Though there is plenty of discussion on "EDC flashlights" to be found in this forum, the discussion mostly revolves around lights that serve multiple tasks. There has been some discussion on the concept of a "fight light" spread through multiple posts, so my intention is to have a single thread dedicated to the concept, features and use of a fight light.
There will undoubtedly be a range of opinions on the definition of a fight light and what features it should include, as well as features that are perhaps best avoided. So I think the best approach is to post what we each think is the best configuration for a light dedicated entirely to self defense, both with and without a pistol.
Through the "Lego process" I have done extensive experimentation on different configurations. Just when I think I found the ideal setup, I try something different which typically involves purchasing a new component (body, tailcap, etc.) or modification of a component (such as "de-clicking" a McClicky switch to momentary-only operation) and find improvement.
As some background, along with interest in the subject matter also I took the Low Light Pistol Operator course at the Sig Academy here in NH. At this course I had the opportunity to test some of my configurations to see what worked the best. I also got to see first-hand how badly one can fail without a properly configured light for this purpose. There were (for me) five major take-ways from the course;
- Single output only. I witnessed multiple occasions when someone's programmable light activated in something other than full output.
- Momentary-only operation. The lights I brought all had clicky switches and there were a handful of times when I inadvertently clicked the switch to constant-on. One of the main themes at the course is the need to have precise control of activating and deactivating the light.
- Light retention while performing malfunction drills. All my lights were equipped with finger lanyards and for me they work great. Different techniques were taught for retaining the light, such as the armpit hold or simply dropping the light into a pocket. I witnessed many instances of lights hitting the concrete floor, and plenty of fumbling getting the light back into action. For me, the finger lanyard greatly negated these problems.
- Light ergonomics. Single tailcap switch for activation and deactivation. A light that is easy to grasp and hold. I had one small light with me (single CR123 body) and while easy to carry, was not as easy to get a good hold on and manipulate.
- The need for candela. As we increased distance from the target, the Malkoff M91T light I had with me (19,000 candela/750 lumens) provided a definite advantage over the Malkoff Bodyguard (12,000 candela/1,000 lumens) at longer distances. The brighter hot spot enabled me to see the target better and perhaps even more importantly, provided increased contrast of the sight picture against the target.
Since that course and based on the knowledge I gained from taking it, I have continued to experiment with different configurations. I have found several that work well, and they all follow the same formula of the five points above.
Here's the latest version that so far has proved the most optimal;
The light weighs 4.4 ounces and is 5-3/8" AOL. The "featureless" design of the body I find easier to get a quick and secure ice pick hold of, while the grip ring keeps the light from sliding forward in my hand as I press the tailcap switch - especially under stress when I tend to mash-down on it with much more pressure than needed (and end up clicking a McClicky switch to constant-on). The Lego build list is as follow;
- Malkoff E2XTD head (650 lumens / 70,000 candela)
- Lumens Factory E2 Classic Gen 1, 2 Cell Flashlight Body
- Lumens Factory E Series E2T Style Tailcap with switch modified for momentary-only operation
- Lumens Factory Grip Ring with a couple of tight-fitting O-rings to help anchor it
- DIY finger lanyard for retention
- Orbtronic 3500mAh 18650 High Drain Rechargeable Battery
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on "fight lights" and what you're using to fill the role.