Lets talk WML (Weapon Mounted Lights) all encompassing

[Podmonkey]

1865 Modlight body, clicky tailcap with OKW head. Mounted via a Arisaka inline, MLOK mount. I post some pics later after I wake up and it's light out. Nobody seems to like the warm incandescent look lighting I have in my place. In the meantime-


Very impressive performance. The furthest shot is over 200 yards. What also impressed me was the spill. I had always thought Modlight's OKW head just put out a lightsaber beam of light and not much else but as we can see the is a good, usable amount of illumination on the periphery as well. It even does a decent job indoors, tge beam diffuses off walls and kind of floods the room, without blinding you.

 

[Will556]

View attachment 159404 View attachment 159405
1865 Modlight body, clicky tailcap with OKW head. Mounted via a Arisaka inline, MLOK mount. I post some pics later after I wake up and it's light out. Nobody seems to like the warm incandescent look lighting I have in my place. In the meantime-


Very impressive performance. The furthest shot is over 200 yards. What also impressed me was the spill. I had always thought Modlight's OKW head just put out a lightsaber beam of light and not much else but as we can see the is a good, usable amount of illumination on the periphery as well. It even does a decent job indoors, tge beam diffuses off walls and kind of floods the room, without blinding you.

Yeah man, the OKW is a solid setup. I know teams that mainly train CQB 90%+ of the time and they run OKW’s. Tactics and techniques with high candela lights trump high flood lumen lights with poor technique because they’re worried about blinding themselves.

 

[Podmonkey]

I like the mount combined with the longer 18650 body let's me push the light forward to provide clearance for a sling swivel and BUIS. I might put a little electrical tape on to protect the body from the sling loop.

 

[Will556]

View attachment 159444 View attachment 159445 View attachment 159446
I like the mount combined with the longer 18650 body let's me push the light forward to provide clearance for a sling swivel and BUIS. I might put a little electrical tape on to protect the body from the sling loop.

Just let it get scratched and used. No need for tape. lol

 

[Defilade]

 

[Podmonkey]

This has me thinking I was better off with the Modlite anyway.Thoughts?

I think it's only logicall that with the REIN pushing PLHv2 level lumens at OKW level candela that it would have to draw additional current to do so thus shortening the battery life.

 

[Will556]

This has me thinking I was better off with the Modlite anyway.Thoughts?

I think it's only logicall that with the REIN pushing PLHv2 level lumens at OKW level candela that it would have to draw additional current to do so thus shortening the battery life.

The REIN 2.0 has longer runtime. Comparing both 18650 so it’s an apples to apples comparison, the PLHv2 has approximately 75min of runtime, where the REIN 2.0 has approximately 150min of run time. What you’re seeing is the step down to prevent thermal degradation. It’s built purposely into lights to prevent internals from being destroyed be themselves due to the heat. Most lights, especially weapon lights are normally not run constant on for long periods of time. They are most of the time used momentarily. When being used momentarily like it’s intended purpose, it wouldn’t normally need to go that far into its thermal step down. But if you stopped using it for a little bit and let it cool, it goes right back to the original output. Cloud actually just released a video on this as well.

 

[PutnamCharlie]

Well I figured I would find the original thread to say the Cloud defensive lights are finally for sale almost three years later. You have to sign up for texts to buy one.

Enhanced Pistol Light

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clouddefensive.com

 

[Podmonkey]

Whats the output on that one again?
The market has moved forward quite a bit over the last 3 years. The current offerings from Streamlight are very tough to beat. The HL-X models are pushing insane output fir their size, the TRL7 does 1,000 Lumens @ 22,000 Candela!

 

[PutnamCharlie]

Whats the output on that one again?
The market has moved forward quite a bit over the last 3 years. The current offerings from Streamlight are very tough to beat. The HL-X models are pushing insane output fir their size, the TRL7 does 1,000 Lumens @ 22,000 Candela!

• 52,000 Candela
• 1,200 Lumens
• 40 Min Run-time

(Pre-Order) Cloud Defensive EPL Duty (Black)

PRE-ORDER FOR EXCLUSIVE OFFERS - SHIPPING FALL 2025!Receive priority EPL allocation and exclusive EPL-themed swag when you pre-order!(And if you're in the continental U.S, don't forget to take advantage of Free Shipping.)Pro Program available. Sorry, promo codes do not apply.The Cloud Defensive...

clouddefensive.com

 

[Podmonkey]

That is quite impressive. There seems to have been a trend towards higher output at the cost of reduced runtimes. For use by private citizens I think this is an acceptable trade off.

They EPL is a compact form factor?

 

[PutnamCharlie]

That is quite impressive. There seems to have been a trend towards higher output at the cost of reduced runtimes. For use by private citizens I think this is an acceptable trade off.

They EPL is a compact form factor?

That's the rub. It is pretty big.

 

[togmaster]

That's the rub. It is pretty big.
View attachment 258805

Same as the X300. Designed as a duty light.

 

[PutnamCharlie]

Still seems shorter than the epl. I ordered one so I guess I will see how long it really is.

 

[OnSight Firearms Training]

Modlite. All day. Streamlight is nothing compared.

