Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum Review

The Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum Made a Bold First Impression

Weapon lights are an essential addition to any tactical firearm. The ability to positively identify a threat in low-light conditions can be the difference between life and death. I recently acquired the Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum, and I’m eager to share my experiences.

My search for a reliable and budget-friendly weapon light led me to the Nightstick brand. I needed a light that could withstand the rigors of both range use and potential real-world tactical applications. I was immediately drawn to its advertised durability and its manageable size.

The unboxing experience was straightforward. The light came securely packaged with the necessary Allen wrench and two CR123 batteries. Initial impressions were positive; the light felt solid and well-built, showcasing a robust aluminum construction.

I considered other weapon lights from Streamlight and Surefire. However, their significantly higher price points, coupled with the Nightstick’s promising specifications, swayed my decision. The Nightstick offered a compelling balance of performance and affordability. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to its claims.

Real-World Testing: Putting Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum was at an outdoor shooting range during a late afternoon training session. The fading light provided the perfect opportunity to evaluate its effectiveness. I mounted it on my AR-15 using the integrated Picatinny rail mount, which proved simple and secure.

The Nightstick performed admirably, even in slightly damp conditions due to light rain. The 850 lumens provided ample illumination for target identification out to around 75 yards. The single rear switch was intuitive to use, providing both momentary and constant-on functionality. There were no initial hiccups, which was a pleasant surprise given the price.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Nightstick has proven to be a dependable addition to my rifle. It has held up well through various range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course. The finish shows minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to bumps and scrapes.

Maintenance has been a breeze, primarily consisting of wiping it down with a damp cloth after use. The battery life seems consistent with the Nightstick’s stated 2.5-hour runtime. Compared to some of the more expensive lights I’ve used, the Nightstick holds its own surprisingly well, particularly considering the price difference.

Breaking Down the Features of Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum

Specifications

• The Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum boasts a CREE LED rated at 850 lumens. This provides a substantial amount of light for close to medium-range engagements.
• It has a runtime of 2.5 hours using two CR123 lithium-metal batteries. This offers adequate illumination for a typical training session or patrol.
• The beam distance is specified at 245 meters. This is sufficient for identifying targets at a reasonable distance, crucial for accurate threat assessment.
• The housing is constructed from aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum. This material provides excellent durability and resistance to impacts.
• The light is rated IP-X7 waterproof. This provides protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making it suitable for use in adverse weather conditions.
• It features a rear-facing single switch for momentary and constant-on operation. This simple design makes it easy to operate, even under stress.
• The light securely mounts to a long gun Picatinny rail. This ensures a stable and reliable attachment.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the light’s performance and reliability. The 850-lumen output is powerful enough for most tactical scenarios, and the 6061-T6 aluminum construction ensures it can withstand significant abuse.

Performance & Functionality

The Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum performs its primary function—providing reliable illumination—exceedingly well. Its beam is focused enough for good throw, but still offers sufficient spill for situational awareness. The single switch operation is intuitive and quick to manipulate.

The main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The light consistently turns on when needed, and the beam is bright and clear. One potential improvement would be the addition of a strobe mode for signaling or disorientation purposes. It has certainly met my expectations for a weapon light in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Nightstick’s design is straightforward and functional. The 6061-T6 aluminum construction feels solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its durability. Its weight is noticeable but doesn’t significantly impact the balance of the rifle.

The rear-mounted switch is easily accessible and provides positive feedback. The textured body provides a secure grip, even with gloves. There is minimal learning curve; it’s easy to pick up and use immediately.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nightstick’s aluminum construction and IP-X7 waterproof rating suggest that it should last for quite some time, even with regular use. So far, it has withstood bumps, scrapes, and exposure to rain without any issues. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery replacement.

I anticipate that the Nightstick will continue to perform reliably for years to come. Its simple design reduces the potential for mechanical failures.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum comes with an Allen wrench for tightening the rail mount and two CR123 batteries. There are no additional accessories included, and customization options are limited to aftermarket pressure switches that are compatible with the tailcap design.

While not officially supported, the Picatinny rail mount should be compatible with various aftermarket rail sections. The body of the light is fairly standard, meaning some generic light mounts may work as well.

Pros and Cons of Nightstick Long Gun Weapon Light Cree LED 850 Lumens CR-123 Battery Black 6061 T6 Aluminum