Last Updated on September, 2024
Firefighter flashlights are crucial pieces of equipment for turnout gear. The majority of firefighters also have a right-angle flashlight, handheld flashlight, or helmet flashlight with them at all times to help them with their duties.
If you are here, you are either a firefighter or the owner of a security company that is striving to be the best at what they do. However, there are several of these lights available, making it difficult to determine which ones will work. So, we took care of it for you.
You are in the best place possible.
In this piece, I will go into depth about the qualities that should be considered when deciding which firefighter flashlight would be best for you.
If you continue reading, I’ll let you in on a little secret: I’ve picked out the greatest one for you of all the fireman flashlights available.
Happy reading, and may you discover the answers you seek.
Table of Contents
- 11 of the Best Flashlights for Firefighters!
- Why Do Firefighters Need a Flashlight?
- What is a Firefighter Flashlight? And Everything You Should Know About Firefighter Flashlights!
- Things to Consider When Buying a Flashlight for Firefighter
- Benefits of Flashlights for Firefighters
- How Do Flashlights for Firefighters Work?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
11 of the Best Flashlights for Firefighters!
Fireman flashlights are the most important piece of equipment for a firefighter. It gives us instructions for safe EMS, search, and rescue missions, among other things, in the dark.
1. Acebeam L19 2.0 (Editor’s Choice)
This is your best choice if you want to invest in a flashlight with long-range visibility.
The general view has always been that Acebeam produces attractive, high-quality lights for enthusiasts and professionals, making them one of the leading makers of flashlights and accessories.
Your new go-to firefighter flashlight will be the Acebeam L19 2.0. You can not only use it when it’s necessary for firefighting action but also use it for hunting purposes.
The long-distance and insanely bright performance is unmatched to any other flashlight as it has a beam distance of 3553 feet (1083 meters), or over 0.67 miles and a lumen count of 2000, making it ideal for search parties and rescue missions.
Runtime of the L19 2.0 is like having a never-ending source of light, with the battery lasting as long as the sun on a summer day. This has the ability to run for a maximum of 62 days on a single charge.
And modes, one of the most important aspects, the L19 2.0 has 6 modes along with a strobe which can be very useful for firefighters.
Durability when it comes to firefighter flashlights should be solid and the L19 2.0 is exactly that. Made of high-strength aluminum, you can put this flashlight through any stern tests. It’s IP68-rated waterproof and dustproof too, meaning that no amount of water can damage the flashlight.
With all this power the L19 2.0 comes in at a rather heavy 9.85 ounces and is 6.44 inches long. It may not be the smallest flashlight, but its impressive brightness and range make it an ideal choice for those who prioritize performance over size and weight.
So simply put, Acebeam L19 2.0 is not an ordinary flashlight, it’s one of the best firefighter flashlights in the market.
Pros
Cons
2. Olight Warrior X3 (#2nd Best Choice)
The Warrior X3 even though is slightly underpowered compared to the L19 2.0, it’s still jam-packed with useful tactical features.
It has a maximum output of 2,500 lumens and a maximum beam distance of 560 meters.
These are great numbers for a tactical flashlight. That’s not the only great thing though, the modes, there’s just two here, and that makes the flashlight easy to use because there’s not many modes to cycle through.
You get a maximum of 8 hour runtime with the X3, even though that’s a little low, the lumen output here is 300 lumens.
The light has a fantastic surface that is neither slick nor matte but more of a semi-gloss. There are no gaps between the parts and plenty of lubrication.
Olight Warrior X3 is a durable flashlight capable of breaking glasses in an emergency. Better control of the flashlight is possible under pressure thanks to the supplied Warrior Ring and silicone tactical grip ring.
With everything the X3 offers, you can’t expect it to be a lightweight flashlight, however, the X3 is surprisingly lightweight given its features and capabilities, making it easy to carry and use for extended periods without causing fatigue. It weighs 8.99 oz and is 5.89 inches long.
The Olight Warrior X3 has a quick-acting tail switch that enables one-button activation of the flashlight while also allowing you to adjust the light output intermittently or continuously as desired.
The tough IPX8 waterproof body is made of aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, has a non-slip knurled grip, and can withstand drops from a height of two meters.
Pros
Cons
3. Fenix PD35 V3.0 (#3rd Best Choice)
The next flashlight in line is the Fenix PD35 V3.0, a modernized compact flashlight in the PD35 line, a classic and wildly popular model.
With a killer maximum output of 1700 lumens and a beam distance of 357 meters, the Fenix PD35 V3.0 LED flashlight offers exceptional illuminating performance.
Dual switches provide you with an aesthetic and practical operating system.
