This is a flashlight that will help you see your target in the dark.
This is a tactical flashlight, but it seems to be no different from an ordinary flashlight except that it can be mounted on a weapon. So, why is the tactical flashlight called "tactical"? This time, I will introduce you to what tactical flashlights are like in reality.
The Birth and Origin of the Flashlight
The world's first tube-shaped flashlight can be traced back to 1899, invented by a British inventor - David Misell. However, this first-generation flashlight did not become popular in that era due to its low efficiency and other reasons. This handheld lighting device became popular in 1904, with the advancement of battery technology and the emergence of tungsten filament bulbs. Of course, this convenient lighting device naturally also won the favor of military and police units. However, due to the harsh environments in which soldiers operate, ordinary flashlights cannot meet the needs of military and police forces, and thus the tactical flashlight was born.
The Differences Between Tactical Flashlights and Ordinary Flashlights
The term "tactical flashlight" did not actually emerge until the 1990s. It was specifically used to describe a new type of flashlight used by law enforcement and military personnel. They all have one thing in common: more functions, brighter beams, and longer illumination distances than ordinary flashlights. These flashlights' casing is sturdy and waterproof to cope with more complex environments. The light source uses bulbs filled with inert gas, making them more durable and longer-lasting than ordinary flashlights. However, this also means that their price is significantly higher.
Tactical light：https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tactical_light
The Strengths of Tactical Flashlights
How do you show the power of a tactical torch? Well, it's a coincidence that I happen to have a tactical torch XT2CR Pro from KLARUS, a company that currently provides tactical torches for the Hong Kong Rapid Action Unit. The one I have is one of them, so this time, it's not just a knockoff anymore.
Overview of the KLARUS XT2CR PRO Tactical Flashlight
The XT2CR Pro tactical flashlight is made of aluminum alloy. The front end features an anti-roll ring and an attack bezel at the top. The flashlight's switch is located at the tail and uses a dual-switch design. The XT2CR Pro tactical flashlight has a drop resistance of one meter and a waterproof rating of IPX8, allowing it to operate normally at a depth of two meters underwater. Additionally, it has a maximum output of 2100 lumens and a maximum beam distance of 240 meters. It uses a 3100mAh 18650 battery and has a Type-C charging port on the side.
Know more about XT2CR Pro tactical flashlight: https://klarustore.com/products/klarus-xt2cr-pro-2100-lumens-usb-c-rechargeable-compact-tactical-flashlight-cree-xph35-hd-led
KLARUS XT2CR Pro Tactical Flashlight's Tactical Mode and Outdoor Mode
This flashlight has two modes: Outdoor Mode and Tactical Mode. The Tactical Mode doesn't just mean mounting it on a weapon.
In Tactical Mode, lightly pressing the black button on the tail activates the momentary on mode, and pressing it fully turns the flashlight on continuously. In continuous mode, you can adjust the brightness from high to low by pressing the edge button. When the flashlight is off, pressing the edge button activates the strobe mode, and holding it for about three seconds will keep the strobe mode on.
Hold the edge button to switch to Outdoor Mode until the side indicator light changes from red to green, then press the main switch to complete the transition. In this mode, pressing the edge button activates the lowest brightness, holding it for three seconds switches to continuous mode, and then pressing the edge button again cycles the brightness from low to high. This design is highly user-friendly.
The Action of Using Tactical Flashlight in Conjunction with a Handgun
Tactical flashlights were initially designed to be used with handguns, not by mounting them, but by holding one in each hand. This practice of using a flashlight to assist in shooting dates back to the 1930s and was already part of police training at the time. Today, there are many techniques for using a handgun in conjunction with a flashlight, such as the Harries, Ayoob, Chapman, and Rogers methods. However, most of you will not need these so I won't go into detail.
Of course, for us, most tactical flashlights we encounter are mounted on weapons. Like mine, they are usually positioned in a spot that's easy to control.
What's the Tactical Tail Switch on a Tactical Flashlight
Some people might wonder what to do if the flashlight is mounted far away and is hard to control. This is where a little device called a remote pressure switch comes in handy. It replaces the flashlight's battery cover with an extended switch, allowing you to control the flashlight while ensuring it usually functions. However, avoid placing the remote pressure switch out of reach. Depending on your preference, you can usually fix it to the rail or directly strap it to the grip, whichever feels more comfortable.
I believe you have gained some understanding of tactical flashlights through my introduction. However, their applications extend far beyond what I've described. In addition to everyday lighting, breaking windows, and self-defense, tactical flashlights have many uses. For example, police officers use them to shine at suspects in the dark at maximum brightness, which can pressure the suspect psychologically.
Imagine this: when a weapon is equipped with a tactical flashlight, the flashlight is parallel to the gun barrel. This means that being illuminated by the flashlight is akin to being aimed at with a gun, which can be quite intimidating. If the suspect still tries to resist, using the strobe mode is an effective choice. The high-frequency flashing light can be disorienting, causing dizziness or temporary blindness.
Is the Strobe Function of Tactical Flashlights Important
You might have seen these flashing effects in videos and found them underwhelming. Indeed, to protect viewers' eyes, video editors often tone down the effect. In reality, just looking at a wall with the strobe mode on makes me feel a bit dizzy, so you can imagine the impact of being directly exposed to such intense flashing light.
Lastly, I want to remind everyone to never shine a tactical flashlight into someone's eyes, especially at maximum brightness or in strobe mode, unless the person in front of you poses a threat.
Know more about tactical flashlight: https://klarustore.com/