Not all tactical flashlights are created equally so it is important to map out your needs and choose a light that meets your requirements. Experienced professionals know the importance of selecting the best equipment, and selecting the best tactical flashlight is no different. When making your selection, there are plenty of factors to be considered.

The first consideration might be brightness. This is represented in lumens. The more lumens, the more light. A good tactical flashlight is going to have at least 130 lumens and be able to adjust down in power when the situation calls for a less intense beam. These flashlights or torches also come in a variety of beam types that determine how much light is dispersed to how wide an area. They range from a narrow concentrated beam, to a wide beam that leaves a larger light pattern. Every environment can require different lighting configurations and some lights offer variable lighting patterns all with a twist of the wrist.

Once you have decided how bright a flashlight and the coverage area you need, take a look at the mounting options, the environment you will be using your light, and then you can lay out the rest of the features necessary. For example - Does this light need to mount to a helmet, fire arm, wrist band, etc? You can quickly eliminate products that are not a good fit for your particular use. Your requirements will vary depending on intended use of the light. If you are a search and rescue professional not only will you be needing the ability to operate the light hands free, but you will need a waterproof flashlight light as opposed to a one that is only water resistant.

The next consideration might be how easy is the flashlight to turn on and off. Can this be accomplished with one hand ? Is it silent? If the switch is too hard to operate one handed or makes noise during activation then this type of flashlight may not do you any good. In combat situations a switch that makes even the slightest noise may result in injury.

Durability should always be of primary concern. Police, Military, and Fire Fighters require a flashlight capable of operating in extreme conditions. Look at the material the light is constructed of to see if it can handle the environment for intended use. Intova makes a tactical flashlight constructed from Anodized Aluminum. This is the same material used in the construction of Space Craft, which ought to be as durable a material needed in any earth bound operations. Also check to see what sort of life span you can expect from the particular unit you would like to purchase. If you are going to be using the flashlight on a daily basis, then you will want to select one that comes with a guarantee.

Your light won't be of any use if it runs out of power. The next consideration should be the batteries and the key things to consider in this area is are cost, life expectancy, and how much weight they add to your light. A light that uses several D cell batteries will obviously weigh much more than one that uses a couple of AAA batteries, which might not work out as a light intended for a rifle mount, but may provide the extended battery life needed for long search and rescue operations.

Selecting the best tactical flashlight can be a rewarding use of your time. As always with any quality piece of equipment take your time and spend the amount necessary to ensure a product that will last. When you begin your research, you will find lights every imaginable size, beam, brightness, durability and battery combination. Remember to map out your requirements and choose the best tactical flashlight for your needs.