18650 flashlights are essential pieces of equipment for home defense and illumination in low-light conditions. These torches come in various design configurations, with dozens of brands offering models in multiple sizes and outputs.
If you’re a handgun owner, an 18650 is a critical part of your everyday carry setup (EDC). It’s suitable for home defense situations to illuminate and distract a target while you mount an offense.
Most models clip into a tactical housing that works on Picatinny rails on your firearm.
An 18650 can go places where firearms can’t. If you live in a country where laws restrict what you can carry in self-defense, then a tactical-style flashlight is an excellent alternate weapon if you can carry a firearm or knife.
Some models feature beveled ridges along the rim of the head of the flashlight. These ridges are especially useful in hand-combat situations. However, be aware that the TSA sees it as a weapon and won’t allow it on flights.
When you’re at home or walking in low-lit urban areas, a flashlight can help you identify threats from attackers hiding in the darkness. Some models come with different modes allowing for strobe effects and other tactical options that distract your attacker. In confusion, you have an opportunity to strike.
In the best 18650 flashlight reviews, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about the top models.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 18650 Flashlight Reviews
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 18650 Flashlight Buyer’s Guide
- 4.1 What Do I Look for in a 18650 Tactical Flashlight?
- 4.2 Start with Your Budget
- 4.3 Water-Resistant Rating
- 4.4 Shape, Design, Style, and Size
- 4.5 Build Quality and Durability
- 4.6 Lumen Output
- 4.7 Battery Life
- 4.8 Flashlight Modes
- 4.9 Zoom and Lighting Features
- 4.10 Magnetic Positioning Base
- 4.11 Firearm Picatinny Rail Attachment
- 5 How Do I Use a Tactical Flashlight When I’m Unarmed?
- 6 How Do I Hold a Flashlight When I’m Using a Gun?
- 7 Reasons to Carry a Flashlight with You Every Day
- 8 18650 Flashlight FAQs
- 9 The Verdict
If you want to skip right to the good stuff and save some time, here are our top picks for the best 18650 flashlights. Chose the model that suits your budget and your needs from a tactical torch.
- Best Pick: Fenix TK16 v2.0 Tactical Flashlight
This model makes a fantastic tactical flashlight with plenty of functionality. Use it for EDC-defense, home-defense, rifle mount, and even take it camping. You get a rear tactical mode switch, USB-Type C interface, and 5,000-mAh capacity. Overall, this model is the best option in this review. - Premium Pick: SureFire E2D Defender
The SureFire 1,000-lumen E2D Defender model is the winner of the best premium flashlight in this review. You get up to 40-hrs of battery life, and a rear tail cap switch system for tactical operations. The beveled rim is suitable for defense situations, and the durable design is easy to grip in your hands. IT comes with USB charging for user-friendly operation. - Budget Pick: Sofirn SP33S
If you’re looking for the best budget 18650, then this model is your best option. With the Sofirn, you get all the functionality of torches that cost much more. This model has a slimline profile, and it’s suitable for firearms applications. We couldn’t find anyone that has issues with quality or reliability online.
18650 Flashlight Reviews
Now that you know the best 18650 models available, let’s unpack them in further detail. We’ll also look at some other contenders for the best 18650 flashlights. Make sure you check out our buyer’s guide and FAQ later in this review.
Fenix TK16 v2.0 Tactical Flashlight – The Best Overall 18650 Flashlight
The best part about carrying your 18650 is the high-power beam you get in a compact flashlight, with multi-use functionality. With theFenix TK16, you get a potent 3100 lumens flashlight with a tungsten toothed beveled edges for combat and rescue functionality.
The throw of this torch is an 415 yards, with a tactical tail switch and strobe function. The durable tungsten toothed bevel of the flashlight can break vehicle glass in rescue scenarios and makes a formidable striking weapon in hand-to-hand combat.
- HIGH LUMEN TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT - Fenix TK16 V2 has a 3100 lumen max output and over 415 yards throw with tungsten inlay bezel, ideal duty light for patrol, EDC and search and rescue.
- Extended Runtime - Included is a USB-C rechargeable ARB-L21-5000U with charging cable; over 2 hours on Turbo.