The light can be operated briefly with a half press or continuously with a full click on the rear tactical-style tail switch.
With both the switch you can switch across 5 modes along with strobe, all of the modes are equally balanced and exceptionally bright.
This perfect tactical bright light can withstand any challenging conditions. It is durable and dependable since it is constructed with high-strength aluminum and a premium-type HAII hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish.
Along with that excellent build quality comes in the IP68 waterproof rating and 1-meter impact resistant.
As for the runtime, this flashlight can run for 230 hours in the eco mode. You can always be aware of the battery’s condition thanks to the boot-up battery level indicator.
Fenix PD35 is in perfect weight and length for a firefighter as it only weighs 2.95 ounces and has a length of 5.28 inches.
All this makes the PD35 V 3.0 a rock-solid foundation that supports you when all else fails
Pros
Cons
4. Wuben T1
Next on the list of firefighter flashlights is Wuber T1, a top-notch flashlight with excellent performance.
The WUBEN T1 is a tactical flashlight with three unique switch positions..
The T1 can illuminate medium- to medium-long distances since it is bright and throws light well. The beam may be seen for up to 498 meters and has a maximum output of 2000 lumens.
The modes are another feature that even the most costly ones lack; you can select from the 6 available light modes in this flashlight: eco, low, medium, high, strobe, and SOS.
The design and feel of the WUBEN T1 tactical flashlight are relatively typical of compact, tactical flashlights. The flashlight is 6.3 inches in length, so naturally it should have a good runtime and yes, a max runtime of 100 hours can be achieved with the Wuben T1.
Its matte black surface has several sharp edges and ridges that make it simple to handle.
It is perfect for outdoor activities because of its tactical tail switch, IP68 waterproof rating, and 1.5-meter impact resistance rating.
Read the full review of Wuben T1 here.
Pros
Cons
5. ThruNite TN12 Pro
Thrunite works to deliver goods and services to clients that not only meet but also surpass their expectations.
The ThruNite TN12 Pro Firefighter Flashlight is another outstanding illustration of the company’s capabilities.
Simply small handheld light and transportable.
The Thrunite TN12 Pro Tactical flashlight has a smooth reflector, an anti-reflective coated ultra-clear toughened glass lens, and 1900 Lumens with SFT40 LED.
The portable tactical flashlight has a maximum beam distance of 380 meters in various harsh settings.
Additionally, you can change the output according to your preferences, and the run time will change correspondingly. Has six brightness modes, from moonlight mode to highest of all turbo.
Those six modes and beam distance are all useless if the flashlight can’t last long enough, however, that’s not the case with this one. In fact, this flashlight boasts an impressive battery life that will keep it shining for hours on end, even with heavy use the ThruNite TN12 Pro can run for a whopping 37 days.
5.18 inches in length and has a weight of 3.0 ounces without battery, the TN12 Pro is lightweight, even with the battery installed. Which makes it the ideal firefighter flashlight for a firefighter’s profession.
Thanks to the tactical tail switch’s quick access to high outputs, it guarantees safety in dangerous circumstances.
Additionally, as a fireman, you can use it as a helmet light for rescues and other things.
Pros
Cons
6. NITECORE P10iX
This is the mini version of NITECORE P20iX, which makes it a perfect flashlight for you! [By you, I meant you as a firefighter]
The flashlight industry is no stranger to Nitecore. They’ve been manufacturing reliable, top-notch lighting for at least 14 years.
The size of the Nitecore P10iX is excellent. It has a length of 5.4’’ and weighs only 2.8 ounces.
Although the body has many rings, cutouts, and other traction-enhancing features, it is often reasonably smooth.
Excellent HAIII anodized aluminum finish and sturdy construction.
And also it built a hybrid optical system using “Precision Digital Optics Technology” with crystal coating (PDOT).
Yep, I don’t know what that is either, but I’ll do my duty in explaining what it does,
It outputs a peak beam intensity of 6,250 cd beam, covering a range of up to 158 meters. And the brightness, it’s lit at 4000 lumens, that’s exceptional.
You wanna know what else is exceptional?
The runtime. P10iX can run for 350 hours, that’s like having a loyal companion, always by your side and never letting you down.
The polish is superb, and inserting and removing the pocket clip did not reveal any traces. Excellent, smooth threads are used.
Even though it rests flush with the light and is made to seal tightly, the USB-C port cover doesn’t obstruct or get caught in anything. It has a 2-meter rating on impact resistance. And it is IP68 waterproof.
The P10iX firefighter flashlight has two user light main modes, a potent nonlinear strobe frequency, and no limitations.
