Streamlight Super Tac X

New to this forum, so I'll enter softly by offering up a light that I think is quite exceptional and unfortunately no longer widely available.

The Streamlight Super Tac, either the base version or the "X" version, with the former being 160 lumens and the latter 200 lumens with low (10 lumens), high (200 lumens), and strobe, has a throw I've never quite seen in any other platform. For such a "low" lumen level, these days we're used to thinking many hundred lumens is standard, it'll throw several hundred feet, far exceeding the throw of flashlights that are higher rated regarding output. The Super Tac X version is rated, from the factory, at 400 meters. It has enough spill to be usable, but the beam is very focused, which you'd expect for something that can throw a few hundred feet.

It was designed as weapon light, but I've found it works best as a handheld spotting light. There are accessories, such as mounts and pressure switches if you wish to use it in this capacity. I've used it for many years and have never had an issue regarding durability. I've dropped it many times and it remains intact. Having said that, the reflector is large and long and therefore inherently less durable than a light designed for less throw. As you can see in the picture, the reflector is twice the width of the body portion of the flashlight.

Bottom line: If you want a compact flashlight, about 6.5" long, that will throw a tight beam at 900 feet, this is your light. I've yet to find something that is so efficient regarding lumen/throw.

 

Have and use tac LED, like the one you mentioned or very close to it. Had that one or a very similar one on an AR 15. Found out that while I liked the 2 to 300 lumen beam that would reach out and light something up, 99 % of the time I was using the low level setting that would give a background level light in power out situations or low light travel. Have high level tac lights, use low level dispersed background lights with solar recharge ability. Light sw went bad in bedroom we sleep in. It took me a few days until I got around to fix it. Had one of those small LED lamps with a mirror base that reflects light up and out. I found that it would give enough background light to function and get dressed, go to the bathroom, etc.. It would run about 4 nights of use on one set of 4 rechargeable batteries and that the solar charger would recharge them in about 6 - 8 hours.

Had an ice storm a few years ago. Lost power for 13 days, We had a generator, heat with wood, backup shallow well, etc, so warm, had hot water, toilet, refrig, etc. Area LED lights with rechargeable batteries were a God send. Only ran generator about 4 or so hours a day. Used LED's for light rest of time. I am happy to say that we never did have to use any tactical lights.

For sheer handiness, I find that cap or head lamps are the most useful for travel or working. Hands free, light goes where you look, doesn't blind you etc. You bring up a very important point in survival. The best tool isn't the latest, it is the one you have, are used to, you know works, and you have the parts needed to make it work.

 

We use ProTac & TLR-HL weapon lights, StreamLight is a solid company that stands by their products we had an issue with an old TLR, and they sent a brand new one. The Ten-Tap feature where you can turn off the annoying strobe is great.
There are a ton of cheap LED lights out there and StreamLight gear ain't cheap, but they are worth it.