Hunting is one of the many hobbies of people today while there are also some who are teaching their sons on how to hunt so they can pass on this hobby later on. But one of the essential things when going on a hunt besides your gun is the flashlight for hunting.
There are a lot of flashlight for hunting that you should choose from, which means that it won’t be that easy to find the best one. That is why I am here to help you and narrow down your options. Besides the top 10 best flashlights for hunting, I will also be discussing the things that you need to consider before purchasing one. In this way, you will be sure that you’re buying something that will be worth your time and money. Get to know the top 10 best flashlights for hunting by reading the information provided just for you below.
Top 10 best Flashlights For Hunting
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TOP 3 FLASHLIGHTS 2020
1. J5 Tactical V1-Pro
The J5 Tactical V1-Pro is a bright, small and light but definitely durable hunting flashlight. In fact, this flashlight is known as one of the best in the market when it comes to flashlights for the outdoors. It has a maximum output of 300 lumens, which means that it can give you enough beam to flood the area with light.
This hunting flashlight has the ability to run for hours, and it is operated by a single double A battery. You can also zoom in and out the beam so you can focus it on an object that’s a little far from you. If you want a durable hunting flashlight that can withstand almost anything, J5 Tactical V1-Pro is the one for you. It is used by the military, which means that it has the durability that militaries need for it to work well.
Pros:
- Durable flashlight
- Zoom in and out the beam
- Small
- 300 Lumens
Cons:
- Issues with the switch, which is quite uncommon
2. Vizeri VZ460
The Vizeri VZ460 is another hunting flashlight that most hunters want. The reason behind this is because it has the ability to withstand the trials of environment and abuse. It has a very bright light and is highly reliable. This flashlight also comes with a lifetime warranty just because the manufacturer knows that their flashlight is one of the best on the market.
Another good thing about the Vizeri VZ460 is that it is waterproof and shock-resistant. It also has a diffuser which can make your flashlight turn into a lantern. Also, this hunting flashlight comes with a zoom in and out the beam, so you can focus it to an object which is far away from you. With its 460 lumens, you will surely love how it can light up your path.
Pros:
- Powered by three triple A batteries or 18650 battery
- Can be submerged for up to three feet
- Durable
- Shock-resistant
- 460 Lumens
Cons:
- Can be challenging to switch between modes
3. Vipertek VTS-196
The Vipertek VTS-196 is perfect for hunters who want to make sure that they are prepared in case things happen. One of the best things about this Vipertek VTS-196 is that it can be used both for hunting and as well as for self-defense. It is made out of aircraft type III grade aluminum and has a maximum output of 300 lumens.
This Vipertek CTS-196 can comfortably sit in your hands and won’t slip or roll from your palm’s moist. The flashlight is powered by a rechargeable battery, which can be perfect when you’re hunting for a long day.
Pros:
- 300 Lumens
- Perfect for self defense
- Durable
- Made of type III grade aluminum
Cons:
- It’s a little bulky
4. Nitescore SRT9
The Nitescore SRT9 is equipped with a CREE XHP50-LED to give you a maximum beam distance of up to 246m. It has a peak bean intensity of up to 15,1000 candelas. This battery is operated by two 18650 Li-ion, which is a rechargeable battery. You can also use four disposable lithium CR123 batteries which can emit 0.1 to a maximum of 2150 lumens. If you want your hunting flashlight to work best, it would be best to use the 18650 batteries.
One of the best things about this flashlight is that it has an indicator light which will block every couple of seconds once the level of the battery reaches 50%. Also, if you need to switch from different modes, you can easily do that using the smart selector ring. This means that using this hunting flashlight will surely be easy.
Pros:
- Durable material
- Can use rechargeable battery or disposable ones
- Can provide 2150 lumens maximum
- Excellent throw for a small head
Cons:
- A little long
5. Streamlight 88040 ProTac HL High Lumen Professional Tactical Light
The Streamlight 88040 ProTac is a hunting flashlight that’s compact. It is perfect for providing high quality and bright white light despite its small look. One of the best things about the Streamlight is that you can quickly hook it up on the clip or on your pocket holster. You also don’t have to worry about breaking it because it is made out of durable materials.
This Streamlight hunting flashlight is operated by two CR123 batteries, but you have to purchase them separately. Also, this flashlight has three modes which you can use, including low beam, strobe, and high beam. Another good thing about this is that it can provide you with a maximum output because of the LED light that it has. Lastly, it is waterproof which means that you can use this anywhere you are and whatever weather condition you are in.
Pros:
- Rechargeable battery
- Very compact
- Waterproof
- Three modes, including a strobe feature
- Durable
Cons:
- No loop to attach a lanyard with
6. Odepro KL52Plus Zoomable
The Odepro KL52Plus Zoomable hunting flashlight is one of the most durable hunting flashlights on the market today. It has an adjustable focus, which means that you can zoom in and out, and use it as a spotlight. Some of the best things about this flashlight are that it is shock resistant, water resistant and weather resistant. This just means that you can rely on this hunting flashlight no matter what kind of environment you are in. Another good thing about the Odepro KL52Plus Zoomable is that it has 4 different color LED modules, IR850nm, green, white, and red, which makes this flashlight very versatile.
