Flashlights are not typically used in the same sentence as self-defense.
However, this is a mistake as high-quality flashlights not only keep you alert but illuminated in dark and potentially dangerous situations.
Moreover, tactical flashlights are long and heavy enough to transform into a weapon if you have nothing else to defend yourself.
Consequently, flashlights should be part of your home protection and self-defense arsenal.
Learn more about the 10 best self-defense flashlights for 2021:
Table of Contents
1. Response XR1 Flashlight
- Lighting: 1031 Lumens
- Distance: 235 meters
- Modes: High / Medium / Low / Strobe
- Battery: Dual (CR123 or 18650)
- Size: 5.75 inches / 5.34 oz.
- Color: Black
The Response XR1 Flashlight is everything you desire in a lighting source.
First, the tactical flashlight for self-defense emits 1031 lumens of light while remaining durable in extreme conditions.
The Response XR1 Flashlight is dustproof and waterproof up to 2 meters in depth.
Furthermore, the flashlight can operate on two different battery types (CR123 and 18650) for versatility.
It’s tough and reliable even if the price tag (retail $75) is a little steep for a flashlight.
The Response XR1 Flashlight features 4 modes of operations (High / Medium / Low / Strobe).
Its estimated run time on the high mode is over an hour and a half with improved lengths on the lower settings.
The flashlight for home protection is designed with machined aerospace-grade aluminum.
Thus, it’s long enough (5.75″) and heavy enough (5.34 oz.) to produce damage if you need it for self-defense.
The flashlight covers a sizable distance of 235 meters.
A removable pocket clip and CR123 battery sleeve is a solid accessory that makes the tactical flashlight one of the best for personal protection.
Where to Buy: 511Tactical.com
2. EDC L2 Flashlight
- Lighting: 315 Lumens
- Distance: 119 meters
- Modes: High / Low / Strobe
- Battery: CR123 (2x)
- Size: 1.38 inches / 2.96 oz.
- Color: Kangaroo
The EDC L2 Flashlight costs almost half of the Response XR1 yet doesn’t compromise too much on specifications.
For starters, the beam distance (119 meters) and lumination (315 Lumens) are very comparable.
The EDC L2 Flashlight provides 3 different light settings: high, low, and strobe.
However, the self-defense flashlight is only compatible with one battery type (CR123), unlike the Response XR1.
Customers receive a tactical light that doesn’t weigh too much (2.96 oz.) yet can still adapt in the event you must protect yourself.
The light is engineered with an impact-resistant polymer (up to 3 meters) along with a rubberized handle for security.
Additionally, the EDC L2 Flashlight is IPX-4 water-resistant.
The run time for the light is very impressive (3 hours, 36 minutes) which doubles what the Response XR1 can do on its high setting.
Lastly, the EDC L2 Flashlight is compatible with the Sierra Bravo Flashlight Holster for a hands-free approach.
Where to Buy: 511Tactical.com
3. iProtec Bat-Light
- Lighting: LED (1000 lumens)
- Distance: 192 meters
- Modes: High / Low / Strobe
- Battery: AA (4x)
- Size: 16 inches / 0.45 lbs.
- Color: Black
The iProtec Bat-Light is advertised as “the brightest LED tactical flashlight”.
Furthermore, at a retail price of just over $25 it fits within any budget.
The iProtec Bat-Light delivers 1000 Lumens of white light.
It offers maximum visibility in extremely dark or suspicious conditions.
Consequently, the iProtec Bat-Light is one of many lighting sources that law enforcement and military personnel consider for self-defense.
It even looks like a weapon with a bat-like design that will likely detour criminals from pursuing you in public places after dark.
The ergonomic textured handle compliments the rest of the dark finish that also includes a rubberized protective sleeve with purchase.
Despite its rugged, weapon-like appearance, the iProtec Bat-Light is actually very lightweight (0.45 lbs) utilizing aircraft-grade aluminum.
The tactical light offers 3 settings (High / Low / Strobe) with various run times that range from 1.5 hours to 5.5 hours.
Its beam distance also varies based on light setting from 192 meters (High) to 121 meters (Low).
The LED self-defense flashlight requires 4 AA batteries for operation.
Where to Buy: PalmettoStateArmory.com
4. Rapid PL Flashlight for Self-Defense
- Lighting: Cree XP-G3 LED (280 Lumens)
- Distance: 105 meters
- Modes: High / Low / Strobe
- Battery: AA (2x)
- Size: 6.48 inches / 4.02 oz.