- ONE-HAND OPERATION - with a tactical tail switch capable of momentary-on and constant-on, and secondary tail switch for five brightness levels and instant strobe.
- ALL-WEATHER CAPABLE - Durable all metal construction that is IP68 waterproof and impact resistant. Can tolerate temperatures of -31 to 113 degrees F.
- PACKAGE CONTENTS: Fenix TK16 V2.0 flashlight, ARB-L21-5000U (Pre-installed), USB-C charging cable, holster, lanyard, LumenTac Organizer
With this model, you get a high-capacity rechargeable 5,000-mAh lithium-ion battery pack. The flashlight charges on USB-C function, with fast recharging times. The Fenix is all-weather ready, with a water-resistance IPX68 rating ensuring you have an operational flashlight in all-weather scenarios.
The Fenix wins our top overall 18650 flashlights in this review. It’s $100 for this model, but the quality is there. We like the sleek design and the way it clips onto the belt. The sloping head design gives you outstanding and control over the striker tip in the reverse handgrip position.
The torch comes with a durable nylon side pouch, and a belt clip included.
- IP68 water-resistant rating
- USB Type-C recharge
- Defense bevel design
- Belt clip and lanyard included
- 3.100 -Lumen
- Premium Price
- Not Suitable for mounting on hand guns
SureFire E2D Defender – The Best Premium 18650 Flashlight
This model follows a similar design theme to Fenix, with a sloped and contoured design in the dead of the flashlight, with large cutouts to enhance your grip in the reverse position.
The tungsten tip of the torch acts as a durable self-defense weapon. With the right hammer action, the flashlight can be useful in breaking glass during a rescue operation. With cross-hatching in the grip, you’ll find it easy to hang onto this torch, even when wearing tactical gloves.
You get a sizeable tactical click-button in the hilt, allowing you to switch between modes, with strobe function included in this model.
- Two output levels: 1, 000 lumens high for maximum light, 5 lumens low for extended runtime
- TIR lens produces tight beam with enough surround light for peripheral vision
- Coated tempered window resists impact, maximizes light
- Dual-output tailcap click switch: press for momentary-on high, click for constant-on high, return to off then press or click again to select low
- High-strength aerospace aluminum body, Mil-Spec hard-anodized for extreme durability
The flashlight runs of rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs included with the torch. However, you can run it off CR123A cells as well.
This model works well as a tactical model for your rifle. The precision reflector helps identify your target instantly. The high-power flashlight can blind your assailant, leaving you time to counter-attack or flee.
You get full water and weather resistance for this torch with an IPX68 rating.
- High-quality design with IP68 weatherproof rating
- Excellent grip for use with tactical gloves
- IntelliBeam technology for automatic light management
- Robust and durable LED emitter
- USB-C rechargeable battery
- Premium Price
- No Lanyard fitting
Sofirn SP33S – The Best Budget 18650 Flashlight
The Sofirn is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a budget buy 18650 flashlights. This model has everything you need in a 18650, including a tactical click-switch on the rear of the housing. The anodized belt clip makes storing and access of the torch easy and effortless.
You get a fine-textured cross-hatched grip on the torch’s barrel, with a compact design that makes it suitable as a spotting torch for some pistols. There’s plenty of functionality with this torch, including mid-low-high beams, and strobe function.
- Ultra Bright: Fitted with a 6500K powerful LED. Producing up to 5000 high lumens, reaching a maximum beam distance of 264 meters (866ft). Bright enough to illuminate a large football field.
- Long Lasting: Powered by a rechargeable powerful battery, it can run for 3.4 hours in high mode, 5.5 hours in medium mode, and 45 hours in low mode.
- Rechargeable: Designed with a plug-in USB-C charging port, it only takes about 3.5 hours to fully charge the inserted battery.
- Compact & Tough: 126mm (length) × 36mm (head diameter),weight 139 g, IPX8 waterproof, tough aerospace grade 6063 grade aluminum alloy body-shell, suitable for EDC and outdoors.
- Please fully tighten the head and tail caps of the flashlight when in use or wipe the battery ends and the spring with alcohol, if the flashlight has power but does not light up.
The system works on a lithium-ion battery, providing you with u-p to 45-hours run time on a single charge. You get an indicator system showing you the current battery status, and over-heat protection to prevent burnout when leaving the torch on and unattended.
