Let’s Talk About Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light from Nightstick is a compact, powerful, and affordable lighting solution designed specifically for long guns. Built with law enforcement and tactical users in mind, this light boasts an impressive 850 lumen output and a remote pressure switch for convenient operation. It bridges the gap between budget-friendly and mission-ready.
My aging eyes were demanding a better solution for low-light shooting scenarios. I was tired of bulky weapon lights that added unnecessary weight and threw off the balance of my AR-15. The promise of a bright, lightweight, and waterproof weapon light at this price point was hard to ignore.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive. The light felt solid and well-constructed, despite its compact size. The aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum housing exuded quality, and the included remote pressure switch and mounting hardware looked robust.
I considered the Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount 2 and the SureFire Scout Light Pro, but the price of the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light was significantly lower. While those are undoubtedly excellent lights, I wanted to try a more budget-conscious option that didn’t sacrifice essential features. The Streamlight and Surefire options were also much larger than the Nightstick.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light could deliver on its promises of brightness, durability, and ease of use in real-world conditions. I was hopeful, but also prepared for potential shortcomings given the price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at an outdoor shooting range during a low-light training session. I mounted the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light on my AR-15’s Picatinny rail using the included hardware. The mounting process was straightforward and secure.
During the session, it rained intermittently, giving me a chance to test the light’s waterproof capabilities. The light performed flawlessly, maintaining consistent brightness and functionality even when exposed to moisture. Its ease of use was impressive; the remote pressure switch allowed for intuitive activation without disrupting my grip.
The only minor issue I encountered was the initial positioning of the pressure switch. It took a few adjustments to find the optimal placement for quick and comfortable activation with my support hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The light has seen action in various weather conditions, including rain, dust, and cold temperatures, without any performance issues. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches on the housing.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order. The battery life has also been adequate, providing ample runtime for my typical range sessions.
Compared to previous weapon lights I’ve used, the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light offers a similar level of performance at a fraction of the cost. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it delivers on its core function: providing a bright, reliable, and easy-to-use lighting solution for long guns. I have had lights with strobe features but have never found myself needing that feature.
Breaking Down the Features of Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light
Specifications
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light boasts the following key specifications:
- Light Output: 850 lumens, providing ample illumination for target identification and situational awareness in low-light environments. This is a very bright light for its size, offering a good balance between output and compactness.
- Bulb Type: LED, offering long-lasting performance and energy efficiency. The LED technology ensures a consistent and reliable light source.
- Battery Type: CR123, a common and readily available battery type. The use of standard batteries simplifies maintenance and replacement.
- Beam Distance: 245 meters, allowing for effective target engagement at medium ranges. The focused beam provides excellent reach and clarity.
- Weight: 5.4 oz, lightweight design minimizes added weight to the firearm. This helps maintain weapon balance and maneuverability.
- Weather Resistance: Waterproof, ensuring reliable operation in wet conditions. The waterproof construction enhances the light’s versatility and dependability.
- Material: Aircraft Grade 6061-T6 Aluminum, provides robust durability for long lasting use. The use of high-quality materials contributes to the light’s overall ruggedness.
- Mount Type: Picatinny, allowing for easy and secure attachment to most modern weapon platforms. This is a standard and widely compatible mounting system.
Performance & Functionality
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light performs admirably in its intended role. The 850 lumen output provides a bright and focused beam that is well-suited for target identification and navigation in low-light conditions. The remote pressure switch offers intuitive control, allowing for momentary or constant-on activation with ease.
The light’s main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It is easy to use, durable, and provides ample light output for most tactical applications. Its only weakness is the plastic connection point for the pressure pad, which requires care to avoid overtightening.
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light met my expectations by providing a cost-effective and reliable lighting solution for my AR-15. It did this without sacrificing essential features or performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light features a compact and lightweight design that minimizes bulk and weight on the firearm. The aluminum housing feels solid and well-constructed, while the glass-filled nylon polymer toggle switch offers a positive and tactile feel.
The light is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive interface. There is virtually no learning curve; even novice users will be able to operate it with ease.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light is built to withstand the rigors of tactical use. The aluminum housing is impact and corrosion-resistant, while the waterproof design ensures reliable operation in wet conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is sufficient to keep the light in good working order. The LED bulb has a long lifespan, minimizing the need for replacements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light comes with the following accessories:
- Remote Pressure Switch, allowing for convenient momentary or constant-on activation.
- Picatinny Rail Mount, providing a secure and stable attachment point for most modern weapon platforms.
- Two CR123 Batteries, ensuring the light is ready to use right out of the box.
The light is compatible with standard Picatinny rail accessories, allowing for customization with different mounting options or pressure switch configurations. I was happy to see that it comes with the rail wire management pieces, saving me money as I thought I needed to buy them separately.
Pros and Cons of Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light
Pros
- Exceptional value for the price.
- Bright and focused 850 lumen output.
- Durable and waterproof construction.
- Easy to use with intuitive remote pressure switch.
- Compact and lightweight design.
Cons
- Plastic connection point for the pressure pad requires careful handling.
- Does not include a strobe function.
Who Should Buy Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light?
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light is perfect for:
- Home defense users who need a reliable and affordable weapon light.
- Law enforcement officers and security personnel seeking a durable and compact lighting solution.
- Tactical shooters who want a bright and easy-to-use weapon light without breaking the bank.
This product may not be ideal for users who:
- Require a strobe function for signaling or disorientation.
- Need a high-end light with advanced features like adjustable beam focus.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- Spare CR123 batteries.
- Optional rail mounting accessories for specific weapon platforms.
Conclusion on Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light
The Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light is an outstanding value for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable weapon light. It delivers impressive performance, durability, and ease of use at a price point that is hard to beat.
The price is absolutely justified given the light’s performance and features. It represents a significant value proposition for users who need a quality weapon light without the high cost of premium brands.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, yet highly capable, lighting solution for their long gun. It’s a solid piece of gear that will serve you well in a variety of tactical and home defense scenarios. Don’t hesitate – equip your firearm with the Nightstick Tactical Weapon Mounted Light and experience the difference!