Pros:
- Can be used as a spotlight
- Comes with 4 color LED modules
- Has an ergonomic design
- Waterproof, weatherproof, and shock resistant
Cons:
- Could use a little more bright light
7. Gear light High Powered S1200
The Gear light High Powered S1200 is a budget-friendly hunting flashlight. Despite its affordable price, the battery that it has can last for a maximum of three hunting or camping nights. It is operated with two double A batteries, which you can easily purchase almost everywhere. One of the best things this flashlight is that it has five different settings from SOS, strobe, low, medium, and high. Another good thing about the Gear light is that it comes with a one-year return policy, so you don’t have to worry if your flashlight starts acting out.
Pros:
- Comes with five different settings
- Works with double A batteries and as well as rechargeable ones
- Made out of durable construction
- Water resistant
Cons:
- No green or red light modes
8. ThruNite T10 CW XP-L
The ThruNite T10 comes with a compact design which means that it can fit in your pocket or in your backpack. It is also very light in weight and not bulky, so you don’t have to worry about bringing it anywhere with you. This flashlight has a tail switch or a twisting head, wherein you can customize its operation. It also has three different output modes and 252 lumens when it’s on a high mode. The ThruNit T10 is shipped to you with a pocket clip, diffuser, and a spare O ring
Pros:
- Powered by double A battery
- Lens has an anti-reflective coating
- Comes with three different light settings
- Durable material
Cons:
- No green and red modes
9. JetBeam 9007113
The Jeeam 9007113 is made out of an aluminum aircraft grade body, which means that you can rely on its durability. It is also impact-resistant, so you don’t have to worry if you accidentally drop it. Also, it is water resistant as it can withstand a dunk in the water in case of accidents and such. One of the best things about this is that it can be operated by two kinds of batteries, which makes it versatile. Another good thing about this JetBeam has the latest CREE XM-L2 LED and a blue, red, and green LEDs.
Pros:
- Seven kinds of outputs
- Durable body
- Impact resistant
- Waterproof
- Blue, green, and red LEDs
Cons:
- Does not work with triple and double A batteries
10. MTN-1504 Zoomie
The MTN-1504 Zoomie has a great floodlight and a great throw. You can twist its head so you can zoom in or focus the light. You will love the zoom feature as it will create a wide beam and smooth beam when needed. One of the good things about this hunting flashlight is that it is powered by 18650 cells and 26700 cells, which can both provide you with good battery life. Another good thing about this is that it is equipped with color LEDs and white ones for your own preferences.
Pros:
- Equipped with a low voltage
- Multiple lighting options
- Programmable
- Can be powered by 26700 and 18650 cells
Cons:
- No memory available
What Makes A Good Hunting Flashlight
A good hunting flashlight is considered useful it is equipped with the most requirements to help you go hunting. You need to consider the season and the region when you’re out hunting with your flashlight to make sure that it has everything that you need. Some of the things that your flashlight should have are versatility, quality, intensity and of course the color of the beam. To give you further information on what makes a good hunting flashlight, below are some of the things that you should look for.
ANSI FL1 Standards
ANSI FL1 standards include different elements, including water resistance, impact resistance, peak beam intensity, beam distance, run time, and light output. The light output talks about the total lumens that the flashlight can produce. The run time, on the other hand, will let you know how much time the flashlight can reach 10% after its initial output. Now the peak beam is the measurement of candela and refers to the brightest point of the beam. Lastly, the water resistance is measured in three different levels of IPX8, IPX7, and IPX4. IPX8 means you can submerge your flashlight for four hours of up to one meter.
Type Of Beam
When it comes to the beam, it will be produced using the lens reflector which is surrounding the flashlight’s bulb. There are three different types of beams, and they are all perfect for camping and walking. Another type of beam is the spot or focused type, which is a single condensed beam that can reach long distances. Lastly, the last one is the adjustable type which can vary from focused to full to ensure that your flashlight is versatile enough.
Type Of Bulb
There are a lot of bulbs, but nowadays, LED is one of the bulbs that are widely used in flashlights today. Some flashlights are still using bulbs that are incandescent since it’s quite similar to an LED. The reason why LED is preferred is that of its impact resistance, brightness, run time, and energy efficiency that they have.
Type Of Battery
Flashlights are using different types of batteries, wherein some are using CR123A, 18650 batteries, solar panels, and more. CR123A is expensive despite its small size and less in weight. The reason behind this is because it has the power to provide the flashlight with the brightness that it needs. Solar panels are also perfect since it can help with the environment, though they also tend to be expensive.
Regulated Output Of the Flashlight
If you want a consistent flashlight, then a power supply that’s regulated would be best. The only problem with regulated ones is that it can instantly drop its output when the battery is running low. The reason behind this is because a power supply that is unregulated will make its light dimmer while still being bright.