The only gripe we have with this model is the lack of tactical tooting and no beveled front end. However, it’s a fantastic lightweight torch that’s suitable on your hip, handgun, or rifle.
- Surprisingly functional
- Very affordable
- Tactical click-switch on the hilt
- Belt clip included
- Comfortable grip
- USB rechargeable
- Up to 5000 lumens
- No beveled tactical frame
OLIGHT Baton Pro 2000
OLight has a reputation for making some of the best tactical torches in the game. They delivered with the Baton Pro model and were close to being the choice for the best overall flashlight in this review. If the Baton Pro included toothed beveling on the front of the torch, we think it would be the best tactical 18650 torches available.
However, the OLight Baton Pro is still a worthy contender, even without the tactical advantage of toothed beveling. The textured grip on this model resembles the stippling on some high-quality firearm grips, with a non-slip surface ideal for your bare hands or when using gloves.
- MULTI-FUNCTION SIDE SWITCH: It has several modes to choose from including three standard modes, turbo, moonlight, and strobe.It features a battery indicator located on the side switch so you always know when to charge.????Any further problems with the product, please free to contact us.
- 1,150-LUMEN OUTPUT: S2R II can produce a maximum output of 1,150 lumens.Includes a rechargeable battery which is charged magnetically through the tailcap charging cable.
- MOST CURRENT VERSION&PREMIUM BEAM: It's the upgraded version of the popular S2R predecessor. Brand-new TIR lens design producing a perfectly balanced beam.
- PERFECT GRIP AND PORTABILITY: Small squared texture build for perfect grip and portability.(It's 5% shorter than S2R ).It also features a dual direction pocket clip for enhanced everyday carry.
- HIGHLY EFFICIENT MCC 1A CHARGER:Portable faster charging MCC 1A USB charging cable provided in the package. It boasts a new MCC 1A magnetic charging system to ensure faster charging in a smaller form factor.
You get a 3,500-mAh battery, which isn’t the highest capacity, but you’re in a trade-off with a more compact design. Despite the lower battery life than the SureFire, it still manages a crazy 2,000-Lumen high-power output.
Unlike most models that include the belt clip in the rear of the torch grip, the baton has it wrapped around the flashlight’s front collar. We like the anodized blue finishing on this model, giving it an attractive look.
- High-power 2,000-Lumen rating
- IPX8 water-resistant rating
- Reversible belt carry clip
- Magnetic tail cap and USB charger
- Comfortable grip
- Good choice for rifles
- No beveled tactical frame
- No rear tactical click-switch
NITECORE P12
For security personal and tactical professionals, we recommend investing in the new NITECORE P12. This model is an improvement on its predecessor, with 1,200-Lumens. This model is around 6-inches in length, making it an excellent choice for EDC or mounting on your rifle handguard using a Picatinny rail.
The NITECORE P12 comes with a 4,000-mAh lithium-ion battery pack, and the flashlight will provide an incredible 50-hours of light on low mode. This 18650 flashlight has the best functionality in this review, with low-mid-high settings, strobe, SOS, and beacon modes.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT - 3x the runtime, 20% brighter, still compact with more carry options, the NITECORE MH10 v2 has 1200 lumen output at 220 yards of throw.
- RECHARGEABLE WITH EXTENDED RUNTIME - MH10 v2 with a USB-C fast charging port provides 3 hours and 45 minutes of runtime on turbo.
- EASY TO OPERATE - Side switch for power on and off and select modes among 4 brightness settings with strobe, SOS and beacon.
- IDEAL EDC DUTY LIGHT - At just under six inches in overall length, a solid choice as a duty light or EDC flashlight with the included durable hard holster, pocket clip and lanyard.
- MH10 V2 STARTER KIT - included in this bundle is a NITECORE MH10 v2 flashlight, NL2140, USB-C charging cable, NTH10 tactical holster, LumenTac organizer and more.
You get a tactical rear click-button in the tail and a metal side switch for easy use in both grip positions. The P12 includes a hard plastic holster for your belt, allowing for fast removal and holstering of the torch.