 

[Will556]

That's the rub. It is pretty big.
View attachment 258805

It’s smaller by width and length than an X300. So it’s not that big. It’s a full size pistol light, but it’s not large. Definitely not the largest that have been used in pistols before.

 

[Podmonkey]

Modlite. All day. Streamlight is nothing compared.

I dunno, does Modlight have anything in the TRL-7 form factor? I have two ModLights and they are excellent but this Streamlight, in addition to fitting PERFECTLY on the Carry Comp, was $180 and tge output of the HL-X version is more than acceptable. Yes I know it's made in China and yes that sucks but it works. The Holosun EPS on top is also China made but also works. In fact I think it's the best carry dot on the market right now. Well performing, value priced equipment is befitting of the plebeian M&P anyways.

I have been carrying this rig on a daily basis since I got a holster for it.

 

[Criticalt]

I wanted a WML for my G20, which is mostly a home/property defense gun. It sits next yo me at all times and I use it when taking the dogs out, or walking around the property....especially at night.
I really didn't care about bells, whistles or brand names. My main thing was batteries.....not battery life, I didn't want batteries.
So, I paid $100 for an Olight Valkyrie PL-3 R.
Ive had it for 5 months or so, and could not be more satisfied. It is exactly what I wanted.
The magnetic battery charger just attaches to the light when I set the gun down, and I just grab the gun and go. I haven't touched the charging cable in months. I use it several times a night with the dogs. It is always 100% charged. No battery worries.
It is extremely dark out in the boonies and this light is plenty bright. I have it on low in the house or it completely blinds me. Outside it literally looks like daytime, it could not possibly be better. It lights up our entire property......then some. The gun also has night sights for backup.

 

[RedBreast21]

Weapon lights? I'll just say this, 99.99% of you will never actual need one in a defensive situation. I'll also say that most of you will never be in the environments many of the super expensive light manufactures specs claim or be in day to day combat environment which would require such rugged gear. They're safe and range queens lights.

So spend what you like but understand that the cheaper light does 99.99% of what you think you'll need it for.

 

[Will556]

Weapon lights? I'll just say this, 99.99% of you will never actual need one in a defensive situation. I'll also say that most of you will never be in the environments many of the super expensive light manufactures specs claim or be in day to day combat environment which would require such rugged gear. They're safe and range queens lights.

So spend what you like but understand that the cheaper light does 99.99% of what you think you'll need it for.

I just prefer to have better quality lights and gear regardless anyway. People will most likely never even need to use a gun in self defense, but it doesn’t stop people from carrying either. I never know what situation I might find yourself in, so I’d rather have a nicer light, gun, optic, or whatever other gear choice I can make instead of having lower performing less quality gear. I don’t treat any of my guns or gear like safe queens, and I prefer knowing my gear is going to work when I want or need it to.

 

[RedBreast21]

I just prefer to have better quality lights and gear regardless anyway. People will most likely never even need to use a gun in self defense, but it doesn’t stop people from carrying either. I never know what situation I might find yourself in, so I’d rather have a nicer light, gun, optic, or whatever other gear choice I can make instead of having lower performing less quality gear. I don’t treat any of my guns or gear like safe queens, and I prefer knowing my gear is going to work when I want or need it to.

I agree. "spend what you like" is what I said.

The perception of "I don't treat any of my guns........like safe queens" is a another discussion. You or anyone else isn't treating their expensive gear any where close that of MilSpec it was designed for.

Again buy what you want.

 

[Will556]

I agree. "spend what you like" is what I said.

The perception of "I don't treat any of my guns........like safe queens" is a another discussion. You or anyone else isn't treating their expensive gear any where close that of MilSpec it was designed for.

Again buy what you want.

Milspec is a whole other conversation. The term milspec doesn’t even mean it’s the greatest thing ever, it’s just there because they need a standard to have. Sometimes just because the military uses something is because some company won a government contract. Some are really good and some not so much. I mean look at Sig, they’re a bit of a shit show with having guns randomly going off, them knowing some of their stuff is faulty, or how you can grab some of their Spear barrels with your hand and bend them. Military barrels gas ports oversized just to try and make sure they run, which can be good and bad depending on its use case.

 

[Robin]

I always figured the encounter would be in the dark, in my house and wouldn't want something that gave away my location, like a flash light or laser light, so I do a certain amount of practice that is shooting where I look. It is surprising how fast you become adept at hitting what you want without aiming through the sights.
Robin

 

[Will556]

I always figured the encounter would be in the dark, in my house and wouldn't want something that gave away my location, like a flash light or laser light, so I do a certain amount of practice that is shooting where I look. It is surprising how fast you become adept at hitting what you want without aiming through the sights.
Robin

I’m not sure I would go shooting at random sounds in the dark. Point shooting is a thing and being able to hit things you’re looking at without utilizing sights is a thing to a point, but you should be able to actually see what you’re looking at and shooting at. If it’s dark and you are just shooting into a black room, that’s a no go for me. PID is essential.

