We have complied a list of 6 best rifle Light options based on lumen intensity, candela throw performance, control, available accessories, battery life, durability and value for money.

In addition, this guide goes over how to pick a good light and specs buyer should learn about.

So let's check them out.

Rifle Light Buyer's Guide

AR15 lights
AK Lights
shotgun lights

Top 6 Rifle Light Options

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Best Overall

surefire m600df
  • 1500 Lumens
  • 16000 Candela
  • 5.15 oz

Best Value

streamlight
  • 1000 Lumens
  • 27600 Candela
  • 6.4 oz

Best Modularity

modlite full size
  • 1350 Lumens
  • 54000 Candela
  • 5.4 oz

Best Durability

rein v2 full size
  • 1100 Lumens
  • 71000 Candela
  • 7.25 oz

Best Price

olight javlot tac
  • 1000 Lumens
  • 88320 Candela
  • 6.38 oz

Best Throw

x300 turbo
  • 650 Lumens
  • 66000 Candela
  • 4.4 oz

Beam Pattern Selection

Cloud Defensive REIN light pattern 18650


More Throw = More Candela

More throw means the beam can lit up the environment further to positively identify targets & control threats at a safer fighting distance. It's great for outdoor night time use

A stronger throw means stronger candela output so the light beam can also punch through fog, ambient light and overpower other incoming light sources to clearly lit up an area of interest further away.

Currently, 60 - 80K candela output lights are very popular like the Cloud Defensive REIN and Surefire Turbo

streamlight protac hl x warehouse alley throw


Balanced Throw / Spill

A balanced throw and spill is recommended for any CQB environment. The light beam can lit up the user's 9 to 3 o click positions without any problem in the dark for search and positive ID.

Any of the recommended rifle lights listed will be great for indoor use.


Low Candela VS High Candela

When dealing with tactical situations, a stronger candela light can overpower the incoming light source for better positive ID. Higher lumen intensity isn't enough to get the job done.

Low Candela Output

photonic barrier weak light

Strong Candela Output

photonic barrier strong light

Mounting Options

streamlight protac hl x scout mounting footprint

Most rifle light on the market today are manufactured to work with the popular Surefire scout footprint mount.

There are so many different configurations including offset mount to choose from to mount on M1913 handguard, M LOK and KeyMod.

Activation Switches

original modbutton and modbutton lite combo

There are so many activation pressure switches made for the Surefire Scout tail cap. Everything ranging from momentary switches to dual switches that work with lasers.

It's like putting together a LEGO set, there are so many ways to configure what works for you.