The front of the flashlight features a toothed bevel design on the rim. It makes an excellent tactical weapon for hand-to-hand situations.
- IPX8 water-resistant rating
- Tactical tail click-switch
- Beveled strike frame for CQC
- ATR functionality (Advanced Temperature Regulation)
- Good choice for a rail light on your rifle
- 1,200-Lumens is underperformance at this price
- No USB charging
ThruNite TC15
The ThruNite TC15 comes as a kit with a durable nylon holster, micro-USB charging cable, battery pack, and lanyard. The OEM includes extra O-rings for the torch seals in the kit.
You get a complete water-resistant IPX68 rating with this model, as well as an astounding 2,300-Lumens of peak performance out of this flashlight.
The rechargeable 3,100-mAh battery gives you run times of up to 30-hours in low mode, with Firefly, mid-low-high, strobe, and turbo modes.
- Usage Instructions: Before Use: Ensure the flashlight is charged by connecting it to a power source. Prior to charging, tightly screw down both the light head and tail cap for optimal performance.
- Powerful Illumination: The TC15 V3, powered by a XHP 35.2 LED, produces an Extreme Output of up to 2403 high lumens, making it one of the brightest rechargeable flashlights of ThruNite. It reaches a beam distance of 731 ft (223 m).
- Convenient Recharging: Utilizing a rechargeable IMR battery cell, the TC15 V3 boasts a built-in USB Type C charging port and a battery level indicator. It's an efficient and versatile mini flashlight.
- Versatile Modes: With Firefly, Low, Medium, High, Turbo, and Strobe modes, the TC15 is a multifunctional rechargeable flashlight perfect for various situations, making it an ideal companion for outdoor activities, camping, security, and emergencies.
- User-Friendly Design and Intuitive Interface: Access Turbo mode instantly with a double-click, ensuring quick response in critical situations.
The design of this model features a solid frame with a unique grip. You get micro-USB charging functionality with this torch., allowing you to recharge using your powerbank when on trips.
There’s no striker cap on the front of the torch, meaning that it’s a better choice for your rifle than self-defense. However, the durable design is sure to keep your flashlight working properly for decades. You get an IPX8 waterproof rating with this model, and you can drop it in a pool without any issues.
- IPX8 water-resistant rating
- Built-in micro-USB charging
- Charging status indicator
- Suitable as a rifle light
- Multiple modes, including strobe
- No tactical bevel
LUMINTOP Rechargeable Tactical LED Flashlight
The LUMINTOP is an example of an affordable and functional 18650 flashlight. This model comes with an attractive and anodized finish available in three colors, with a contoured design. With a 3.6-inch body, this model may work in some pistol lighting setups.
- HOW BRIGHT: With Cree top class XPL-HD LED(50000-hour lifespan), Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 could pump out up to non-diminishing 650-lumens brightness on high mode. LUMINTOP Tool aa provides max 60 hours runtime on low mode. The newest design with eye-catching indicators on the tail. you can loosen the tail or head to close the backlight.No Standalone lithium batteries are sold with the product.
- HOW RELIABLE: Built with the highest IP68 Waterproof Certification, Tool AA 2.0 is suitable for continual submersion in water under 6.5ft. Don't worry about accidentally dropped due to ANSI verified Impact Resistance(up to 5ft). The anti-slip exclusive knurling holds fast in your hand during extreme conditions.
- HOW COMPACT: Military grade (HA-III) anodized surface, Aircraft-grade aluminum body, lighter than 4 Quarters dollar (0.83 oz in weight). Real compact size (3.52*0.73 inch) makes Tool AA the best choice of EDC flashlights.
- HOW EASY TO GO: 4 output modes plus strobe mode. With light off, each press the tailcap switch or twist the head to switch the brightness. 6 clicks on the tailcap switch with the light on, you will activate the strobe mode. With same threads on both sides of the compartment, no need to take off the clip, but reverse the compartment part, you will have a hat light in a few seconds.
- EXTRA BOUNCE: A glow diffuser is included. Covered the head of Tool AA, you will have a candle light in seconds, projecting smooth and comfortable light at your home or tent. With your purchase of LUMINTOP Flashlight, you are eligible to have an Unconditional 30 Days Money Back Guarantee. Any questions, please feel free to contact us through Amazon messenger, we will reply within 48 hours. PACKAGE INCLUDED: Tool AA2.0, User Manual, Diffuser, and Lanyard.
