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

⁠

SureFire X300 Ultra⁠

⁠

Streamlight TLR-1 HL⁠

⁠

Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie⁠

⁠

Inforce WILD1⁠

⁠

Crimson Trace CMR-208⁠

⁠

Viridian X5L Gen 3⁠

⁠

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

Beam Distance: 200 meters

Battery Type: Two CR123A

Runtime: 1.25 hours

Weight: 4.0 oz

Dimensions: 3.6 x 1.4 x 1.4 inches

Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail

Best Features

High output of 1,000 lumens

Ambidextrous switching

Durable aerospace aluminum construction

TIR lens for a focused beam

Pros

Extremely bright and effective in all lighting conditions

Robust and reliable build quality

Easy to install and use

Compatible with a wide range of holsters

Cons

Relatively high cost

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.

⁠

👉 👉 👉 Click Here to Check Prices⁠

⁠

2. Streamlight TLR-1 HL

⁠

Specifications

Lumens: 1,000

Beam Distance: 283 meters

Battery Type: Two CR123A

Runtime: 1.5 hours

Weight: 4.2 oz

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

IPX7 waterproof rating

Pros

Excellent brightness and range

Durable and waterproof

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.

⁠

👉 👉 👉 Click Here to Check Prices⁠

⁠

3. Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie

⁠

Specifications

Lumens: 1,500

Beam Distance: 280 meters

Battery Type: Built-in rechargeable

Runtime: 1.5 hours

Weight: 3.25 oz

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

Magnetic USB charging

Ambidextrous switches

Pros

Exceptional brightness

Convenient rechargeable battery

Lightweight and compact design

Easy to mount and operate

Cons

Slightly shorter runtime

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.

⁠

👉 👉 👉 Click Here to Check Prices⁠

⁠

4. Inforce WILD1

⁠

Specifications

Lumens: 200

Beam Distance: 150 meters

Battery Type: One CR2

Runtime: 1.5 hours

Weight: 1.87 oz

Dimensions: 2.43 x 1.17 x 1.07 inches

Mount Type: Universal

Best Features

Compact and lightweight design

High-impact polymer construction

Easy-to-use activation switches

Affordable price point

Pros

Lightweight and compact

Durable and impact-resistant

Simple operation

Cost-effective

Cons

Lower brightness compared to other lights

Shorter beam distance

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.

⁠

👉 👉 👉 Click Here to Check Prices⁠

⁠

5. Crimson Trace CMR-208

⁠

Specifications

Lumens: 420

Beam Distance: 110 meters

Battery Type: One CR123A

Runtime: 1 hour

Weight: 3.3 oz

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

Versatile output modes

Durable construction

Simple mounting and operation

Reasonable price

Cons

Moderate brightness

Shorter runtime

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.

⁠

👉 👉 👉 Click Here to Check Prices⁠

⁠

6. Viridian X5L Gen 3

⁠

⁠

Specifications

Lumens: 500

Beam Distance: 100 meters

Battery Type: One CR2

Runtime: 6 hours (light only)

Weight: 3.3 oz

Dimensions: 3.3 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches

Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail

Best Features

Green laser sight integrated

Multiple light modes

Durable construction

Long battery life

Pros

Integrated laser for enhanced targeting

Long battery life

Multiple modes for different scenarios

Durable build

Cons

Higher price point

Slightly heavier

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.

⁠

👉 👉 👉 Click Here to Check Prices⁠

⁠

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?

Top 6 Best Lights for FN 509t on the Market

1. SureFire X300 Ultra

2. Streamlight TLR-1 HL

3. Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie

4. Inforce WILD1

5. Crimson Trace CMR-208

6. Viridian X5L Gen 3

How to Choose the Best Light for the FN 509t

FAQs

Conclusion

Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.

Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (

CtrlP

) instead.