April 11th, 2022
6minute read
Streamlight is a name well-known in the tactical light world.
Whether its weapon-mounted lights or EDC flashlights, there is a Streamlight for just about every need.
Over the past several years, we have seen a huge onset of micro-compact pistols like the Hellcat.
Small and easy-to-carry, yet powerful, these pistols make for excellent CCW options.
But what if you want a light to mount on it?
To answer this need, Streamlight has given us the TLR-7 Sub.
So, what are these lumens and candela we hear so much about, and what is the difference?
Now that we have addressed candela and lumens, lets talk about spill and throw.
Throw is the distance the hot spot reaches out and is still usable.
Higher candela ratings are often byproducts of the housing and reflector design giving a tight beam pattern.
The higher the Kelvin the more clear and white the light will appear.
Compact Partner
As mentioned, the 9mm Hellcat is a powerful and compact pistol.
So, a light for it should also share those same characteristics.
Going back to the candela versus lumens topic, this light will provide a maximum of 5,000 candela.
And this will run on that single CR123 battery for approximately 1.5 hours.
The light is 2.51 long, weighs a hair under 2.4 oz.
ounces and its width is just over 1.
Also, it is IPX7 rated for submersion down to one meter for 30 minutes.
This is accomplished by turning the front housing 14 turn, counter-clockwise.
In total, you have three modes, depending on your chosen programming.
The modes are momentary, constant and strobe.
Momentary is activated with a press and hold of the activation switch.
Constant on is a quick tap of the activation switch, and strobe is a double tap.
Testing the Power
This light was not only tested indoors, but outdoors as well.
On the standard Hellcat, the light will protrude past the muzzle slightly, but will not impair function.
Review Conclusion
The benefits of a light on a firearm are numerous.
In addition to identifying your target, it also gives you the ability to see the backstop and beyond.
A light, especially a weapon-mounted light, is a level-up for your defensive firearm.
Theyve got my trust, and now my Hellcat has a new partner.