- Color: Black
The Rapid PL Flashlight for Self-Defense presents many of the same features as the iProtect Bat-Light.
It’s extremely compact and lightweight (4.02 oz.) yet durable enough to specialize as a tactical light used by first responders.
The Rapid PL Flashlight has multiple options for power (AA batteries or 14500 rechargeable lithium-ion batteries).
Regardless of the power choice, users receive a very compact tactical light produced with aerospace-grade aluminum.
Despite its lightweight design, the Rapid PL Flashlight also handles drops and scrapes that are likely to occur.
The bidirectional pocket clip supports various mounting options for attaching to a concealed carry shirt or other gear.
Moreover, the Rapid PL Flashlight is fitted with 3 operation modes (High / Low / Strobe).
The estimated run time on the high setting is comparable to the Response XR1 at 1 hour and 37 minutes.
It provides 280 Lumens of light with the AA batteries and is enhanced to 500 Lumens with the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Regardless, the beam distance for both battery types exists around 105 meters.
The Rapid PL Flashlight for Self-Defense is durable with an impact resistance of 1 meter.
It’s also IP68 submersible (up to 2 meters) and dustproof.
Where to Buy: 511Tactical.com
5. Nebo Classic LED Flashlight
- Lighting: LED (640 lumens)
- Distance: 51 meters
- Modes: Single
- Battery: AA
- Size: d / 0.987 lbs.
- Color: Black
The Nebo Classic LED Flashlight is another affordable self-defense flashlight.
The tactical flashlight is inspired by a 1920s version with expanded technology that accommodates modern-day needs.
LED technology presents 640 Lumens for the light source with a beam distance of 51 meters.
It’s not the most powerful light of all the best self-defense flashlights yet still gets the job done.
The Nebo Classic LED Flashlight is lightweight (under 1 lb.) with anodized aluminum housing and constructed leather grip.
Still, the flashlight does not compromise on durability as its IPX-4 water-resistant and impact-resistant (up to 1 meter).
The collapsible lanyard ring offers numerous towing options along with other CCW gear.
Lastly, the Nebo Classic LED Flashlight is shipped in a gorgeous gift box if you are shopping for someone in mind.
Where to Buy: Sportsmans.com
6. 5.11 Tactical EDC PL Flashlight
- Lighting: 107 Lumens
- Distance: 26 meters
- Modes: Single
- Battery: AAA (2x)
- Size: 5 inches / 2.14 oz.
- Color: Weathered Orange / Sandstone
The EDC PL Flashlight from 5.11 Tactical is unique for several reasons.
First, it looks nothing like most bland tactical lights with a weathered orange or sandstone color scheme.
The 5.11 Tactical EDC PL Flashlight is not only colorful yet affordable for any budget.
It clips to a belt, chest pocket, or backpack for long adventures that require some form of security.
The lighting is sufficient (107 Lumens) and covers a minimal distance of 26 meters.
Thus, it’s most suitable in small, dark rooms or other locations where you do not need a long/powerful beam.
Despite not being the most powerful lighting source, the run time is outstanding (4 hours, 20 minutes).
As a result, you can depend on the EDC PL Flashlight to maintain a stable light for hours.
The 5.11 Tactical EDC PL Flashlight only features one lighting mode which is powered by two AAA batteries.
Like many self-defense flashlights, the outer shell is produced with machined aerospace-grade aluminum.
The overall length (5″) and weight (2.14 ounces) allow individuals to utilize for a plethora of situations.
Lastly, the EDC PL Flashlight IPX-4 is water-resistant and impact-resistance (up to 2 meters).
Where to Buy: 511Tactical.com
7. Surefire E1B Backup LED Flashlight
- Lighting: LED (400 Lumens)
- Distance: N/A
- Modes: High / Low
- Battery: CR123A Lithium
- Size: 3.87 inches / 2.95 oz.
- Color: Black
Law enforcement personnel are familiar with the Surefire E1B Backup LED Flashlight.
The sleek, ultra-compact flashlight was originally developed for law enforcement to make their job easier.
Thus, it’s highly dependable for a variety of self-defense situations.
It sets itself apart from other tactical lights by presenting MaxVision Beam technology.
The broad reflector shapes the LED light into a smooth source that is ideal for close-range applications as well as maintaining situational awareness.
It utilizes a single 123A disposable battery (10-year shelf-life) with two different outputs.
The 400 Lumens presents the broad, wide option while a 5 Lumen setting lowers the power to remain more discreet.
