The Kel-Tec P50 is a unique firearm that blends modern design with powerful performance. To optimize its potential, adding the right light is crucial, especially for low-light conditions or tactical use.
After extensive research and hands-on testing, I've compiled a list of the best lights for the Kel-Tec P50. Each product has been evaluated for its specifications, features, pros and cons, and overall compatibility with the P50.
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
1. SureFire X300 Ultra
Specifications
Lumens: 1,000 lumens
Battery Life: 1.25 hours
Weight: 4 ounces
Mounting: Universal rail mount
Water Resistance: IPX7
Best Features
The SureFire X300 Ultra offers a powerful 1,000-lumen output with a precision TIR lens that creates a focused, far-reaching beam ideal for identifying threats at a distance. The ambidextrous switch allows for easy operation, and its robust build ensures durability in harsh conditions.
Pros
High lumen output for excellent brightness
Durable and rugged construction
Easy to operate with ambidextrous switch
Universal rail mount fits securely on the P50
Cons
Short battery life at high output
Higher price point compared to competitors
User Experience
Using the SureFire X300 Ultra on the Kel-Tec P50 felt incredibly satisfying. The light's powerful beam illuminated targets clearly at a distance, making it perfect for both home defense and tactical scenarios. The installation was straightforward, and the build quality gave me confidence in its longevity.
Online Customer Comments
Customers have praised the X300 Ultra for its brightness and reliability. Many appreciate its solid construction and ease of use, though some noted the battery life could be better. Overall, it’s a highly recommended product for serious users.
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL offers 800 lumens of brightness with a wide beam pattern, which is excellent for peripheral vision in close quarters. Its rail clamp system allows for quick attachment and detachment without tools, making it highly versatile.
Pros
Wide beam for good peripheral visibility
Easy attachment and detachment
Affordable price point
Durable and water-resistant
Cons
Slightly bulkier compared to other lights
Battery compartment can be tricky to open
User Experience
Mounting the Streamlight TLR-1 HL on the P50 was a breeze, thanks to its rail clamp system. The wide beam provided ample illumination, perfect for room clearing and close-quarters scenarios. Its performance matched that of higher-priced lights, making it a great value option.
Online Customer Comments
Users frequently commend the TLR-1 HL for its balance of price and performance. They appreciate its brightness and beam spread, though some have experienced difficulties with the battery compartment. Overall, it remains a popular choice among firearm enthusiasts.
The Olight Baldr Pro stands out with its 1,350 lumens and integrated green laser. The combination of light and laser enhances targeting accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. The quick-release mount allows for easy installation and removal.
Pros
Extremely bright with 1,350 lumens
Integrated green laser for better accuracy
Quick-release mount for convenience
High-quality construction
Cons
Shorter battery life due to high output
Higher price range
User Experience
The Olight Baldr Pro was a game-changer on the Kel-Tec P50. Its exceptional brightness and the addition of the green laser significantly improved target acquisition and accuracy. The quick-release mount made it convenient to attach and detach, adding to its overall practicality.
Online Customer Comments
Users are highly impressed with the Baldr Pro's brightness and the functionality of the integrated laser. Some, however, have noted the battery life is relatively short. Despite this, it’s widely regarded as one of the best tactical lights available.
The Inforce WILD2 offers a 1,000-lumen output with a tight beam for long-range visibility. Its lightweight and ergonomic design make it comfortable to use, and the tool-free rail clamp system ensures easy mounting.
Pros
Bright and focused beam for long-range use
Lightweight and ergonomic
Easy tool-free mounting
Durable construction
Cons
Slightly heavier than some competitors
Limited beam spread
User Experience
Using the Inforce WILD2 on the P50, I appreciated its focused beam that easily illuminated targets at a distance. The light's ergonomic design made it comfortable to handle, and the installation was quick and straightforward. It performed exceptionally well in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Online Customer Comments
Customers appreciate the WILD2 for its brightness and build quality. Its focused beam is often highlighted as a significant advantage for long-range applications. Some users, however, mention its weight as a minor drawback. Overall, it’s a solid choice for tactical users.