You get an astounding 2,800-Lumens in peak-performance mode, with plenty of functionality including turbo, stepped ramp, lockout, muggle, momentary, strobe, and beacon modes. The Samsung rechargeable battery provides extended battery life in a compact design.
This 18650 model is a fantastic choice for camping. There’s no tactical toothed beveling on this model, meaning there are better options for home defense.
- IPX8 weather-resistant rating
- Compact and lightweight
- Affordable
- Suitable for firearms
- Rear click functionality
- No tactical bevel
Other Best Selling Options
- BRIGHT - The upgraded TAC LED flashlights cast a wide beam, effortlessly illuminating an entire room or backyard while remaining small enough for everyday carry.
- DURABLE - This mini flashlight boasts a virtually indestructible design. Crafted from military-grade aluminum, it’s water-resistant and can withstand a 10-foot drop.
- COMPACT - Small yet powerful, this bright flashlight easily fits in your pocket, backpack, or purse. Its simple one-touch technology delivers a consistent, powerful beam whenever needed. Perfect for self-defense when needed in any situation.
- VALUE - The emergency flashlight set includes (2) TAC flashlights, (2) AAA battery holders (batteries not included), (2) battery tubes, (2) lanyards, (2) belt clips, and (1) operation guide.
- SIZE - Measuring 5.31 x 1.48 x 1.48 inches, this tactical flashlight is perfect as a camping companion and can be relied upon during power outages, roadside repairs, and safety emergencies making it the perfect Stocking Stuffer Christmas Gifts for men
- BRIGHT - The high lumen flashlight casts a wide-narrow beam making it the perfect versatile flash light for general use. 2000 lumens flashlights for home and outdoor. On off only flashlight.
- DURABLE - The LED tactical flashlight is made of military-grade aluminum, it's also water-resistant, and strong enough to survive a 10 feet drop.
- COMPACT - This compact flashlight can be perfectly fit in your pocket, backpack, or purse for easy storage and quick access. Perfect for camping, hiking, dog walking, etc.
- VALUE - This flashlight set includes 4x flashlights, an ideal set for general preparedness. Great for outdoor and around the house.
- Please Note - The flashlight is powered by 3x AAA batteries, or 1x 18650 battery, batteries are not included. HinsGEAR provides meticulous customer service, we offer 24/7 customer service, it is a risk-free purchase!
- Full Flashlight Kit: 1 Super Bright Tactical LED Flashlight, 1 Rechargeable Battery and Sleeve, 1 USB Battery Charger, 1 Case, 1 AAA Battery Holder and 1 User Manual. No standalone lithium batteries are sold with the product. A rechargeable battery specifically manufactured for our flashlight is included.
- High Power Brightness: High Lumens LED makes our flashlight 10 times brighter than old incandescent flashlights. Runs on either a rechargeable battery or 3 AAA batteries.
- Heavy Duty: Water resistant, anti-abrasive, skid proof, compact design makes it the top pocket flashlight for all situations, outdoor activities, camping, hiking, fishing, home use and as a powerful emergency light.
- 5 Light Modes & Zoom Function: Full, Medium, Low Brightness, Strobe & SOS. Adjustable focus as a spotlight that throws an intense beam of light up to 600 feet ahead or small floodlight that illuminates a wide area.
- Excellent After-Sales Service: Our customer support is ready to serve you if you experience any issue with our product. Simply reach out to us and we will respond within 24 hours. We provide a one-year no-questions-asked replacement.
