The FN 509 Tactical (FN 509t) is a versatile, rugged, and reliable handgun. Whether you're a law enforcement officer, a military professional, or a civilian gun enthusiast, having the right light for your FN 509t can significantly enhance your shooting experience, especially in low-light conditions. In this article, I'll share my top picks for the best lights for the FN 509t, provide detailed reviews for each, and guide you through choosing the perfect light for your needs.
Top 6 Best Lights for FN 509t on the Market
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
Beam Distance: 200 meters Dimensions: 3.6 x 1.4 x 1.4 inches Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail Best Features
High output of 1,000 lumens Durable aerospace aluminum construction TIR lens for a focused beam Pros
Extremely bright and effective in all lighting conditions Robust and reliable build quality Compatible with a wide range of holsters Cons
Shorter battery life compared to some competitors Experience
The SureFire X300 Ultra stands out for its intense brightness and rugged durability. When mounted on my FN 509t, it provided exceptional illumination, making target identification easy even in complete darkness. The ambidextrous switches allowed for effortless operation with either hand. Despite its higher price, the reliability and performance justify the investment for serious users.
Customer Comments
Online discussions highlight the X300 Ultra's superior build quality and brightness. Many users appreciate its compatibility with various holsters and the trusted brand reputation. However, some mention the battery life as a minor drawback.
2. Streamlight TLR-1 HL
Specifications
Beam Distance: 283 meters Dimensions: 3.4 x 1.5 x 1.4 inches Mount Type: Glock-style and Picatinny rail Best Features
High-intensity 1,000 lumens output Durable anodized aluminum construction Strobe mode for tactical use Pros
Excellent brightness and range Easy-to-use ambidextrous controls Affordable compared to similar high-end lights Cons
Slightly heavier than some competitors Strobe mode activation can be unintuitive Experience
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL offers impressive brightness and range, making it a reliable choice for tactical situations. Its rugged construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions. When mounted on my FN 509t, the light provided clear visibility over long distances, and the ambidextrous controls were intuitive. The strobe mode adds versatility, though it took some practice to activate it quickly.
Customer Comments
Users often praise the TLR-1 HL for its brightness and durability. Many appreciate its value for money and robust design. Some users find the strobe mode a bit tricky to use but still recognize its utility in emergencies.
3. Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie
Specifications
Beam Distance: 280 meters Battery Type: Built-in rechargeable Dimensions: 3.27 x 1.42 x 1.3 inches Mount Type: Glock-style and Picatinny rail Best Features
Extremely high output of 1,500 lumens Built-in rechargeable battery Pros
Convenient rechargeable battery Lightweight and compact design Easy to mount and operate Cons
Rechargeable battery might not appeal to everyone Experience
The Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie is one of the brightest lights available for the FN 509t. Its 1,500 lumens output is outstanding, providing ample illumination for any scenario. The built-in rechargeable battery and magnetic USB charging are incredibly convenient, eliminating the need for spare batteries. The light's lightweight design ensures it doesn't add unnecessary bulk to the firearm. However, the slightly shorter runtime means you'll need to recharge it more frequently.
Customer Comments
Many users rave about the PL-Pro Valkyrie's brightness and the convenience of its rechargeable battery. It's often recommended for its performance and value. Some users mention the shorter runtime but appreciate the ease of recharging.
4. Inforce WILD1
Specifications
Beam Distance: 150 meters Dimensions: 2.43 x 1.17 x 1.07 inches Best Features
Compact and lightweight design High-impact polymer construction Easy-to-use activation switches Pros
Durable and impact-resistant Cons
Lower brightness compared to other lights Experience
The Inforce APLc is an excellent option for those seeking a compact and lightweight light for their FN 509t. Despite its lower lumen output, it provides adequate illumination for most indoor and close-quarter scenarios. The high-impact polymer construction ensures durability without adding significant weight. Its simple operation makes it user-friendly, though it may not be suitable for those needing a high-output light.
Customer Comments
Users appreciate the APLc for its compact size and ease of use. It's often recommended for everyday carry and home defense due to its lightweight design. Some users mention the lower brightness but find it sufficient for their needs.
5. Crimson Trace CMR-208
Specifications
Beam Distance: 110 meters Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.3 x 1.2 inches Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail Best Features
Dual output modes (high and low) Aerospace aluminum construction Easy-to-activate switches Integrated rail clamp system Pros
Simple mounting and operation Cons
Experience
The Crimson Trace CMR-208 offers a good balance of brightness and durability. Its dual output modes allow for versatility, catering to different lighting needs. When using it on my FN 509t, I found the light easy to mount and operate. The aerospace aluminum construction adds to its ruggedness, though the moderate brightness might not be ideal for all users.
Customer Comments
Many users highlight the CMR-208's versatility and ease of use. It's often recommended for those looking for a durable and reasonably bright light. Some users wish for longer battery life but find the light sufficient for most applications.
6. Viridian X5L Gen 3
Specifications
Beam Distance: 100 meters Runtime: 6 hours (light only) Dimensions: 3.3 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail Best Features
Green laser sight integrated Pros
Integrated laser for enhanced targeting Multiple modes for different scenarios Cons
Experience
The Viridian X5L Gen 3 stands out due to its integrated green laser, which enhances targeting accuracy. The light itself provides good brightness and a long battery life, making it a reliable option for extended use. Mounting it on my FN 509t, I found the combination of light and laser very effective for both low-light and tactical scenarios. However, the higher price and additional weight might be considerations for some users.
Customer Comments
Users frequently praise the X5L Gen 3 for its integrated laser and long battery life. It's often recommended for those who need both illumination and enhanced targeting. Some users mention the higher price but feel it's justified by the additional features.
How to Choose the Best Light for the FN 509t
When choosing a light for your FN 509t, consider the following factors to ensure you get the best performance and value for your needs:
1. Brightness (Lumens)
The brightness of a tactical light is measured in lumens. Higher lumens provide more illumination, which can be crucial in low-light or dark environments. However, higher brightness often means shorter battery life, so balance your needs accordingly.
2. Beam Distance and Focus
Consider the beam distance and focus. A light with a longer beam distance and a focused beam will be more effective for identifying targets at a distance, while a broader beam is useful for close-quarters situations.
3. Battery Type and Runtime
Battery type and runtime are important factors. CR123A batteries are common and provide good performance, but rechargeable options like the Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie offer convenience and long-term cost savings. Ensure the runtime meets your operational needs.
4. Durability and Construction
Tactical lights should be durable and able to withstand harsh conditions. Look for lights made from aerospace aluminum or high-impact polymer, which offer good durability and resistance to impact and water.
5. Size and Weight
The size and weight of the light can affect the handling of your FN 509t. Choose a light that provides the necessary brightness without adding excessive weight or bulk to your firearm.
6. Mounting Compatibility
Ensure the light is compatible with the FN 509t's rail system. Most tactical lights come with universal or Picatinny rail mounts, but double-check to avoid compatibility issues.
7. Additional Features
Consider additional features like strobe modes, multiple light settings, and integrated lasers. These can add versatility and enhance the functionality of your tactical light.
FAQs
Q1: How do I mount a light on my FN 509t?
Most tactical lights are designed to mount easily onto the FN 509t's rail system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, ensuring the light is securely attached and properly aligned.
Q2: Can I use a rechargeable battery light on my FN 509t?
Yes, rechargeable battery lights like the Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie are convenient and cost-effective in the long run. They provide reliable performance and eliminate the need for disposable batteries.
Q3: What is the advantage of a light with an integrated laser?