As a sub category,
Instant Turbo mode, instant strobe, and six brightness options are available; they are designed for law enforcement, fireman duties and for personal safety.
The Nitecore P10iX has a crenulated bezel, which might be handy for breaking glass or self-defense.
Pros
Cons
7. Cyansky K3
Cyansky provides high-quality goods and is a fantastic up-and-coming company. There is no exception with this Cyansky K3 Tactical flashlight.
The Cyansky K3 Tactical has excellent build quality and a stylish design.
The battery tube’s gloss and unique gripping texture provide exceptional control in underhand, overhand, and tactical grip positions.
I could grip the Cyansky K3 firefighter flashlight, even if it lacked a tactical ring.
The CYANSKY K3 outputs a 1600 lumen output which glows up to 600 meters, this type of range can be highly effective for law enforcement, firefighter activities, the military, self-defense, and outdoor sports.
The K3 too has a runtime similar to most other flashlights in the list, 100 hours, that’s what you can expect with this one. Modes wise there’s 5 here with a store, that’s enough options when you need the flashlight the most.
With its solid zirconia bezel, the Cyansky K3 LED flashlight makes it simple to manage close combat and smash glass in emergency scenarios. Yet again this explains why it is a solid fit for a firefighter flashlight.
The K3 has a high level of fit and finish, it has a length of close to 6 inches, a bit taller I know…
But without the cell it’s 4.69 ounces, I mean manageable right? and it has a premium feel for a fair value.
No gaps exist between the components, and there are no machining errors, burrs, or tool marks.
Edges are beveled; there are literally no sharp edges.
Pros
Cons
8. Coast Polysteel 700
The proprietary focusing technology from COAST adjusts to your needs.
Coast polysteel 700 PURE Beam is a C.O.B [Chip on board] area light, Combines two intense beams into one, and switches between close-up and far-off viewing without any haloes or hot spots.
One of the basic lights,
The light settings allow for a light output of 115 lumens (low) and 800 lumens (high).
Produces a very focused beam that can travel up to max 240 meters and has a run time of 4 hours (in high mode) and 45 hours (in low mode), respectively.
Coast polysteel 700 is an efficient light, which is given unprecedented strength thanks to the Crush Proof feature, which blends a grip-textured poly-nylon exterior with a super-tough stainless steel core.
Not small, it has a length of 7.9 inches and a bit heavy, 14.9 ounces in weight with the cell.
Designed with an IPX4 waterproof rating and a sturdy body for 1-meter shock resistance.
With COAST Dual Power technology, you have the option of using either regular alkaline batteries or rechargeable batteries to power your lights,
The Bulls-Eye Spot Beam, always on target, focuses a brilliant “hot spot” on the item encircled by a soft halo of transitional light to widen the overall field of view.
A button push changes the brightness of this handheld flashlight. COAST polysteel 700’s dual switch system makes it simple to switch between medium light, full light, and the lowest light.
At once, take in the entire sight. The Wide Angle Flood Beam casts bright, even light over the largest feasible area, from edge to edge.
This bad boy is dust resistant, and it features LED lights that have a super bright beam which works perfectly in any dirty work environment. Basically, this is one of the best firefighter flashlights to use in a smoke-filled environment.
Pros
Cons
9. Imalent MS03W
A palm-sized EDC flashlight with astounding performance. Basically the brightest light out of the list.
One 21700 Li-ion battery powers it, and three Cree XHP70.2 emitters are inside. With a beam distance of 324 meters, this little light can produce a maximum of 13,000 lumens!
Why MS03W? I’ll explain it with Imalent MS18, which currently holds the record for the brightest flashlight available.
MS18 is a massive LED flashlight, which is powered by 18 LED lights running from 8 cells,
The MS03 is a miniature MS18. It just has one cell and three LEDs rather than eight and 18 LEDs.
Slight knurling in the form of diamonds is present on the Imalent MS03. Unlike the remainder of the light’s design, the knurling has a conventional appearance.
The construction quality is outstanding, the machining is exact, all tolerances are perfect, and the O-rings perfectly match this light.
Like I said before it’s a palm sized flashlight, has a length of 4.33 inches and weighs only 4.23 ounces.
MS03W features six output levels plus strobe and has a max run time of 27 hours. The middle mode which outputs 800 lumens has a max runtime of 3h 40min, that’s impressive to say the least.
It includes built-in temperature control, which adjusts the brightness output according to the chosen mode and temperature.
To cycle through modes, you must keep the e-switch down. Double-clicking will launch Turbo. It only takes one click to turn the light on and off.
Brightness will remain consistent thanks to a high-efficiency constant power circuit.