- Super Bright 5 Modes: WUBEN L50 tactical flashlight developed with P9 LED imported from Germany, emits bright light up to 1200 lumens and reaches nearly 588 ft. Featured with 5 adaptable light modes: High / Medium / Low / Eco / SOS（With memory function), last as long as 143 hours (Eco)
- LED Flashlight Rechargeable: Rechargeable brightest flashlights equipped with a USB-C charging cable and an upgraded 2600mAh battery.The flash lights fast charging port can make your flashlight fully charged in 3 hours
- Flashlights 1200 High Lumens: WUBEN small flashlights produce up to 1200 lumens brightness. With high powered flashlight, meeting your various illumination needs, lighting up to 200 m/656 Ft, for emergencies, camping, hiking
- IP68 Waterproof & Shockproof: The rechargeable flash light body is made of hard anodizing aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, its IP68 water resistance and 1.5 meters impact resistance make the flashlight endure rough handling and harsh weather
- Easy to Carry: The size of this pocket flashlight is 5.53*0.83 inches, which is suitable for hands of all sizes. You can put it in a backpack, wallet, handbag or pocket. It is very easy to carry
- 【ULTRA BRIGHT & LONG-LASTING】LETMY flashlights high lumens S2000 use the UPGRADE LED Chip, not other cheap LED Chips, brighter than basic LED flashlight. Super bright high performance flashlight with high quality of 50,000 hours working life will light your way through any adventure. LED flashlights high lumens can run for over 40 hours on low mode (batteries not included)
- 【SMART DESIGN FLASHLIGHTS】Mini size & Anti-slip design; This flash light is small enough to fit in your pocket, handbag, drawer, or car compartment. Also with comfortable hand rope, you can take the flash lights at anytime or anywhere. Great flashlights for home camping, emergencies, hiking, dog walking, power outage, household using, hurricane or survival
- 【ADJUSTABLE FOCUS & FIVE MODES】Powerful LED generates a brilliant large area floodlight or a perfectly focused spotlight. You can adjustable focus range for different usage, stretching to adjust tactical flashlight focus and get spot beam and flood beams you need. This flashlights supports five switchable modes: High, Medium, Low, Strobe, SOS. Convenient for your use
- 【WATERPROOF & HIGH QUALITY FLASHLIGHTS】LETMY flash light can waterproof from splashing water from any angle and heatproof. Suitable for the outdoor environment and adverse weather conditions. The body of this flashlight is made of high quality military grade aluminum alloy. This LED flashlight is long-lating enough for long time daily using
- 【EXCEPTIONAL VALUE】Include 2 small flashlights, keep one in your car, one in your home.The flashlight is the ultimate outdoor gift for your parents, boyfriends, sons, neighbors, or gift one to a friend or parents.Great for Mother’s Day gifts or Father’s Day gifts. Grab yours today and brighten their world! You will get 2x LETMY LED Tactical Flashlights, 2x AAA Battery Holders, 2x Battery Tubes, 2x Lanyards, 1x Operation Guide. (Batteries are not included)
18650 Flashlight Buyer’s Guide
The 18650 is a common flashlight used in EDC or tactical defense situations. Some models attach to firearms using the Picatinny rail system, and it’s a popular choice for AR-owners. The 18650 is a bit large for pistol attachments, but there are a few slimline models that work.
18650s don’t have to be for tactical use, they also make excellent emergency torches for the car, and they have plenty of duties around the campsite.
In this buyer’s guide section, we’ll give you everything you need to know to ensure you purchase the right flashlight for your home-defense or EDC needs.
What Do I Look for in a 18650 Tactical Flashlight?
With so many models available, we narrowed down our choices to the seven in this review. There’s a 18650 flashlight in our options to suit any application and any price range. So, how do you decide on the right torch?
Start with Your Budget
Your budget should be the defining point of your purchase. Stick to your budget, because it’s easy to overspend with one of these devices. On the low end of the spectrum, you can get a torch for less than $40, while the top models are well over $100.
However, if the price is important to you, then look for a model with the right price tag and functionality you can afford. The right tactical 18650 flashlights will last you for decades, so bear that in mind when purchasing your torch.
Water-Resistant Rating
If you’re using your torch for home-defense, then this might not be a priority for you. However, if you plan on taking your torch camping, or to the tactical range, water-resistance is an important feature of your 18650 flashlights.
During a camping trip, you’ll swim in lakes or rivers, hiking in rainstorms, and all sorts of wet weather conditions. You need a torch that’s robust and durable, providing you with a weatherproof operation.
Most 18650s come with an IPX6 rating or better. Look for an IPX8 rating for total water resistance for your torch.
