The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black is more than just a weapon-mounted light; it’s a serious piece of tactical equipment from a manufacturer known for reliability: Streamlight. The black anodized machined aluminum body speaks volumes about its ruggedness, promising a light ready for anything. I’ve been using weapon lights for years, mostly cheaper models, but was consistently let down by their performance and durability.
I was tired of dim, unreliable lights that couldn’t handle recoil or moisture. I needed a light that could withstand serious abuse and provide consistent, bright illumination in any situation, from low-light training to home defense. The polycarbonate lens with scratch-resistant coating and the promise of waterproof construction immediately appealed to me.
Upon unboxing, the Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black felt incredibly solid. Its weight gave it a quality feel, not heavy, but substantial. The anodized finish looked durable and ready for abuse. Compared to my previous polymer-bodied light, this was a clear step up in quality. I also considered a SureFire model and an Olight, but the Streamlight seemed to offer the best balance of price, features, and reputation for ruggedness. The Streamlight’s simpler design and readily available CR123A batteries also influenced my decision. My initial excitement was palpable; this felt like a serious tool, built to perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black was at an outdoor shooting range during a low-light training session. I mounted it on my Glock 19 using the provided Glock-style key. The mounting system was secure and straightforward. The light performed flawlessly even as it began to drizzle.
The C4 LED provided a clean, bright beam that easily illuminated targets at 25 yards. The intuitive switch was easy to operate with my support hand. I was immediately impressed with the light’s intensity and beam clarity, especially in the worsening weather conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black continues to impress. I’ve used it in various environments, from dusty outdoor ranges to humid indoor settings. The anodized finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated mounting and dismounting.
Cleaning the lens is simple, and the O-ring seals have kept moisture out, even after simulated rain exposure. Compared to my previous lights, the Streamlight has proven far more reliable. Battery life has also been surprisingly good, easily exceeding the advertised runtime. It is truly a workhorse.
Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black
Specifications
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black boasts impressive specifications for its size and price point. Its machined aluminum construction with an anodized finish is immediately noticeable, providing excellent durability. The unbreakable polycarbonate lens with a scratch-resistant coating ensures clear visibility even after heavy use. The C4 LED technology is impervious to shock and offers a 50,000-hour lifetime. This is a massive leap in reliability compared to older bulb-based lights.
The solid-state current regulation guarantees consistent illumination throughout the battery life. This eliminates the dimming effect common in less sophisticated lights. The one-handed snap-on/tighten interface keeps your hands away from the muzzle when attaching or detaching the light, a crucial safety feature. It mounts directly to all MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails and weapons with Glock-style rails. The included keys for Glock-style, Picatinny, Beretta 90two, S&W 99, and S&W TSW ensure a secure fit on a wide range of firearms. Finally, the light is IPX7 rated, meaning it’s waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes, ensuring reliability in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black performs its job exceptionally well. The light’s bright, focused beam allows for easy target identification and engagement in low-light conditions. The ambidextrous switch is easy to actuate, even with gloved hands. Its reliability is unquestionable, and it’s consistently performed without issue.
The light is exceptionally bright and allows for positive identification. The only minor weakness might be the beam’s throw; a more focused beam would be beneficial for longer-range applications. Overall, the Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black exceeds expectations for a weapon-mounted light in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black is well-designed, prioritizing both durability and ergonomics. The machined aluminum construction feels incredibly robust, and the compact size doesn’t add excessive bulk to the weapon. The light is comfortable to manipulate, and the switch is easily accessible.
The simple, intuitive design requires no learning curve. Mounting and dismounting are quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
Built like a tank, the Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black is designed for long-term use. The anodized finish resists scratches and corrosion, and the sealed construction protects the internal components from the elements. With proper care, this light should last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional lens cleaning and battery replacement. The rugged construction ensures that repairs are unlikely.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black comes with several mounting keys to ensure compatibility with a wide range of firearms. Aftermarket accessories include remote switches for long guns and various holster options. While there are no user-serviceable parts for significant modifications, the light’s performance is excellent out of the box.
The light is compatible with most standard Picatinny rail accessories, allowing for easy integration with existing setups.
Pros and Cons of Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black
Pros
- Extremely durable machined aluminum construction. It can withstand significant abuse.
- Bright and consistent C4 LED illumination. Ensures reliable target identification in low light.
- Secure and versatile mounting system. Works with a wide range of firearms.
- Waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes (IPX7 rated). Provides reliability in wet environments.
- Intuitive ambidextrous switch. Easy to operate with either hand, even with gloves.
Cons
- Beam throw could be improved for longer-range applications. A more focused beam would be helpful in some scenarios.
- Uses CR123A batteries, which are not rechargeable, although this is a deliberate choice for runtime and performance.
Who Should Buy Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black?
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize a reliable and durable weapon-mounted light for self-defense or duty use. It’s also a great choice for home defense.
Hobbyists looking for the cheapest possible option or those requiring extreme long-range illumination might want to consider other options. A weapon mounted laser is another viable consideration for some users.
Conclusion on Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black
The Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black is an outstanding weapon-mounted light that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and reliability. Its robust construction, bright illumination, and versatile mounting system make it a worthwhile investment. The price is justified given the light’s build quality and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Streamlight TLR1 Series 2 CR123A Black to anyone seeking a dependable weapon-mounted light. It’s a professional-grade tool that you can rely on when it matters most. Upgrade your kit today and experience the difference a quality light can make!