They are bright, built to handle recoil, survive the elements and thrive through abuse.
If that happens at an unthinkable moment, the consequences could prove disastrous.
Well start with that culprit.
Its convenient, but this comes at a cost.
As a result, when finally activated, the runtime will not match manufacturers specs.
For those weapon-mounted lights performing self-defense duties, assembly under stress isnt an option.
Unfortunately, parasitic drain figures are seen with the same frequency as verified unicorn sightings.
That makes periodic output inspection and battery replacement mandatory.
Coleman has even introduced a BatteryGuard line that claims to increase battery life by up to 25 percent.
In the case of runtime, the number of hours is displayed under a clock-resembling icon.
Even with certified testing there is another variable that remains.
Testing begins with fresh batteries and the clock starts 30 seconds after activation under the ANSI/PLATO FL 1-2019 protocol.
Time stops when light output reaches 10 percent of its initial value.
The results do not reflect intensity between start and finish.
Thankfully, reputable companies harness that variable versatility and accurately report the specs.
Elzetta Design is one of them.
After that, it steadily dims for 30 seconds to a still dazzling 535 lumens.
Configured with the companys hi/low tailcap users can opt for a 50-lumen output.
Runtime with an IMR16340 battery is 36 minutes.
There are other firms with similarly advanced tactical lights.
They are vastly more efficient than the tungsten bulbs of yesteryear, but all brands are not the same.
CREE LEDs blazed the trail in performance and options.
The companys products are no longer the exclusive choice for quality tactical lighting, though.
There are many high-quality makers of white LEDs that are used in portable lighting, Skoogman said.
CREE is widely used today mostly because they got to the finish line first with the most.
But it is not because they have some exclusive technology that no one else can compete with.
The explosive nature of sub-par knockoffs underscores the importance of avoiding online and gun-show bargains.
The cause was determined to be a CR123 battery that suffered a thermal runaway.
A passenger nearby was injured by fragments.
Oven mitts were required to retrieve the scalding-hot and smoking CR123 from the floor.
Even law enforcement officers fall victim.
Further investigation determined that a Chinese-manufactured CR123A battery cell caused the explosion, according to the bulletin.
In 2009 a U.S. Marshalls weaponlight suffered a similarly catastrophic failure.
To compound the problem, fresh cells were most likely mixed with depleted cells.
Shop wisely and purchase from reputable dealers to avoid the potentially disastrous consequences.
The greater energy delivered by one into the other can initiate overheating, venting, fire or bursting.
CR123s from different manufacturers are not necessarily created equal.
Capacities can vary, even when both cells are factory fresh.
And heat is the enemy.
Each makes a small contribution to battery lifespan after installation.
If critical details arent there, its time to look elsewhere.
