Just like every other specialized tool, a flashlight’s intended use can be very specific. From flashlights that are designed for everyday carry, (EDC flashlights,) to a tactical flashlight designed for professionals concerned with self-defence, there is a flashlight to serve every purpose. Here is how to choose a flashlight that works for your lifestyle.
Keychain Flashlights
When you need a light to light up a path or dig around in a bag, a keychain flashlight will do the trick. Keychain flashlights are small with low lumens and are perfect if you often find yourself needing a quick light for a short period of time. These flashlights are relatively inexpensive and don’t have many of the features that some other flashlights designed for a specific purpose have. If you don’t have a regular, specific need for a light, but would like to have one on hand, just in case, then these keychain flashlights are great, and their relatively short usage means a longer battery life.
EDC Flashlights
EDC flashlights are designed to be lightweight enough to be carried every day and versatile enough to handle every lighting situation. They must be durable and capable of switching between brightness settings. Depending on how a person plans to carry their EDC flashlight, they have a number of sizes and weights to choose from. Some EDC flashlights are compact, measuring only a few inches long. Other EDC flashlights are bigger and offer more battery life and a wider beam. No matter how you plan to use your EDC flashlight, there is a perfect light to fit your needs.
Tactical Flashlights
A lot of the features that make a flashlight good for EDC apply to tactical flashlights. Tactical professionals want a flashlight that is lightweight and easy to use with one hand. Unlike EDC, tactical flashlights have built-in self-defence features. A bevelled strike area around the lens can be used to break glass and defend against attacks. A strobe setting is useful for disorienting attackers, and high lumens allow for sweeping searches from a safe distance. Being able to clip the flashlight to gear in different ways means a tactical flashlight can adapt to changing situations. The design and ease of use of tactical flashlights are of the utmost importance, as well.
A tactical flashlight made out of durable materials will stand up against the harsh conditions of the job and offer tactical professionals a reliable source of light. Where some flashlights can vary greatly in on/off functionality and brightness switching, tactical professionals don’t have the time to fumble in the dark for a button or switch that is not placed for immediate use. An on/off tail switch is an important feature for a tactical flashlight and being able to switch between brightness settings one-handed could make all the difference in a life-or-death situation.
While it might be nice to have a flashlight that is rich in features, your first priority should be to make sure your flashlight of choice can handle your day-to-day needs. With the wide range of flashlights available, you’re sure to find the one that best fits your lifestyle.
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