Choosing the best light for your FN 509 can be a daunting task given the myriad of options available on the market. The FN 509 is a reliable, high-performance pistol that deserves an equally reliable and high-performance light to complement it. Whether for tactical use, home defense, or everyday carry, having the right light can significantly enhance your shooting experience and effectiveness. In this guide, I'll walk you through some of the top lights for the FN 509, providing detailed reviews, specifications, pros and cons, and customer feedback to help you make an informed decision.
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: 1000
Runtime: 1.5 hours
Battery: Two CR123A
Weight: 4.0 ounces
Material: Aerospace aluminum
Best Features
The SureFire X300 Ultra is renowned for its exceptional build quality and impressive brightness. With a solid 1000 lumens output, it provides a powerful beam that illuminates a wide area. The Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens focuses the light for a far-reaching beam while also offering sufficient peripheral illumination for situational awareness.
Pros
Extremely durable and reliable
High output of 1000 lumens
Easy to attach and detach
Ambidextrous switching
Cons
Higher price point
Shorter battery life compared to some competitors
Experience Using the Product
Using the SureFire X300 Ultra on my FN 509 has been a game-changer. The light is incredibly bright, making it easy to identify targets and surroundings in low-light conditions. The construction feels robust, ensuring it can withstand harsh environments and rigorous use. The ambidextrous switch is a great feature, allowing for easy activation regardless of hand preference.
Why This Fits the FN 509
The SureFire X300 Ultra fits snugly on the FN 509, enhancing its tactical capabilities. The light's build quality matches the robust nature of the FN 509, making it a reliable companion for any scenario.
Customer Comments
Customers frequently praise the SureFire X300 Ultra for its durability and brightness. Many users highlight its ease of use and the confidence it brings in high-stress situations. Some mention the higher cost but often conclude that the quality justifies the investment.
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL offers an impressive 1000 lumens output with a wide beam pattern, perfect for identifying threats and scanning large areas. Its robust construction ensures longevity, and the ambidextrous switch makes it user-friendly for both left and right-handed shooters.
Pros
High lumen output
Durable construction
User-friendly controls
Affordable price
Cons
Slightly heavier
The rail clamp can be stiff initially
Experience Using the Product
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is an excellent addition to my FN 509. The brightness and beam pattern provide exceptional visibility, making it ideal for home defense and tactical situations. The controls are intuitive, and despite its slightly heavier weight, it balances well on the gun.
Why This Fits the FN 509
The TLR-1 HL's robust design and performance characteristics make it a natural fit for the FN 509. It enhances the pistol's overall functionality without compromising on reliability.
Customer Comments
Users often commend the TLR-1 HL for its brightness and affordability. Many appreciate the build quality and ease of installation. Some users note the rail clamp can be stiff but mention it loosens up with use.
The Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie is a powerhouse with 1500 lumens, making it one of the brightest pistol lights available. It features a rechargeable battery, saving on long-term costs and offering convenience. The magnetic charging system is a standout feature, simplifying the recharging process.
Pros
Extremely bright
Rechargeable battery
Magnetic charging
Lightweight
Cons
Can be too bright for some users
Shorter battery life on maximum brightness
Experience Using the Product
The Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie on my FN 509 is phenomenal. The 1500 lumens output is almost blindingly bright, perfect for tactical situations where maximum visibility is crucial. The magnetic charging system is incredibly convenient, and the overall design is sleek and lightweight.
Why This Fits the FN 509
The PL-Pro Valkyrie's advanced features and high output complement the FN 509's tactical nature. Its lightweight design ensures it doesn't add unnecessary bulk, maintaining the pistol's balance and ease of use.
Customer Comments
Customers rave about the brightness and convenience of the magnetic charging. Some mention the light can be too intense for close-quarters use, but overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the value and performance of the light.
The Inforce APLc is designed for compactness and light weight, making it ideal for everyday carry. With 200 lumens, it offers sufficient illumination for most defensive scenarios. The glass-filled nylon construction is both lightweight and durable, ensuring longevity without adding unnecessary weight.
Pros
Lightweight and compact
Easy to install and remove
Durable construction
Affordable
Cons
Lower lumen output compared to other options
Shorter runtime
Experience Using the Product
The Inforce APLc on my FN 509 is perfect for everyday carry. Its compact size and lightweight design don't hinder the pistol's handling or concealability. While it's not as bright as some other options, the 200 lumens are adequate for most defensive needs, providing clear visibility without overwhelming the user.
Why This Fits the FN 509
The APLc's lightweight and compact design make it an excellent fit for the FN 509, especially for those who carry their pistol daily. It enhances the gun's capabilities without compromising its ease of use or concealability.
