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  • Post last modified:December 2, 2024

Finally, the Streamlight TLR 1 HL X version is here. More lumen and candela, taking advantage of the brand new SLB9 battery technology.

It's a brand-new pistol light with many changes, and here are some features that you will absolutely love in terms candela and ergonomics upgrades.

Streamlight TLR 1 HL X Review

Max Output — White Light1500 Lumens / 22000 Candela
Runtime~60 Mins Using SLB9 Battery
Length2.9"
Weight w/Batteries2.88 oz
Batteries 2 CR123A or 2 SL-B9

What's Included In The Packaging

The Streamlight TLR 1 HL X  comes in a standard Streamlight packaging that includes:

  • Streamlight TLR 1 HL X
  • 2 CR123A battery ONLY
  • Streamlight sticker
  • Mini Streamlight catalog
  • Allen wrench
  • Retainer clip remover
  • Low & high control switch

What Is TLR 1 HL X Best Used For

tlr 1 hl x target

So the TLR 1 HL X now comes with a new light head capable of illuminating over 1500 lumens and 22000 candela, but it's only if you are using the SL B9 battery that can provide the output. This is best used for users who are wanting the ability to see further in the dark.

TLR 1 HL X Core Features

Improved Control Switch

Streamlight TLR 1 HL X now has same HIGH and LOW switch options as the TLR 7 X and TLR 7 HL X. This means activating the light is very easy while shooting one-handed and without breaking a two-handed grip. 

The original TLR 1's switch isn't bad, but now with the TLR 1 HL X there is definitely more options to either lower the paddle position to where the shooter finds the best comfortable spot to place the thumb without breaking the shooting grip.

Before you get disappointed about the length of the switches aren't long enough, I'm confident that someone will come out with an extender switch you can buy.

tlr 1 hl x glock

Modes Of Operation

The TLR 1 HL X works the same as the original with easy ambidextrous activation.

  • Single click - Constant on
  • Press & Hold - Momentary

If you are used to the TLR 7 switches, then you will feel right at home with the new switches. 

tlr 1 hl x m9

However, if you are used to using the TLR 1 HL's rocker switch you may miss the ability to quickly tap the switch to activate the strobe mode.

On some guns where the light is further away from the trigger guard I find it easier to use the TLR 1 HL's rocker switch using the grip bump technique to activate the light without breaking the already established pistol grip.

Size & Weight

The TLR 1 HL X 's overall body is slightly heavier than the TLR 1 HL.

The overall size feels slightly bulkier than the Surefire X300 Turbo and TLR 1 HL, and yes you do need a brand new holster to fit it.

This is where it may be one of the disadvantages for users who can't use their existing gear. For every new light that come on to market, there is the need to buy additional holster to fit it, and the cost can add up if you already own many light bearing holsters for the TLR 1 series light.

Lumen & Candela

tlr7 hlx beam

The TLR 1 HL X can output up to 1500 lumens & 22000 candela on a fully charged SBL9 batteries, and it's best used for illuminating targets of interest in low light up to 70 yards with maximum light beam brightness & hot spot.

It's not like a Surefire X300 Turbo. If you are expecting the TLR 1 HL X to be like the X300 Turbo you will be greatly disappointed.

The TLR 1 HL X is mainly designed for close to medium range illumination. 

Please look at these images below to see the difference. We tested the TLR 1 HL X outdoor along side Olight PL Turbo, PL 3, Surefire X300 Turbo, Surefire X300 Ultra and the Streamlight TLR 7 HL X.

streamlight tlr 1 hl x brightness
streamlight tlr 1 hl pov

For longer ranges, this may not have enough candela to PID targets especially targets are hiding behind dense structures like shelf racks, tree lines, fences, clutters and other things you can imagine. This is where high candela light in the range of 60000 to 90000 candela perform extremely well.

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Beam Pattern & Color Tint

streamlight tlr 7 hlx beam

The TLR 1 HL X features a well-balanced beam with a focused hot spot and flood beam designed for close-range tasks within 70 yards. This is great for close up to medium range search in the dark.

Yes if you shine the light up close against a white dry wall or any reflected surfaces you will blind yourself, but the beam emits a warm tint that appears neutral and accurate color representation in low-light conditions. This is crucial for correctly identifying targets with undisguisable colors in low light such as black and dark red.

Battery

tlr 7 hl x slb9 battery

The TLR 1 HL X can use 2 CR123A batteries that lasts about 90 mins. 

The SL-B9 batteries on the other hand are sold separately, and it increases the output that CR123A can't. SLB9 is also rechargeable so you can use it to train as much as you want.

So if you want the maximum advertised output from the TLR 1 HL X, please get these SL-B9 batteries here. The cost of them isn't that bad when compared to getting a bulk of CR123A that you can't reuse.

Mount & Rail Keys

The TLR 1 HL X is equipped with multiple mounting keys to fit different handgun frames, such as the Glock rail and Universal options.

You can use the back of a shell casing, a coin, or a flat-head screwdriver to securely tighten the screw mount. It is designed to be recessed, ensuring a flush profile on the side of the gun.

The retainer clip is a bit tricky to remove if you have a big hand. But once you figure it out it's pretty easy to remove it so you can swap out the rail key. If 

Durability

streamlight tlr 1 hl x on MP

The new TLR 1 HL X is made from durable 6061 T6 aerospace aluminum.

The lens bezel is now fixed to the body. If the lens breaks, you can replace the light head under Streamlight's Limited Lifetime Warranty. But you can't easily swap out individual parts as easy as the original TLR 1 HL.

Final Verdict

Pros

  • Significantly improved lumen and candela output 
  • Customizable control ergonomics as the popular TLR 7 X
  • Much brighter to ID targets and see targets further away
  • Stronger body

Cons

  • Not a high candela light like Surefire X300 Turbo
  • Slightly heavier than TLR 1 HL
  • Swapping mount key is bit annoying 
  • Activating strobe mode isn't as easy as the original TLR 1 HL