Available Modes
Flashlights today offer different modes, where the most common are high, medium and low. But there are some other modes that are available in high-end models, including mode sequencing, user programmability, SOS capability, and the strobe mode.
Things To Consider When Buying A Flashlight For Hunting
Hundreds of hunting flashlights are available, but they don’t have the same features to offer. That is why I have gathered the things that you need to consider for you to be able to know what to look for when you are in the store looking for that flashlight that will help you with your hunting activities. Start reading the information provided below and make sure to list them down, so you know each of their importance and familiarize yourself with them.
Price Of The Flashlight
One of the things that you need to consider is the price, so you’ll know the budget that you need to allot. Flashlights come in different prices and the higher the price, the more features the flashlight has. So if you need more features for your hunting flashlight, then you need to prepare for a bigger budget.
Battery Of The Flashlight
As mentioned above, there are a lot of battery types that flashlights today are using. Some people think that rechargeable batteries are expensive, but what they don’t know is that the disposable ones are the ones who are really expensive. The reason behind this is because, with the rechargeable ones, you no longer have to purchase every now and then. This makes it cheaper than the disposable since you need to purchase disposable ones every now and then to power your flashlight.
Distance Of Beam
The distance of the beam is also important when purchasing a hunting flashlight. The distance of the beam is measured by how far the flashlight’s light will illuminate. This is perfect for hunting because you can see your target from afar.
Focused Beam
The focused beam or the spot beam is a single beam that you can focus on just one area. If you are following a deer stand or a trail, the focused beam is definitely important. One of the best things about the focused beam is that it has the power to penetrate through long distances and reveal landmarks and other trail marks.
Adjustable Beam
You also need to make sure that the hunting flashlight that you’re going to purchase is one with an adjustable beam as it will help you different types of tasks. It has the power to focused on just one spot of up to a hundred yards.
Flood Light
Another thing that you need to consider when purchasing a flashlight for lighting is the flood light. This is useful when you’re working around the woods or camps. You need to illuminate a big area when hunting or when you’re cleaning the deer that you have a hunt.
Water Resistance
Since you are going to use your hunting flashlight outdoors, you need to make sure that it will have the power to work under different environmental elements. As mentioned above, the IPX rating should be present, wherein an IPX-8 is the highest rating available. You can submerge the flashlight for up to four hours if needed. The lowest would be the IPX-4 rating, which can withstand splashes.
Impact Resistance
Your flashlight should also have an impact resistance, which is usually the easiest kind of test to do. The resters will have to top the flashlights for up to six times, and the distance should be recorded. The possibility of dropping your flashlight is quite high, especially if you are running in the woods, so making sure that your flashlight is impact resistant would be best.
Off and On Switch
Of course, you also need to take into consideration the off and on the switch of your hunting flashlight. The buttons should also be weather protected so they can work even if it starts raining or the weather starts dropping. There are flashlights with buttons that can be pushed and it is usually located at the cap end of the flashlight. There are off, and on switch wherein, you need to rotate the head. But this kind of switch will require you to use both hands.
Design and Construction
Since you are going to choose a flashlight for hunting, ensuring that it is durable would be essential. The materials should be made out of aluminum alloy or aluminum. The bottom caps and head should be made out of the stronger type of materials such as stainless steel. The reason behind this is because the battery cap and the head are usually the first ones to suffer impact when the flashlight drops. Battery caps that are made out of aluminum bezels have the power to withstand an impact effectively.
Purchasing for your hunting flashlight can be challenging with all of the models lying around the stores today. One may look great but does not have enough features for you to use. There may also be one that looks very simple, yet boasts a lot of features that will help you with your hunting needs. With the top 10 best flashlights for hunting listed above, you no longer have to spend a lot of time searching for the best flashlights available on the market. All you have to do is to choose with the list above, and you will be ready for your next hunting sessions.
2 Comments
I’m not actually a hunter, so I don’t know how all these would fare in night hunting. However, I volunteer a lot and get on night duty. I do some civilian patrolling in my community. I’ve had great experience with the gearlight s1200. My sister sent it to me from the states and I would love to give it as a gift to my other co volunteers. Great experience. Really powerful light and lasts very long. I haven’t changed the bulb in years. This flashlight is also very sturdy. It has had its own share of falls. It’s gotten lots of paint chipping but it still surprisingly works very well!
I spent a ton of time hunting with my father. When I got a little older, thats when he would take me with him on night hunting. I was such a huge fan of horror movies then and I would often imagine the worst case scenarios. one of my favorite worst case scenario was that of slender man. Even though I liked the story of slenderman, it still creeped me out so much but also a tiny bit of me was excited to “see” him in this night hunting. We had the zoomable one, I’m not sure what brand it was but it served us well til we lost it. I still didn’t get to see slenderman even though it was a pretty powerful flashlight. Anyway, my dad always said that the best flashlight is the one that doesn’t fail in your moment of need.