The Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery Made a Bold First Impression
As someone who’s spent a decade advising law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters on tactical gear, I’ve seen countless weapon lights come and go. So when I first laid eyes on the Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, I was cautiously optimistic. Boasting 1500 lumens and a comprehensive mounting system, it promised serious performance and versatility – key for any serious long gun setup.
My old light, a budget-friendly model I’d used for years during nighttime hog hunts, had finally given up the ghost, leaving me in the literal dark. I needed a reliable, bright, and easily rechargeable light that wouldn’t break the bank, and the Nightstick seemed to fit the bill. The complete kit aspect was also appealing; having everything needed for mounting and operation right out of the box is a huge plus.
Unboxing the Nightstick kit, I was immediately struck by the heft of the light itself. The black anodized aluminum felt robust and well-machined, inspiring confidence. The included mounts also appeared durable, and the overall presentation felt professional. It was a welcome contrast to some of the flimsy, plastic-heavy alternatives I’ve encountered.
Compared to my old light and other similar offerings from Streamlight and SureFire (though those are in a significantly higher price bracket), the Nightstick kit impressed with its complete package. Many competitors require purchasing mounts and pressure switches separately, quickly inflating the total cost. The Nightstick offered a more budget-friendly, all-in-one solution. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was eager to see if its real-world performance matched its promising first appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Nightstick at my local shooting 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 process was straightforward. Within minutes, I was zeroed and ready to run drills. The 1500 lumens were blindingly bright, easily illuminating targets at 50 and 100 yards.
The remote pressure switch was responsive and allowed for quick momentary-on activation. The focused beam was surprisingly effective in cutting through the ambient light of the range, providing excellent target identification. I also briefly tested it in a light rain shower. The light continued to function without issue, giving me confidence in its weather resistance.
I did notice the light getting warm after sustained use during the first range session. However, this is a common characteristic of high-output LED lights and didn’t seem to affect performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Nightstick, I’ve found it to be a reliable and valuable addition to my long gun. I’ve primarily used it during nighttime hog hunts and predator control scenarios, where positive target identification is crucial. It has been mounted on various rifles and shotguns without issue.
The aluminum body has held up well to the bumps and scrapes of field use, with only minor cosmetic wear. The rechargeable battery life has been consistent with the advertised 1.5-hour runtime. The included charger is convenient, and I appreciate the ability to also use CR123 batteries as a backup power source.
Compared to my previous budget light, the Nightstick offers significantly better performance in terms of brightness, beam focus, and overall durability. The confidence it inspires in low-light situations is invaluable.
Breaking Down the Features of Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
Specifications
The Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery boasts several key specifications. The most important is its 1500 lumen output from a clear LED. This provides ample illumination for most tactical and hunting scenarios.
The light body is constructed from durable black anodized aluminum, offering excellent impact and corrosion resistance. The kit includes a rechargeable Li-ion battery and a single battery charger. Two mounting options are included: a standard Picatinny mount and a 45-degree offset Picatinny mount, offering flexible mounting solutions. The advertised beam distance is 304 meters, making it suitable for engaging targets at medium range.
Performance & Functionality
The Nightstick performs admirably in its intended role as a long gun light. The 1500 lumen output is genuinely impressive. It provides a bright, focused beam that cuts through darkness with ease.
The momentary-on and constant-on modes, accessible via both the tail cap switch and the remote pressure switch, provide versatility in operation. The mounting options are well-designed and allow for secure and repeatable attachment to various firearms. While the light gets warm during extended use, it doesn’t seem to affect its performance or reliability.
One area for potential improvement is the pressure switch cable. It could be a bit more robust to withstand repeated use and potential snagging on gear. Overall, however, the Nightstick exceeds expectations for its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nightstick’s design is functional and practical, prioritizing durability and ease of use. The aluminum body is well-machined and feels solid in hand. The light is slightly heavier than some comparable models. This is likely due to the aluminum construction and rechargeable battery.
The knurled surface on the tail cap and the pressure switch provide a secure grip, even with gloved hands. The included wire management clamp is a thoughtful addition. It helps to keep the pressure switch cable organized and prevents it from interfering with the operation of the firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nightstick appears to be built to last. The anodized aluminum body is resistant to scratches and corrosion. The light has survived multiple range sessions and hunting trips without showing any significant signs of wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the light clean and functioning properly. The rechargeable battery should be replaced every few years, depending on usage. But this is a standard maintenance requirement for any rechargeable electronic device.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit comes with a comprehensive set of accessories. These include: the light itself, two Picatinny mounts (standard and offset), a remote pressure switch with a 6″ cable, a pressure switch rail mount, a wire management clamp, two Li-ion batteries, a single battery charger, a 2′ USB charging cable, an Allen wrench, and an adhesive-backed Velcro mounting strip.
While the Nightstick is primarily designed as a standalone kit, it is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail system. This allows for the use of aftermarket rail sections and other accessories. However, the light itself is not designed to be easily disassembled or modified.
Pros and Cons of Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
Pros
- Incredibly bright 1500 lumen output, providing excellent target illumination in low-light conditions.
- Comprehensive kit includes everything needed for mounting and operation, offering exceptional value for the price.
- Durable aluminum construction, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Versatile mounting options, allowing for flexible placement on various firearms.
- Rechargeable battery and included charger, providing convenient and cost-effective power.
Cons
- Pressure switch cable could be more robust to prevent potential damage.
- Light gets warm during extended use, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
Who Should Buy Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery?
The Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit is perfect for hunters, law enforcement officers, and tactical shooters who need a reliable and affordable weapon light. It’s also a great option for home defense, providing a powerful source of illumination for identifying potential threats. The complete kit makes it an ideal choice for those who want a hassle-free solution without the need to purchase additional accessories.
Those who might want to skip this product are individuals who require extreme durability and are willing to pay a premium for top-tier brands like SureFire or Cloud Defensive. Also, if prolonged usage in very high-temperature environments is expected, then the heat generated may be a concern.
A must-have accessory for this product would be a spare set of rechargeable batteries to extend runtime in the field.
Conclusion on Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
The Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit Clear LED 1500 Lumens, Black Anodized Aluminum, Rechargeable Li-ion Battery is an exceptional value for the price. It delivers impressive brightness, durability, and versatility in a complete and easy-to-use package. While it may not be quite as refined as some of the higher-end options on the market, it offers an unbeatable combination of performance and affordability.
The price is definitely justified. You are getting a lot of bang for your buck with this light kit.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly weapon light. If you’re ready to upgrade your long gun setup and gain a serious advantage in low-light situations, the Nightstick is the way to go. Don’t get left in the dark – illuminate your targets with the Nightstick Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit!