HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery Review

First Impressions of HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery

The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery arrived promising a new standard in weapon-mounted lights. Designed by HRT Tactical Gear to be simple, reliable, and ambidextrous, the AWLS Lite boasts a modular design adaptable to various scenarios and a unique Omni Directional Activator (ODA) tail cap. The allure of a high candela output, coupled with user-adjustable sensitivity, immediately piqued my interest; I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype.

I needed a weapon light that offered both power and intuitive control for my patrol rifle. My previous light, while bright, lacked a refined activation system and felt bulky on my rail.

Upon unboxing, the AWLS Lite impressed with its solid construction and clean lines. The anodized finish felt durable, and the MLOK mounting system appeared well-integrated. Compared to my Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount HL-X and SureFire Scout Light Pro, the AWLS Lite seemed to strike a better balance between size and functionality, offering a potentially superior activation system without the need for clumsy tape switches. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the design was promising, but the true test would be its performance under duress.

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Real-World Testing: Putting HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery was at a low-light carbine course. The range conditions were typical for an evening class – dim lighting with varying distances to targets. The AWLS Lite immediately proved its worth, providing ample illumination for target identification and engagement. The Omni Directional Activator (ODA) tail cap was surprisingly intuitive; a simple press activated the light, and adjusting the sensitivity allowed for quick adaptation to different shooting positions and grip pressures.

During the course, a brief rain shower tested the light’s weather resistance. The AWLS Lite continued to function flawlessly, and the grip remained secure even with wet hands. I was particularly impressed with the beam pattern; the uniform spill provided excellent close-range visibility, while the focused hot spot reached out effectively to longer distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in training and range sessions, the HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery has proven remarkably reliable. The anodized finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated mounting and dismounting. Maintenance has been straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens and battery contacts.

Compared to my previous light setup, the AWLS Lite has significantly streamlined my weapon. Its compact size and integrated MLOK mount reduce bulk, and the ODA tail cap eliminates the need for cumbersome tape switches, resulting in a more responsive and ergonomic experience. I’d call it a significant improvement and far less prone to snagging on gear.

Breaking Down the Features of HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery

Specifications

• The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery boasts a 1600 lumen output, providing intense illumination for target identification and navigation. The 58,000 candela further enhances its reach, making it effective at both close and medium ranges.
  • These numbers translate to a bright, focused beam capable of cutting through darkness and providing positive target identification at a reasonable distance.
• The light is powered by either one 18650 battery or two CR123A batteries, offering flexibility in power source options. Using 18650 is recommended for peak performance but CR123A provides a decent backup.
  • The ability to use CR123A batteries in a pinch is a valuable feature, ensuring the light remains operational even if 18650 batteries are unavailable.
• The light features a low-profile, fully integrated MLOK mount body, an ambidextrous design, and an ODA (Omni Directional Tail Cap), enhancing usability and ergonomics. These design choices contribute to a streamlined weapon setup and intuitive activation.
  • The integrated MLOK mount eliminates the need for additional mounting hardware, reducing weight and bulk.
• Other specifications include a 5500k daylight-balanced color temperature, 103 minutes runtime, 1.25-inch diameter, 6.4-inch length, and 7.1 oz weight. The daylight-balanced color temperature provides true-to-life color rendition.
  • These specs highlight the AWLS Lite’s compact and lightweight design, while still offering impressive performance.

Performance & Functionality

The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery excels in providing reliable and powerful illumination. The beam pattern is well-balanced, offering a wide spill for situational awareness and a focused hot spot for target identification at medium ranges. The ODA tail cap is a standout feature, offering intuitive activation and user-adjustable sensitivity.

While the 1600-lumen output is impressive, it can be too bright for very close-quarters engagements, potentially causing temporary blindness in confined spaces. A lower output mode would be a welcome addition. Overall, the AWLS Lite meets and often exceeds expectations, providing a robust and versatile weapon light solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery is excellent. The anodized aluminum body feels durable and well-constructed. The light is relatively lightweight at 7.1 oz, and the integrated MLOK mount keeps the profile slim.

The ODA tail cap is designed for intuitive use, though it takes some practice to fine-tune the sensitivity to individual preferences. The ambidextrous design ensures that both left- and right-handed users can easily operate the light.

Durability & Maintenance

The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery appears built to last. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the internal components are well-protected. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens and battery contacts.

Given the robust construction and quality materials, the AWLS Lite should provide years of reliable service. Battery replacement is simple.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery comes standard with the light unit and the ODA tail cap. There are no additional accessories included in the box.

However, the MLOK mounting system is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rail accessories. While the light is not specifically designed for customization, its standard battery format and mounting system allow for compatibility with various aftermarket components.

Pros and Cons of HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery

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Who Should Buy HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery?

The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious shooting enthusiasts who need a reliable and high-performance weapon light. Its robust construction and intuitive controls make it ideal for tactical applications.

Those who primarily operate in confined spaces or require a more versatile light with multiple output modes may want to consider alternatives. Must-have accessories include high-quality 18650 batteries and a compatible charger.

Conclusion on HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery

The HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery is an impressive weapon light that delivers on its promise of simplicity, reliability, and performance. The intuitive ODA tail cap and bright output make it a valuable asset in low-light tactical scenarios.

At $199.95, the price is justified by the light’s quality construction, innovative features, and reliable performance. I would recommend the HRT Tactical Gear AWLS Lite Advanced Weapon 1600 Lumens LED Light w/18650 Battery to anyone looking for a top-tier weapon-mounted light. Upgrade your weapon today and experience the difference!