Shape, Design, Style, and Size
Whether you’re in a self-defense situation or on the campsite, you need a lightweight and compact torch. A 18650 has a small chassis, but powerful light beam. Most of these torches can throw light up to half a mile or more while remaining small enough to fit your hand.
Carrying a bulky torch is frustrating, and a waste of space in your daypack or gear bag. 18650s come with a lightweight design and belt clips, allowing you to attach them to your holster or belt. Look for models under 5-inches in length if you want a pocket torch that fits a standard-sized pistol.
The torch’s design matters and we like models with cross-hatched grips etched into the barrel-frame of the flashlight. These grips provide the best traction when wearing tactical gloves. If you want a 18650 for home defense, we recommend a model with a bevel at the front. The bevel makes it a striking weapon suitable for home defense situations.
Build Quality and Durability
Over the years of use, you’ll end up dropping your flashlight a considerable number of times. The chassis and internals of the torch need to hold up to rugged use, and the 18650 is an excellent example of such a device.
Look for models that feature steel or aluminum chassis, with reinforced materials that last a lifetime. Look for corrosion-resistant coatings that provide a long service life for your torch. The last thing you want is rust forming on the battery cap and light housing.
Lumen Output
The Lumen count of your 18650 torches describes the brightness of the light. With a 18650, you want a minimum of 1,200-Lumens. However, some powerful models are offering over 2,200-Lumens. High-power models are ideal for Close Quarters Combat (CQC) scenarios in the home.
The light from a high-power torch can easily blind and confuse your attacker, giving you an advantage that could save your life. Lumen output is more critical for camping as well. The higher the Lumen count, the broader and further the throw of the torch.
Battery Life
18650s rely on battery power for operation. We recommend looking for a model that offers a lithium-ion battery back. Lithium-ion batteries give you the longest run time for your torch. If you’re a survivalist, then the added torch time per charge is super beneficial when you’re out in the woods for days.
Lithium-ion batteries also include USB-charging capability. Most models come with micro-USB charging, but a few have USB-C functionality. Charge the torch right from your power bank at the campsite and let there be light!
Battery service life might last between 5 and 10-years on lithium-ion packs, giving you plenty of successful recharges. However, eventually, the batteries will fail and require replacement.
Flashlight Modes
Regular flashlights might have a few different brightness modes, but most are pretty straightforward with the operation. However, with a 18650, you get a bunch of tactical light modes included with your model.
Some have strobing for tactical situations, allowing you to blind and confuse your attacker. Some people say they don’t like using torches on firearms because it gives people a target to shoot. However, with a strobe 18650, you can distract and confuse your attacker, making it hard for them to lock in on your position.
Along with the strobe mode, your torch will offer different brightness modes to suit your application. For instance, the high-beams are suitable for walking trails at night, while the low beam suits use around the campsite.
Some flashlights include functionality that repeats SOS in Morse code for survival rescue situations. This type of feature can save your life in an emergency, alerting people to your location.
Zoom and Lighting Features
Look for models that include zoom and focus functionality with the light throw. Some models allow you to twist the head of the torch, expanding or narrowing the light beam. This function is excellent for providing incandescent light in rooms and inside tents.
Magnetic Positioning Base
If you need to light up a workspace, a magnetic base can provide the torch’s hands-free operation. 18650s with magnetic bases come in handy around workshops and vehicles.
Firearm Picatinny Rail Attachment
The Picatinny rail system on rifles and pistols allows you to attach torch housings to your weapons platforms. The 18650 is a professional and effective lighting system for rifle platforms, and there are a few models that are good for use on pistols as well.
How Do I Use a Tactical Flashlight When I’m Unarmed?
If you don’t own a firearm, a torch makes for an excellent self-defense weapon in a crisis. If it’s in the evening, you can blind your attacker with the light. We recommend using the strobe function on the torch if you have it.
The strobe function doesn’t give the attackers eyes time to adjust to the lighting effect. You’ll have a small window to launch a counter-attack and damage them with the tactical bevel on the front of the flashlight housing.
When shining the light at your attacker, it’s important to aim it at the eyes to dominate the vision. If you have the option, use the blinding to flee, as it might take time to recover their bearings and let the retinas settle.
However, it’s not as easy in the daytime. In the daytime, your flashlight will give you access to a striking weapon you can use in a fight or self-defense situation.
