CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light Review

Let’s Dive into CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light, manufactured by CoyoteLight, promises to be a game-changer for predator hunters. It boasts long-range illumination and adjustable intensity in a compact, durable package. As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I was eager to see if this light lived up to the hype and justify its premium price tag.

My search began when I realized my current scanning light wasn’t cutting it anymore. I needed something that could reach out further and offer better clarity for identifying predators at distance. The compact size and high-intensity LED of the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light caught my eye, offering what seemed like a perfect blend of portability and performance.

Unboxing the light revealed a well-built piece of equipment. The 6061 aluminum body felt solid and the matte black finish gave it a professional, tactical look. It came with a 1-inch scope mount, a wall charger, and batteries, which was a good start, but I immediately noticed the plastic lens, which was a concern based on user reviews I had read.

I considered lights from Streamlight and Fenix, both reputable brands, before settling on the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light. While those brands offer excellent general-purpose lights, the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light seemed more purpose-built for predator hunting. The advertised range and adjustable intensity were key differentiators.

My initial impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. The build quality felt top-notch, but the plastic lens and limited mounting options felt like potential drawbacks. I was eager to get it out in the field and see what it could really do.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light was on a late-night coyote hunt in the high desert of Nevada. The temperature was dropping, and a light breeze carried the scent of sagebrush. I mounted the light to my rifle using the included 1-inch scope mount and began scanning the vast, open terrain.

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light performed admirably in the cold and dry conditions. The adjustable intensity allowed me to fine-tune the beam for optimal visibility, even at long distances. I could easily pick out the eyeshine of a coyote well beyond 600 yards, a significant improvement over my previous light.

The light was straightforward to use, although adjusting the intensity took a little getting used to with gloved hands. I did appreciate the smooth dimming capability, which allowed me to avoid spooking game with sudden changes in brightness. I was initially impressed by the range and clarity, but I quickly realized the 1-inch scope mount was limiting its versatility on different firearms.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light on various hunts, it has proven to be a reliable tool. The aluminum body has held up well to bumps and scrapes, but I’m still cautious about the plastic lens. I have yet to experience any scratches or yellowing, but I can already see the potential for those issues down the road.

Cleaning the light is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The battery life has been consistent with the advertised specs, lasting about 4 hours on full power in the red setting. I’ve been diligent about keeping the battery charged, and I haven’t noticed any significant degradation in performance.

Compared to other predator lights I’ve used in the past, the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light offers superior range and adjustability. However, the limited mounting options and plastic lens are areas where it falls short of perfection. It definitely outperforms cheaper options, but it doesn’t quite reach the level of a truly high-end, customizable light.

Breaking Down the Features of CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light

Specifications

• The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light is precision machined from high-grade 6061 aluminum. This ensures a durable and lightweight construction, vital for long nights in the field.
• It features a solid-state LED bulb rated for up to 65,000 hours. This long lifespan ensures years of reliable use.
• The light boasts a battery life of 4-32 hours, depending on the brightness setting. This variable runtime is incredibly useful for adapting to different hunting scenarios.
• The length of the light is 6.875 inches and it weighs 10.6 ounces. This compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and mount on a firearm.
• It uses a rechargeable 26650 3.7V lithium battery. These batteries offer a good balance of power and runtime.
• The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light includes a 1-inch scope mount, wall charger, and batteries. This ready-to-go package is convenient, but lacks versatility in mounting options.
• It is available in red, green, or infrared (IR). These color options allow hunters to tailor the light to specific game and environmental conditions.
• The light offers fully adjustable light intensity control from 0-100%. This adjustability is critical for avoiding spooking game and optimizing visibility.

Performance & Functionality

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light excels at its primary function: illuminating predators at long distances. It lives up to its claim of lighting up predators’ eyes at up to 800 yards and providing full-body identification at up to 500 yards with good optics.

The adjustable intensity is a standout feature, allowing for precise control over the light output. I found it easy to dial in the perfect brightness for different scenarios, minimizing the risk of spooking wary animals. The regulated circuit maintains consistent light intensity, even as the battery begins to diminish.

One area for improvement is the mounting system. The included 1-inch scope mount is adequate, but I would have liked to see more versatile options, such as a Picatinny rail mount or a handheld grip. The plastic lens, while seemingly durable so far, raises concerns about long-term clarity and scratch resistance.

Design & Ergonomics

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light features a sleek and functional design. The aluminum body feels solid and well-made, and the matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface.

The light is comfortable to hold, although it could benefit from some additional texturing for improved grip. The adjustable intensity knob is easy to access, but it can be a little difficult to manipulate with heavy gloves. The overall design is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light is built to withstand the rigors of hunting. The aluminum body provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions. However, the plastic lens is a potential weak point, and I would recommend handling it with care to avoid scratches.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The rechargeable battery is easy to replace, and the included wall charger makes it convenient to keep the light powered up. With proper care, the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light comes with a basic set of accessories, including a 1-inch scope mount, wall charger, and batteries. Unfortunately, there are limited customization options directly from CoyoteLight.

Aftermarket accessories, such as alternative mounting solutions, are available from third-party vendors. A pressure switch would be a useful addition, allowing for remote activation of the light. The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light is compatible with standard 26650 batteries, providing some flexibility in battery selection.

Pros and Cons of CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light

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Who Should Buy CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light?

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light is perfect for serious predator hunters who need a powerful and adjustable light with long-range capabilities. It is also well-suited for ranchers and farmers who need to monitor their property at night.

Hobbyist hunters or those on a tight budget might find the price point prohibitive. Individuals seeking maximum customization options might be disappointed by the limited accessories.

A must-have accessory for the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light is a versatile mounting system, such as a Picatinny rail adapter. A pressure switch would also be a valuable addition for hands-free operation.

Conclusion on CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light

The CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light is a capable and well-built predator hunting light with impressive range and adjustability. While the plastic lens and limited mounting options are drawbacks, its overall performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters.

At $166.49, the price is justified for the level of performance it offers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations and consider whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

I would personally recommend the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light to anyone who needs a reliable and powerful predator hunting light. Just be sure to handle the lens with care and consider investing in a more versatile mounting system. If you’re tired of being outgunned in the dark, give the CoyoteLight CL1 Predator Light a try – you might just be surprised at what you’ve been missing.