When it comes to enhancing the performance and versatility of the Benelli M2, one of the most impactful upgrades you can make is adding a high-quality light. Whether for home defense, tactical operations, or low-light hunting scenarios, a good light can significantly improve your ability to identify targets and navigate dark environments. After extensive research and personal experience with various products, I’ve compiled a list of the top lights that pair exceptionally well with the Benelli M2.
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
SureFire X300 Ultra
Specifications:
Lumens: 1,000
Runtime: 1.25 hours
Battery Type: Two CR123A
Weight: 4 ounces
Length: 3.6 inches
Material: Aerospace aluminum
Best Features:
The SureFire X300 Ultra is renowned for its robust build quality and incredibly bright beam. It boasts a TIR lens that produces a far-reaching light beam with a large center spot and ample surrounding light, ideal for both tactical and hunting purposes. Its quick-detach rail clamp allows for rapid attachment and detachment, making it highly versatile and user-friendly.
Pros:
Extremely bright with 1,000 lumens
Durable and reliable under harsh conditions
Quick-detach mechanism for easy mounting
Ambidextrous switch for easy activation
Cons:
Higher price point
Slightly heavier than some competitors
Experience and Fit for Benelli M2:
Using the SureFire X300 Ultra on my Benelli M2 has been a game-changer. The brightness and beam distance are exceptional, allowing for clear identification of targets even at significant distances. Its rugged construction ensures it withstands the heavy recoil of the shotgun without any issues. The quick-detach feature is particularly useful for switching between different firearms. This light is perfect for anyone needing reliable performance in high-stress situations.
Customer Comments:
Many online reviewers praise the SureFire X300 Ultra for its blinding brightness and rugged durability. Users often highlight its reliability in critical situations, making it a top choice for law enforcement and military personnel.
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is known for its high lumen output and excellent build quality. It features an intense 1,000-lumen beam with a wide flood pattern, ideal for room clearing and close-quarters combat. Its secure rail clamp ensures a solid attachment that won't loosen under recoil.
Pros:
High lumen output
Durable and shockproof construction
Easy-to-use rail clamp system
Ambidextrous switch
Cons:
Slightly bulky
Battery compartment can be difficult to open
Experience and Fit for Benelli M2:
I've found the Streamlight TLR-1 HL to be an excellent addition to my Benelli M2. The wide flood beam is perfect for illuminating large areas, making it ideal for home defense. The secure attachment mechanism ensures the light stays firmly in place even during heavy use. It's slightly bulkier than some other models, but the performance and durability more than make up for it.
Customer Comments:
Customers frequently commend the TLR-1 HL for its reliable performance and powerful beam. Many users appreciate its robust design and ease of installation, making it a favorite among tactical enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie stands out for its impressive 1,500-lumen output and rechargeable battery. It offers both a powerful beam and convenient charging options via a magnetic USB cable. The light also features a quick-detach rail mount for easy installation and removal.
Pros:
Extremely bright with 1,500 lumens
Rechargeable battery
Quick-detach rail mount
Lightweight design
Cons:
Limited battery life compared to non-rechargeable options
Charging port can be prone to dust accumulation
Experience and Fit for Benelli M2:
The Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie has become a staple on my Benelli M2 for its unmatched brightness and convenience. The rechargeable battery is a huge plus, reducing the need for constant battery replacements. Its lightweight design doesn't add much bulk to the shotgun, making it easy to handle. The quick-detach mount is perfect for rapid deployment and storage.
Customer Comments:
Reviewers often highlight the PL-Pro's impressive brightness and the convenience of its rechargeable battery. Some users note concerns about the durability of the charging port, but overall, the light receives high praise for its performance and ease of use.
The Inforce WMLx Gen 2 is designed with a user-friendly interface and durable construction. Its 800-lumen beam is powerful enough for most tactical applications, and the ergonomic activation switch makes it easy to operate even under stress. The light also features multiple output modes, including strobe and momentary-on.
Pros:
Ergonomic design
Durable construction
Multiple output modes
Long runtime
Cons:
Lower lumen output compared to some competitors
Slightly longer profile
Experience and Fit for Benelli M2:
I appreciate the Inforce WMLx Gen 2 for its ergonomic design and reliability. The light's intuitive switch makes it easy to operate, and its durable construction holds up well against the recoil of the Benelli M2. While it doesn't have the highest lumen output, it's more than sufficient for most scenarios, and the multiple output modes add versatility.
Customer Comments:
Users frequently mention the WMLx Gen 2's user-friendly design and solid performance. It's often praised for its durability and the convenience of its activation switch, making it a popular choice among both amateur and professional shooters.
The Nightstick TWM-850XL is known for its robust build and dependable performance. It provides a focused 850-lumen beam, suitable for various tactical and hunting applications. The light features a dual-function tail switch for momentary or constant-on activation, offering flexibility in different scenarios.
Pros:
Durable construction
Focused beam
Dual-function tail switch
Water-resistant
Cons:
Heavier than some competitors
Slightly shorter battery life
Experience and Fit for Benelli M2:
The Nightstick TWM-850XL has proven to be a reliable companion for my Benelli M2. Its focused beam is great for pinpointing targets, and the dual-function switch allows for quick adjustments in the field. Although it's a bit heavier than other options, its robust build quality and water resistance make it a solid choice for outdoor use.
Customer Comments:
Reviewers often highlight the TWM-850XL's durability and focused beam. Many users appreciate the light's performance in adverse conditions, noting its water resistance and solid construction as key advantages.
The Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro combines a powerful light with a laser sight, offering dual functionality in a compact package. Its 300-lumen light is suitable for close-quarters and indoor use, while the integrated laser sight aids in precise targeting. The universal fit ensures compatibility with most firearms.