What Makes Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED Stand Out?
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED is Streamlight’s answer to the everyday carry (EDC) flashlight, designed for professionals and civilians alike. It boasts a compact size, durable construction, and a surprisingly bright output for its class, making it a contender in a market saturated with tactical illumination options. Its sleek penlight design and user-friendly interface promise convenient usability, positioning it as a reliable tool for various scenarios, from close-quarters inspections to emergency preparedness.
I needed a durable, reliable, and compact flashlight that I could easily carry every day without adding bulk to my pockets. I wanted something brighter than my phone’s light but small enough to forget it’s even there.
Upon unboxing, the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED felt surprisingly solid. The anodized aluminum construction gave it a premium feel, and its lightweight design (1.64 oz) was immediately appealing.
Compared to other EDC lights I’ve used, like the Olight i5T EOS and the Fenix E12 V2.0, the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED struck a good balance between size, brightness, and durability. While the Olight offered a slightly higher lumen output, the Streamlight’s reputation for ruggedness and the included holster ultimately swayed my decision.
My first impression was positive; the flashlight seemed well-built and ready for abuse. I was excited to test its performance in real-world scenarios and see if it lived up to Streamlight’s reputation for quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED during a nighttime property perimeter check at a rural hunting camp. The light cut through the darkness, revealing potential hazards and offering ample visibility for navigation.
The flashlight performed admirably in the damp, cool conditions, maintaining consistent output and demonstrating its IPX4 water-resistant rating as light rain fell. The push-button tail switch was intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloved hands.
There was a slight learning curve involved in mastering the Ten-Tap Programming feature, as I accidentally cycled through the modes unintentionally at first. However, once I familiarized myself with the programming sequence, customizing the light to my preferred settings became simple.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It’s been exposed to mud, rain, and the occasional accidental drop without showing any significant signs of wear and tear.
The anodized aluminum finish has held up well, with only minor scratches in high-contact areas. Cleaning the flashlight is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to cheaper, non-Streamlight flashlights I’ve used in the past, the PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance. The Streamlight inspires confidence that it will work when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED
Specifications
- LED: White C4 LED. This provides a bright, white light ideal for general use and target identification.
- Lumen Output: 65 lumens. While not exceptionally high, it is sufficient for close to medium-range illumination and is a decent output for a light of this size.
- Candela: 690 candela. This contributes to the light’s throw, allowing it to reach a useful distance.
- Run Time: 6.5 hours. This is acceptable for typical EDC use, though heavy users may prefer lights with longer run times.
- Batteries: Two “AAA” alkaline batteries. Readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it easy to keep the light powered.
- Construction: Type II MIL-SPEC abrasion and corrosion-resistant anodized aircraft aluminum. This ensures durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
- Lens: Unbreakable scratch-resistant polycarbonate. Provides exceptional clarity and protects the LED from damage.
- Water Resistance: IPX4 water-resistant. Capable of withstanding splashes and light rain, but not submersion.
- Dimensions: L x D: 5.3″ x .6″ (134 x 15 mm). This compact size makes it ideal for pocket carry.
- Weight: 1.64 oz (46.9 g). Lightweight design minimizes bulk and maximizes portability.
- Switch: Push button tail switch – momentary or constant on operation. Offers simple and reliable operation.
These specifications contribute to the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED’s overall performance by providing a balance of brightness, durability, and portability. The durable construction and water resistance make it suitable for demanding environments, while the compact size and easy-to-use switch enhance its everyday usability.
Performance & Functionality
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED performs its intended job admirably, providing reliable illumination in a compact and durable package. The beam is focused enough for decent throw, yet wide enough for good peripheral vision at close range.
The light’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and reliable performance. The tail switch is easy to operate, and the anodized aluminum construction feels extremely robust.
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED largely meets my expectations; however, the 65-lumen output may be inadequate for users requiring maximum brightness in larger areas. Still, its value is high for its size and capabilities.
Design & Ergonomics
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED features a slim and ergonomic design that fits comfortably in the hand and pocket. The anodized aluminum construction provides a secure and tactile grip.
The light is very user-friendly; the tail switch is easily accessible and provides intuitive control over the momentary and constant-on functions. There’s a slight learning curve involved with the Ten-Tap Programming, but the user manual clearly explains the process.
Durability & Maintenance
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED is built to last, thanks to its rugged aluminum construction and scratch-resistant lens. With proper care, this light should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED is simple; occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and periodic battery replacement are all that’s required. The durable construction ensures that it can withstand considerable wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED comes with a tear-resistant nylon holster and a removable pocket clip. These accessories enhance its portability and convenience.
The light is not designed for extensive customization, but the Ten-Tap Programming feature allows users to select from three different operating modes (high/strobe/low) to suit their specific needs. The standard AAA battery configuration also allows flexibility in power source selection.
Pros and Cons of Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED
Pros
- Extremely durable and rugged construction: Built to withstand demanding conditions and heavy use.
- Compact and lightweight design: Ideal for everyday carry and comfortable to hold.
- Easy-to-use tail switch: Provides intuitive control over momentary and constant-on functions.
- Reliable performance: Consistently delivers dependable illumination.
- Ten-Tap Programming: Allows users to customize the operating modes to their preferences.
Cons
- Relatively low lumen output (65 lumens): May not be sufficient for users requiring maximum brightness.
- IPX4 water resistance: Not submersible.
Who Should Buy Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED?
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, medical professionals, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable EDC flashlight. It’s also well-suited for homeowners, campers, and hikers who want a compact and dependable light source for emergencies or general use.
Those who require a high-output flashlight for illuminating large areas or conducting search and rescue operations should skip this product. Individuals who frequently submerge their flashlights in water should also consider a more waterproof option.
A high-quality AAA battery charger and rechargeable AAA batteries are must-have accessories to minimize battery costs and environmental impact. A lanyard could also be added for an extra layer of security against dropping.
Conclusion on Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED
The Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED is a well-designed and durable EDC flashlight that offers a compelling balance of size, performance, and reliability. While the 65-lumen output may not be the brightest on the market, it is more than adequate for most everyday tasks.
At $62.79, the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED offers good value for money, especially considering its rugged construction and reputation for long-term reliability. While other lights may boast higher lumen outputs, few can match the Streamlight’s combination of durability, portability, and ease of use.
I would definitely recommend the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED to anyone looking for a reliable and durable EDC flashlight. Its compact size, rugged construction, and user-friendly design make it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications. Invest in the Streamlight PT Professional Tactical Series 2L LED today and experience the peace of mind that comes with owning a high-quality illumination tool.