In the ever-evolving landscape of personal safety, embracing a thorough approach is not just a choice but a necessity. Among the practical measures many of us adopt is the practice of concealed carry, a step towards ensuring personal defense in unpredictable circumstances. However, there’s an often-overlooked accessory to your firearm that can significantly increase your safety—a reliable flashlight. Here at Reactive Arms, we advocate a comprehensive approach towards personal safety. Today, we shine a spotlight on the indispensable benefits of carrying a flashlight alongside your concealed firearm and provide a guide on selecting the right one.
A flashlight isn’t merely a tool to banish the darkness; it’s a critical asset in ensuring your safety and that of those around you. Before stepping into poorly lit areas, a flashlight allows you to scan the surroundings, ensuring they are safe before you approach. This pre-emptive measure can be the buffer between safety and potential danger lurking in the shadows. Moreover, in low-light conditions, the risk of mistaken identity increases manifold. A flashlight allows for accurate identification of potential threats—a crucial step before drawing your firearm.
The brilliance of a high-lumen flashlight can temporarily disorient a potential assailant, buying you precious time to assess the situation and react accordingly. When the use of a firearm isn’t warranted or possible, a sturdy flashlight can serve as an improvised self-defense tool. Unlike firearms, flashlights can be carried into pistol-free zones, ensuring you have a means of defense in a wider range of scenarios. The dual-hand efficiency it offers—illuminating threats with a flashlight in one hand, while having your firearm or phone in the other—enhances your readiness to respond to threats. A flashlight can also serve as a non-lethal deterrent to potential threats, sometimes discouraging an assailant merely by its presence. Moreover, in emergencies, a flashlight can serve as a signaling device, an invaluable aid in attracting attention or guiding rescuers.
Selecting a flashlight tailored to self-defense needs is a nuanced task. Your flashlight should be portable enough for everyday carry, whether in a purse, pocket, or on a keychain. When it comes to brightness, a minimum of 100 lumens is advisable for a self-defense flashlight, ensuring it’s bright enough to disorient potential threats. Battery life is another critical factor; opt for lithium batteries for longer life and better performance, especially in cold temperatures. LED bulbs are the superior choice due to their brightness, durability, and power efficiency. Lastly, a side or tail cap switch allows for easy one-handed operation—a crucial feature in high-stress situations.
Now that we’ve illuminated the importance of carrying a flashlight and how to select the right one, it’s time to make an informed decision. Here are some different options you can consider:
Thrunite Archer Pro (rechargeable battery) – 1022 Lumens, 3.75 inches long
Thrunite Archer Mini (rechargeable battery) – 405 Lumens, 3.25 inches long
Olight Arkfeld light/laser (rechargeable battery) – 1000 Lumens, 4.33 Inches long
Streamlight Stylus Pro (replaceable 2 x AAA) – 100 Lumens, 5.3 inches long
Streamlight Stinger (rechargable battery) – 800 Lumens, 8.4 inches long
Streamlight Super Stinger (rechargable battery) – 1100 Lumens, 11.75 inches long
Be sure to select a model that aligns with your personal safety strategy. At Reactive Arms, your safety is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to providing you with the resources, knowledge, and tools to navigate the concealed carry landscape confidently. As always, we are here for any questions or further guidance you may require.
By Chad Krumrei – Instructor/Owner