Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit Review

The Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit Made a Bold First Impression

As a seasoned veteran in the outdoor and tactical gear realm, I’ve seen countless weapon-mounted lights come and go. However, the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit immediately piqued my interest with its promise of dual-beam versatility and integrated IR illumination. The Nightstick brand has always been synonymous with reliable, duty-grade equipment, and this kit looked to continue that tradition.

I needed a robust, versatile light system for my patrol rifle that could handle both visible and infrared applications, simplifying my gear setup for night operations. My old setup involved separate lights for visible and IR, creating unnecessary bulk and complexity. Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the solid feel of the light and the quality of the included accessories.

Compared to similar offerings from Streamlight and SureFire, the Nightstick offered a more complete package at a competitive price point. Many competitor kits require purchasing the pressure switch or offset mount separately, adding significant cost. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – the build quality seemed excellent, but the true test would be in the field.

I was excited to see how the dual-beam function would perform in real-world scenarios, and if the IR illuminator was as powerful as advertised. My initial thought was, “This could be a game-changer for my nighttime operations if it lives up to the hype.”

Real-World Testing: Putting Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test took place at a local shooting range during a low-light training session. I mounted the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit on my AR-15 using the included Picatinny mount. The performance was immediately impressive, with the white light beam providing excellent target identification out to 100 yards.

During a simulated rain drill, I was also pleased with the Nightstick’s performance in wet conditions, showing no signs of malfunction. The included pressure switch was easy to activate, even with gloved hands. The transition between white light and IR was seamless and intuitive.

There were no initial issues, but I was surprised by the brightness of the IR illuminator, which seemed brighter than some dedicated IR lasers I’ve used. I needed to adjust my night vision device settings to accommodate the increased output.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit has proven to be incredibly reliable. The light has been subjected to a variety of conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and dusty environments, without any degradation in performance. Minor scratches on the housing are the only signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning the lens is simple, requiring only a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution. The battery life has been consistent with the manufacturer’s claims. It consistently outperforms my previous light system in terms of versatility and ease of use.

The overall durability and consistent performance of the Nightstick have exceeded my expectations. This weapon light is a robust, high-performing system I can rely on.

Breaking Down the Features of Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit

Specifications

The Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit is a comprehensive lighting solution designed for long guns, offering both white light and infrared illumination. The kit includes: LGL-180-IR weapon light, LGL-ENDCAP3 tail cap switch, LGL-RPS3 remote pressure switch (6” cable), LGL-SM1 standard Picatinny mount w/thumb screw, LGL-OM1 45 degree offset Picatinny mount. The light operates on two CR123A batteries.

The dual-beam capability is a key feature, providing both a high-output white light for target identification and an IR illuminator for use with night vision devices. The inclusion of both a tail cap switch and a remote pressure switch allows for flexible operation based on user preference. These specifications combine to deliver a highly versatile and adaptable lighting system.

Performance & Functionality

The Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit performs exceptionally well in a variety of tactical scenarios. The white light beam provides ample illumination for target identification at both close and medium ranges. The IR illuminator is powerful and offers excellent clarity when used with night vision devices.

The light’s strengths lie in its versatility and ease of use. The dual-beam functionality allows for seamless transitions between visible and IR illumination. The pressure switch is highly responsive and provides tactile feedback. The only area for improvement would be offering a slightly longer pressure switch cable.

Overall, the performance of the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit meets and exceeds expectations. This system is a reliable and effective lighting solution for any long gun platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit is excellent. The light is constructed from durable aircraft-grade aluminum with a hard-anodized finish. The light is relatively lightweight, adding minimal weight to the weapon.

The ergonomic design of the tail cap switch and pressure switch makes the light easy to operate, even with gloves. The included Picatinny mounts are robust and provide a secure attachment to the weapon. There is minimal learning curve.

The Nightstick feels solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand harsh conditions. The simple, user-friendly design makes it a pleasure to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust construction of the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. The hard-anodized finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions. The light is also water-resistant, making it suitable for use in wet conditions.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens and replacement of batteries. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for maintenance. This light is built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including the LGL-ENDCAP3 tail cap switch, LGL-RPS3 remote pressure switch, LGL-SM1 standard Picatinny mount w/thumb screw, and LGL-OM1 45 degree offset Picatinny mount. The light is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail system.

While the kit provides everything needed for immediate use, there are limited customization options available directly from Nightstick. However, the light is compatible with aftermarket pressure switch mounts and rail adapters. Its already impressive accessories out-of-the-box set it apart from the competition.

Pros and Cons of Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit

Who Should Buy Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit?

The Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who require a versatile and reliable weapon-mounted light. This kit is also well-suited for hunters and outdoorsmen who need both white light and IR illumination for nighttime operations.

This product isn’t ideal for someone on a very tight budget or those who only need a simple white light without IR capabilities. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of rechargeable CR123A batteries to save on operating costs.

Conclusion on Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit

The Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit is an outstanding lighting solution that delivers exceptional performance and value. The dual-beam functionality, comprehensive kit, and durable construction make it a top contender in the weapon-mounted light market. The price is more than justified by the quality and versatility of the product.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Nightstick LGL180IR Dual-Beam Long Gun Light Kit to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile lighting solution for their long gun. Upgrade your tactical advantage today.