The Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery Made a Bold First Impression
Finding the right weapon-mounted light can be a frustrating experience. I’ve cycled through countless options over my 10+ years in the outdoor and tactical gear world, always searching for that perfect balance of brightness, durability, and ease of use. The Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery from Nightstick promised to deliver just that, and its comprehensive kit made a strong first impression.
I needed a reliable light for my patrol carbine, something robust enough to withstand regular range use and potentially, the rigors of a more demanding situation. The market is flooded with options, but I kept getting burned by lights that either failed prematurely or were too cumbersome to operate effectively. I chose the Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery over Streamlight and Surefire options primarily due to its included mounting hardware and remote pressure switch, all at a competitive price point.
Unboxing the Nightstick kit was a pleasant experience. The light felt solid in hand, the black anodized aluminum finish giving it a robust, durable impression. The inclusion of both a standard tail cap and remote pressure switch was immediately appealing.
Compared to other lights I’ve tested, the Nightstick kit felt more complete right out of the box. Many competitors require purchasing separate mounts and switches, adding to the overall cost and complexity. My initial reaction was excitement; this seemed like a well-thought-out, comprehensive weapon lighting solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery was at an outdoor range during a low-light training session. I mounted it on my AR-15 using the standard Picatinny mount with the thumb screw. The installation was quick and straightforward, allowing me to focus on zeroing and target acquisition.
The light performed admirably in the dusk conditions. The 1100 lumens provided ample illumination for identifying targets at varying distances. The beam was tightly focused, reaching out to what felt like a significant distance, even with some ambient light present.
The standard tail cap switch was easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. The remote pressure switch, however, took a little getting used to. The momentary-on function required a firm press, which wasn’t as intuitive as I initially expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery has held up exceptionally well. I’ve used it in varying conditions, including rain and dusty environments. There have been no malfunctions or flickering issues.
The black anodized aluminum finish has proven to be quite durable. There are a few minor scratches from regular use, but nothing significant. The light still feels as solid as it did on day one.
Maintenance has been simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each range session is usually sufficient. I’ve replaced the CR123 batteries once, achieving close to the advertised 2-hour runtime on high. Compared to cheaper lights I’ve used in the past, the Nightstick‘s reliability and consistent performance have been a pleasant surprise, outperforming many of its competitors in the same price bracket.
Breaking Down the Features of Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery
Specifications
The Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery boasts impressive specifications. The 1100 lumen LED produces a powerful beam, reaching out to a claimed 300 meters. The light is constructed from black anodized aluminum, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.
The kit includes the LGL-160 weapon light, LGL-ENDCAP2 tail cap switch, LGL-RPS2 remote pressure switch (6″ cable), LGL-SM1 standard Picatinny mount w/thumb screw, LGL-OM1 45 offset Picatinny mount w/thumb screw, NS-PIC1 pressure switch rail mount, NS-WM1 wire management clamp, two CR123 batteries, an Allen wrench, an adhesive-backed Velcro mounting strip, and an instruction manual. These specifications are important because they directly translate to real-world performance and versatility. The included mounting options allow for flexible placement on various weapon platforms, while the pressure switch offers convenient remote activation.
Performance & Functionality
The Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery excels in its primary function: providing bright, reliable illumination for target identification and situational awareness. The beam is tightly focused, minimizing spill and maximizing throw. This is critical for positively identifying threats at a distance.
One minor weakness is the sensitivity of the remote pressure switch; a slightly lighter touch would improve responsiveness. However, the overall performance of the light is impressive. The Nightstick meets and even exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Nightstick is excellent. The aluminum construction feels robust and well-machined. The light is surprisingly lightweight, which is a major plus when adding accessories to a long gun.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and easy mounting options. The kit’s wire management system effectively prevents cable snags, which is often overlooked in other weapon light kits. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable aluminum construction suggests that the Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery will last for many years of regular use. The anodized finish provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery replacement. The LED bulb is rated for a long lifespan, further reducing maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery is already a comprehensive package, but there are a few potential customization options. The included Picatinny mounts allow for compatibility with various rail systems and accessories. Aftermarket pressure switches may also provide an upgrade in feel and responsiveness.
While designed as a complete kit, the Nightstick is compatible with standard CR123 batteries, allowing for easy replacement. There are no readily available options for changing out the LED, however this is also not necessary given the expected lifespan of the bulb.
Pros and Cons of Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery
Pros
- Exceptional Brightness: The 1100 lumen output provides ample illumination for various tactical and outdoor scenarios.
- Comprehensive Kit: Includes everything needed for immediate use, including mounting hardware and a remote pressure switch.
- Durable Construction: The black anodized aluminum body is built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent performance and features at a competitive price point.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Includes both standard and offset Picatinny mounts for flexible placement.
Cons
- Pressure Switch Sensitivity: The remote pressure switch requires a firm press, which could be improved.
- CR123 Battery Requirement: While common, CR123 batteries are less readily available than AA or AAA batteries.
Who Should Buy Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery?
The Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and serious shooters who need a reliable and affordable weapon-mounted light. It’s also well-suited for home defense purposes, providing a significant advantage in low-light situations. Hunters who pursue nocturnal predators will also find this light useful.
Those who require extreme durability for heavy combat or extended backcountry use might want to consider a higher-end option with a more ruggedized design. Those who only use their rifle occasionally and have no need for a remote pressure switch could also consider a simpler, less expensive option. No must-have accessories or modifications are necessary, as the kit provides everything required for immediate deployment.
Conclusion on Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery
Overall, the Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery is an outstanding value. Its combination of brightness, durability, and comprehensive features makes it a top contender in its price range. The light’s value proposition is hard to beat.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable weapon-mounted light without breaking the bank. If you’re in the market for a dependable and affordable weapon light, the Nightstick is a solid choice that won’t disappoint. Consider adding the Nightstick Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1100 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum CR123 Battery to your gear today and experience the difference a quality weapon light can make.