aimkon HiLight P10S Strobe Flashlight is one of the most popular products on this list. This is not only due to its affordable price but its great features as well. One, in particular, is that it emits a bright light. This is thanks to the product’s Cree XM-L2 LED that produces 500 lumens.
Another excellent feature of this product is its strobe function. A strobe flashlight can disorient the target, disrupt the target’s vision, and reduce the target’s night adaptation.
In addition to those features, this product is also lightweight – with a weight of about 2.8 oz. It also has a sliding on/off switch that you can turn off or on quickly. Furthermore, this weapon light with a CR123 lithium battery with a runtime of 55 minutes. This runtime may seem short, but it is enough for hunting, provided that you don’t keep the light on continuously. The best part is that you can purchase this product for less than $30.
InForce WMLX Weapon Light
The InForce WMLX weapon light is one of the best AR-15 Flashlights available on the market because of the various features it provides. First, this product comes with impressive brightness, thanks to its LED bulb that emits 800 lumens of white light. But, that’s not all. With 800 lumens, this flashlight can also immobilize and temporarily blind your target. Furthermore, this weapon light has new optics that form a high-intensity beam that provides an impressive light for long-distance target identification and situational awareness.
Aside from those features, the InForce WMLX has a glass reinforced polymer body, which is compact, water-resistant, and impact-resistant. Thus, this flashlight is great for hunting in the woods. Additionally, this weapon light comes with a switch that you can operate easily and an integrated rail clamp that allows you to mount the flashlight with ease. Plus, you can use this product on various kinds of guns. Lastly, this AR-15 flashlight has heat-dissipating vents for improved LED thermal management.
Streamlight 69220 TLR-3 Tactical Light
If you’re in search of a durable product that can withstand harsh environments, the Streamlight 69220 TL-3 Tactical Light is an excellent choice. This product’s case body is made of nylon polymer, which is resistant to impact. As such, when your gun bangs against a hard surface, the weapon light will not be damaged. Aside from that, the product’s face cap is made of aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish that protects it from corrosion and abrasion. Plus, this product is waterproof and resistant to shock.
For its other features, the Streamlight 69220 TLR-3 emits 125 lumens of light with a brightness of 5,300 candelas. This product also features keys for Picatinny or Glock-style rails, and it also includes a rail clamp that you can easily attach or detach from the weapon’s side. Moreover, this weapon light uses lithium batteries with a continuous runtime of 1.5 hours. Best of all, this weapon light is designed to fit a variety of weapons, including handguns and your AR-15 rifle.
Nitecore MH12 Tactical Flashlight
The Nitecore MH12 Tactical Flashlight is one of the few flashlights on this list that emits a very high amount of light. This is thanks to its CREE XM-L2 LED that delivers 1,000 lumens of light. As such, this weapon light is capable of illuminating a dark area as well as temporarily blinding your targets.
The Nitecore MH12 Tactical Flashlight is made of strong aluminum alloy that is impact-resistant. Plus, this device is also waterproof. Thus, this weapon light is a durable product that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, making it an excellent device for those who plans to hunt in the dark.
Aside from those features, this product also comes with a remote pressure switch with constant on/off push button and momentary on pressure pad switch. It also has a rechargeable Li-ion battery. Lastly, you can attach this weapon light on various kinds of guns with a weaver or Picatinny rail.
Ozark Armament Rifle Light
The last item on this list of the best AR-15 flashlights is the Ozark Armament Rifle Light. Like the other products on this list, this weapon light is equipped with numerous great features. One of these features is its LED bulb that delivers 600 lumens of light. Aside from that, this flashlight has four modes, which are constant high, medium, low, and strobe function. Remember, the strobe function can disorient the target, disrupt the target’s vision, and reduce the target’s night adaptation. Thus, this flashlight will not only let you see in the dark; it can also give you enough time to identify your target and take a shot.
The Ozark Armament Rifle Light has aluminum construction for durability. It is also sealed, making it water-resistant. Moreover, this product also has a remote switch with pressure and on/off functions. Plus, it comes with a one-year warranty.
AR-15 Flashlight Buying Guide
Features to Look for in an AR-15 Flashlight
Before you pick up a flashlight for your AR 15, it’ll be helpful if you pay attention to these key aspects before finalizing a purchase.
What Are You Using It For? – Not all AR 15 flashlights are built for the same purpose. Some flashlights are better for home defense and won’t be necessarily as bright. In fact, those lights will likely be a little dimmer to prevent you from blinding yourself in a home defense situation. Alternatively, hunting scenarios likely be much brighter to help you find camouflaged animals in the darkness. Tactical lights will have better batteries and may be even more powerful.
The idea is to pick up a light that’ll best suit your purposes rather than just the most expensive pick on the market.
Brightness – Of course, brightness does matter a great deal when it comes to the ideal tactical flashlight for your needs. Most flashlights measure their brightness with “lumens”, with higher numbers corresponding to a brighter light. Weak flashlights will usually have around 100 lm, while more powerful ones will have lights of 1000 lm or higher.
Go for dimmer flashlights if you will primarily be using the light indoors or for home defense situations. Go more powerful of the light will be used outside; light spreads out when outdoors, meaning you’ll need a more powerful beam to reliably illuminate anything.
Battery – Don’t forget to consider batteries when you make your decision. Some flashlights have rechargeable batteries, which are great for value for money, although they may also be more expensive. Others have disposable batteries, but these have another disadvantage in that you have to constantly carry additional batteries on a hunting expedition.
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to the power supply. It all depends on your preference. But you should always try to find an AR 15 flashlight that has enough battery power to last for many hours. Otherwise, you may run out of illumination at a particularly bad time.
Durability – Finally, it always pays to pick up a durable flashlight instead of a weaker one. Durable flashlights last much longer than their cheaper competitors, and they often come with special coatings to let them last in water or inclement weather. We’d recommend you go with a durable and “weatherproof” flashlight if you can afford it; it’s a flat-out better choice than the alternative.
Conclusion
All in all, the best AR-15 flashlight for your needs may be totally different from our own! Remember to keep the key aspects in mind as you browse. Whatever you need, one of the above 8 is probably a great fit for your build. Good hunting!