Lumens vs candela
Two numbers describe a light's output. Lumens measure total light. Candela measures intensity at the center of the beam, which predicts how far the light reaches. Indoors, you do not need extreme reach. You need enough total light to identify a person and see their hands, plus a beam with some spill so you can see the room.
Very high output can cause glare off white walls and mirrors in a small room. That does not mean you should buy a weak light, but it does mean more is not always better indoors. Our weapon light basics explain why a light is essential in the first place.
The four models
Streamlight TLR-1
The TLR-1 family is among the most common rail lights on pistols and long guns. It fits most full-size handguns with a rail and mounts on rifles and shotguns with a rail section. The catalog listing is a 1,000-lumen version; confirm the exact model on the listing.
Streamlight TLR-1
Full-size rail light, listed at 1,000 lumens
SureFire X300 and XC2
SureFire's X300 series is a premium full-size rail light with a strong reputation for durability. The XC2 is a smaller option for compact pistols. Check the listing for which model and mount you are buying.
SureFire X300 / XC2
Full-size and compact options
Streamlight TLR-8
The TLR-8 is a compact light with an integrated laser. A laser can help with aiming from awkward positions, but it is not a substitute for sights and practice. Check whether the listing is the red or green laser version.
Streamlight TLR-8
Compact light + laser
Streamlight TLR-6
The TLR-6 is designed for specific compact and subcompact pistols, including some that lack a standard rail. It is smaller and less powerful than full-size lights, and it only fits the guns it is made for. Confirm your pistol model before buying.
Streamlight TLR-6
Compact light/laser for specific pistols
Comparison
| TLR-1 | X300 / XC2 | TLR-8 | TLR-6 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Full-size | Full / compact | Compact | Subcompact |
| Laser | No | No | Yes | Yes, on some versions |
| Best on | Full-size pistols, long guns | Full-size or compact pistols | Compact pistols | Specific small pistols |
Mounting on long guns
On shotguns and carbines, mount the light where your support hand can work the switch without breaking your grip. On a pump shotgun, that often means a forend rail section. Keep the light far enough forward to limit barrel shadow. For a flexible setup, the ProTac rail-mount family can serve as both a handheld and a mounted light.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X / Rail Mount
Handheld and weapon-mount options
Holsters matter
If you carry or holster your home-defense pistol, the holster must be made for your exact gun and light combination. Our sister site DutyHandguns covers light-bearing holsters in detail.
Choosing
- Start with fit: which lights fit your gun's rail?
- Check the switch: can you turn it on with your normal grip?
- Decide on a laser: useful for some, unnecessary for many.
- Then compare output.
Browse the full range in AD's weapon light category if none of these fit.
All weapon lights
Full category
Frequently asked questions
How many lumens do I need for home defense?
Enough to identify a person and see their hands across your largest room. Most modern weapon lights exceed that, so fit and switch design matter as much as output.
Is a laser worth it on a home-defense gun?
It can help aiming from awkward positions, but it does not replace sights and practice.
What is the difference between the TLR-1 and TLR-6?
The TLR-1 is a full-size rail light. The TLR-6 is a small light designed for specific compact pistols.
Can I put a pistol light on a shotgun?
Yes, if the shotgun has a rail section. Mount it where your support hand can operate the switch.
Keep reading
HomeDefenseGuns earns a commission on some purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing change often — always confirm on the retailer's page. Firearms ship only to a licensed dealer (FFL); you are responsible for complying with all federal, state and local laws. Nothing here is legal advice. Get professional training before relying on any firearm for defense, and store firearms securely.