Customer Comments
Users appreciate the APLc's compact design and ease of use. The lower lumen output is noted, but most agree it’s sufficient for defensive purposes. The light’s durability and affordability are frequently highlighted in positive reviews.
The Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro combines a tactical light and a laser sight, offering dual functionality. The 100-lumen light is paired with a red or green laser, enhancing target acquisition and accuracy. The instant activation feature ensures the light and laser are ready when you need them.
Pros
Dual functionality (light and laser)
Instant activation
Lightweight
Multiple modes
Cons
Lower lumen output
Slightly higher price
Experience Using the Product
The Rail Master Pro on my FN 509 has been a valuable addition. The combination of a tactical light and laser sight enhances my shooting accuracy and target acquisition speed. The 100 lumens are sufficient for indoor use and the laser is highly visible, even in daylight.
Why This Fits the FN 509
The dual functionality of the Rail Master Pro complements the FN 509, providing both illumination and enhanced aiming capabilities. Its lightweight design ensures it doesn’t add excessive bulk, maintaining the pistol’s balance and handling.
Customer Comments
Customers appreciate the dual functionality, noting the laser significantly improves target acquisition. The instant activation feature is a favorite among users, though some wish for a higher lumen output. Overall, the feedback is positive, with many praising its performance and reliability.
The Nightstick TWM-850XL offers 850 lumens of bright, white light, perfect for tactical and defensive use. Its aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures durability and longevity. The ambidextrous rear switch allows for easy operation, and the programmable strobe mode adds versatility.
Pros
High lumen output
Durable construction
Ambidextrous controls
Programmable strobe mode
Cons
Heavier than some alternatives
Higher price point
Experience Using the Product
The Nightstick TWM-850XL on my FN 509 is a powerhouse. The 850 lumens provide excellent visibility, and the strobe mode adds a layer of tactical utility. The light feels robust, and the controls are intuitive, making it easy to operate under stress.
Why This Fits the FN 509
The TWM-850XL’s high output and durable construction make it an ideal fit for the FN 509. It enhances the pistol’s tactical capabilities, ensuring reliable performance in critical situations.
Customer Comments
Users frequently commend the TWM-850XL for its brightness and build quality. The programmable strobe mode is a popular feature, though some users mention the light’s weight as a minor drawback. Overall, the feedback highlights the light’s performance and reliability.
When selecting a light for your FN 509, consider the following factors:
Brightness: Higher lumens provide better visibility, but can also be overwhelming in close quarters. Choose a brightness level that suits your intended use.
Durability: Look for lights made from robust materials like aluminum or high-quality polymers. Durability ensures the light can withstand rough use and harsh environments.
Battery Life: Consider the runtime and type of batteries used. Rechargeable options can save on long-term costs, while disposable batteries might offer longer shelf life.
Ease of Use: Ambidextrous controls and easy attachment/detachment mechanisms are crucial for quick and efficient operation.
Size and Weight: Ensure the light doesn’t add excessive bulk or weight to your FN 509, which can affect handling and concealability.
Additional Features: Some lights come with additional features like laser sights, strobe modes, or instant activation. Assess if these features add value to your specific needs.
FAQs
Q: How many lumens should I look for in a pistol light?
A: For general defensive use, 200-1000 lumens is a good range. Higher lumens offer better visibility but may be too intense for close quarters.
Q: Are rechargeable lights better than those with disposable batteries?
A: Rechargeable lights can be more cost-effective and convenient in the long run. However, lights with disposable batteries often have longer standby times and are more suitable for long-term storage.
Q: What is the benefit of having a light with a strobe mode?
A: Strobe modes can disorient an attacker, providing a tactical advantage. They can also be used for signaling in emergencies.
Q: Should I get a light with a laser sight?
A: A laser sight can enhance target acquisition and accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. If precise aiming is crucial for your use, a combination of light and laser might be beneficial.
Q: How do I attach a light to my FN 509?
A: Most pistol lights are designed to mount on the accessory rail of the FN 509. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for secure attachment.
Conclusion
Choosing the best light for your FN 509 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize brightness, durability, ease of use, or additional features like laser sights and strobe modes, there’s a perfect option out there for you. The SureFire X300 Ultra, Streamlight TLR-1 HL, Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie, Inforce APLc, Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro, and Nightstick TWM-850XL are all excellent choices, each offering unique benefits to enhance your FN 509’s performance. By considering the factors outlined and reading customer feedback, you can make an informed decision that ensures your FN 509 is equipped for any situation.