The Surefire E1B Backup LED Flashlight includes a hard-anodized aluminum body with a two-way pocket clip for bezel-up or down carry.
It’s built with high-strength aerospace aluminum and weatherproofing seals.
The self-defense flashlight provides one of the longest run times on a low setting (50 hours) with a much shorter length (1.25 hours) when operating on the high setting.
Lastly, with dimensions that are shorter than 4″ in length and 3 ounces in weight, the Surefire E1B Backup LED Flashlight is ultra-compact.
Where to Buy: PalmettoStateArmory.com
8. Rapid L1 Flashlight
- Lighting: 290 Lumens
- Distance: 75 meters
- Modes: High / Low / Strobe
- Battery: CR123
- Size: 3.5 inches / 2.53 oz.
- Color: Black
The Rapid L1 Flashlight is another excellent self-defense flashlight.
It’s suitable for law enforcement and military personnel with upgrades that make it more versatile for the 21st century.
The upgraded Rapid L1 Flashlight presents 290 Lumens on its highest setting.
Its 3 different lighting modes (High / Low / Strobe) provide over 2 hours of run time in most situations.
The beam distance (75 meters) of the Rapid L1 Flashlight is powered by a single CR123 battery.
Modern upgrades have also improved the water resistance (IPX-7) of the self-defense flashlight which can now absorb nearly 1 meter of water.
Furthermore, the tactical light for home protection is impact resistant up to 2 meters.
The machined aerospace-grade aluminum maintains a minimal carrying weight of just 2.53 ounces.
A removable pocket clip and anti-roll ring stabilize the flashlight with other gear for long hauls.
Moreover, customers may also want to consider customizing the self-defense flashlight with a Torch Filter Lens Kit.
The affordable accessory includes a rubber adapter along with 3 different colored lenses (red, blue, and green).
Where to Buy: 511Tactical.com
9. Streamlight ProTac HL USB Tactical Flashlight
- Lighting: 850 Lumens
- Distance: N/A
- Modes: High / Low / Strobe (Other Settings Available)
- Battery: Rechargable (USB)
- Size: 6.5 inches / 9 oz.
- Color: Dark
The Streamlight ProTac HL USB Tactical Flashlight separates itself from the competition by featuring unique specs not seen in other models.
First, it’s rechargeable (utilizing a USB connection) which is different from most self-defense flashlights that feature disposable batteries like AA and AAA.
Notwithstanding, users may elect to install various other batteries if they prefer to ditch the USB connection.
Secondly, the Streamlight ProTac HL USB Tactical Flashlight presents 3 different programs.
The highest setting allows you to reach 350 Lumens of light to an undisclosed distance.
Meanwhile, the medium setting produces a longer run time with enough illumination to navigate dark places.
On the other hand, the low setting works great for strobe signaling or disorienting.
Purchase of the Streamlight ProTac HL USB Tactical Flashlight includes a removable pocket clip and nylon holster.
A USB cord is also included with the Streamlight ProTac HL Flashlight along with an optional AC wall adapter for recharging the device.
Customers do pay extra for the rechargeable USB technology yet it’s worth the investment if you use the light frequently.
It’s also one of the stronger flashlights for self-defense, as it weighs 9 ounces and reaches a length of 6.5 inches.
Where to Buy: Sportsmans.com
10. 5.11 Tactical Response XR2 Flashlight
- Lighting: 2359 Lumens
- Distance: 215 meters
- Modes: High / Medium / Low / Strobe
- Battery: Dual (CR123 or 18650)
- Size: 8.94 inches / 9.09 oz.
- Color: Black
The 5.11 Tactical Response XR2 Flashlight is one of the most powerful light sources you’ll find in such a compact design.
It projects an incredible 2359 Lumens with a 2 hour run time.
Additionally, the Response XR2 Flashlight is IP68 dustproof and waterproof (up to 2 meters).
Multiple options exist to power the light depending on if you prefer CR123 or 18650 rechargeable batteries.
The 5.11 Tactical Response XR2 Flashlight delivers 4 modes of operation: High / Medium / Low / Strobe.
Its beam distance of 215 meters is unparalleled which is why so many in law enforcement prefer the self-defense flashlight.
The tactical light is produced with machined aerospace-grade aluminum.
Therefore, it’s sizable compared to some of the other flashlights for self-defense yet still compact at under 1 lb. and with a length of 8.94″.
The Response XR2 Flashlight is sold with a removable pocket clip and CR123 battery sleeve.
It provides everything you need to stay safe and illuminated in the dark.
Where to Buy: 511Tactical.com
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
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