Pros
Cons
10. Armytek Viking Pro
The Armytek Viking Pro Magnet USB is a tactical flashlight of a new generation that emits a soft, wide light that is perfect for specialized jobs; it especially is a very helpful tool for firefighters.
The flashlight can be used straight out of the box because the kit comes with a high-capacity battery and a quick magnetic charger.
The Armytek Viking Pro firefighter flashlight has a maximum range of 288 meters and is perfect for short- and medium-range use because of its sizable central spot and wide side spill.
Uses a magnet USB for charging purposes. The included magnet charger can be used to charge the flashlight’s internal battery with any power supply that has a USB output.
The wide light beam comfortably highlights things at close ranges of 50–70 meters with an exceptional brightness of 2200 lumens. Has 6 different lighting modes and strobe mode. Armytek viking pro runs for 32 hours in low mode.
Armytek Viking Pro Firefighter flashlight features a fantastic matte anodization that offers a fair amount of grip. You shouldn’t have any trouble holding the light because its 1″ body diameter has a length of 6.29 inches. It weighs 5.00 ounces without the cell.
The light is simple to grasp with the cigar grip on, thanks to the two fingers on either side of the body tube and the thumb resting on the switch.
You can press the tail switch’s two stages lightly or firmly for a subtle click. It functions and appears just like a mechanical switch that clicks forward.
The elegant tail switch has a metal bump with a ring around it but is mainly made of rubber. These have a weak magnetic field, which enables the magnetic USB charging cable to line perfectly with them.
For most lights, this would be excessive, but durability is a priority for Armytek, and the IP68 “25m for 5 hours” water resistance helps. The square-cut threads are pretty smooth and very well-lubricated.
Along with the light, Armytek offers a 3500mAh flat surface cell.
A strong broad LED light and tempered glass with an anti-reflective coating generate a large core spot and wide side spill at 2200 lumens of brightness. The beam has a 20-meter diameter at a distance of 100 meters.
Pros
Cons
11. Astrolux MF02
The MF02 is a fantastic mix of a solid, intense beam and a warm emitter.
This light is powered by four 18650 batteries. If all cells function properly the max lumen output will be 3000 lumens and will have a maximum throw of up to 1587 meters.
MF02 can run for up to 300 hours in moon mode. When talking about modes, astrolux MF02 features 4 different brightness modes and 3 special modes; Moon, Mid, High, Turbo, Tactical Strobe, SOS, Location Beacon.
Flashlight is a bit long and heavy for a firefighter.
Has a length of 7.4 inches and weighs 28.85 ounces without the cell. Imagine the weight with the four cells on it?
The MF02 is pretty striking in person. It has a lot of heft in the cranium and is very strong. The build quality is excellent, at least on par with what one would expect from Astrolux.
Two fin regions on the head provide for excellent heat dissipation. Additionally, as I indicated, loads of bulk.
The flashlight is made of aircraft grade aluminum alloy and has a HAIII military grade hard-anodized finish, making it stable and waterproof to the level of IPX7.
Pros
Cons
Why Do Firefighters Need a Flashlight?
Risks can be encountered during firefighting operations. A dangerous setting or a risky circumstance could appear at any time in a search and rescue mission. Time is necessary because chances of success can be tiny even in broad daylight, and the odds can mount against you even faster in the dark.
Professional illumination allows firefighters and other emergency services to move quickly around the scene during nighttime operations, reducing the risk of secondary events from unforeseen obstructions.
Scene lighting offers a plethora of advantages. Any fire rescue effort requires highlighting structural flaws, seeing through smoke, and warning the public, among other things.
A good firefighter’s flashlight makes it easier for a firefighter to see through the haze and complete their work safely and efficiently.
They can also be useful for signaling for aid if you or someone else becomes stuck in debris or if you need help yourself.
What is a Firefighter Flashlight? And Everything You Should Know About Firefighter Flashlights!
The typical flashlights that most people use in their homes are very different from the flashlights used by firefighters. For starters, these flashlights are more durable and resistant to all types of abuse that could cause standard flashlights to disintegrate.
Due to their construction, tactical flashlights are also referred to as firefighter flashlights.
They are sturdy, fire-resistant, and shockproof because of the thick layer of rubber or plastic that covers their outside. Additionally, they have a military-grade casing that helps them endure pressure from drops and collisions.
They can be used on boats, airplanes, cars, and anywhere else where an intense light is required.
Firefighter flashlights come in a variety of styles. They come in a variety of sizes and light bulb types, and some even have focus lenses for beams that range from the spotlight to floodlight. Additionally, you have the option of using LED light or xenon lighting.
