Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black Review

The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve seen a lot of tactical lights in my decade-plus in this business, from the cheap throwaways to the high-end, weapon-integrated systems. The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black definitely caught my eye with its promise of a universal fit, rechargeable battery, and, of course, that bright 1000 lumen output. It seemed like a solid contender for an everyday carry light, especially considering the competitive price of $129.00.

My main need was a reliable, bright light that could easily transition between my range pistol and my home defense setup. I was tired of fiddling with proprietary mounting systems and lights that quickly drained batteries, so this seemed like a viable option.

Unboxing the Viridian CTL Plus, my initial impression was positive. It felt solid in hand, not overly heavy, and the matte black finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense look. The build quality seemed robust, and I appreciated the simplicity of the design.

I was also considering the Streamlight TLR-1 HL and the SureFire X300U, both industry staples. However, the Streamlight required me to buy additional adapters to fit different firearms, and the SureFire was significantly more expensive. The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black offered a more affordable and potentially more versatile solution.

Initially, I was excited but also a little skeptical. Could a light in this price range truly deliver on its promises? Only real-world testing would tell, but the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black definitely made a good first impression.

Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black at my local outdoor shooting range during a low-light training session. I mounted it on my Glock 19 using the included universal mount. The mounting process was straightforward, requiring only a few minor adjustments to get a snug fit.

The light performed admirably in the dusk conditions, throwing a bright, focused beam that easily illuminated targets at 25 yards. The controls were intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands, and the light held up well to the recoil of the 9mm rounds. I was impressed with the throw distance of the beam and the reasonable flood of light.

I didn’t encounter any major issues during my initial range session, though I did notice the battery indicator flashing after about an hour of intermittent use. This prompted me to consider battery life more carefully.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black has proven to be a reliable tool. I’ve used it during several more range sessions, as well as during a nighttime hike in the woods. It has performed consistently in various conditions.

The light has held up well to repeated mounting and dismounting, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. The finish still looks new, and the lens hasn’t scratched despite being exposed to dirt and debris. Cleaning is also straightforward, requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth.

Compared to some cheaper weapon lights I’ve used in the past, the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black is in a different league. Its consistent performance and solid build quality inspire confidence. The rechargeable battery is also a major plus, saving me money on disposable batteries in the long run.

Breaking Down the Features of Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black

Specifications

The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black boasts some impressive specifications for its price point. It features a 1000 Lumen Output, providing ample light for most tactical and defensive situations. The light is designed for a Universal Fit, making it compatible with a wide range of firearms.

It also includes a Rechargeable Battery, which is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly feature. The overall color is Black, giving it a low-profile and professional appearance.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The high lumen output ensures excellent visibility in low-light environments. The universal fit means you can easily transfer the light between different firearms without needing to purchase multiple mounting adapters. The rechargeable battery reduces the ongoing cost of ownership.

Performance & Functionality

The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black performs its primary function—providing bright, reliable light—exceptionally well. The 1000-lumen output is more than adequate for illuminating targets at close to medium range. The light also has a decent throw, allowing for identification of objects at a reasonable distance.

One minor weakness is the beam pattern, which is more focused than some other lights I’ve used. While this is great for target identification, it doesn’t provide as much peripheral illumination as I would like in some situations. Overall, the light meets my expectations and provides excellent value for the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black is impressive. The light feels solid and well-constructed, with no noticeable flex or play in the components. The controls are easy to reach and manipulate, even with gloves on.

The light is reasonably lightweight and doesn’t add excessive bulk to my pistol. The design is simple and functional, with a focus on ease of use. There is no steep learning curve associated with operating the light, making it accessible to both experienced and novice users.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black is a durable piece of equipment. It has withstood the rigors of regular range use and has shown no signs of damage or degradation. The light is also easy to maintain.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black comes with a universal mounting system. This allows it to be attached to a variety of different rail types. The light is also compatible with some aftermarket holsters designed for weapon-mounted lights.

While the light itself doesn’t offer many customization options, the universal mount allows for easy attachment to a wide variety of firearms, making it a versatile accessory.

Pros and Cons of Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black

Who Should Buy Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black?

This light is perfect for homeowners looking for a reliable weapon light for home defense. It is also well-suited for law enforcement officers and security personnel who need a bright and durable light for duty use. Range shooters that do low-light drills would also benefit from this weapon light.

Someone looking for the most rugged and powerful light on the market, regardless of budget, should skip this product. Someone who prioritizes a wide flood beam would also be better served by a different product.

A must-have accessory for this light is a quality holster designed for weapon-mounted lights. Also, a spare rechargeable battery would be a good investment for extended use.

Conclusion on Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black

The Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black is a solid performer that offers excellent value for the price. The bright output, universal fit, and rechargeable battery make it a compelling option for a wide range of users. While it may not be the absolute best weapon light on the market, it provides a good balance of performance, features, and affordability.

At $129.00, the price is definitely justified. It provides excellent performance and features without breaking the bank.

I would definitely recommend the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable weapon light. It’s a great option for home defense, duty use, or range training. If you’re in the market for a dependable weapon light that won’t break the bank, give the Viridian Weapon Technologies CTL Plus Tactical Light 1000 LUM Black a serious look. You might be surprised at how much performance you get for your money.