 

[Podmonkey]

Milspec is a whole other conversation. The term milspec doesn’t even mean it’s the greatest thing ever, it’s just there because they need a standard to have. Sometimes just because the military uses something is because some company won a government contract. Some are really good and some not so much. I mean look at Sig, they’re a bit of a shit show with having guns randomly going off, them knowing some of their stuff is faulty, or how you can grab some of their Spear barrels with your hand and bend them. Military barrels gas ports oversized just to try and make sure they run, which can be good and bad depending on its use case

Is there a milspec for pistol lights?
To be honest when it comes to accessories you can usually do better than military issue gear since there is a whole bureaucracy involved in getting things approved that we don't have to deal with.

As for SiG. After watching a multi hour expose on SIG and their business practices and on the P320 in particular I am swearing of SIG products altogether.

 

[Podmonkey]

As for weaponlights and pistol configs in general-
I am happy to have my M&P equipped as it is as I now have a pistol better suited to low light conditions. I carry at work on the night shift, often in seedy Urban industrial areas. A pistol light is there to illuminate your target so you can get a proper sight picture, you can't line up your sights on what you cannot clearly see.
A high output light will put your target into sharp contrast which will allow me to quickly align tge dot over top.
I will be bummed when the weather warms up enough that I will have to switch back to my Shield with no light or dot. I am looking for clothing solutions that will enable me to conceal a compact M&P in warm weather. I am currently deciding if some kind of photography/fishing vest wouldn't look too ridiculous over a short sleeve T Shirt.

 

[Will556]

Is there a milspec for pistol lights?
To be honest when it comes to accessories you can usually do better than military issue gear since there is a whole bureaucracy involved in getting things approved that we don't have to deal with.

As for SiG. After watching a multi hour expose on SIG and their business practices and on the P320 in particular I am swearing of SIG products altogether.

Exactly, Sig is pretty much trash recently. But basing off of the thought process of it meeting or exceeding the military standard and them having a large government contract, people would just assume it’s “milspec” and must mean it’s good to go and the top of the game…which it’s not. A lot of the stuff they have in the P320 line and the Spear series is a hot dumpster fire and it amazes me when people keep purchasing them. It’s not coincidence you see so many of them with issues of kabooming or having cracked frames and then Sig always trying to blame it on the ammo manufactures. Which yes, there is bad ammo out there, but not on the scale that Sig’s fail. If it were bad ammo, those same lots of ammo would be destroying Glocks too but they’re not. There’s reports of the Sig issues pistols that the military adopted just going off in holsters without triggers being pulled, it’s a disaster. Like you and I are both saying, most things can be done better than what is standard issue to the military.

 

[Podmonkey]

SIG is totall garbage now. I didn't realize that they outsource their parts to 3rd world countries that produce shoddily made parts from inferior materials. I'm an M&P man now, through and through. I'll never get rid of my G19 but the M&P is a great pistol, maybe the best on the poly/striker market. I am also becoming a Streamlight man and am definitely a Holosun man. The TRL7 HL-X has fantastic output in a small size and costs $180. Only downside is the proprietary battery but even they are fairly cheap and are readily available on Amazon.

 

[Will556]

SIG is totall garbage now. I didn't realize that they outsource their parts to 3rd world countries that produce shoddily made parts from inferior materials. I'm an M&P man now, through and through. I'll never get rid of my G19 but the M&P is a great pistol, maybe the best on the poly/striker market. I am also becoming a Streamlight man and am definitely a Holosun man. The TRL7 HL-X has fantastic output in a small size and costs $180. Only downside is the proprietary battery but even they are fairly cheap and are readily available on Amazon.

Yeah, for the compact style pistol lights the TLR-7 HL-X really are great lights for their size and as of now would be my choice for a compact light. I have the newer TLR-1 HLX and it’s great. A little better output than the standard TLR-1 HL but the biggest upgrade for me is the switches. The way they activate are so much better than the toggle style from the previous gen, and I like it more than the X300 series of switches as well. It also comes with multiple switches that you can change based on your grip. I did get a new MSP Pro Series holster for the X300U series of lights since I already have an X300U on my 19 and if I get a Cloud EPL, it should fit the holster. If for some reason I don’t get an EPL (doubtful that I won’t get one), I’ll scoop up an X300 Turbo and that’ll fit too.

 

[Criticalt]

Weapon lights? I'll just say this, 99.99% of you will never actual need one in a defensive situation. I'll also say that most of you will never be in the environments many of the super expensive light manufactures specs claim or be in day to day combat environment which would require such rugged gear. They're safe and range queens lights.

So spend what you like but understand that the cheaper light does 99.99% of what you think you'll need it for.

This depends on what your needs are.
I am very likely to need my WML.
Read my above post.
Bringing the dogs out at night, or just being outside at night is much safer with a light on your gun. We have bears, coyotes, bobcats and foxes.....and skunks and racoons that are attracted by our livestock. Ive had a WML for about 5 months and it's worked to identify intruders on several occasions. Sure, a flashlight works too, but it's nice to have a free hand.
I do agree about the super expensive lights though. My $100 Olight is absolutely perfect.
And yes, $100 is a lot, but it is a good quality rechargeable light.
My point is, there are more uses than self defense against humans.