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  • Post last modified:September 19, 2023

In this Surefire X300 Turbo review, we'll explore its new features and specs. We'll also compare it to the older Surefire X300 Ultra, especially the new ultra candela output.

Many light companies are releasing high candela lights. We've eagerly awaited the Surefire X300 Turbo, and now it's here.

Let's dive in.

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Surefire X300 Turbo Specs

surefire x300t echelon
  • Lumen: 650 
  • Candela: 66000
  • Strobe: No
  • Runtime: 1.5 hrs on high
  • Throw: ~180 meters with useful light before dimming down
  • Length: 3.76 in
  • Weight: 4.4 oz
  • Waterproof: IPX7
  • Construction: Aerospace aluminum & Mil-Spec hard anodized

Surefire X300 Turbo Packaging

surefire x300 turbo packaging


You get:

  • Surefire X300T
  • 2 Batteries
  • Sticker
  • Manual
  • Surefire Catalog
  • Mount key

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Surefire X300 Turbo Main Features

Lumen & Candela

surefire x300 turbo reflector

The Surefire X300 Turbo offers 650 lumens and 66,000 Candela. Some might wonder why it has fewer lumens than the older X300 Ultra, which had 1,000 lumens.

The reason is that to increase Candela, sometimes you need to reduce lumens. Batteries can only provide so much power, and this light uses two disposable three-volt batteries.

photonic barrier strong light

High candela light overpowering low candela light head on

photonic barrier weak light

Low candela light ineffective identifying the target behind a light source

The engineering behind it ensures the light also don't overheat and maintain maximum lumen and candela output without dimming down.

Why is Candela so crucial? In professional settings, a light with high Candela can help see through other light sources, like streetlights or headlights. It can also help see through tinted glass or other photonic barriers. Essentially, more Candela means better light visibility in challenging conditions.                                                                                                                          

Beam Pattern

The beam pattern on the Surefire X300 Turbo is mostly long range. With 66000 candela, finally we have a light that can target ID in the dark further with much more clarity, and also overpower incoming light sources.

For anyone who need a light to scan a large backyard, tree lines, large warehouse, long hallways, the X300 Turbo is a much better option.

MODLITE plhv2 head light beam

As far as light beam spill goes, it's 30 - 40% less than the Surefire X300U by judging it with naked eye. If most of your targets are placed further out, let's say 50 yards, the user can definitely see the center target where is hot spot is pointed, any surrounding targets will be barely visible.

surefire x300u beam pattern

X300 Ultra provides wider flood beam to see wider

x300t

X300 Turbo focus the beam more in the center, but way less flood

If pushing the target distance further out, only the center target is visible and surrounding target silhouette will be harder to see.

Does this mean it can't work in tight spaces like in a 300 - 1200 square feet home? It absolutely can. Here is an example of that:

x300 turbo beam pattern

The tight hot center gives the user couple tactical advantages:

  • Throw the light beam far to ID targets with much more details
  • Better threat control with a concentrated beam while staying at a safe distance
  • Overpower incoming light source and see behind it

Battery Life

surefire x300t battery

The light still uses traditional CR123A batteries to generate this much power. From the engineering perspective it's quite impressive. While other lights like the Modlite PL350 uses 18350 batteries.

The battery access design of the Surefire X300 Turbo is familiar to the X300U, but with some updates. One change is that you can't adjust the back battery door like older models. 

The switch system remains the same, though some wish it was bigger. But the market has solutions for that for users with short thumb to reach. One of the my favorite is the Surefire grip switch.

Control Switch

surefire x300 turbo control

The Ambi control switch on the Surefire X300T is similar to the one on the Surefire X300U, but with minor changes in serration. The switch works the same way on both sides and is very responsive. It feels sturdy and is easy to use with both hands.

  • Up & down: Constant on
  • Push in: Momentary
  • Grip Activation: The Surefire DG grip switch fits the XH30 and works the same in strobe mode.

Some people wish the button was longer, making it easier for shooters to use with one hand and their index finger. Another concern is the switch's stiffness, making it hard to use with just one finger. 

Overall Construction

x300 turbo vs x300 ultra

The Surefire X300 Turbo maintains the same body profile as the X300U while increasing the candela output. This means all the available holster options out there that are made for X300U will still work with X300 Turbo without having to buy brand new holsters.

Note: X300-A model may fit differently than the X300-B model.

Mount

surefire x300 turbo mount

The X300 T B model with the T Slot mount can go on any rail system, and it has the ability to be tightened if necessary. It can easily go on rail that may be slightly out of spec without wearing out the rail.

The slide on option works, but it tends to be too tight on some aluminum and polymer frame guns, which will wear out the mount.

For example the Springfield Echelon & most 1911 have a very tight fitting bottom rail spec, and I had to push very hard to get the light on, and it was a pain in the butt to take it off.

Side By Side Comparison: Surefire X300U-A & X300 Turbo

x300u vs x300t top
x300u vs x300 turbo bottom

Final Verdict

The Surefire X300 Turbo is a significant upgrade since the X300U and XH30. It's Whether you're looking for a light for professional use or personal defense, it's worth considering.

Pros

  • Same body design as the Surefire X300U
  • Highly recommended for long range use with a magnified optic
  • T Slot mounting system offers adjustable screw tension
  • Performs better long range target ID than the M600DF
  • Works with existing X300U holsters
  • Works with all existing X300 accessories

Cons

  • Stiff control switch for one-handed operation
  • Battery door latch is too thin

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