Things to Consider When Buying a Flashlight for Firefighter
Here are some of the things you might need to check for when searching through the numerous flashlight alternatives in front of you to make this seemingly daunting chore a little bit easier:
Light Output
Lumens are used to measure the amount of light produced. It describes the quantity of light coming from the flashlight’s front. Go beyond those that are intended simply for general use if you’re a fireman who needs to utilize a flashlight for work.
A bright flashlight is important for a firefighter because it can help them navigate through dark and smoky environments, locate potential hazards or victims, and communicate with their team members.
In a firefighting scenario, visibility can be severely limited, and a bright flashlight can be an essential tool for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the firefighters.
Size and Weight
The flashlight’s weight is a crucial consideration when selecting the finest one for your needs. Firefighters cannot afford a bulky flashlight since they must carry equipment daily.
A heavy flashlight drags you down rapidly and could even hurt someone if it impacts someone, which is common in the physically demanding duty of a firefighter.
Batteries
The typical alkaline batteries you can frequently find in stores are used in regular flashlights. However, alkaline batteries offer less power if you wish to utilize LED flashlights.
Firefighter flashlights require the proper batteries to utilize all of their features fully. Nowadays, 18650 Li-ion batteries are used in the majority of modern flashlights.
Water and Shock Resistance
Firefighters will be operating in locations that are frequently saturated with water; thus, it is crucial that the torches they use are waterproof. Nowadays, the majority of tactical flashlights have some kind of waterproofing.
But if you use the flashlight for work, it needs at least an IPX4 waterproof rating.
This indicates that the flashlight has been examined and found to function even after multiple water splashes from all the directions.
Durability
By inspecting the flashlight’s structure, you can be certain of its toughness. High-impact materials must be used to create a sturdy firefighter flashlight.
For instance, the housing of firefighter flashlights is typically made of super-tough nylon, anodized aircraft metal, or glass-filled nylon polymer.
Benefits of Flashlights for Firefighters
It is the ideal workmate for completely dark, dusty, and smoke-filled surroundings. It shows us the safe passage into and out of the shadows.
Additionally, the flashlight provides outstanding brightness so that personnel can complete their tasks quickly and efficiently in dangerous situations. Quality lighting during nighttime activities reduces the possibility of additional incidents by enabling emergency responders to move quickly around the situation.
For convenience, firefighters utilize LED flashlights. LEDs are hard to break because of their solid-state design and tiny plastic bulbs.
Another convenience and safety feature is that they gradually fade as power is lost rather than flickering out quickly, giving you plenty of time to replace the battery.
The buttons on the firefighter’s flashlights are simple to use. When an emergency demands immediate access to light, you won’t have to fuss about turning it on.
How Do Flashlights for Firefighters Work?
The majority of firefighter flashlights, as previously explained, are tactical flashlights. Household flashlights have a different range of applications than tactical flashlights have. Self-defense and use in search and rescue operations are two of its best applications.
For firefighters, search and rescue operations are on a whole other level. Ordinary lighting needs to be improved. To do the task, you must have a suitable tactical flashlight.
Let’s examine how to defend ourselves using a tactical flashlight.
Self-protection? To a firefighter?
You should always be ready for any situation because you never know what lies ahead of you.
Flashlights for firefighters work in thick smoke areas. The high intensive beam will pave your path to your destined location.
Firefighters sometimes have to search for unconscious people, for this matter flashlights’ wide beam range works wonders. Also the brightness levels also help on various occasions.
If you are going deep down to a rescue mission the quick strobe feature will do the job. If you need the flashlight for a longer period, medium modes will do the job perfectly.
Final Thoughts
The finest firefighter flashlights have powerful beams and can withstand harsh conditions, including heat, moisture, and dust.
You should have a portable, chest-mounted, or helmet-mounted flashlight, according to your preferences. It’s suitable for firefighters to have a flashlight which is light weight and has easy access. Most firefighters carry two firefighter flashlights with them and know how to use them.
Best firefighter flashlight?
For you, I have done my part in explaining what each flashlight does, the features and all the other details that you should know.
We tend to rate the Acebeam L19 2.0 as the best flashlight for firefighters because of its features, build quality, and appropriateness to function as a firefighter’s flashlight.
Because it is adaptable and offers enough light that can be used in any setting, the Acebeam L19 2.0 rechargeable flashlight is the finest handheld flashlight for first responders.
That said, look at each choice carefully so you can select the one that best satisfies your requirements and offers the finest balance of light output, battery life, and usability.
There are so many tactical flashlight brands and types that it can be challenging to pick just one. However, with the help of the aforementioned guidance, you can locate the one device that is ideal for you.
FAQs
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