Use the hard beveled edge of the torch to strike your attacker in the eye socket, temple, or behind the ear. All these points will result in a knockout or resistance to the idea of pursuing the assault against you.
How Do I Hold a Flashlight When I’m Using a Gun?
Many Americans own firearms. However, very few take on the responsibility of firearm ownership and maintain the training they need to learn how to handle the gun. If you have a firearm, you should be adhering to the four golden rules of firearms ownership and know how to clear a firearm.
When you have that down, make sure you go for some tactical training lessons. A professional can show you how to shoot in pressure situations. After learning the basics, you’ll need to drill them every month to ensure that you have the necessary muscle memory to pull it off in a self-defense situation.
A torch is a vital part of any firearms owner’s kit. If you use a pistol or rifle for self-defense at home, then a flashlight is a must-have accessory for your weapons platform.
Rifles typically feature Picatinny rails allowing for the easy attachment of items like 18650 flashlights. There are a variety of mounting positions on the front grip pf the rifle for your torch. Some handguns, such as the CZ P10c, accommodate smaller-style 18650s for the front rail.
However, if you have a larger model of 18650 flashlights, you’ll have to learn how to handle the torch and your firearm at the same time. To achieve this, you need to master the cross-grip. With this grip, you place your flashlight in the reverse grip in your hand and cross it under your gun’s drive hand.
This is not a safe firing position, and you could end up missing your target. We recommend that you look for models that fit the frame ort slide of your firearm for safe and accurate shooting.
Reasons to Carry a Flashlight with You Every Day
So, why would you want to carry a flashlight around with you every day? Do people even do that? Why would you need a flashlight in the middle of the day? Check out these three quick reasons to add a flashlight to your EDC routine.
Light Up a Blackout
You might find yourself at a location in the evening when the power fails. Sure, you could use your phone as a light, but a 18650 torch is far more effective.
Prevent Attacks
A 18650 tactical torch acts as a less-lethal weapon in the hands of a properly trained individual. In self-defense situations, the toothed bevels on the flashlight act as a striking weapon. However, it’s essential to learn how to use the torch in a self-defense situation, so sign up for a few classes.
Legal to Carry in All States
You don’t need a license to carry a 18650 tactical torch with you wherever you go. The flashlight makes a substantial addition to your EDC setup, and clips right onto your belt line for easy access.
18650 Flashlight FAQs
What makes a 18650 Flashlight?
The 18650 flashlight gets its name from the 18-mm diameter, 65-mm length battery offering high lumen counts, larger capacity, and rechargeable function.
What kind of Lumen output do I need for home defense?
When it comes to home defense, you’re looking for lumens and functionality. Look for high lumen counts above 1,500. However, modes like strobing and a tactical bevel are also critical features for your home-defense 18650 flashlights.
What’s the purpose of a tactical flashlight?
Tactical flashlights have additional functionality compared to the average flashlight you see around the suburban home. The toothed striker bevel on the front of the torch helps break glass in emergencies and acts as a weapon in a self-defense situation.
What kind of range do you get with a 18650 flashlight?
The range on your 18650 flashlights is also known as the “throw.” Most models offering more than 1,200-lumens have a throw of up to 700-feet or more.
The Verdict
By now, you should have a good idea of the right 18650 flashlights to suit your needs. If you’re struggling with your decision, why not rely on your top picks? We’ll save you the hassle, just choose the right model for your budget and flashlight requirements.
- The Fenix TK22UE Ultimate Edition 18650 is our top choice for the best overall model. This flashlight has it all – You get an attractive chassis with tactical bevel, 1,600-Lumens, and USB charging.
- The SureFire Fury Intellibeam is the best premium model 18650 flashlight. With 1,500-Lumens, a tactical toothed bevel, reliable grips, and ItelliBeam technology, it’s the top choice for EDC and firearms owners.
- If you want an affordable but functional 18650 flashlight, the Sofirn SP32A is hed a great choice. You get all the other models’ functionality in a compact design that’s an excellent choice for adding to your firearm lighting setup.
1 Comment
The TK22UE from fenix store is an outstanding tactical light. It illuminates perfectly and the quality is awesome. I will get more lights from them soon.