Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser Review

First Impressions of Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser

The Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser promises a lot in a small package: a high-intensity white light, a red laser for aiming, and a rechargeable battery, all in a form factor that won’t weigh down your pistol. As someone who’s spent years advising people on tactical gear, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and effective weapon lights, especially those with integrated lasers for quick target acquisition. This particular offering from Nextorch piqued my interest due to its compact size and dual functionality, aiming to provide both illumination and precision in one unit.

I needed a reliable weapon light for my concealed carry pistol, something that wouldn’t significantly increase its size but would offer enough light for positive target identification in low-light scenarios. The integrated laser seemed like a bonus, potentially allowing for faster aiming than relying solely on iron sights or reflex optics.

The Nextorch WL22 arrived in a surprisingly small box, and upon opening it, I was immediately struck by its compact design. It feels solid in hand, despite its light weight, and the finish appears durable. My first thought was, “This might just be the perfect compact solution.”

Compared to similar offerings from Streamlight and SureFire, the Nextorch WL22 stands out due to its integrated laser and lower price point. While those brands are known for their bombproof reliability, the Nextorch offered a more budget-friendly option with similar features on paper. I chose the WL22 hoping to strike a balance between performance and affordability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The size and features were appealing, but the ultimate test would be how it performed under real-world conditions. I was excited to see if it could live up to its promises, but also realistic about the potential for compromises given its price point.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Nextorch WL22 at an indoor shooting range in a low-light setting. I mounted it on my Glock 19 and ran several drills, focusing on target acquisition with both the white light and the laser.

The light performed reasonably well, providing enough illumination to identify targets out to about 25 yards. The red laser was easily visible against the dark background of the range, making it quick to acquire a sight picture. The side switches were intuitive to use, although I occasionally fumbled with them in the beginning.

There was a slight issue with the laser drifting after the first few magazines, requiring a minor adjustment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple range sessions and carrying it daily, the Nextorch WL22 has held up surprisingly well. The finish shows minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to daily handling and occasional bumps.

The mounting system has remained secure, and the light hasn’t loosened during firing. Maintenance has been simple, mainly involving wiping it down with a clean cloth after each range session. It needs charging every week or so with daily use.

Compared to my previous weapon light from Streamlight, the Nextorch WL22 doesn’t quite match its rock-solid reliability. However, given the price difference and the inclusion of the laser, it offers a compelling value proposition for its intended use.

Breaking Down the Features of Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser

Specifications

• The Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser features a 650-lumen LED for white light output. This provides adequate illumination for close- to medium-range target identification.
• It includes a 5mW red laser for rapid target acquisition. This helps improve accuracy in low-light or high-stress situations.
• The unit is powered by a built-in 250mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This makes the unit easy to keep going with USB-C charging and not having to worry about CR123 or AA battery availability.
• It is designed to be compatible with MIL-STD-1913 and Glock rails. This means the light can be mounted on a wide variety of firearms.
• The WL22 weighs in at 0.26 lbs and is 2.16 inches long. It adds minimal bulk to the host firearm.
• It offers a beam distance of 100 meters. This gives the user suitable distance for aiming and situational awareness.
• The battery lasts for 1 hour on a single charge. That is plenty of time for most scenarios.
• It also has an IPX4 waterproof rating. It can sustain water splashes and rain easily.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the light’s performance and suitability for various applications. The lumen output determines how well you can see in the dark, while the laser enhances aiming capabilities. The weight and size affect how comfortably you can carry your firearm, and the battery life dictates how long you can rely on the light before needing to recharge.

Performance & Functionality

The Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser performs its intended job adequately, providing both illumination and a laser aiming point in a compact package. The light is bright enough for most close-quarters scenarios, and the laser is easily visible in low-light conditions.

One weakness is the battery life, which is only about an hour on continuous use. The laser adjustment screws are a bit finicky, and the laser may drift slightly under recoil. However, given its price point, it meets expectations for a dual-function weapon light.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent, with a sturdy polymer housing. The light feels comfortable in hand and doesn’t add excessive weight to the firearm.

The side switches are relatively easy to use, although they could be slightly larger for easier manipulation under stress. There is a small learning curve to mastering the switchology but it is very intuitive once you have practiced a few times.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nextorch WL22 appears to be reasonably durable, withstanding daily carry and regular use at the range. The IPX4 waterproof rating provides some protection against the elements.

Maintenance is straightforward, involving only occasional cleaning and charging. Replacing the battery would likely require sending it back to Nextorch, as it’s a built-in unit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nextorch WL22 comes with a charging cable and tools for adjusting the laser. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.

The light’s compatibility with MIL-STD-1913 and Glock rails means it can be mounted on a wide range of firearms without modification.

Pros and Cons of Nextorch WL22 LED Compact Weapon Light w/Red Laser