The Crimson Trace CMR-208 is compact yet powerful, offering 420 lumens in a lightweight package. Its M-LOK rail mount provides a secure fit, and the light includes both high and low output modes for versatile use.
Pros
Compact and lightweight design
Dual output modes
Secure M-LOK mounting
Affordable price
Cons
Lower lumen output compared to others
Less suitable for long-range illumination
User Experience
The CMR-208 was impressively compact on the Kel-Tec P50, adding minimal bulk. Despite its lower lumen output, it provided sufficient illumination for most indoor and close-quarter scenarios. Its dual output modes were handy for conserving battery life during prolonged use.
Online Customer Comments
Users frequently highlight the CMR-208's compact size and affordability. It's praised for its practicality in everyday use, though some wish for a higher lumen output. It’s considered a great option for those prioritizing size and weight.
The Viridian X5L Gen 3 combines a 500-lumen tactical light with a green laser, providing enhanced targeting capabilities. Its universal rail mount ensures a secure fit on the P50, and the light offers both constant and strobe modes for tactical versatility.
Pros
Integrated green laser for better accuracy
Versatile with constant and strobe modes
Durable and water-resistant
Secure universal rail mount
Cons
Moderate lumen output
Higher price point
User Experience
Mounting the Viridian X5L Gen 3 on the P50 was straightforward, and the combination of light and laser proved beneficial for rapid target acquisition. The constant and strobe modes added flexibility in various situations, making it a valuable addition to my tactical setup.
Online Customer Comments
Customers praise the X5L Gen 3 for its reliable performance and the added benefit of the green laser. Its moderate lumen output is generally deemed sufficient, though some users prefer higher brightness levels. Overall, it’s well-regarded for its functionality and build quality.
Brightness (Lumens) The lumen rating indicates the light’s brightness. Higher lumens provide better visibility but can also drain batteries faster.
Battery Life Consider the balance between brightness and battery life. Lights with high lumens may have shorter battery life, so decide based on your usage patterns.
Mounting System Ensure the light has a compatible mounting system with the P50. Universal or quick-release mounts are generally easier to use.
Durability Look for lights with robust construction and water resistance. IPX7 rating or higher is ideal for ensuring the light withstands harsh conditions.
Size and Weight A compact and lightweight light is preferable to avoid adding unnecessary bulk to your firearm.
Additional Features Features like strobe mode, laser integration, and dual output modes can enhance the light’s versatility and usability.
FAQs
Q: How many lumens do I need for a tactical light? A: For tactical use, 500 to 1,000 lumens is generally sufficient. Higher lumens provide better visibility but can be overkill for indoor use.
Q: Can I use a light with a laser on the Kel-Tec P50? A: Yes, many lights come with integrated lasers, which can aid in target acquisition and accuracy.
Q: How do I mount a light on the Kel-Tec P50? A: The P50 features a Picatinny rail system, allowing for easy attachment of most tactical lights with compatible mounts.
Q: What’s the advantage of a strobe mode? A: Strobe mode can disorient an assailant, providing a tactical advantage in defensive situations.
Q: How do I maintain the light on my Kel-Tec P50? A: Regularly check the batteries, clean the lens, and ensure the mounting system remains secure. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines for best results.
Conclusion
Choosing the right light for your Kel-Tec P50 is crucial for maximizing its performance in low-light conditions. After testing various products, I recommend the SureFire X300 Ultra for its unparalleled brightness and build quality. The Streamlight TLR-1 HL and Olight Baldr Pro are excellent alternatives, offering great features at competitive prices. For those seeking a combination of light and laser, the Viridian X5L Gen 3 is a top choice. Ultimately, the best light depends on your specific needs and preferences, so consider the factors outlined above to make an informed decision.